BACALAR Seven Color Lagoon Boat Excursion from Costa Maya

If you’re considering a trip to the famous Bacalar Lagoon, known as the “lake of seven colors,” you’ve probably seen plenty of photos of its changing shades of blue and green. This boat excursion from Costa Maya promises an up-close experience of this natural wonder, complete with a boat ride, lunch, and drinks. The big question is—does it live up to the hype?

From what’s available online, this tour seems ideal if you want to relax and take in the scenery without fuss. We love that it offers small-group intimacy and includes food and drinks—key perks for making the most of your day. On the flip side, some reviews mention long travel times and possible hiccups, so it’s not the best pick if you’re looking for a quick or ultra-exclusive experience. This excursion suits travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and good value.

Key Points

• Beautiful setting: Bacalar Lagoon’s changing shades of blue are truly breathtaking.
• Inclusive experience: Lunch, snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are all part of the package.
• Transport and logistics: Expect about an hour each way to Bacalar, with some reviews noting lengthy travel times.
• Small group: The intimate atmosphere enhances the experience, especially with personalized guides.
• Mixed reviews on timing: Some travelers have long rides and limited lagoon time due to delays.
• Great for relaxed travelers: If you’re okay with a longer journey for a peaceful day on the water, this is a solid choice.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Meeting and Transportation

The adventure kicks off outside the Costa Maya cruise port at a designated meeting point. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle that takes roughly an hour to reach the Bacalar marina. The drive itself is part of the experience, giving you a glimpse of the rural scenery and local life en route.

Most travelers find the pickup process straightforward, though a few mention that the drive is quite long—about 1 to 1.5 hours each way. One review notes that the trip can be a bit of a hike to get to the actual lagoon, and that the drive is around an hour, which might feel a tad lengthy if you’re eager to get into the water.

The Boat Tour and Lagoon Exploration

Once at the marina, you’ll hop aboard a pontoon boat, which is often described as comfortable and well-maintained. The boat ride itself is relaxed, with an attentive crew that makes sure everyone’s comfortable. Expect to be treated to sweeping views of the lagoon, which varies in color from turquoise to deep blue—a sight that lives up to its reputation.

The highlight? The different shades of blue you’ll see as the boat cruises across the water. Many reviews emphasize how stunning the lagoon’s colors are, with one reviewer saying, “the water felt great,” and another calling it “beyond beautiful.” During the approximately two-hour boat ride, you’ll get chances to splash in the water and enjoy the scenery.

A real plus here is the healthy fruit snack prepared on board, which adds a refreshing touch to the experience. You might find this simple gesture makes the day feel more personalized and enjoyable.

The Lunch and Rest Stop

After the boat ride, the tour takes you to a local restaurant—Papitos Bacalar—where the focus is on authentic Mexican tacos, with options for pork, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes upon request. The reviews seem to agree that the food is tasty, with many mentioning the pork tacos as a standout. The served guacamole adds a nice touch, and the outdoor setting gives you a chance to relax and soak in the local vibe.

Some reviewers mention that service at the restaurant can be slow—waiting around 30 minutes to get drinks or food—so be prepared for a laid-back pace. Given that lunch is included in the tour price, it’s definitely good value, especially as the food is generally well-received.

Drinks and Beverages

Throughout the trip, bottled water, soda, and alcoholic drinks are included. Reviewers note that beer and tequila are available during the boat ride, which adds to the fun, though no alcohol is served to minors. Just a heads-up—some travelers mention that water could be more readily available, as only drinks on the boat and at the restaurant are offered.

The Duration and Group Size

This is a 5-hour tour, which balances enough time on the lagoon with travel. The group size is capped at 99 travelers, but most reviews point to a small-group feel, especially when booked privately or in smaller batches. One reviewer loved being the only family on the boat, saying the guide was “exceptional.”

The Realities of the Experience

There are some downsides. Several reviews mention long travel times and delays, sometimes due to authorities pulling over the boat for permits or other issues. One reviewer describes the trip as “a pass” because of the time spent traveling and limited lagoon time.

A more negative review shares that a boat was canceled due to low demand, leading to wasted time and a switch to a private taxi. Others have expressed frustration over unclear meeting points or not seeing the lagoon’s famous seven shades, especially if they aren’t aware of potential delays.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From the feedback, it’s clear that guides like Joanna and Jhoana make a big difference—being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. One traveler raved, “Jhoana kept us laughing and brought drinks and tequila,” which sounds like a party in the best way.

A few reviewers mention logistical issues, like difficulty finding the meeting point or miscommunication about timings. It’s worth double-checking the instructions and arriving early to avoid any stress.

The general consensus: this tour offers spectacular views and delicious food, but the long drive and occasional delays mean it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of patience and prefer a relaxed pace over a quick, action-packed trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a laid-back day in a gorgeous setting, with comfort and good food included. It caters well to those who value small-group atmospheres and are okay with a longer journey to reach the lagoon. If you want a more exclusive, fast-paced adventure, this might not be your best choice.

Travelers who appreciate friendly guides and don’t mind some waiting will find this tour rewarding. It’s also a solid option if you’re traveling with people who enjoy a combination of scenery, good eats, and drinks.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Costa Maya to Bacalar?
Most travelers report about an hour each way, so plan for roughly two hours of travel time in total.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a taco lunch at Papitos Bacalar is included, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.

What drinks are provided?
Bottled water, soft drinks, beer, and tequila are available during the boat ride. No drinks are served to minors.

Can I swim in Bacalar Lagoon?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention splashing around and swimming in the lagoon’s clear waters, which is a big highlight of the trip.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 99 travelers but tends to have a more intimate feel, especially if booked privately.

Are there any delays or known issues?
Some reviews mention delays due to permits or authorities stopping the boat, which can cut into lagoon time. Be prepared for possible long waits.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed nature and water activities suggest it can work for families with older children who can swim.

How much time do I get in the lagoon?
Around two hours aboard the boat, including swimming and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and any personal items. The tour provides snacks and drinks, so no need to bring extra unless you want specific snacks.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund. The tour operates in good weather, with options for rescheduling if canceled due to poor conditions.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar boat tour offers a beautiful immersion into one of Mexico’s most stunning natural sites, with the added perks of food, drinks, and small-group comfort. It’s ideal for relaxed travelers who don’t mind the long drive and occasional delays but want to enjoy the lagoon’s famous colors and peaceful waters.

If you’re a lover of scenic boat rides, good Mexican food, and friendly guides, this could be a highlight of your Costa Maya trip. Just keep in mind the potential for longer travel times, and plan accordingly—arriving early and setting realistic expectations will help you make the most of it.

For those seeking a calm, scenic outing with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, this tour delivers much of what you’ll hope for. If you prefer shorter trips or more exclusivity, exploring other options might be worth considering. Either way, Bacalar’s natural beauty is a sight you’re unlikely to forget.