Private pontoon tour in the seven colors Bacalar lagoon

If you’re dreaming of floating in water that’s all shades of blue and green, a private pontoon tour in Bacalar might be just what you need. This cruise offers a relaxed way to take in some of the most beautiful sights in Quintana Roo, especially if you prefer a more intimate, tailored experience over large group tours. While I haven’t done this particular tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers and official descriptions to give you a balanced look.

What really stands out about this experience are the stunning views — the lagoon’s famous seven hues of color, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the boat’s comfort and safety are notable, making it ideal if you’re seeking a laid-back adventure. One thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the meeting point.

This tour seems perfect for those who want a flexible, private way to explore Bacalar’s iconic sights. Whether you’re visiting with a small group of friends, a partner, or even on a solo trip looking for a peaceful escape, this experience likely offers exactly that: tranquility, beautiful scenery, and a touch of exclusivity.

Key Points

• Private and intimate experience suited for groups up to 6 people
• Seven-color lagoon views are the star of the show
• Swim in crystal-clear waters at several famous spots
• Comfortable boat and safety are prioritized
• Includes fresh seasonal fruit and water for a relaxing trip
• No hotel pickup—arrive at the meeting point on your own

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Bacalar Lagoon: What You Can Expect

We love the idea of cruising on a comfortable boat that allows you to unwind while taking in some of Mexico’s most captivating scenery. During the trip, you’ll visit several well-known spots that showcase Bacalar’s natural beauty and unique features.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour starts at the Marina Laguna Adventures, located within the “Agua Dulce” Beach Club — a convenient spot that’s easy to find if you’re nearby. Once onboard, your journey will take you across the lagoon, stopping at the pirate channel, the island of birds, the Black Cenote (also called the Witch Cenote), and the Emerald Cenote. Each location offers something special.

The pirate channel is a fun, scenic route that adds a touch of history and mystery to your cruise. It’s a narrower waterway lined with lush greenery, giving you that classic Caribbean-Mexican vibe. The island of birds is perfect for nature lovers — a peaceful spot where you might spot local bird species or just enjoy the serene surroundings.

Black Cenote — An Imposing Natural Wonder

One of the highlights is the Black Cenote, with its impressive depth of over 90 meters. It’s an awe-inspiring sight and a good photo opportunity. You won’t be able to swim inside (since it’s quite deep), but seeing it from the boat adds to the sense of the lagoon’s diverse landscape.

The Green and Cocalitos Cenotes

Next up are the Emerald Cenote and Cocalitos Cenote, both known for their stunning color and the presence of stromatolites — ancient microbial structures that are rare and scientifically significant. You’ll have the chance to swim in their shallow, crystal waters and enjoy the peaceful environment. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful these swim stops are, making it a key part of the experience.

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Swimming in Bacalar

The highlight for many is the chance to swim in the lagoon’s clear, shallow waters. The water’s transparency and inviting temperature make it perfect for a relaxing dip. Travelers often mention enjoying fresh seasonal fruit while floating in the water, which adds a nice touch of local flavor and refreshment.

The Experience of the Boat Ride

The comfort and safety of the boat are often praised, providing a smooth ride that makes the tour enjoyable even if you’re not a boat person. The boat size keeps things intimate, so you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The live guide (available in both Spanish and English) shares stories and anecdotes that help make the experience more engaging without turning it into a lengthy lecture.

What Travelers Say

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the stunning views. Many reviewers are impressed by how vibrant and varied the lagoon’s colors are — “The views are truly breathtaking,” one traveler shared. Others appreciate the relaxed pace, with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the scenery.

Some noted a slight limitation: the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan transportation to the meeting point. It’s a small consideration but worth keeping in mind, especially if you’re staying farther out.

A couple of reviews mention the quality of the boat and the friendly guides, making for a comfortable and educational experience. The inclusion of seasonal fruit and water also gets a thumbs-up for adding a refreshing touch during the tour.

Honest Caveats

While most reviews are positive, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short — three hours — which might feel a bit rushed if you want longer swim sessions or more time at each stop. Also, since the tour is private, the price of $191 per group might seem steep for some, but when split among up to 6 people, it becomes more reasonable, especially considering the personalized experience.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, typically available in the morning or afternoon
• Price: $191 per group (up to 6 people). For smaller groups or couples, it might seem a bit costly, but for the exclusivity and comfort, it’s often justified.
• Meeting Point: Marina Laguna Adventures inside “Agua Dulce” Beach Club
• Transport: Not included, so plan your own transportation to the marina
• Languages: Guides available in Spanish and English
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility to your plans
• What’s Included: Cooler with ice, water, seasonal fruit
• What’s Not Included: Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values comfort, exclusivity, and beautiful scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for small groups or couples wanting a tailored experience without the hustle and bustle of large tour buses. If you love swimming in pristine waters and being able to relax at your own pace, you’ll enjoy the stops at cenotes and the lagoon.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer an all-inclusive experience with transportation and meals, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind that it’s a short tour, so if you’re looking for an all-day adventure, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the calm waters and shallow swim spots could be enjoyable for older children, especially if they’re comfortable on boats and in water. Always check with the provider if you have younger kids.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, the tour includes water and seasonal fruit, so you’ll stay refreshed. You might want to bring your own snacks if you prefer something else, but there’s no obligation.

Can I swim at all the stops?
Yes, most stops are designed for swimming, especially the cenotes and the lagoon. The Black Cenote isn’t for swimming due to its depth, but it’s a great viewing point.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some peace of mind if your plans change.

Is sunscreen allowed?
No, sunscreen is not allowed — probably to protect the sensitive microbial life like stromatolites. Remember to bring protective clothing or hats to shield yourself from the sun.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, which is a manageable length for most travelers who want a relaxing yet informative experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise that highlights Bacalar’s famous seven shades of blue, this private pontoon tour offers a comfortable and personalized way to enjoy the lagoon’s beauty. The stops at cenotes, the lagoon’s crystal waters, and the chance to swim in some of the clearest waters around make it a memorable experience.

It’s particularly suited for those who value small-group intimacy and relaxed pacing. While it doesn’t include transportation or extended time at each stop, the high-quality experience and stunning scenery make it worth considering if your trip aligns.

For anyone wanting an up-close, tranquil look at Bacalar’s natural wonders, this tour could be a highlight of your visit — just keep in mind the duration and plan your transport accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here: