Sailboat tour in the seven colors lagoon of Bacalar

If you’re heading to Bacalar and want to see its famous lagoon from a different angle, a sailboat tour might just be the perfect choice. While many visitors stick to motorboats or kayak rentals, sailing offers a calmer, eco-friendlier way to explore those incredible seven hues of water. This tour promises about three hours of peaceful sailing, swimming, and storytelling, making it a solid option for anyone who appreciates nature and a relaxed vibe.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on sustainable sailing—no noisy engines to disrupt the tranquility—and its small-group format, limited to just 8 people. Travelers rave about the stunning views and friendly guides, which really make the trip special. However, a quick heads-up: the tour doesn’t last long, and some reviews mention that the actual sailing part can feel a bit brief, so if you’re after an extended boat journey, this might not be the best fit.

This trip seems best suited for those who want a laid-back, scenic outing with good company and some swimming thrown in. If you’re looking for a quick but memorable way to see Bacalar’s lagoon from the water, this tour could tick the boxes.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Experience: The tour focuses on sustainable sailing, avoiding motorized boats.
• Beautiful Stops: Includes swimming at Pirate’s Channel, Bird Island, and visits to two stunning cenotes.
• All-Inclusive: Fruits, water, and two beers per person are included, making it a relaxed social outing.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Informative Guides: Guides share stories that highlight what makes Bacalar special.
• Limited Sailing Time: The actual sailing might be shorter than some expect, with plenty of stops for swimming.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Bacalar Sailing Experience

If you’ve seen photos of Bacalar’s lagoon, you know it’s mesmerizing — a splash of vibrant blues and greens that seem almost unreal. This sailboat tour offers a chance to drift across that water, feeling the breeze and soaking in those stunning views away from crowded motorboats. It’s a more peaceful, eco-conscious way to take in the scenery, which we appreciate since it preserves the lagoon’s tranquility.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour begins at Laguna Adventures Bacalar inside the “Agua Dulce” Beach Club, which is easy to find and convenient. Once aboard, your guide will lead you into the lagoon, where you’ll start to appreciate the force of nature that has shaped this remarkable place. The focus is on enjoying the water, wildlife, and natural beauty rather than covering a vast distance.

One of the first stops is Pirate’s Channel, a famous spot where you can swim in clear, inviting water. Multiple reviews mention how refreshing and beautiful this spot is—”swimming here is an absolute highlight,” as one traveler put it. The stop at Bird Island offers a peaceful break where you can relax and enjoy the scenery, with no heavy snorkeling or diving required, but enough time to appreciate the birdlife and natural surroundings.

Another highlight is the visit to two cenotes, the Black Cenote and the Emerald Cenote. These are shallow, accessible water bodies that are perfect for dipping your toes or floating around in. The Black Cenote, in particular, is noted for its dark, mysterious allure, contrasting beautifully with the bright lagoon waters. The cenotes aren’t deep dives but rather serene spots for relaxing and cooling off.

The Sailing and the Atmosphere

The sailing itself is described as “focusing on the force of nature,” which hints at a gentle, wind-powered cruise. Travelers say that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories about Bacalar’s history and natural significance. One reviewer mentioned that Ali and the captain were “really kind and detailed in their explanations,” adding a personal touch to your experience.

That said, some reviews point out that the actual sailing time might be shorter than expected—about half the tour, with plenty of time allocated for swimming and relaxing. As one traveler noted, “the sailing itself wasn’t very long, but we had lots of time to swim and enjoy the scenery.” So, if you’re after a longer sailing adventure, this might feel a little brief, but for most, it’s balanced well with the stops.

Food, Drinks, and Comfort

Included in the tour are fruits, water, and two beers per person, which adds a social, laid-back element. The reviews tend to praise the quality and freshness of the fruits, especially mentioning pineapple, melon, and watermelon. It’s a simple touch but makes the trip feel more complete. The beers are a bonus, helping you unwind while taking in the views.

Comfort-wise, the boat provides life vests, which is reassuring, especially for those who aren’t confident swimmers. Be aware, however, that sitting at the front of the boat might be uncomfortable or even unsafe, especially if the lagoon becomes a bit turbulent—a point some reviews mention. It’s best to stay seated or hold on to secure spots.

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Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking to combine scenic sailing with some swimming in Bacalar’s iconic lagoon. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and want a more eco-friendly experience without the noise of engines. It’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and learning about local culture, thanks to the guides’ engaging commentary.

However, if you’re someone wanting a long day on the water or a more adventurous, high-speed outing, this shorter, calmer trip might not meet your expectations. And if you have mobility issues, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t designed for people with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

This sailboat tour in Bacalar’s Seven Colors Lagoon offers a peaceful, eco-conscious way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The combination of stunning water views, inviting swimming spots, and friendly guides makes it a lovely choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic outing. The inclusion of fruits and drinks adds a touch of hospitality that many appreciated, making it feel more like a social gathering than just a sightseeing trip.

While the sailing portion might be brief for some, the stops at cenotes and the lagoon’s famous spots compensate with plenty of swimming and relaxing opportunities. The small-group setting ensures you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate experience, which makes it stand out from larger, more commercial tours.

If your goal is to experience Bacalar in a sustainable, laid-back way, and you enjoy storytelling and natural beauty, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s best suited for those who appreciate quiet, scenic sailing combined with swimming and want to learn more about the lagoon’s magic from passionate guides.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy several stops and some relaxing sailing.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour isn’t explicitly suitable for people with mobility impairments, but generally, it’s accessible for most travelers who can sit comfortably on the boat.

What should I bring?
Since sunscreen isn’t allowed, you might want to bring a hat or protective clothing. Bring your swimsuit, towel, and perhaps waterproof camera. The tour provides vests, fruits, water, and drinks.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which offers flexibility for planning your trip.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While the tour is generally suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat and who loves swimming, it’s not specifically designed for children or families with mobility issues.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 8 participants, so expect a small, intimate group and more personalized attention.

Are there any restrictions on sunscreen?
Yes, sunscreen isn’t allowed, most likely to protect the lagoon’s natural environment.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the sailing, stops for swimming, fruit, water, and two beers per person.

Is the sailing part long?
Some reviews mention that the actual sailing may be shorter than expected, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. It’s more about the experience than a lengthy cruise.

In all, this sailing adventure offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, gentle activity, and local storytelling—perfect for those who want to savor Bacalar without rushing through. It’s a chance to connect with nature, enjoy some leisure, and learn from enthusiastic guides, all while respecting the lagoon’s environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: