If you’re headed to Bacalar, one of the most talked-about experiences is sailing on the Lagoon of the 7 Colors. While we haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a laid-back, small-group experience that takes you through the lagoon’s most beautiful spots, blending fun, education, and some serious scenery.
What really catches our eye is the personalized attention you get from the guides, plus the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore cenotes and islands. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the experience is centered around relaxation and scenic stops rather than high-energy adventure.
If you’re looking for an easygoing day that mixes nature, history, and some good company, this tour might be just right for you.
The lake itself is truly beautiful, making swimming and enjoying the scenery a worthwhile experience and earning it a 1-star rating. An additional star is deserved for the attentive and polite crew, who were generous in their manners. Another star goes to the facilities and personnel, who demonstrated kindness and professionalism. However, I cannot give a full 5-star rating due to the poor condition of the boats. We chose the sailing experience because it promises romance, peace, and the charm of moving with the wind. Unfortunately, this was not the case. During the trip, we relied on the noisy outboard engine for about 95% of the time, which malfunctioned and broke down in the middle of the…
Most of the tours in Bacalar are quite standard and it really is the captains/guides and the boats that make the difference. I had excellent captains – Angelo and David – who were competent at managing the sailboat, knowledgeable and great at bringing the group together. The sailboat was also in good shape
Ugo and David sailed us around the lagoon, to appreciate it's wonders, colours and history. A must do experience. The boat was spacious and the music relaxing. Top!
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour depends on good weather, and there can be some delays if the winds aren’t cooperating, as a few reviews mention.
Still, with a reasonable price point and a focus on small groups, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a relaxed, informative outing without feeling rushed. Perfect if you enjoy gentle sailing, scenic views, and the opportunity to swim and unwind.
- Who This Tour Suits Best
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Tour in Bacalar
- What’s Included and How It All Comes Together
- Itinerary Breakdown and What You’ll See
- What’s the Experience Like?
- Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guests
- The Value of the Tour
- Potential Downsides
- Who Might Not Love It?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Bacalar
- More Tours in Bacalar
- More Tour Reviews in Bacalar
Who This Tour Suits Best
This sailing trip is ideal for travelers who love scenic waters, appreciate guides, and want a leisurely day out. It’s particularly suited to people who enjoy small group adventures, as the maximum group size is 16. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo but prefer a more intimate experience, this tour hits the right notes.
It’s also great for those interested in learning about the lagoon’s ecosystem and history while enjoying some downtime in beautiful surroundings.
Key Points
- Small group size ensures personal attention and a relaxed vibe.
- Includes snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.
- Stops at cenotes, bird island, and pirate canal provide diverse scenery and activities.
- Knowledgeable bilingual guides share insights into the lagoon’s ecosystem and history.
- Price point offers good value, especially considering the inclusions.
- Weather can influence the experience, so flexibility might be needed.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Bacalar
An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Tour in Bacalar
What’s Included and How It All Comes Together
Starting at Casa China in Bacalar, the tour is designed to be accessible and straightforward. For around $31.45 per person, you get a three-hour journey aboard a boat with a small group of no more than 16 travelers. The inclusion of bilingual guides, safety equipment, natural fruit drinks, healthy snacks, and a few beers makes this a well-rounded outing without hidden costs.
The tours usually run for about three hours, but there’s flexibility with two-hour options, letting you choose what suits your schedule best. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, which is a plus for those not renting a car.
It was a very good tour. 3 hours in total. We got to swim a bit. It was also very informative. Hadi’s and David were our captain and guide and they were very nice and also gave us a lot of recs for restaurants and other things to do in the area.
We traveled the Yucatan peninsula with friends snd decided to book a lagoon boat trip. The experience was unforgettable. We started st 8AM with some fog over the lagoon snd after half an hour the fog was over uncovering all the beautiful colors. Hugo and Valentin brought us to the Pirates canal for a swim and then to the various cenotes. Along the journey Hugo explained us everything about the lagoon and its cenotes. Both guys are very friendly.
Weather forecast was thunderstorms, but luckily we had the most perfect day out in the sun. What beautiful clear FRESH water! Really nice to swim in, we didn’t want to get out. Valentino and Valles our guides we’re super nice and took their time to explain the history and ecosystem. They couldn’t have done a better job! 10/10 recommend.
Itinerary Breakdown and What You’ll See
The real highlight is the chance to explore the lagoon’s signature “Seven Colors” waters. As you set sail, your guides will share stories about the area’s ecosystem and history, which adds depth to what you’re enjoying visually.
One of the most praised parts of the trip is the visit to the three cenotes. These freshwater pools are great for swimming and offer a peaceful retreat from the sun. Several reviews mention how much they loved swimming in the crystal-clear waters, with some remarking how hard it was to get out!
You’ll also visit the bird island, a haven for birdwatchers, and the pirate canal—a historic route laden with stories and significance. Guides take the time to explain the history of these places, making the experience both fun and educational. As one traveler put it, guides “took their time to explain the history and ecosystem,” which helped us appreciate the beauty even more.
What’s the Experience Like?
Imagine floating in waters so clear you can see all the way to the bottom, then hopping off the boat to swim or snorkel in protected cenotes. The boat itself is equipped with snorkeling gear, so you don’t need to bring much besides your swimsuit and towel, which you’ll need to bring along.
The snacks and drinks onboard—fresh fruit, local beers, and refreshing fruit drinks—are simple but well appreciated. Travelers mention how nice it is to relax with a cold drink after swimming or exploring.
You can also read our reviews of more sailing experiences in Bacalar
Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guests
Many reviews emphasize the knowledge of the guides—their friendliness and willingness to share facts about the lagoon's biodiversity and history. Guides like Valentino, Valles, and others are praised for their kindness and professionalism.
One reviewer raved, “Valentino and Valles our guides were super nice and took their time to explain the history and ecosystem. They couldn’t have done a better job! 10/10 recommend.” It’s clear that guides genuinely care about creating a memorable and educational experience.
The Value of the Tour
Given the price—just over $30—and the range of activities, it’s a pretty good deal. You get several swimming stops, a boat ride, snacks, drinks, and expert guidance. Compared to more expensive or larger tours, this one feels intimate and personalized, which many travelers find adds to its value.
Potential Downsides
While most reviews are glowing, some mention weather as a factor—if it’s too windy or stormy, the experience can be delayed or altered. One reviewer noted a delay of about an hour due to sailing difficulties, which was frustrating but not uncommon in outdoor activities dependent on weather.
Another point is that some folks might find the itinerary a bit basic if they’re seeking high-adrenaline adventure or extensive sightseeing. This tour emphasizes relaxation and scenery over adrenaline or in-depth exploration.
Who Might Not Love It?
If you're expecting expert-level snorkeling or a more rugged adventure, you might find this tour too mellow. Also, if you prefer longer trips or more stops, this three-hour experience might feel a bit short.
Final Thoughts
This sailing tour through Bacalar’s Lagoon of the 7 Colors offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation, scenery, and education. The small-group environment and the guides are major pluses, creating an intimate, friendly atmosphere. The stops at cenotes, bird island, and the pirate canal mean you’re not just sailing blindly—you’re actively experiencing the lagoon’s key sights.
The value here is notable for the price, especially with inclusive snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear. It’s a flexible, smooth experience suited for travelers who want to kick back, learn a bit, and enjoy Bacalar’s iconic waters in a calm, unhurried way.
If you’re someone who appreciates friendly guides, scenic stops, and a gentle pace, this tour will likely leave you with wonderful memories of a beautiful part of Mexico. For those seeking adrenaline or extensive sightseeing, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a peaceful, scenic day out, it’s a solid choice.
Sailing Tour through the Lagoon of the 7 Colors
"The lake itself is truly beautiful, making swimming and enjoying the scenery a worthwhile experience and earning it a 1-star rating. An additional ..."
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for people who want to swim and snorkel?
Yes. The tour includes swimming stops at cenotes and snorkeling equipment, so you can enjoy the clear waters whenever you like.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience compared to larger boat tours.
What’s included in the price?
You get a bilingual guide, safety equipment, natural fruit drinks, healthy snacks, and up to three beers for adults. Snorkeling gear is provided, and there are multiple stops for swimming.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Casa China Bacalar, located in Col. Costero Sur, near public transportation.
Is this tour family-friendly?
While many reviews mention kids enjoying the stops and swimming, the tour is best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and water activities. It’s not specifically marketed as a family tour but can be enjoyed by children who meet those criteria.
In the end, this sailing trip provides a charming, relaxed way to experience Bacalar’s famous lagoon. It’s great for travelers looking to unwind, learn about the area, and enjoy some swimming in beautiful waters with a friendly, knowledgeable crew.
