Bacalar: Private Sailboat Tour with Lagoon Swimming

Discover the Private Sailboat Experience on Bacalar Lagoon

This private sailboat tour in Bacalar, Mexico, offers an engaging blend of relaxation, exploration, and learning. Priced at $101 per person, the experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours and is designed to provide both tranquility and adventure. Starting from Cenote Esmeralda, travelers board an eco-friendly boat that takes you across Bacalar Lagoon, renowned for its seven distinct shades of blue.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters away from crowds, visit notable landmarks, and even learn the basics of sailing. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable narration, making the experience both informative and fun. It is well-suited for those seeking a private, personalized day on the water, with plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and hands-on sailing.

While the tour provides snacks and cold drinks, it does not include ground transportation, so travelers should plan accordingly. Perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting a relaxed yet engaging adventure, this Bacalar sailboat trip offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty and educational fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience on a comfortable eco-boat
• Swim in the lagoon’s crystal-clear waters, away from crowds
• Learn to sail and become a Captain for a day
• Visit iconic Bacalar landmarks like Cenote Esmeralda and the Pirate Canal
• Tour lasts from 3 to 4 hours, with flexible morning or afternoon options
• Includes snacks, natural fruit drinks, and 3 beers per person

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics at Bacalar

The tour begins at either Costera 67a or Costera 67, with exact meeting points varying based on the booking option chosen. After a brief safety briefing, you are equipped with all necessary gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the eco-friendly boat. The departure is from Cenote Esmeralda, the largest cenote in the Bacalar Lagoon, providing an immediate sense of the lagoon’s natural beauty.

Travelers should arrive prepared with swimwear and biodegradable sunscreen, essential for enjoying the water stops and protecting the environment. As the tour runs rain or shine, packing appropriate clothing and rain gear is advisable.

Exploring Cenote Esmeralda and Its Surroundings

The tour features a visit to Cenote Esmeralda, which is the largest in Bacalar Lagoon. Here, travelers enjoy sailing past the cenote, marveling at its bright blue waters and the surrounding scenery. This stop offers a chance to swim and relax in a stunning natural setting.

The area around Cenote Esmeralda is notable for its spectacular views and the presence of stromatolites—ancient, bacterial structures considered some of the earliest forms of life on Earth. The guide shares insights about stromatolites’ significance and their role in understanding earth’s biological origins.

The tour also passes by the largest hotel on Bacalar’s beach, which remains unopened, adding to the local lore and curiosity. This site provides a picturesque backdrop for photos and a moment for guests to soak in the scenery.

Discovering Stromatolites and Their Significance

One of the tour highlights is learning about stromatolites, which are more than 10,000 years old in the south end of Bacalar Lagoon. These ancient formations are considered vital because they are the ancestors of today’s corals.

Visitors have the chance to swim close to stromatolites in a quiet mangrove area, separated from the busier parts of the lagoon. The guide explains why stromatolites are rare and precious, emphasizing their importance for biodiversity and planetary history.

This stop combines natural beauty with educational value, offering a rare glimpse into early life forms while enjoying the tranquil environment of the lagoon’s shallow waters.

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Visiting the Pirate Canal and Isla de los Pájaros

Next, the boat reaches El Canal De Los Piratas, a scenic waterway where travelers can take photos, enjoy a guided tour, and even swim. The canal’s unique shape and history make it a captivating spot, often highlighted in local stories.

The Isla de los Pájaros serves as a final stop, providing opportunities for birdwatching and swimming in calm waters. The island’s lush environment attracts various wildlife species, and visitors can relax in the peaceful surroundings.

These stops showcase Bacalar’s diverse ecosystems, blending biodiversity with scenic beauty.

Learning to Sail and Captain for a Day

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is the hands-on sailing experience. After exploring the key landmarks, the guide introduces the basics of sailing, encouraging guests to take control of the boat.

Guests get to feel the wind in their hair and guide the boat through Bacalar’s seven colors, experiencing the thrill of being a Captain for a while. This activity caters to both beginners and those with some sailing experience, making it a fun and educational part of the day.

The breeze and breathtaking scenery create an ideal setting for learning a new skill, all under the supervision of experienced guides who ensure safety and encouragement.

Additional Water Activities and Refreshments

The tour includes kayaking in Cenote Esmeralda, providing an extra way to explore the lagoon at a relaxed pace. Snacks, natural fruit drinks, and three beers per person help guests stay refreshed amid the day’s activities.

While the tour does not include ground transportation, the private group setup and flexible timing make it easy for travelers to tailor their experience. The combination of swimming, sightseeing, and sailing lessons delivers great value for the $101 price point.

The Experience Provider and Guide Quality

Operated by DayTour Bacalar, this tour benefits from professional guides fluent in Spanish and English. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling, friendliness, and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure guests enjoy their time.

Guests consistently mention guide names like Hugo, Saul, David, Andreas, Angelo, Timothy, Luis, and Valentín, reflecting a team dedicated to delivering an engaging experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private sailboat tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed yet interactive day. It suits those interested in nature, water activities, and local scenery, as well as anyone eager to learn sailing in a stunning setting.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, so travelers should consider their physical capabilities before booking.

Final Thoughts on the Bacalar Private Sailboat Tour

This $101 experience offers a well-rounded day on Bacalar Lagoon, combining scenic beauty, natural wonders, and sailing skills. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and learn.

The tour’s longstanding positive reviews reflect high guide quality, stunning locations, and good value. While ground transportation is not included, the overall experience remains a fantastic way to enjoy Bacalar’s seven shades of blue in a peaceful, informative manner.

Travelers looking for a combination of adventure and tranquility will find this tour delightful, especially those interested in natural history and hands-on activities. The flexible schedule and private setup make it a top choice for a memorable day on Bacalar Lagoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, children should be comfortable with swimming and being on a boat. It is advisable for families with young children to consider their specific needs.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself and the environment during water activities and sun exposure.

Does the tour include transportation to Bacalar?
No, ground transportation is not included. Travelers should arrange their own transport to the meeting points at Costera 67a or Costera 67.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, with flexible morning and afternoon options available.

Can I learn to sail during this trip?
Yes, the guides teach the basics of sailing, and guests have the chance to control the boat and become a Captain for a day under supervision.

Is there any food or drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes snacks, natural fruit drinks, and three beers per person. However, ground transportation and other meals are not provided.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby