Bacalar: 3 Hour Boat Trip with Swimming & Drinks

Discover the vibrant Bacalar lagoon with this 3-hour boat trip offered by DayTour Bacalar for only $27 per person. Departing from Costera 67a or Costera 67, this tour provides a compact yet rich experience filled with crystal-clear waters, cenote visits, and engaging stops like Bird Island and the Stromatolite Barrier. Known for its affordable price, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery, this trip suits travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and learn about the lagoon’s natural and historical significance.

While the tour is packed with highlights, it’s designed for those comfortable with water activities and who want a straightforward, well-organized experience. The three-hour duration balances sightseeing with ample swimming time, though it does not include ground transportation, which travelers should arrange separately. This tour offers great value, engaging stops, and a chance to enjoy Bacalar’s famous turquoise waters in a friendly group setting.

Key Points

• Price: Only $27 per person, offering excellent value for a 3-hour boat experience.
• Duration: A 3-hour tour that covers key sights with multiple stops.
• Inclusive Drinks and Snacks: Enjoy water, natural fruit beverages, 3 beers per adult, and seasonal fruit during the trip.
• Highlights: Swim in the lagoon, visit Cenote Esmeralda, see Bird Island, and explore the Stromatolite Barrier.
• Stops Include: Pirate Canal, Cenote Cocalitos, Cenote Negro, and Isla de los Pájaros.
• Guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides in Spanish and English lead the experience, enhancing the visit with stories about the flora, fauna, and history.

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Starting Point and Booking Details

This tour departs from Costera 67a or Costera 67, with meeting times available in the morning and afternoon. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility. The meeting point location varies slightly depending on the booking option.

The tour includes seasonal fruit, water, natural fruit beverages, and 3 beers per adult, but ground transportation is not included, so plan accordingly. The live tour guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible to a broad audience.

Exploring Bacalar’s Famous Cenotes and Lagoons

The itinerary features several stops at Bacalar’s most iconic spots. The Cenote Esmeralda is the largest in Bacalar, over 500 meters in diameter and around 70 meters deep, offering a spectacular swimming experience. Passing by the Cenote Cocalitos and the Cenote Negro, travelers enjoy photo opportunities and scenic views.

The Pirate Canal receives special attention, with a 40-minute stop dedicated to swimming and photos, allowing travelers to relax in the turquoise waters that define Bacalar’s charm. This stop also provides insights into the area’s pirate history, making it both fun and educational.

Unique Sights: Stromatolite Barrier and Bird Island

A highlight of the trip is the visit to the Stromatolite Barrier, the home to the planet’s oldest organism. This natural formation is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Nearby, the Bird Island offers an opportunity for wildlife viewing, where visitors can observe various local and migratory bird species.

These stops emphasize Bacalar’s natural importance and add a layer of educational value, especially for those interested in geology and wildlife. The boat cruise provides unobstructed views and the chance to learn from guides knowledgeable about the environment.

Water Activities and Relaxation Options

The swimming stops are a key part of the tour, with crystal-clear waters inviting guests to cool off. After reaching each lagoon, travelers can jump into the water, surrounded by virgin vegetation and stunning scenery.

For those who want to extend their time on the water, the tour includes kayaking at the end, with an additional hour to paddle around Bacalar’s calm lagoons. This extra activity adds flexibility for active travelers, making the experience more engaging.

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Food, Drinks, and Refreshments on Board

Throughout the trip, inclusive drinks keep everyone refreshed. The options include water, natural fruit beverages, and 3 beers per adult. Seasonal fruit is also provided, adding a healthy touch to the experience.

The guide and crew serve drinks and snacks, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Travelers appreciate the quality of the included refreshments, which complement the scenic views perfectly. Note that sunscreen and intoxication are not allowed, for safety reasons.

Practicalities: Meeting Points, Timing, and Accessibility

The meeting points are flexible, with options at Costera 67a or Costera 67. The tours operate rain or shine, so travelers should prepare accordingly. The duration is generally 3 hours, typically scheduled in the morning and afternoon, fitting well into most itineraries.

This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems, due to the water-based activities and boat ride. Travelers should bring swimwear and towels and avoid sunscreen and alcohol before the trip.

Safety, Guides, and Tour Quality

Multiple reports highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides such as Daniel, Angelo, Gorka, and Johnathan. Their insights about the lagoon’s biodiversity, history, and flora and fauna enrich the experience.

Safety is a priority, with guides ensuring that guests are comfortable and well-informed. The size of the boat and the relaxed pace make this tour suitable for most visitors, provided they are comfortable with water activities.

Final Thoughts on the Bacalar Boat Trip

The 3-hour Bacalar boat tour offers an affordable, well-organized way to explore one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons. With stunning stops, inclusive drinks and snacks, and friendly guides, the experience appeals to water lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The highlight remains swimming in the crystal-clear laguna, but the stops at cenotes and Bird Island provide unique opportunities to see Bacalar’s natural wonders up close. The value for money is high, especially considering the quality of the snorkeling spots and wildlife viewing.

While it does not include ground transportation or extensive land-based attractions, this tour excels at showcasing Bacalar’s most iconic sights in a compact time frame. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic boat experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, learn, and enjoy the scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Bacalar boat trip?
The tour costs $27 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts 3 hours, typically scheduled in the morning or afternoon.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Cenote Esmeralda, Pirate Canal, Cenote Cocalitos, Cenote Negro, and Isla de los Pájaros.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour offers water, natural fruit beverages, and 3 beers per adult. Seasonal fruit is also provided.

Is swimming allowed during the stops?
Yes, stopping for swimming in the lagoon is a key part of the experience.

Is ground transportation included?
No, ground transportation is not included; travelers should arrange their own.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen (though sunscreen is not allowed on the boat).

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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