Bacalar: Sail Away with a Hobie Cat Catamaran

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water in Mexico’s beautiful Bacalar lagoon, a Hobie Cat sailing tour might just be your perfect escape. This experience promises a full 3-hour journey, where you’ll glide across crystal-clear waters on a sleek, fast, yet comfy catamaran. It’s a chance to soak up the sun, snap those Instagram-worthy photos, and learn about the lagoon from friendly, knowledgeable guides—all while enjoying a refreshing margarita or two.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its small-group format, limited to just six guests, which ensures a more personal, unhurried experience—and plenty of time to ask questions or simply soak in the scenery. Plus, the multi-language guides make it accessible whether you speak English, French, German, or Spanish.

A few considerations: since the tour is entirely sail-powered, you’ll want to come prepared for the weather—sunscreen, hats, and swimwear are a must. And because the tour is designed for people under 70 and with a weight limit of 287 lbs, it’s best suited for most active travelers but may exclude some.

This experience seems ideal for travelers who love the water, enjoy small-group adventures, and value authentic, eco-friendly outings. If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to explore Bacalar’s lagoon with some expert guiding and good company, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Pure sailing experience on a Hobie Getaway Catamaran, with no engine noise disrupting the peace
• Multi-language guides in English, French, German, and Spanish ensure everyone feels at home
• Small group size (up to 6 guests) offers intimacy and personalized attention
• Includes margaritas, adding a relaxed, social vibe to the trip
• Visiting several key spots like Pirate Canal, Birds Island, and the cenotes
• Eco-conscious sailing, with the boat powered solely by wind

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Hobie Cat Tour

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

This tour begins at Paradise Living Bacalar, located at Marina Sunlagoon. From here, the adventure unfolds on a Hobie Getaway, a boat renowned for speed, comfort, and safety, perfect for those who want an active yet relaxed sailing experience. The absence of engines means you’ll glide smoothly across the water, truly feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. This eco-friendly approach appeals to travelers wanting to minimize their impact while enjoying nature at its best.

The group size is limited to 6, which might come as a relief if you dislike crowded tours. The guides, Victor and Laura, are praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge, often described as excellent hosts who make guests feel like friends rather than just customers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour’s itinerary is carefully crafted to showcase Bacalar’s most captivating spots, with plenty of time for photos, swimming, and relaxing. Here’s a closer look at each stop:

1. Cenote Negro – The tour kicks off with a 15-minute sail to this mysterious, darkly hued cenote. While the description doesn’t specify what makes Cenote Negro unique, travelers will appreciate the chance to see its natural beauty from the water. It’s a quick stop, but setting out from Paradise Living ensures you’re already in a prime position to explore.

2. El Canal De Los Piratas (Pirate Canal) – Next, a 20-minute sail takes you through this scenic waterway. The name hints at its historical intrigue, and the guides often share stories about the lagoon’s past—adding a touch of local flavor to your trip.

3. Break and swimming at the Pirate Canal – After passing through, there’s a 30-minute break for swimming and photo opportunities. This pause is highly appreciated by guests, as they can cool off, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps spot some wildlife. As one reviewer put it, the guides “took us away from the crowd and to very nice spots,” making this part feel exclusive and special.

4. Isla de los Pájaros (Birds Island) – A 25-minute sail brings you here, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The calm waters and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and snapping pictures of local birdlife.

5. Cenote Esmeralda – A quick 10-minute sail deposits you at this stunning cenote, known for its beautiful greenish waters. Its calmness and scenic backdrop mean it’s a favorite stop for many, especially those interested in the lagoon’s natural features.

6. Cenote Cocalitos – The final main stop is a 15-minute sail to Cocalitos, home to stromatolites and known for its vibrant blue hues. The tour includes a 30-minute break here for swimming and photos, giving you a chance to unwind and marvel at the scenery.

What You’ll Actually Do

Throughout the journey, the guides aim to provide more than just a boat ride—they share insights into Bacalar’s environment and history. Guests frequently mention how knowledgeable guides like Victor and Laura enhance the experience with their friendly attitude and local expertise. One reviewer highlighted how they “full of useful information about Bacalar, its history, the environment and Mexico generally.”

The sailing itself is a core part of the appeal. The Hobie Cat is praised for its speed and comfort, offering a thrilling but stable ride. Even with little wind, guides skillfully manage the boat, ensuring everyone remains comfortable and the sailing feels relaxing rather than frantic.

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The Food and Drink

A definite highlight for many guests: the included margaritas. These aren’t just thrown in as an afterthought—they’re homemade and enjoyed during the break times, helping everyone loosen up and chat. As one reviewer put it, “the margaritas were a very nice touch, which added to the overall nice vibe.”

The Experience Value

At $44 per person, this tour offers excellent value. For three hours, you get a full itinerary, personalized service, and a chance to experience Bacalar’s lagoon in a way that’s both active and laid-back. The lack of engines means you’re truly sailing with the wind, a big plus for environmentally conscious travelers. The small-group limit fosters intimacy, allowing guides to tailor the experience and answer questions comfortably.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and perhaps a towel. The sun can be strong, especially on open water.
• The tour runs in the morning and afternoon, so choose a time that suits your schedule.
• It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70 years old, due to the physical nature of sailing.
• Participants should be under 287 lbs, so check your weight if unsure.
• The guides speak multiple languages, making it accessible for many travelers.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests regularly praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One said, “Laura and Victor are adorable people,” and another emphasized how “sailing across the lake in the boat feels relaxing,” highlighting the peaceful and friendly nature of the trip. The small group size and personalized attention seem to be key factors in the high satisfaction ratings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is perfect for those who want a more authentic, eco-friendly way to explore Bacalar. It’s ideal if you’re a water enthusiast or someone seeking a peaceful escape from crowded boat tours. The inclusion of margaritas and the friendly guides make it suitable for travelers looking for a laid-back, social vibe.

However, if you prefer motorized boats or need accessibility accommodations, this might not be the best fit. Also, those with physical limitations or who are over the weight or age limits should look for other options.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers a genuine taste of Bacalar’s lagoon—with the added bonus of sailing on a swift, comfortable Hobie Cat. The small group, friendly guides, and multi-stop itinerary provide a balanced mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. For travelers who cherish authentic experiences and want to enjoy nature’s beauty without the noise of engines, it’s a winning choice.

The inclusion of homemade margaritas and the personal touch from guides like Victor and Laura elevate this from just a boat ride to a memorable social outing. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and local insights.

In short, if you’re after a relaxed yet engaging sailing experience in Bacalar, with friendly hosts and stunning scenery, this tour is well worth the price.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour offers a relaxing sailing experience, children should be comfortable on a boat and able to swim if they plan to enjoy the swimming stops. It’s not explicitly specified, but the small-group and sailing focus make it suitable for families with older kids.

What should I bring?
Be sure to bring sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel if you plan to swim. Since it’s a sailing trip, lightweight, comfortable clothing and waterproof items are advisable.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering some flexibility in your travel planning.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70 years old, due to the physical demands of sailing and boat transfers. Participants should also be under 287 lbs (130 kg).

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 3 hours, with most trips available in the morning and afternoon.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

This Bacalar Hobie Cat tour blends the thrill of sailing with the serenity of one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons. Whether you’re seeking a fun adventure or a peaceful day on the water, it promises a memorable experience—especially with friendly guides, stunning vistas, and a cold margarita in hand.

You can check availability for your dates here: