Catamarán Through the Bacalar Lagoon and Make New Friends

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water in Mexico’s Quintana Roo, a catamaran tour of Bacalar Lagoon could be exactly what you need. This experience promises a laid-back three-hour sail with scenic stops, refreshing swims, and a chance to connect with fellow travelers from around the world. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, the detailed description and reviews suggest it offers a genuine taste of Bacalar’s stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation — you’ll glide through the lagoon powered solely by the wind, then stop for swims in crystal-clear waters. The inclusion of local seasonal fruits adds a tasty local touch, making the experience both refreshing and flavorful. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the small group size — limited to just four participants — which can be perfect for intimacy but might feel a bit tight if you’re traveling with a larger group or family.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy quiet, scenic outings with a small-group vibe. If you love being on the water and want a genuine, authentic experience in Bacalar without the crowds, this could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Small group size: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Focus on scenic beauty: Stops at iconic points like El Canal de los Piratas and Isla de los Pájaros.
• Authentic experiences: Swimming in clear waters and tasting seasonal fruits.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, keeping plans adaptable.
• Value for money: At $41 per person, it offers a peaceful, scenic adventure.
• Bilingual guides: Available in English and Spanish, facilitating better understanding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Catamaran Tour

Setting the Scene: The Experience Begins

The tour kicks off at the Bakana sailing catamaran, conveniently located within the Buho Lagoon hotel facilities. Arriving about 15-20 minutes early is recommended so you can settle in, get your equipment, and meet your small group. The vibe here is friendly and relaxed, which sets the tone for the entire journey.

Once aboard, the real magic begins as the 20-foot catamaran gently moves with the wind, gliding across the calm waters of Bacalar Lagoon. The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life vests and a dry bag for your belongings. The experience is suitable for those of all ages—though over 95 years might be a bit too much.

The Itinerary Breakdown

El Canal De Los Piratas (Pirates’ Channel)

The first stop takes you to the famous Canal de los Piratas, a narrow waterway famous for its historical pirate connection and stunning scenery. Here, you’ll enjoy a photo break and a short guided tour, offering insights into the lagoon’s past and present. The calm waters make for an ideal spot to swim and relax. The review mentions, “We loved the way the boat moved with just the wind—totally peaceful,” which highlights the tranquil nature of this part.

Isla de los Pájaros (Birds’ Island)

Next, the boat heads to Isla de los Pájaros, a small island known for birdwatching and natural beauty. Here, you’ll stop for free time, sightseeing, and possibly a picnic. This stop is perfect for taking in scenic views and snapping pictures. You might also get the chance to swim again in the clear waters or enjoy sunbathing under the Caribbean sun. One review noted, “The views on the way here were truly breathtaking, and the water was so inviting.”

Cenote La Bruja

The third stop is Cenote La Bruja, a local cenote where you can take a short guided tour. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with fresh water—ideal for a quick refreshing swim. The stop offers free time to explore or simply relax on the boat. Sailing continues afterward, letting you enjoy the gentle breeze in the open lagoon.

The Benefits of a Small Group

With only four participants, you’ll find this experience offers a more intimate atmosphere. It allows for personalized attention from the guide and spontaneous conversations. Some reviews highlight this aspect, mentioning how friendly the group felt and how the guide tailored the experience.

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The Scenery and Water

The main draw here is undoubtedly the stunning views of Bacalar Lagoon, famous for its seven shades of blue, although not explicitly mentioned in the description. The waters are crystal clear, perfect for swimming and picture-taking. The leisurely pace and wind-powered movement make for a very peaceful experience, allowing you to truly take in the natural beauty.

Food and Amenities

The inclusion of seasonal fruits and natural and Jamaican waters adds local flavor and keeps you refreshed throughout the trip. The mention of Mexican and seasonal fruits ensures you’ll taste local produce, which enhances the experience’s authenticity. All necessary equipment to ensure safe navigation is provided, and the tour includes a guide (in your language of choice).

Practical Details and Value

At $41 per person, this tour offers a competitive price for a scenic, small-group water adventure. The duration—about three hours—is ideal for a half-day activity, leaving plenty of time to explore other parts of Bacalar or relax afterward.

The tour’s flexible booking policy, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, adds peace of mind, and the “reserve now, pay later” option makes planning easier.

What to Bring and Not to Bring

Travelers should pack sunglasses, a hat, a towel, comfortable clothes, and a change of clothes. A cash tip is customary if you receive good service. To keep the experience safe and enjoyable, avoid jewelry, sharp objects, alcohol, aerosols, and glass objects—not just for safety but also to respect the ecosystem.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for quiet adventurers, small groups of friends, or couples seeking a peaceful day on the water. If you’re looking for a more private, intimate outing rather than a large tour, this is an excellent choice. It’s also suitable for those who want to combine scenic sailing with swimming and local tastes in a relaxed setting.

The Bottom Line: Who Is It Best For?

This catamaran tour of Bacalar Lagoon is best suited for travelers who value authenticity and serenity. If you love being on the water, soaking in beautiful scenery, and making meaningful connections with fellow travelers, this experience will satisfy. It’s not for those seeking action-packed adventures or large groups—instead, it offers a tranquil, scenic escape.

The small group size and personalized approach are key strengths that allow for a more genuine connection with Bacalar’s natural beauty. The inclusion of local fruits and the focus on eco-friendly sailing add to the sense of experiencing something special and authentic.

FAQs

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour begins at Bakana sailing, located within the Buho Lagoon hotel facilities. Arriving 15-20 minutes early is recommended for check-in and gear collection.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a great half-day activity.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides are available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, but travelers over 95 years old might find it less suitable due to physical demands or comfort considerations.

What should I bring?
Pack essentials like sunglasses, a hat, a towel, comfortable clothes, and a change of clothes. Bringing cash is also recommended for tips.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring onboard?
Yes, avoid weapons, sharp objects, jewelry, alcohol, aerosols, and glass objects to ensure safety and environmental respect.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The booking also offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

What’s included in the price?
All navigation equipment, safety gear, fresh seasonal fruits, natural and Jamaican waters, a guide, dry bag, and travel insurance are provided.

Is there any additional cost I should be aware of?
Tips are not included but are customary if you’re happy with the experience.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar Lagoon catamaran tour offers a delightful mix of scenic sailing, swimming in pristine waters, and enjoying local flavors—all within a small-group setting for a more personal touch. Its emphasis on authenticity and tranquility makes it ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful water adventure away from the crowds.

For those who appreciate stunning views, gentle sailing, and a chance to connect with nature and new friends, this tour is a solid choice. It balances value and experience, making it a memorable way to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons without breaking the bank.

In short, if you’re after a quiet, scenic break on the water with friendly company, this tour could be your perfect Bacalar highlight.

You can check availability for your dates here: