Private Bacalar Lagoon Tour Sailboat or Pontoon Adventure

Exploring the Private Bacalar Lagoon Tour: A Detailed Look

If you’re heading to Costa Maya and craving an escape from the usual cruise ship excursions, a private tour to Bacalar Lagoon might just be what you need. This experience, offered by JoJo’s Tours, promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic regional charm — all in an intimate, personalized setting. Whether you opt for a sleek sailboat or a comfortable pontoon, this tour aims to create a memorable day that balances stunning scenery with thoughtful service.

From what we gather, this tour is especially appealing thanks to its highly praised guides and the chance to see Bacalar’s mesmerizing “7-color lagoon” up close. We love how it combines the thrill of being on the water with the relaxation of a well-curated meal, all within a manageable five-hour window. However, a potential consideration is the roughly hour-long drive from Costa Maya, which may feel long for some travelers seeking a quicker getaway. This tour suits those who appreciate personalized experiences, beautiful natural settings, and the luxury of having everything taken care of from start to finish.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience tailored to your group’s preferences
• Beautiful scenery of Bacalar’s seven shades of blue lagoon
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights
• Flexible boat options: choose between a sailboat or pontoon
• Includes transport, meals, drinks, and snacks for convenience and comfort
• Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic day outside the cruise port

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Tour

Beginning Your Adventure: Easy Pickup & Comfort Travel

The tour kicks off with a personal pickup right outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal. This convenience is a major plus—no need to worry about navigating or organizing transport yourself. You’ll be taken in an air-conditioned vehicle, setting a comfortable tone for the day. The drive to Bacalar’s marina takes around an hour, which might seem long but offers a chance to relax and enjoy the anticipation of what’s ahead.

The Choice of Boats: Sailboat or Pontoon

Once at the marina, you’ll select your preferred boat type. The sailboat option offers a sense of elegance, a quiet glide across the lagoon powered by the wind and your captain’s skill. For those who prioritize ease and a more casual vibe, the pontoon provides ample space and comfort, perfect for lounging and socializing.

Both options allow you to take in Bacalar’s stunning colors of blue, earning it the nickname “the 7-color lagoon.” We loved the way the boats enable close-up encounters with the crystal-clear waters, perfect for splashing, swimming, or just drifting lazily along.

The Water Experience: Nature’s Beauty Up Close

On the water, your guide will keep an eye on your comfort and safety, ensuring you get plenty of time to swim and relax. The lagoon’s transparency makes it ideal for snorkeling, and you’ll love how the sunlight plays with the different shades of blue—it’s genuinely a photographer’s paradise.

The reviews highlight the stunning views as a standout feature. One traveler mentioned that Bacalar’s beauty “really doesn’t have anything else to offer except for the ruins,” but that the lagoons and clear waters more than make up for it. Another review described the experience as “amazing,” emphasizing how knowledgeable the guide was and how much fun everyone had.

Tasty Local Flavors on the Water

Midway through the tour, you’ll be treated to a delicious, healthy fruit snack, perfect for recharging. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds to the feeling of being cared for during your adventure.

Post-Boat Relaxation: Authentic Mexican Lunch

After the boat ride, the fun continues with a visit to what’s described as the author’s favorite local restaurant. Here, you’ll find authentic Mexican tacos—whether you prefer pork, beef, shrimp, or vegetarian options. The reviews praise the authenticity and quality of the food, making it a genuine taste of regional cuisine.

Return to Costa Maya: Timely & Seamless

Finally, your guide will ensure you’re back at the meeting point in plenty of time for your ship’s departure. The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including the travel time, which makes it a manageable half-day adventure that leaves plenty of time to explore Costa Maya or relax back onboard.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee of $385 per person covers a lot. You’ll get private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, sodas, and alcoholic beverages (including beer and tequila), plus snacks and a full lunch. The boat itself—either sailboat or pontoon—and a guiding service complete the package.

This means you’re paying for a convenient, all-inclusive experience that takes care of the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and company. The only extras are gratuities, which aren’t included but are customary if you feel the service warrants it.

Considerations

The main consideration is the drive time—about an hour from Costa Maya. While many reviews note this isn’t an issue, some travelers might prefer a shorter trip. Also, this is a private experience, so you won’t be part of a large group, which enhances intimacy but also means the experience is tailored, possibly at a premium cost.

Authentic Experiences & Authenticity

The reviews point to authentic Mexican food and the knowledgeable guides as standout features. One reviewer appreciated the “great experience,” emphasizing the ease of working with the operator and the amazing guide, Jhonna. It’s clear that the personal touch and local insights elevate this trip beyond a simple boat ride.

Value and Pricing

At $385 per person, this tour might seem costly compared to more generic excursions. However, considering the private nature, all-inclusive amenities, and the unique experience of Bacalar’s waters, many find it offers excellent value. For travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed day with the convenience of transportation and meals taken care of, this tour hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those seeking tranquility and beauty outside the hustle of the cruise port. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic regional flavors, beautiful scenery, and small-group or private tours. If you’re traveling with friends or family and want a more personalized adventure, this setup works wonderfully.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a quick, no-fuss activity, the hour-long drive might be a downside. Still, most reviews suggest the scenic beauty and the attentive guides make the drive worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

The Private Bacalar Lagoon Tour offers a well-rounded combination of luxury and natural beauty, delivered through expert guides and personalized service. The choice between a sailboat or pontoon adds flexibility, catering to different tastes—whether you want a serene sail or a more laid-back cruise. The inclusion of local food, drinks, and transport simplifies planning and enhances the overall experience.

While the price might seem high, the comprehensive nature of the tour—covering transport, boat, meals, and guided insights—creates a value proposition that many travelers find worthwhile. The reviews confirm that the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides make this a memorable highlight of any Costa Maya visit.

This tour is a fantastic pick for adventurers who love water, foodies seeking authentic tastes, and those who want a private, relaxed day without sacrificing comfort or quality.

FAQ

How do I meet the tour?
You’ll be picked up directly outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal at the designated meeting point, ensuring easy access and no fuss.

What kind of boat options are available?
You can choose between a sailboat or a pontoon boat, depending on your preference for elegance or comfort.

How long is the drive to Bacalar Lagoon?
The drive from Costa Maya to Bacalar marina takes approximately one hour each way, which many find manageable given the scenic views along the way.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, soda, alcohol (beer and tequila), snacks, lunch, boat tour, and a guide.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, the tour features a delicious, authentic Mexican lunch and a variety of drinks, including both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable on boats and with no restrictions on outdoor water activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing travel schedules.

Is this tour private?
Absolutely. It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored and intimate adventure.

In essence, this private Bacalar Lagoon tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and visually stunning day out that balances adventure with relaxation. For those wanting personalized service, authentic regional flavors, and the chance to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural sites, it’s a winning choice.