Sunset Sailing Tour in Bacalar with Outdoor Bar and Lunch

If you’re heading to Bacalar, one of Mexico’s most beautiful lakes, and want to experience it from the water’s perspective, this Sunset Sailing Tour offers a memorable way to do just that. With a reputation for great reviews and a high recommendation rate, this tour promises a blend of tranquility, adventure, and authentic local flavor. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, the experience is designed to please.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines crystal-clear waters, a relaxed sailing vibe, and delicious homemade food. The open bar, featuring beer, tequila, soft drinks, and more, is a real highlight, making the trip feel both indulgent and laid-back. Plus, the stops at iconic sites like the Pirate Canal and Bird Island mean you’ll get varied scenery and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the views.

The only possible drawback? The tour involves anchoring in deeper waters, so swimmers should be comfortable with wearing life jackets, especially if the wind picks up. But overall, this is a well-rounded experience—ideal for those seeking a taste of Bacalar’s natural beauty with some good company and great food. Perfect for travelers who value authentic, guided experiences with a focus on relaxation and scenery.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Sail through Bacalar’s famous Lagoon of 7 Colors, visiting iconic spots like the Pirate Canal and Bird Island.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Unlimited drinks and a fresh, homemade lunch make this a hassle-free, enjoyable outing.
• Expert Guidance: Bilingual guides share insightful info about the lagoon’s history and ecology, enhancing the adventure.
• Balanced Itinerary: Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife watching ensure variety during the 5 hours.
• Group Size: Small groups of up to 13 travelers foster a personal, friendly atmosphere.
• Great Value: At around $66 per person, this tour offers a lot—beautiful scenery, food, drinks, and expert guides—making it a good deal.

What to Expect on the Tour

This five-hour sunset sailing adventure begins at Amir AdvenTours in Bacalar, where you’ll meet your crew and board a well-maintained sailboat. The timing—starting in the early afternoon—sets you up perfectly for watching the sun dip below the horizon over the lagoon.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Amir AdvenTours Bacalar
Your journey kicks off with a relaxing cruise from the dock, giving you the chance to get acquainted with your boat and crew. The peaceful waters and gentle breeze immediately set a tranquil tone. We loved the way the boat’s open deck invites you to simply unwind, while the crew provides attentive service—refilling drinks and making sure everyone is comfortable.

Stop 2: Canal de los Piratas
This historic waterway, once sailed by pirates, is the first stop. It’s a shallow, sandy-bottomed stretch perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews mention how much guests appreciated exploring this quiet, white-sand spot: “The scenery is so beautiful and peaceful,” one guest noted. The shallow waters make it accessible even for less confident swimmers, with the crew providing life jackets for safety.

Stop 3: Cenote Esmeralda
Next, you’ll visit the beautiful Emerald Cenote—crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and relaxing. Here, a delicious homemade lunch is served, including tacos, seasonal fruit, and fresh guacamole. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, with one saying, “The food was prepared fresh on the sailboat and it was delicious.” The cenote’s calm waters, combined with the scenic surroundings, make this stop both refreshing and photogenic.

Stop 4: Isla de los Pájaros
Bird Island offers a chance to see endemic and migratory birds in their habitat. It’s a serene moment to observe nature closely. Guests often mention the pleasure of seeing the local fauna in a quiet setting. As you sail back toward Bacalar, you’ll enjoy the sunset, with the lagoon turning into a palette of oranges and pinks—a truly magical sight.

Final Stretch:
The tour concludes back at Amir AdvenTours with a toast to your day of adventure. The crew’s friendly, knowledgeable approach ensures that everyone leaves with a smile and some great stories.

The Experience: What Makes It Special

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable guides. Guests frequently mention how guides like Omar, Charlie, and Rocio share interesting facts about Bacalar, its history, and its wildlife—adding depth to the experience. The combination of storytelling and scenic stops creates a richer understanding of this stunning lagoon.

The scenic views are consistently highlighted—reviews describe the water as “so beautiful and peaceful,” with many noting how the sunset over the lagoon is unforgettable. The experience of sailing without engine noise, just the sounds of water and wind, amplifies the tranquility.

Food and drinks are another standout. Guests rave about the homemade tacos, fresh fruit, and guacamole, which are served during the Cenote Esmeralda stop. The open bar, featuring beer, tequila, soft drinks, and water, ensures that everyone can relax and enjoy the afternoon without worries about refreshments.

Value for money is evident—at about $66 per person, the tour includes all these experiences, food, drinks, safety equipment, and even kayaking. The reviews consistently mention how this offers excellent value, considering the quality and variety of experiences packed into five hours.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour starts at 2:00 pm from Amir AdvenTours, located on Avenida 5, C. 46 con, in Bacalar. The group size is small—up to 13 travelers—which helps keep the experience intimate and personal. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but swimmers should be comfortable with anchoring in deeper waters, especially if the wind is strong.

Included in the price are safety gear, travel insurance, parking fees, and kayak access—a good assortment of amenities that enhance the experience. Not included are snorkeling equipment and transfers from your accommodation, so plan accordingly.

Weather can influence the tour—if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, so you have some flexibility.

What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel are advisable. The boat has ample shade, but protection from the sun is always smart. Alcoholic beverages are unlimited but drink responsibly, especially if you plan to swim.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and breathtaking scenery. One guest described their experience as “long and customizable,” appreciating the flexibility to swim, sail, and enjoy good food. Another noted, “The lagoon is beautiful and so much fun on a boat,” highlighting how lively and engaging the trip can be.

Many reviewers mention that the guides are passionate and attentive, ensuring everyone is well taken care of. The quality of the food—fresh, flavorful, and plentiful—also earns high marks, with guests saying it feels like a special treat rather than just a simple meal.

Several reviews mention the boat’s aesthetic appeal—it’s described as “beautiful,” with a relaxing atmosphere that makes the entire journey feel like a floating retreat. The sunset views are consistently praised as one of the highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, wildlife viewing, and chilling out. It suits families, couples, and groups of friends who enjoy nature and good company. If you’re a foodie or a lover of local flavors, you’ll appreciate the homemade lunch and friendly guides sharing stories and tips.

It’s also a great choice for those who prefer a more eco-friendly, tranquil alternative to motorized boat tours. The small group size and attentive crew create an intimate vibe that enhances the overall enjoyment.

The Sum Up

This Sunset Sailing Tour in Bacalar offers a well-rounded, authentic experience. Combining breathtaking scenery, expert guides, delicious homemade food, and unlimited drinks, it delivers excellent value at a reasonable price. The quiet beauty of the lagoon, paired with the relaxed sailing atmosphere, makes it a perfect way to unwind and soak up the natural splendor of Bacalar.

If you’re after a scenic, peaceful, yet engaging adventure—preferably with a good dose of local charm and hospitality—this tour is hard to beat. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities with a touch of comfort, and who value meaningful encounters with nature and local guides.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, children and non-swimmers are welcome. The shallow waters at some stops like the Pirate Canal are safe for swimming, but anchoring in deeper waters means everyone should wear a life jacket, which is provided.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and possibly a waterproof camera. The boat has shade, but sun protection is always a good idea.

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?
No, transfer from accommodations is not included. You’ll need to reach the meeting point at Amir AdvenTours in Bacalar.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than that, the booking is non-refundable.

Are snorkeling masks available?
Snorkeling equipment is not included in the tour, but you might find the stops suitable for snorkeling if you bring your own gear.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The tour departs at 2:00 pm, just in time to enjoy the sunset. The late afternoon timing offers cooler weather and spectacular sky colors, making for great photos.

This sailing tour in Bacalar balances adventure with relaxation, authenticity with comfort, making it a fantastic way to experience the Lagoon of 7 Colors. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural insights, or simply a peaceful float on turquoise waters, this trip ticks all those boxes.