Traveling to Costa Maya and craving a glimpse of the stunning Bacalar Lagoon? This Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo promises a combination of history, natural beauty, and fun aquatic adventures — but it’s not without its quirks. We’ll unpack what makes this tour worth considering, alongside some honest insights to help you decide if it suits your travel style.
What we like about this experience? First, the chance to visit iconic sites like San Felipe Fort offers a peek into the area’s past. Second, the boat rides through narrow Pirate’s Channel and visits to two gorgeous cenotes sound like a picture-perfect way to relax and explore. Third, the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and a flexible itinerary make it convenient for cruise travelers with limited time.
However, a clear consideration is that some travelers have faced delays, and the overall rating hints that not every aspect hits the mark. This tour appeals most to those who want a balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and a taste of local stories, all wrapped into a manageable half-day outing.
Good To Know
- Includes notable sites like San Felipe Fort and two cenotes, making it a well-rounded excursion.
- Boat rides through Pirate’s Channel and visits to cenotes promise scenic and refreshing experiences.
- Transportation is comfortable, air-conditioned, and round-trip from Costa Maya port.
- Limited walking from ship to meeting point, ideal for those wanting a low-impact tour.
- Small group sizes (up to 80 travelers) maintain a personal touch.
- Cost at $143.10 per person offers a good balance between activities and convenience, especially for cruise visitors.
What to Expect from the Tour
This tour, designed exclusively for cruise guests, starts sharply at 9:00 am, just about an hour after your ship docks. The meeting point is conveniently close to Costa Maya Port, about a 15-minute walk from most cruise ships, which means less time waiting and more time exploring.
The experience begins with a visit to San Felipe Fort—a Spanish colonial relic perched above Bacalar Lagoon. From here, travelers get sweeping views of the turquoise waters and a sense of history. While some reviews note the $5 entrance fee, it’s fairly modest for the chance to see a well-preserved fort and take photos of the scenic landscape.
Next up is the boat ride—your core activity. The boat offers a comfortable, air-conditioned environment, perfect for relaxing while cruising through the lagoon. The boat stops at Cenote La Bruja, a striking cenote famous for its clear waters and captivating underwater formations. You’ll likely spend some time swimming or just floating, soaking in the tranquil beauty.
From there, the boat heads to Pirate’s Channel, a narrow waterway with stories of pirates and buried treasure. This part of the tour isn’t just about scenery; it’s about feeling connected to Bacalar’s pirate lore. As one reviewer observed, “You hear stories about pirates and hidden treasures as we cruise through this fascinating place,” which adds a fun storytelling element to the trip.
The second cenote, Cocalitos, is known for its white sandy bottom and vibrant turquoise waters. It’s an ideal spot for a second swim, allowing you to cool off and appreciate the natural color palette of the lagoon.
Throughout the tour, you’re provided with snacks—your choice of a cheese or turkey sandwich, plus granola bars, chips, and fruit. Drinks include bottled water, sodas, juice, and even beer, giving you plenty of refreshment options during your adventure.
The Itinerary: A Closer Look
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San Felipe Fort
This quick stop offers more than just a photo op. The fort provides panoramic views of Bacalar Lagoon, making it a perfect vantage point for photos and a brief history lesson. Some travelers have commented on the fort’s well-preserved state and the ease of access, with most visitors feeling it’s a worthwhile addition for the price.
The Boat Ride
A highlight of the experience, the boat ride combines scenic beauty with storytelling. The boat’s capacity allows for a group size that doesn’t feel crowded—though the maximum is 80 travelers, most will find it feels intimate enough to relax and enjoy the views. The boat cruise includes stops at two cenotes, giving you multiple opportunities to swim and reconnect with nature.
Cenotes La Bruja and Cocalitos
Cenote La Bruja is praised for its crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing underwater formations. Reviewers like David mentioned the underwater sights, calling the cenote “stunning” and perfect for a quick swim.
Cocalitos is famous for its pristine sandy bottom and vibrant waters. The white sands provide a soft contrast to the blue, and many find this to be a peaceful spot for hanging out in the water and taking photos.
Pirate’s Channel
This narrow waterway is where stories of pirates and buried treasures come alive. The cruise through Pirate’s Channel is often described as charming, with the added bonus of learning about local lore. The stories make the journey more engaging, especially for history buffs or those who love a good pirate tale.
The Practical Side: Logistics and Value
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Transportation and Timing
The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya Port, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The journey from the port to the meeting point takes about 15 minutes, which is ideal for travelers eager to maximize their time ashore.
Starting at 9:00 am gives enough time to enjoy the major stops before the afternoon crowds or ship departure times. The total tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, encompassing the drive, sightseeing, and swimming.
Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 80 travelers, the group size is moderate—large enough for a lively vibe but still manageable for those wanting some personal space. It’s a good balance for cruise excursions, where efficiency matters but comfort still counts.
Cost and Value
At $143.10 per person, the tour offers a fair mix of activities, transportation, and snacks. For travelers on a cruise, this price delivers access to significant sites and scenic boat rides—no hidden fees, with the only extra being the $5 entrance fee to San Felipe Fort.
The inclusion of snacks and drinks makes it convenient, particularly for those who don’t want to worry about bringing their own. Some might say it’s slightly pricey, but considering the convenience and the scenic stops, it’s a reasonable investment.
The Review from Past Travelers
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One reviewer, David, shared frustrations about missing the tour due to delays, emphasizing the importance of punctuality when booking. Others appreciated the ease of meeting close to the port and the scenic views, describing the boat’s stops as “beautiful” and “refreshing.”
A common thread in reviews is that the views are stunning, and the stops at cenotes are worth the visit. However, some also noted that delays or miscommunications could affect the overall experience, so arriving on time and staying flexible is key.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
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This excursion is perfect for cruise passengers looking for a balanced, scenic, and culturally interesting half-day trip. If you enjoy history, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed boat ride, you’ll find it a good fit. It’s also suitable for those with limited mobility, given the minimal walking involved and the comfortable transportation.
However, travelers seeking a more adventurous or in-depth exploration of Bacalar might want to consider other options. This tour offers a snapshot—ideal for those wanting a taste of the lagoon’s beauty without committing to a full-day or more intense activity.
Final Thoughts
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The Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo provides an engaging look at one of Mexico’s most picturesque spots. It combines history, natural beauty, and storytelling in a well-organized package, especially convenient for cruise travelers. While the experience offers many highlights like stunning cenotes and scenic boat passages, it does require some patience with scheduling and potential delays.
For those who value beautiful views, a relaxed pace, and a touch of local lore, this tour can deliver memorable moments. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a straightforward yet picturesque introduction to Bacalar’s enchanting lagoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is transportation included? Yes, the tour offers roundtrip transport from Costa Maya Port in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the trip hassle-free.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including transit, sightseeing, and swimming.
What are the main stops? The highlights include San Felipe Fort, Cenote La Bruja, Pirate’s Channel, and Cocalitos cenote.
Are there any additional fees? Yes, there’s a $5 entrance fee to San Felipe Fort, but all other activities and snacks are included.
What should I bring? Water, sunscreen, a swimsuit, towel, and a sense of adventure. Snacks and drinks are provided, but bringing extra water or personal items is always a good idea.
Can I participate if I have limited mobility? The tour involves minimal walking from the cruise ship to the meeting point and mostly involves sitting on the boat, making it accessible for most.
What is the group size? The tour accommodates up to 80 travelers, but it generally feels manageable and not overly crowded.
What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, perfect for flexible planning.
All in all, this Bacalar combo tour offers a scenic, history-filled, and enjoyable outing — best suited for those wanting a relaxed yet memorable taste of Bacalar’s natural splendor.