Bacalar Lagoon Private Catamaran Lunch and Drinks from Costa Maya

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with azure waters, vibrant scenery, and a touch of luxury, then the Bacalar Lagoon Private Catamaran Lunch and Drinks tour might just be your perfect escape. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a memorable experience.

What we love about this tour is the chance to glide across the “Seven-Color Lagoon” in an exclusive, private setting—unlike crowded group excursions, this offers a peaceful and personalized adventure. The inclusion of a delicious Mexican lunch with drinks, especially with the flexibility of vegetarian options, makes it an all-in-one way to indulge and relax. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and stunning views are consistently praised, ensuring you’ll be in good hands.

One thing to consider is the duration—at around five hours, it’s a substantial part of your day, which might feel quite compact if you’re also exploring other areas. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, privacy, and scenic beauty, and who want a blend of active exploration and chill moments on the water.

Good To Know

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, offering intimacy and flexibility.
• Stunning Views: The tour showcases Bacalar’s famous shifting shades of blue, a true visual feast.
• Guided Expertise: Guides like Jhoana and Arturo receive praise for their friendly, professional, and knowledgeable service.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: Combines a catamaran cruise with a tasty Mexican lunch at a favorite local spot.
• All-Inclusive Value: Beverages, snacks, and lunch are included, making this a hassle-free day out.
• Good for Relaxation & Photography: Perfect for those wanting serene waters and picture-perfect moments.

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Private Catamaran Tour

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Private Transport

The journey begins outside the Costa Maya cruise port at the designated meeting point, where you’ll be greeted by your private, air-conditioned vehicle. This is a thoughtful touch, especially after a morning of travel or cruise disembarkation, ensuring a comfortable transition to Bacalar. The transfer takes about two hours, giving you a brief window to relax or soak in snippets of local scenery.

The Lagoon: A Masterpiece of Blue

Once at the marina on Bacalar Lagoon, the real magic starts. The private catamaran becomes your floating sanctuary—an ideal setting for unwinding or snapping photos of the vivid hues that earned Bacalar the nickname. Reviewers like one noted how the views left them breathless and appreciated the chance to splash in the clear waters, which are as inviting as they look.

The guides, especially Jhoana, receive special praise for their friendliness and professionalism, making everyone feel cared for. They also prepare fresh fruit snacks during the cruise—think slices of pineapple and mango, which add a healthy, cooling touch amid the sun and water.

The Lagoon’s Hidden Corners and Natural Beauty

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to explore less accessible parts of the lagoon on a private catamaran, avoiding crowds and enjoying the tranquility. The different shades of blue are not only beautiful but also fascinating from a photographic perspective. As one reviewer pointed out, understanding why Bacalar is called the “Seven-Color Lagoon” is a visual revelation, with each hue telling a different story of sunlight, depth, and mineral content.

Post-Cruise Delights: The Yak Lake House

After nearly two hours of cruising, your adventure continues onshore at a beloved local restaurant, the Yak Lake House. Here, you’re treated to authentic Mexican tacos—pork, beef, or shrimp—paired with fresh guacamole. Vegetarian and vegan options are available on request, an important note for those with dietary preferences.

Guests have raved about the delicious and authentic flavors, with one reviewer highlighting how attentive staff made the experience extra special. The relaxed vibe is perfect for savoring your meal while recounting the highlights of the day.

Included Beverages and Snacks

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy a selection of beverages, including soda, bottled water, beer, and tequila (for those over 18). The snacks—chips, fresh fruit, and more—are the perfect refreshments after the water-based activities. All these details contribute to a feeling of care and thorough planning, making your day seamless from start to finish.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Duration and Timing

This tour spans approximately five hours, including the two-hour transfer. The core activity— the catamaran cruise—lasts around two hours, with the lunch stop adding another hour to your day. This makes it ideal for travelers who want a full, yet manageable adventure without feeling rushed.

Group Size & Privacy

Being a private tour means only your group participates, which enhances the experience’s exclusivity. It’s especially appreciated by couples, families, or small groups seeking a more personalized day. The small-group feel allows guides to tailor the experience and answer questions, adding layers of insight that larger tours often miss.

Transportation & Comfort

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the journey, which is especially meaningful in warm weather. Since the transfer is direct and private, you avoid the chaos of crowded shuttles, gaining a more relaxed start and end to your day.

Cost & Value

At $185 per person, the price reflects a premium experience with private transport, a private boat, lunch, drinks, snacks, and expert guides. When you consider the inclusivity and exclusivity, many find the cost justified, especially given the high praise for the guides’ professionalism and the quality of the views.

Real Guest Insights

From reviews, we learn that guides like Jhoana and Arturo are not just knowledgeable but also genuinely friendly, making the entire trip feel personal. One reviewer mentioned how Jhoana’s friendly and professional manner set a positive tone from the start, while another emphasized how attentiveness made the experience stand out.

Several appreciated the stunning scenery, with one describing the lagoon as “so beautiful” and the views as “breathless.” The chance to splash in the waters and have a delicious snack mid-cruise was another highlight, offering a comfortable balance of activity and relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private catamaran experience is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, intimate, and scenic day out. If you’re after stunning visuals, personalized service, and a mix of water-based fun and good food, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also perfect if you prefer avoiding crowded tours and want a more relaxed pace, all while enjoying expert local guides.

However, those on a very tight schedule might want to note the two-hour transfer time, and if you’re not a fan of boat rides, you’ll want to consider your comfort with water excursions. Also, keep in mind the price point; while it offers excellent value for a private experience, it’s a splurge compared to group tours.

Overall, for anyone craving a peaceful yet vibrant exploration of Bacalar, coupled with good food and friendly guides, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts about five hours, including approximately two hours of travel time each way, a two-hour catamaran cruise, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a private catamaran cruise, lunch with tacos and guacamole, drinks (soda, water, beer, tequila), snacks, and insurance.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be requested for the lunch at the Yak Lake House.

Is this a private or group tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with boat rides and water activities. Contact the provider if you have specific concerns about age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Comfortable clothes and a towel are also recommended for enjoying the water.

In summary, this Bacalar Lagoon private catamaran tour offers a luxurious, scenic, and well-organized way to experience one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural spots. With knowledgeable guides, a private boat, delicious local food, and tranquil waters, it’s particularly suited for those looking for a relaxed yet memorable day—worth every peso for the views and personal touch.