Private Bacalar Lagoon Tour Sailboat or Pontoon Adventure

If you’re planning a visit to Costa Maya and craving a unique way to experience one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural attractions, this private Bacalar Lagoon tour might just be your ideal escape. Although I haven’t personally taken this journey, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect — and it’s impressive.

What we love about this tour: first, the personalized experience that allows you to choose between a sailboat or pontoon, second, the knowledgeable guides who elevate the trip with their insights, and third, the stunning scenery of Bacalar’s famous seven shades of blue. One thing to consider is the drive from Costa Maya, which takes about an hour—though many say it’s well worth it. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking privacy, authentic experiences, and a touch of luxury in their day on the water.

Good To Know

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your group’s preferences
• Flexible transportation options: sailboat or pontoon boat
• Includes all essentials: transportation, snacks, drinks, and lunch
• Authentic cultural touch with local Mexican cuisine
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff that enhances the trip
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate adventure away from crowded tours

An Introduction to the Bacalar Lagoon Private Tour

This excursion offers a chance to explore Bacalar Lagoon—often called the “7-color lagoon” because of its mesmerizing shades of blue—in a quiet, private setting. The tour is operated by JoJo’s Tours, which has garnered praise for their attentive service and well-organized trips. For $385 per person, you’re paying for a five-hour experience that balances scenic cruising, relaxing dips, and authentic regional cuisine.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the customization; you can select either a sailboat for a more elegant, wind-powered cruise or a pontoon for stability and space. Second, the dedicated guide ensures your comfort and can tailor the experience to your group’s interests. Third, the focus on authentic Mexican food and drinks makes it more than just a boat tour — it’s a cultural taste of the region.

What to Expect from the Tour

Pickup and Transportation

The adventure begins with a prompt pickup outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into an air-conditioned vehicle. This part of the journey, roughly an hour each way, has been noted as a potential downside by some; however, most agree it’s a small price to pay for the exclusive experience awaiting you at Bacalar. Following the instructions in your confirmation email ensures a smooth start.

The Boat Experience

Once at the marina, you’ll board your chosen vessel—either a sailboat offering a romantic, wind-driven cruise or a pontoon for a more relaxed, spacious ride. Expect attentive service from your crew as you cruise along the lagoon’s shimmering waters, taking in views that will leave you speechless. Reviewers highlight the stunning vistas and describe Bacalar’s hues as “so beautiful,” with one noting the 7 shades of blue that truly live up to their nickname.

Swimming and Snorkeling

The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quick splash or a leisurely swim. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the opportunity to dip into the pristine waters, with one quoting, “We had a great time splashing around in the clear waters of Bacalar.” The calm, warm waters are safe for all ages and skill levels, and the tranquil environment makes it a great spot for relaxation.

Fresh Fruit Snack

Throughout the cruise, your guide will serve a delicious, healthy fruit snack, adding a refreshing touch to your journey. This small but thoughtful detail helps keep you energized as you soak in the scenery.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After the boat experience, the tour continues with a visit to a favorite local restaurant for authentic Mexican tacos. Choices range from pork, beef, shrimp, to vegetarian and vegan options—there’s something for all. Reviewers have praised the authentic flavors and quality of the food, with one describing the lunch as “really good and genuine.”

Return to Costa Maya

To wrap up, your guide will ensure you arrive back at the meeting point on time, making sure you’re ready to board your ship or continue your adventure in Costa Maya. The entire experience, including travel, is approximately five hours—a well-paced day that balances adventure and relaxation.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $385 per person, this private tour may seem a bit steep at first glance. However, the inclusion of private transportation, drinks, snacks, lunch, and guided service makes it a comprehensive package. Unlike crowded group tours, this private experience offers flexibility and intimacy, which many travelers find worth the price.

The reviews reinforce this: “The tour operator was very easy to work with,” and “Our guide was so nice and knowledgeable”—both points that highlight the value of attentive service. The custom options—sailboat or pontoon—allow you to choose your preferred style of adventure, adding to the overall satisfaction.

Authenticity and Experience

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to connect with Bacalar’s natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of larger, shared tours. Many reviewers appreciated the personalized attention and insider tips from guides like Jhonna, who made the trip memorable with her friendliness and knowledge.

The scenery is undoubtedly the main star here—calm waters, vibrant shades of blue, and the serenity of a private boat cruise create an atmosphere perfect for photos and relaxation. The authentic Mexican lunch adds a cultural layer that enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Drive and Logistics

The only notable drawback mentioned is the drive from Costa Maya, which takes about an hour. Some guests felt it was a bit long, but most agreed it was worthwhile given the quality of the experience. The pickup point is conveniently located just outside the cruise terminal, and the return is just as smooth, ensuring your day stays on schedule.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Bacalar Lagoon tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and authentic experiences. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a relaxing day out on the water with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the ever-changing shades of blue provide perfect scenery for capturing memories. Those looking for a more intimate and flexible outing will find this tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

This private Bacalar Lagoon tour offers a balanced mix of luxury, authentic regional flavors, and breathtaking scenery. The ability to choose between a sailboat or pontoon allows you to tailor your experience, whether you seek romance, adventure, or simply a relaxing day in nature.

Most travelers leave with memorable moments, praising guides like Jhonna for their friendliness and expertise. The inclusion of fresh snacks, authentic tacos, and drinks makes this more than just a boat trip — it’s a carefully curated experience that celebrates Bacalar’s natural beauty and local culture.

While the drive from Costa Maya might be a slight inconvenience, the stunning views and personalized service make it a worthy journey. If you’re after a private, flexible, and scenic adventure, this tour is a smart choice that promises genuine connection and beautiful memories.

FAQ

How do I meet the tour?
You’ll be picked up right outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal, at the designated meeting point. Make sure to follow the instructions in your email confirmation for a smooth start.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, soda, alcoholic beverages like beer and tequila, snacks, lunch, and the boat tour itself (either sailboat or pontoon). A guide accompanies you throughout.

Can I choose between a sailboat and a pontoon?
Yes, you can select your preferred vessel when booking. Both options offer a unique way to enjoy Bacalar’s scenery, with sailboats providing a more romantic, wind-powered experience and pontoons offering space and stability.

What about the drive from Costa Maya?
The journey to Bacalar takes about an hour each way. While some find this a bit long, most agree it’s simply part of the adventure to reach this stunning spot.

Is this tour suitable for children or all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the calm waters of Bacalar are suitable for swimming and relaxing. Always check with your guide if you have specific concerns about age or mobility.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than that, and your payment might not be refunded, so plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.

To sum it up, this private Bacalar Lagoon tour offers a wonderful way to experience one of Mexico’s most eye-catching sights with comfort, authenticity, and a personal touch. It’s ideal for those who value quality over quantity, and who want a memorable day on the water without the crowds. Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or simple relaxation, this trip promises to deliver stunning views and meaningful connections with Bacalar’s natural beauty.