If you’re looking for an experience that combines tranquility, nature, and authentic local beauty, this 4-hour sailing tour in Bacalar might just be your next highlight. This private adventure promises to take you away from the crowds and into some of the most pristine and lesser-known parts of the lagoon, guided by passionate experts Liz and Danny.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the focus on secret spots away from typical tourist traps, offering serene views and quiet moments. Second, the emphasis on sustainable sailing and eco-tourism means you’re not just sightseeing — you’re respecting and learning about Bacalar’s unique environment. Finally, the personalized nature of the tour (up to 2 people per group) ensures you get an intimate, relaxed experience.
One thing to keep in mind is that access to certain amenities like palapas involves an extra charge, so if lounging on shaded beach spots is a priority, plan accordingly. This experience suits travelers who value authenticity, eco-consciousness, and peaceful exploration over crowded attractions — perfect for couples, small groups, or solo adventurers looking for a genuine connection with Bacalar’s natural beauty.
Good To Know

- Private and intimate: Only your group participates, creating a personalized experience.
- Eco-focused: Guided by biologist Liz and sustainable sailing expert Danny, emphasizing respect for nature.
- Unspoiled scenery: Visit the reef producing the purest oxygen and the largest lagoon cenote.
- Authentic encounters: Learn fun facts about mangroves, stromatolites, and local wildlife.
- Comfort and convenience: All necessary gear, snacks, and water included; UV protection provided.
- Flexibility: Cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, with weather considerations taken into account.
Discovering Bacalar’s Hidden Corners
This tour offers an immersive escape into Bacalar’s less-visited, untouched areas of the lagoon, perfect for travelers tired of busy beach clubs and crowded boat tours. The journey begins at the meeting point, Hakuna Sailing / BioTurismo, located in Xul-Ha. From there, you’ll head out on a custom-made sailing adventure designed for peace, quiet, and genuine learning.
The experience is approximately four hours long, giving you enough time to relax, snorkel, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The guide-to-guest ratio keeps it intimate, allowing for personalized attention and deeper insights into the environment.
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Learning from Passionate Guides
Liz, a biologist, and Danny, a sustainable sailing expert, are clearly passionate about sharing Bacalar’s natural wonders. Reviewers highlight their knowledge and enthusiasm, noting how they happily teach about local flora like mangroves, fauna, or the stromatolite reef — the “purest oxygen-producing reef” that’s accessible during the tour.
Alix_M from a recent review states: “Our hosts were amazing and passionate, and we learned so much about Bacalar and the mangroves.” This personalized approach enhances the experience, turning a boat ride into an educational journey.
A Day of Relaxation and Discovery
Expect a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the boat. The highlight for many is the visit to the largest cenote of the lagoon, where you can observe local fish and enjoy a refreshing dip. The tour also includes a tropical picnic featuring seasonal fruits, which you can enjoy with breathtaking views of the lagoon’s seven shades of turquoise.
The bio-turismo focus means your hosts take care to minimize environmental impact, and you’ll get the chance to ask questions about the lagoon’s ecology, making this a truly enriching experience. Snorkelers will appreciate the use of Cressi Viewfinders, which make it easier to spot marine life beneath the water.
Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Hakuna Sailing / BioTurismo
Your adventure kicks off here, where you’ll meet your guides and board a boat equipped for comfort and sustainability. The hosts will set the tone with safety gear like UV-protective shirts and hats, ensuring you’re well protected from the sun during your voyage.
Exploring the Unspoiled Lagoon
You’ll sail into the most pristine part of the lagoon, away from tourist-heavy areas. Here, the turquoise waters shimmer, and you can take in stunning panoramic views. Liz and Danny will share insights on the stromatolite reef, one of the few places in the world where these oxygen-producing formations can be observed.
Snorkeling at the Largest Cenote
Next, you’ll stop at the largest cenote in Bacalar’s lagoon, where you can swim alongside local fauna. The water is clear, inviting, and perfect for cooling off. Reviewers like Alix emphasize how much they appreciated the opportunity to swim and snorkel in natural environments that are generally off-limits to larger tours.
Picnicking and Relaxing
Your tropical picnic, consisting of seasonal fruits and fresh water infused with hibiscus, provides a perfect break. The panoramic views give you a moment to unwind, reflect, and capture photos of the stunning landscape.
Practical Details and What to Expect
Transportation and Meeting Point
The tour begins at Hakuna Sailing / BioTurismo in Xul-Ha, Chetumal. The guide provides all necessary snorkeling equipment and protective gear, making it easy even for beginners. The boat is designed to be comfortable and eco-friendly, emphasizing minimal environmental disturbance.
Duration and Group Size
The four-hour duration strikes a nice balance—long enough to explore and relax, yet not so long as to cause fatigue. Since only your group participates, you get undivided attention from guides who are eager to share their knowledge and love for the environment.
Cost and Value
At $195.11 for up to two people, this private tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized service, eco-focus, and access to exclusive spots. The inclusion of snacks, water, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment enhances the overall experience without hidden costs.
Flexibility and Cancellations
Planning a trip around Bacalar? No problem. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather considerations are taken seriously, with options to reschedule or get a full refund if conditions aren’t suitable.
Highlights from Reviewer Insights
Many mention how knowledgeable guides made the tour memorable. One reviewer notes, “Our hosts were passionate and taught us so much about the lagoon and mangroves,” emphasizing how education naturally complements the scenic adventure.
Another points out the stunning views: “The panoramic vistas of the seven turquoise shades are breathtaking,” which is something you’ll definitely want your camera ready for.
What really stands out is the balance of relaxation and discovery. Guests leave feeling refreshed, informed, and connected with nature, with some remarking that the experience was “the perfect mix of fun, culture, and tranquility.”
Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for couples seeking intimacy, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat in Bacalar. It’s perfect if you appreciate sustainable tourism and want to learn about the local ecosystem. The focus on untouched spots makes it a great choice for anyone craving authentic, quiet beauty away from bustling tourist spots.
If you’re a nature lover, snorkeler, or simply in need of a relaxing day immersed in pristine scenery, this tour will suit you well. Keep in mind that access to some amenities like palapas involves an extra fee, so if lounging on shaded beaches is essential, plan ahead.
The Sum Up

This 4-hour private sailing trip in Bacalar offers a fantastic blend of eco-conscious exploration, stunning scenery, and personalized service. It’s a rare chance to see some of the lagoon’s most pristine spots without the crowds, complemented by expert guides eager to share their knowledge and passion.
Perfect for travelers who value authenticity over mass tourism, this experience delivers tranquility, natural beauty, and educational insights in equal measure. The sustainably driven approach ensures you leave with a positive footprint and a deeper appreciation for Bacalar’s fragile ecosystems.
Whether you’re into snorkeling, photography, or simply soaking in peaceful views, this tour is a wise choice for those wanting to connect deeply with nature and enjoy a memorable, unhurried day.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, giving ample time to explore, swim, and relax without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
All snorkeling gear, UV-protective shirts and hats, bottled water, hibiscus-infused water, tropical fruits, parking, and a dry bag for your belongings are included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s best to check if your children are comfortable on boats and in the water.
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Hakuna Sailing / BioTurismo in Xul-Ha, Chetumal. The exact address is Manzana Cancún km 4.5.
Are meals or extra costs included?
The tropical picnic and water are included. Additional costs apply if you want to use palapas for lounging.
What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While weather can affect the tour, it’s designed to be flexible. Clear, sunny days will enhance your experience, but the tour can be rescheduled if needed.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear including Cressi Viewfinders is provided for your use during the trip.
Who leads the tour?
Guided by Liz, a biologist, and Danny, an expert in sustainable sailing, both passionate about sharing Bacalar’s natural beauty.
What makes this tour different from others in Bacalar?
It’s a private, eco-focused experience emphasizing secret spots and educational moments, rather than crowded tourist sites.
This private sailing experience in Bacalar promises a day of natural beauty, tranquility, and learning — perfect for travelers eager to enjoy the lagoon’s best-kept secrets with a responsible touch.
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