Travel Boat in Pontoon to Bacalar & Cenote Azul from Cancun

If you’re dreaming of a day that combines breathtaking scenery, refreshing swims, and a touch of pirate history, this Travel Boat in Pontoon to Bacalar & Cenote Azul from Cancun is worth considering. While it’s a long haul—about 3.5 hours each way—the promise of crystal-clear waters, lively boat rides, and authentic small-town charm makes it appealing for those eager to escape the beaten path.

What we really like about this tour is its all-in-one package: hassle-free transportation, visits to top natural spots, and a boat adventure to the Pirate Canal. Plus, it offers a chance to relax at a beach club near Cococalitos, making it an appealing mix of activity and leisure. One potential downside is the duration—this is a full day on the road, so it’s not for the faint of heart if you prefer short, more relaxed trips.

This experience will suit travelers who love authentic outdoor adventures, are comfortable with long bus rides, and want to explore lesser-known parts of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. If you’re after a memorable, value-packed day that goes beyond typical Cancun excursions, this tour could be just the ticket.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive day trip from Cancun including transport, meals, and entrance fees
• Visit to Cenote Azul, renowned for its clear waters and stunning location
• Pontoon boat ride exploring Bacalar’s waterways and Pirates Canal
• Relax at Cococalitos lagoon with fossilized rocks and nearby beach club
• Long day on the road, approximately 3.5 hours each way, so packing extra comfort is wise
• Hassle-free round-trip transportation makes logistics simple for travelers

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Early for a Long Day

The tour begins at 6:30am, with pickup from your Cancun hotel. Expect to be gathered in smaller vehicles before transferring to a larger bus—a logistical move that ensures everyone gets to the final destination comfortably. While the early start might be challenging, it maximizes your time at Bacalar.

Stop 1: Bacalar – The Magical Town

Once you arrive in Bacalar, you’re greeted with a view that instantly justifies the trip. This town, often called the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” offers a peaceful vibe with its clear turquoise waters and laid-back atmosphere. You’ll have around 2 hours to relax, explore, or simply soak in the scenery. As one reviewer notes, “The lagoon is even prettier than I expected, and the town has a relaxed Caribbean charm.”

Stop 2: Cenote Azul

Next, you’ll head to Cenote Azul, a highlight of the trip. This natural sinkhole boasts waters so clear you can see the bottom even in deep sections. It’s not just about swimming; reviewers mention its stunning location next to limestone cliffs, making for excellent photo opportunities. You’ll spend about 2 hours here, allowing plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just unwind on the rocks. Entrance is included, and many guests say it’s “the most beautiful cenote I’ve ever seen.”

Stop 3: Pirates Canal & Lake Bacalar

The third leg involves a boat ride through Bacalar’s waters, including a journey to the Pirates Canal, adding a sense of adventure and history. The pontoon boat ride is a fun way to see the lagoon from a different perspective, with the added intrigue of pirate lore. The boat trip lasts about 2 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the views, take photos, and learn about the area’s past. According to reviews, the boat ride “was lively and scenic,” with guides sharing interesting tidbits about the pirate era.

Final Stop: Cococalitos Lagoon & Beach Club

The day concludes at Cococalitos, a famous swimming lagoon with fossilized rock formations that create a surreal landscape. You’ll have access to a beach club near the lagoon, where you can unwind, enjoy a meal, or take a final swim. Many find this a perfect way to cap off a busy day, especially with the gentle, shallow waters ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip transportation from Cancun, with pickup and drop-off
• Boat ride through Bacalar’s waters
• Visit to Cenote Azul and Cococalitos lagoon
• Food at the restaurant (note that beverages are not included)
• Access to various natural and cultural sites

Not Included:

• Additional expenses or souvenirs
• Beverages at the restaurant
• Personal items (remember to bring towels, sunscreen, and extra clothes)

This all-inclusive approach simplifies planning and ensures travelers don’t get caught off guard by hidden fees, making it a solid value considering the comprehensive experience.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour begins with an early start at 6:30am, a typical feature for full-day excursions. The transport involves collecting guests in smaller vehicles before transferring to a larger bus—this helps manage multiple pickup points efficiently. Expect about 3.5 hours of driving each way, depending on traffic and stops, so packing a snack, water, or a light blanket for the air conditioning bus is advisable.

Guides and staff are generally praised for their organization and friendliness, creating a comfortable environment for the long haul. The tour caps at 60 travelers, ensuring you’ll have room to breathe without feeling lost in a crowd.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Tips

Reviews reveal that the scenery at Cenote Azul exceeds expectations; one guest described it as “absolutely stunning, with vibrant turquoise waters.” The boat ride, often described as lively, offers views you can’t get from land, especially when riding through the Pirates Canal—an area with a hint of adventure and history.

Some travelers mention the long drive as a challenge, but most agree that the sights and experiences are well worth it. A reviewer highlighted that “the trip is very well organized, and the stops are paced nicely,” which helps balance the long hours.

For those concerned about the weather, bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat is a must. Since you’ll be outdoors most of the day, packing extra clothes and towels for swimming is wise. Many guests appreciate the value for money, citing the combination of transportation, site visits, and meals as making the price of $130 per person quite reasonable for a full day of activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy natural beauty, outdoor water activities, and a full schedule. It’s perfect for those comfortable with long journeys and eager to see a lesser-known part of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. If your goal is to experience authentic lagoons and cenotes away from crowded tourist spots, this trip offers a genuine glimpse into Bacalar’s charms.

It also suits families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a memorable day out with plenty of photo opportunities, boat rides, and swimming. However, if you’re not a fan of long travel days or prefer more relaxed, shorter excursions, this might feel a bit exhaustive.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Bacalar tour offers a beautiful blend of natural beauty, history, and fun activities—all wrapped into an accessible package. While the drive is lengthy, the sights and experiences along the way make it worthwhile, especially if you love swimming in pristine waters and exploring hidden gems.

The inclusion of transport, guided boat rides, and entrance fees makes it a good value for those wanting to maximize their day without fussing over logistics. The scenic stops at Cenote Azul and Cococalitos Lagoon are genuine highlights, offering unforgettable photo moments and serene swimming.

This experience is well suited for travelers who want a full, active day that takes them away from the hustle of Cancun and into the calm, colorful waters of Bacalar.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the drive each way?
Approximately 3.5 hours each way, depending on traffic. It’s a long day, so plan for plenty of sitting time.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Food is included at the restaurant, but drinks are not. You can bring water, snacks, and extra clothes for swimming.

Can I swim at Cenote Azul?
Yes, swimming is one of the main activities at Cenote Azul, and many guests enjoy the clear waters and relaxing environment.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long hours and transportation. It’s best for families comfortable with long days.

What should I wear?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for outdoor activities.

In sum, this Bacalar tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure that’s especially good value for the full-day commitment. If you’re after a memorable, scenic escape from Cancun with plenty of swimming and boat riding, it’s an option worth considering.