Bacalar Lagoon: Catamaran Sailing & Swimming with Drinks

Summary

Sailing Bacalar’s seven blues swimming music fruit beers

You’ll sail across Bacalar Lagoon’s famous “seven blues” on a relaxed catamaran ride with a local guide—swimming stops included. Taste fresh seasonal fruits and sip cold drinks as you listen to stories and music drifting over calm water. It’s easygoing, colorful, and you might find yourself wishing you could stay longer.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the water in Bacalar Lagoon really does look like it’s painted in stripes—seven shades of blue, or at least that’s what our guide, Martín, said as he steered the catamaran out from the dock. I tried to count the colors but kept losing track. There was a breeze that smelled faintly sweet, maybe from all the fruit trees along the shore? We were handed icy fruit drinks before we’d even settled in. Honestly, I didn’t expect to relax so quickly.

Martín pointed out little things I’d never have noticed—tiny birds darting low over the water, some wild orchids tangled up in mangroves. He told us about pirates who used to hide out here (I didn’t know that bit), and then someone put on music that just fit the mood. At one point we stopped and everyone jumped in—water warm as a bath but clearer than any pool I’ve seen. I floated for ages, watching clouds drift by while someone laughed about losing a flip-flop overboard (they got it back).

There were snacks too—mango slices and something that looked like papaya, plus cold beers (three each, Martín grinned). It felt like time slowed down out there; no rush to get anywhere. The sun shifted and all those blues changed again. I still think about that view sometimes when I close my eyes at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and swim in Bacalar Lagoon

• Board comfortable catamaran
• Sail for 3 hours on lagoon
• Admire seven shades of blue
• Enjoy refreshing drinks onboard
• Listen to curated musical selection
• Take photographs of tropical landscapes
• Swim in warm, clear waters
• Learn about Bacalar's history and nature

Top questions

How long is the Bacalar catamaran tour?

The sailing experience lasts around 3 hours on the lagoon.

Are drinks included during the catamaran trip?

Yes, natural fruit drinks and three beers per person are included.

Is swimming allowed during the tour?

Yes, there are stops for swimming in Bacalar Lagoon’s clear waters.

What snacks are provided?

You’ll get seasonal fruit snacks during the tour.

Is this suitable for kids or families?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Are alcoholic beverages available for minors?

No, alcoholic drinks are not served to minors.

Where does the catamaran depart from?

The tour departs from Bacalar; public transport options are nearby.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes sailing by catamaran through Bacalar Lagoon with a local guide at the helm, refreshing natural fruit drinks served onboard, three cold beers per person if you want them, plus plenty of fresh seasonal fruit snacks along the way before heading back ashore.