Bacalar Lagoon: Private Sailboat Day with Captain & Swimming

Summary

Private sailing on bacalar lagoon with swimming stops and optional lesson

You’ll sail Bacalar Lagoon on a private boat with your own captain—swim in crystal-clear water, spot birds at Bird Island, maybe even learn to steer the sail yourself. Taste fresh fruit under the sun and laugh along with your local guide as you drift past ancient stromatolites. It’s peaceful, personal, and leaves you feeling part of Bacalar for a day.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment when the sail first catches the wind on Bacalar Lagoon — everything goes quiet except for the soft slap of water against the hull. I remember looking over at our captain, Luis, who just grinned and said, “Now you feel it.” We’d left the little dock behind maybe twenty minutes before, fruit juice still cold in my hand, and I already felt lighter somehow. The water here really is that blue; people call it the Lagoon of Seven Colors but honestly I lost count after four.

We drifted past Bird Island where a couple of white herons watched us like we were interrupting their afternoon gossip. Luis pointed out stromatolites (I had to ask him twice how to say it), these ancient rock-like things that look like they belong on another planet. He offered to show us how to steer — my hands got all tangled up with the ropes but he just laughed and let me try anyway. There’s something about learning from someone who grew up here; he told stories about storms and calm mornings and once about a wedding that happened right on this boat. The sun kept shifting, sometimes warm on my face, sometimes hidden behind a cloud so everything went silver for a minute.

When we stopped near Cenote Negro for a swim, I hesitated because the water looked almost unreal — like blue glass if you could touch it. It was cold at first but then perfect, and floating there I could hear nothing except distant birds and someone from another boat singing off-key. My partner tried kayaking for a bit (included in the day trip by the way), but mostly we just floated and let time get weirdly slow. We finished with slices of fresh mango and one last beer each as we sailed back toward town. Even now I can smell the sunscreen mixed with lime from my drink — funny what sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private sailing tour on Bacalar Lagoon

• Board private sailboat with captain
• Sail around Bacalar Lagoon landmarks
• Swim in crystal clear water
• Spot local and migratory birds
• Optional sailing lesson onboard
• Relax and enjoy wind-powered travel

Top questions

Is this Bacalar private sailboat tour suitable for families?

Yes, it’s great for families or groups—kids can swim or try kayaking too.

Does this day trip include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you’ll meet at the dock in Bacalar.

Can I learn to sail during this experience?

Yes, there’s an optional sailing lesson included if you want to try steering.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

You get three beers per adult plus natural fruit drinks included.

How long does this private sailing trip last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect several hours out on Bacalar Lagoon.

Is lunch included in this Bacalar sailing tour?

No full lunch but seasonal fruit is served during your time on board.

What landmarks do we visit on Bacalar Lagoon?

You’ll see places like Pirate Canal, Cenote Negro, Bird Island, and stromatolites depending on your chosen route.

Are guides bilingual?

Yes—your captain or crew will speak both Spanish and English.

What’s included

Your day includes a private sailboat with bilingual captain-guide, three beers per adult plus natural fruit drinks and seasonal fruit snacks while onboard. Kayak rental is available if you want to paddle around during your stop. Safety equipment is provided throughout your journey—and if you’re curious about sailing basics, an optional lesson is part of the experience too.