Bacalar: Private Catamaran Tour with Pirate Canal & Snacks

Summary

Private sailing on Bacalar’s lagoon with stops for swimming stories and snacks

You’ll meet your local guide at Casa China’s lookout before sailing across Bacalar’s lagoon on a private catamaran. Swim in crystal-clear water at Pirate Canal, snack on fresh guacamole and tropical fruit with drinks onboard, and listen to stories about ancient stromatolites and local legends as you drift past Isla de los Pájaros—moments you’ll want to replay long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way our guide Miguel grinned when we showed up at Casa China. He pointed up at this lookout tower and said, “You’ll see why we start here.” He wasn’t wrong — the lagoon really does look like it’s made of seven colors from up there. There was this breeze that smelled a little sweet, maybe from the fruit trees? Anyway, Miguel joked about how everyone tries to count the colors but always gets distracted by the birds. I did too.

We climbed onto the catamaran barefoot (the deck felt warm under my feet) and set off slow. The water was so clear you could see these weird ancient rocks — stromatolites — poking up in places. Miguel told us they’re older than dinosaurs, which made me feel tiny in a good way. We stopped at the Pirate Canal for a swim; honestly, I thought it’d be colder but it was just right. Floating there listening to Miguel tell some wild pirate legends — he even tried to sing part of one — felt surreal. My Spanish is shaky but I caught enough to laugh along.

Snacks showed up right when I started feeling hungry: guacamole that tasted way better than anything I make at home, slices of mango that dripped down my wrist, cold beer if you wanted it or this tangy fruit drink if not. There were only a few of us onboard so it never felt crowded or rushed. Isla de los Pájaros was our last stop — birds everywhere, some just standing on one leg like they owned the place. It got really quiet for a minute except for their calls and the sound of water against the hull. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour of Bacalar lagoon

• Start at Casa China lookout tower
• Listen to bilingual staff stories
• Enjoy sailing catamaran ride
• Visit Pirate Canal and swim
• Hear myths and legends of Bacalar
• Navigate three main cenotes
• See ancient stromatolites formations
• Receive healthy snacks and drinks
• Stop at Isla de los Pájaros
• Return to the pier

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Bacalar private catamaran tour?

No, pickup isn’t included; you meet at Casa China by the lagoon.

What food and drinks are served during the tour?

You get guacamole, tropical fruit, beer, and natural fruit beverages included.

Can infants or small children join this catamaran tour?

Yes, infants can join—specialized seats are available and strollers are allowed.

Are service animals permitted on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the catamaran tour.

How long does the Bacalar private catamaran tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours including multiple stops.

Does the tour include swimming opportunities?

Yes, you’ll have time to swim in crystal-clear waters at Pirate Canal.

Are life jackets or safety gear provided?

Yes, all necessary safety gear is included for everyone on board.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your guide at Casa China’s lookout tower before boarding a private sailing catamaran with all safety gear provided. Along the way you’ll enjoy healthy snacks like guacamole and tropical fruits plus cold beer or natural fruit drinks as you relax between stops for swimming and birdwatching before returning to shore together.