Cruise Bacalar’s layered lagoon on a private pontoon, swim in cenotes and canals, and enjoy a grilled surf-and-turf lunch with drinks included. This four-hour, small-group experience balances easy water stops with birding and local insights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low-slung pontoon glides across Bacalar’s lagoon, its motor a soft punctuation in a broad field of blue-green water. The guide eases the boat into a sheltered cove; steam rises from surf-and-turf skewers on the grill while sunlight draws out the lagoon’s layers—teal over white sand, deep sapphire over cenote's throat. You step into warm, clear water that pushes gently at your shins and dares you to swim farther.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming ability recommended for swim-and-snorkel stops.
Wildlife
History
Bacalar grew around freshwater sources and cenotes; channels like the Pirate Canal reflect centuries of local navigation and occasional pirate activity during colonial times.
Conservation
Boat traffic and sunscreen runoff can stress the lagoon—choose operators who use small boats, provide education, and encourage reef-safe products.
Reserve your spot on the Laguna Grill - Private Boat with on-board BBQ and Drinks Included today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect the lagoon’s fragile aquatic plants and corals by choosing zinc-oxide or other reef-safe sunscreens and reapplying after swimming.
Bring a waterproof bag
Keep phones, cash and a spare shirt dry during swims and while moving between coves.
Wear water shoes
Cenote edges and submerged limestone can be sharp—light water shoes improve grip and protect your feet.
Carry small local cash
Tips, extra drinks or souvenirs are often easiest to handle with pesos—ATMs in town are available but can be limited.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while minimizing harm to the lagoon’s ecosystem.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky edges and provides grip on wet surfaces.
Dry bag (small)
Keeps valuables and extra clothing dry during swims and boat movement.
Light windbreaker or long-sleeve sun shirt
Blocks wind and sun during cooler mornings or breezy crossings.
winter