Sail a private catamaran through Bacalar’s mangrove corridors and crystalline cenotes on a three-hour, motor-free excursion. Expect calm waters, close bird encounters, and swims at stromatolite-rich cenotes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran slips from Bertilla Lagoon as wind fills the sails and the world narrows to sky, water and a green wall of mangroves. Guests watch the lagoon’s layers—deep indigo, pale turquoise where stromatolites filter light—slide past while birds call from hidden branches. The captain briefs the group, and the boat moves south toward Esmeralda and Cocalítos cenotes, stopping at a quiet pier for a swim and seasonal fruit.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for boarding and short swims.
Wildlife
History
The Laguna de Bacalar formed in a karst landscape; human use goes back centuries and the nearby Fort of San Felipe marks colonial-era defenses against piracy.
Conservation
Stromatolites and mangroves are ecologically sensitive—operators minimize impact by sailing without motors and enforcing no-touch rules and reef-safe products.
Reserve your spot on the Private Sailing between Mangroves today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the lagoon’s fragile life—apply biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before boarding.
Wear water-friendly footwear
Non-slip water shoes help with boarding, wet piers and rocky cenote edges.
Bring a dry bag
Keep phones, cameras and spare clothing dry during swims and short stops.
Time for golden hour
Late-afternoon departures enhance colors and bird activity but can be busier—book in advance for sunset trips.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while preventing harm to stromatolites and aquatic life.
summer
Water shoes
Provide traction on wet surfaces and rocky cenote edges.
Quick-dry swimwear and towel
Useful for multiple swims and comfort after exiting the water.
Dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps valuables dry during boat movement and swimming stops.