Mahahual in 1 Day for Families - Scenic pontoon boat tour of Laguna de Bacalar including the Pirate Channel
In Collaboration with Next Experience Travel. Updated on February 13, 2026.
A family-friendly shore excursion from Costa Maya (Mahahual) to the famous Bacalar 'Lagoon of Seven Colours'. Comfortable round-trip transportation, a guided pontoon boat tour including the Pirate Channel and cenote swims, and an authentic Mexican lunch — all tailored for families with young children.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Next Experience Travel, inspired by the tour Bacalar Seven Color Lagoon Boat Tour . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Scenic pontoon boat tour of Laguna de Bacalar including the Pirate Channel
- Swim stops in calm, crystal-clear cenotes suitable for older children
- Short, supervised stop in Pedro Antonio Santos (pineapple country)
- Authentic Mexican lunch at a local Bacalar restaurant — high-chair friendly
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day, family-friendly excursion from Costa Maya port to Bacalar Lagoon with stops for sightseeing, swimming in calm cenotes, and a local lunch. Designed with stroller accessibility and infant seats available on request.
Meet & Check-in — Puerto Costa Maya (Mahahual)
Meet your certified guide just outside the main entrance of the Costa Maya Port. Guides will hold a banner with your booking name and confirm passenger details before boarding the transfer vehicle.
Tips from local experts:
- The walking time from the cruise ship to the meeting point is usually ~15 minutes — bring a lightweight stroller or carrier and waterproof footwear.
- Make sure your cruise ship name and disembarkation time are filled in on your booking; guides will verify this at check-in.
- Keep a copy/photo of your booking confirmation and the primary phone number provided; the guide will use it to coordinate any minor delays.
Transfer: Scenic Drive toward Bacalar (with commentary)
Settle into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the drive toward Bacalar. The guide will share local history and point out rural highlights as you pass through the Mahahual countryside en route to Pedro Antonio Santos.
Tips from local experts:
- Request an infant car seat when you book — infant seats are available on most transfers and improve safety for little ones.
- Bring motion-sickness remedies if your children are prone to carsickness; have snacks and water handy to keep them comfortable.
- There will be short photo stops; keep a lightweight hat and sunscreen accessible for quick outdoor photos.
Short Stop — Pedro Antonio Santos (local pineapple stop)
A family-friendly stop in the small town of Pedro Antonio Santos. Stretch legs, taste local honey pineapples if available, and use restroom facilities before continuing to Bacalar.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop is stroller-friendly but expect uneven sidewalks — folding strollers work best.
- Pack wet wipes and hand sanitizer; public restrooms may be basic but are usually available at local vendors.
- Let kids try a small piece of local pineapple — sellers often offer samples; ask about sugar/syrup if your child has allergies.
Arrival & Boarding — Muelle de Bacalar (boat departure)
Arrive at the Bacalar dock (muelle) and board a comfortable pontoon boat. The guide reviews safety (life jackets for all ages) and the route before setting out into Laguna de Bacalar.
Tips from local experts:
- Life jackets are provided for all ages — request a properly sized jacket for children when boarding.
- Bring waterproof phone cases and a towel; the boat has shade but swims will get kids wet quickly.
- Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the lagoon's ecosystem and avoid applying heavy lotions before swimming (they can stick to life jackets).
Pontoon Boat Tour — Laguna de Bacalar (Pirate Channel & Cenote swims)
A guided, child-friendly pontoon boat tour across the Lagoon of Seven Colours. Visit the famous 'Canal de los Piratas' and stop at calm cenotes for supervised swims in shallow, clear water.
Tips from local experts:
- For families, guides choose shallow, calm swim spots — keep a close eye on younger children and use life jackets for all non-swimmers.
- Bring snorkel masks for older kids — visibility is excellent and small fish are often visible near the cenotes.
- Plan short swim sessions (10–15 minutes) for toddlers between boat breaks and offer snacks and shade frequently to prevent overexposure to sun.
Lunch — Authentic Mexican restaurant in Bacalar (family-friendly)
Enjoy a relaxed, authentic Mexican lunch at a local restaurant near the lagoon. Fresh regional ingredients are featured; staff are used to family groups and can provide high chairs and children's portions on request.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a high chair or kids' portion — many local restaurants are family-oriented and can accommodate picky eaters.
- If anyone has allergies, inform staff before ordering; local kitchens commonly offer fish, chicken and simple rice-and-beans options.
- Carry small change in pesos for tips and quick purchases; some small restaurants prefer cash but card acceptance is improving in Bacalar.
Relax & Final Photos at the Dock — Short break before departure
A short relaxed break to use restrooms, change kids into dry clothes, and take final family photos on the lagoon shore before the return trip.
Tips from local experts:
- Public docks often have shaded areas — use this time to reapply sunscreen and hydrate children.
- Check you have all belongings from the boat (snorkel masks, towels, cameras).
- If anyone needs a quick nap, a quiet corner at the dock or a shady bench usually works well for a 20–30 minute rest.
Return Transfer to Costa Maya Port (Mahahual)
Board the private transfer back to Costa Maya. The vehicle will make short comfort stops as needed so families can manage bathroom breaks and snacks.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm the ship's boarding time with your guide before leaving Bacalar to ensure timely arrival back at port.
- Ask the driver for a last restroom stop if needed — drivers on this route are accustomed to family needs and can make quick stops.
- Keep motion-sickness remedies and a light snack accessible for the return ride; nap time on the transfer often works well for toddlers.
Drop-off & Farewell — Back at Costa Maya Port
You'll be returned to the port entrance with enough time to re-board your cruise ship. Guides will confirm everyone is accounted for and offer final local tips.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan to be at the ship's embarkation point at least 30–45 minutes before the ship's listed boarding time.
- If you bought any local snacks or souvenirs on the way, keep them in your carry-on for easy re-boarding.
- Save your guide's contact number (if provided) in case you need quick assistance before re-boarding.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Experience, Outdoor, Meal, Break |
