Baja Expeditions - Wildlife Cruises

Sea of Cortez Wildlife Voyage

Cruising aboard the Don Jose through the southern Sea of Cortez, explore the islands and coast between La Paz and Loreto on this 8-day trip.

Adventurous travelers seeking a rich diversity of wildlife can find what they are looking for in the Sea of Cortez. Numerous species of tropical fish reside here year round, and one-third of the world's species of whales and dolphins are seasonal residents. On this voyage of discovery, you'll share some of the same experiences Steinbeck had when he recorded his travels in "The Log from the Sea of Cortez." You'll snorkel in waters where a wondrous array of tropical fish thrive. Watch blue footed boobies raising their young. See tens of thousands of royal and elegant terns in their nests. There are few other places in the world where you will encounter such abundant marine life.

Your adventure is aboard our 80' Don Jose. Its high second and third decks provide ideal vantage points as we ply the seas in search of marine life. The Don Jose comfortably accommodates passengers in seven above-deck cabins, each with a storage closet, adjacent shower and head, plus a private changing area and sink in some. Air-conditioning is available at night in each cabin. Snorkel gear is available at no charge and six open cockpit kayaks can be used to explore nearby coves and beaches when we anchor. With frequent anchoring for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking, you will have time to experience the many faces of this UNESCO World Heritage Site—a treasure of the natural world.

Map Url:

Trip Map

Itinerary:

Day 1 ~ Arrive from your home city to Loreto or La Paz (depending on routing)

Those arriving to Loreto will cruise to Danzante Island, anchoring there to spend the night, while those arriving to La Paz will spend the night dockside on board the Don Jose. (Dinner)

Day 2 - 6 ~ Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California)

For all three routes, our daily itinerary on days 2-6 will be very flexible in order to take advantage of unexpected natural history opportunities and possible wildlife sightings. Our main objective will be to seek and observe the blue whales, finback whales and dolphins, as well as other marine mammals and birds. The whales are usually seen from the boat; however, from time to time, we may also use smaller skiffs so that we can approach closer. We'll make frequent daily stops at various islands for snorkeling, hiking, and beach combing to identify shells, plus bird watching. Some of the islands we may visit include Isla Catalana, Isla San Francisco, Isla Santa Cruz, Agua Verde, Isla San Jose, and Isla Espiritu Santo and Los Islotes. (B/L/D daily)

Day 7~ Arrive to La Paz or Loreto (depending on routing)

The boat arrives to the dock in either La Paz or Puerto Escondido, near Loreto. After lunch you will be transferred to a local hotel for the night. . (B/L)

Day 8 ~ La Paz or Loreto to your home city

Depart to your home city. (No meals)

This is a general itinerary and is subject to change without previous notice.

Hotel on night 7 and transfer from La Paz airport to the boat on day 1 (for our La Paz to Loreto and La Paz to La Paz itineraries) or transfers from the Hotel to La Paz airport on day 8 (for our Loreto to La Paz Itinerary)

Trip Fee:

Deluxe: $2,195 / Standard $1,995 Prices are per person in double ocuppancy.

Includes:

Deluxe or standard shipboard accommodations on days 1-6; B/L/D on Days 2-6; B/L on Day 7, Hotel on night 7. Beer, soda and wine while in shipboard; snorkeling gear; transfer from La Paz airport to the boat on day 1 (for our La Paz to Loreto and La Paz to La Paz itineraries) or transfers from the Hotel to La Paz airport on day 8 (for our Loreto to La Paz Itinerary); Services of knowledgeable guides and caring crew members; detailed pre-departure information to help you plan your trip.

Trip Dates:

Dates	Availability
March 1 - March 8, 2009	Almost Sold Out
March 8 - March 15, 2009	Sold Out
March 15 - March 22, 2009	Almost Sold Out
March 22 - March 29, 2009	Sold Out
March 29 - April 5, 2009	Sold Out
April 5 - April 12, 2009	Sold Out
April 12 - April 19, 2009	Sold Out
April 19 - April 26, 2009	Available
April 26 - May 3, 2009	Sold Out
May 3 - May 10, 2009	Available