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Baja Sunset

Whales & Wilderness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
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Springtime in the Sea of Cortez is among the best times and places to see a great variety of whales: humpback, sperm, fin, Bryde’s, and blue whales. Plus, you can expect large aggregations of dolphins. On this 8-day voyage on the Sea Bird, sail the Sea of Cortez and explore its many islands, still free from tourist infrastructure and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. A Mexican expedition of pure discovery, your Captain's flexible itinerary means you are free to follow the seasonal movements of wildlife to optimize sightings.
Travelers interacting with the incredibly friendly California Gray Whale.Dolphins race through the water in Baja.Photographer capturing the waves of the Sea of Cortez.Following dolphins across the ocean in a zodiac.Baja Sunset
Highlights
  • Search for large pods of dolphins and various species of whales
  • Explore water-level caves by kayak and snorkel among fish and sea lions
  • Visit the old mining town of Santa Rosalia - see old homes & a steel church
  • Experience a voyage of pure discovery in a UNESCO World Heritage site
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Los Cabos, Mexico | Embark in La Paz

Fly into Los Cabos and transfer to La Paz to set sail on the Sea of Cortez.

Day 2-7: Exploring the Sea of Cortez

  • Ship
  • 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners
The routing is designed with flexibility in mind, to maximize opportunities for wildlife sightings. It will most likely include the islands and activities listed below, although the order may vary: 

Islas San Esteban and San Pedro Martir Walk up a desert wash, to search for desert birds and the endemic pinto chuckwalla — a harmless desert lizard. Later visit Isla San Pedro Martir, a 1,000-foot-high guano-covered island that is home to thousands of seabirds. Blue-footed boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, pelicans and frigatebirds are all found here. 

Isla Santa Catalina Search for marine life and hike among the giant barrel cactus on one of most dramatic islands in the Sea of Cortez. 

Isla San Marcos Explore via kayak, walks, swimming and opportunities to snorkel. 

Isla San Jose One of the larger islands in the Sea of Cortez, San Jose offers several landing possibilities depending on conditions and the whim of the moment. Photograph the ochre cliffs of the island's eastern shore, hike an "enchanted" arroyo, or visit the abandoned salt works to the west.  

Los Islotes/Espiritu Santo Swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters, perhaps with some curious sea lions. Expedition landing craft rides, rare bird sightings, the possibility of spotting an endemic black jackrabbit, or simply some relaxing beachcombing are all possibilities today.

Day 8: Disembark La Paz, Mexico | Los Cabos

  • 1 Breakfast
This morning after breakfast disembark in La Paz and transfer to the airport in Los Cabos for your homeward flights.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Sea Bird

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Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 1 and Category 1 Single Cabin.
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Cat 1
Main Deck Cabins #300-305. Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a large window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 1 and Category 1 Single Cabin.
Select a Date
Cat 1 Single
Main Deck Cabins #300-305. Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a large window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 2 and Category 2 Single Cabins.
Select a Date
Cat 2
Bridge Deck cabins #100-104 and Upper Deck cabins #200-212, 215. These well-located cabins include two lower single beds, outside access and a window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 2 and Category 2 Single Cabin.
Select a Date
Cat 2 Single
Bridge Deck cabins #100-104 and Upper Deck cabins #200-212, 215. These well-located cabins include two lower single beds, outside access and a window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 3 Cabins.
Select a Date
Cat 3
Bridge Deck cabins #105, 106 - These cabins include two lower single beds. Upper Deck cabins #214, 216, 217, 219 - These cabins include two lower single beds that can convert to a double bed and a pullout single bed for a third person. All cabins include a small table, two chairs, and two windows. Cabin doors open to the outside.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available but is subject to availability.
Kids under age 18 save $500 per person

Rubber boots are not included on your cruise; please supply your own. Rubber, waterproof boots that are mid-calf or higher, with a strong, ridged non-skid sole (essential for wet landings) are highly recommended.  Click  here for information about rubber boots rental.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages
  • All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and kayaks (where available)
  • Services of the expert expedition team and guest speakers
  • Shore excursions, sightseeing, entrance fees, and special access permits
  • Taxes, service charges, and tips (except for ship’s crew, at guests’ discretion)
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Additional Hotel Nights 
  • Private Transfers
  • Expedition Extensions 
  • Laundry 
  • Air transportation (except when indicated in the itinerary, as included)
  • Passport, visa, and immigration fees
  • Special and unique excursions such as scuba diving, flightseeing, etc. (where offered)
  • Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is included on select ships)
  • Items of personal nature
  • Phone and Internet Service
  • Gratuity for ship’s crew, at guests’ discretion (crew tips are included on select ships
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels

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This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
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