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Dolphins race through the water in Baja.

Baja California: A Remarkable Journey

Example 15 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Venture
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Your 15-day remarkable cruise offers the most comprehensive Baja California and the Sea of Cortez experience available. This is a true expedition, which means that your captain plans day-by-day movements and itinerary according to the conditions that best offer sightings and up-close encounters with wildness. Enjoy a flexible tour through the Sea of Cortez, but be certain that extraordinary adventure is a sure bet!
Jumping down a sand dune in MexicoGray Whale tail splashingBeachcombing in BajaFollowing dolphins across the ocean in a zodiac.Dolphins race through the water in Baja.
Highlights
  • Get up close with California gray whales, sperm, blue and fin whales
  • Hike the islands of the Gulf of California, searching for plant and bird species
  • Snorkel among playful sea lions and explore several idyllic sea gardens
  • Learn photo techniques from expert photographers and photo instructors
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Loreto | San Carlos | Embark

Arrive in Loreto, then transfer to the fishing community of San Carlos, where you’ll board the National Geographic Venture.

 

Day 2: Bahia Magdalena

Hop into Zodiacs to explore the winding, mangrove-shrouded canals of Bahía Magdalena. Numerous species of birds can be spotted here: frigate birds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis and more. It's not unusual to see 40 species in a single day while exploring these fertile shorelines, where birds refuel along their migratory journeys.

Day 3-4: Laguna San Ignacio

Each year during their long migration, gray whales pause to birth and nurse their calves in sheltered lagoons along the Pacific coast of Baja California. Your next destination—the spacious bay of Laguna San Ignacio—is one of their favorite haunts. You will linger in this remote locale, which provides an extraordinary opportunity to observe and photograph mother whales and their calves up close. It’s not unusual for mothers and calves to approach the Zodiacs, and the calves sometimes play “hide and seek.”

Day 5: At Sea

As you travel south along the peninsula’s Pacific coast, attend talks by experts and onboard photographers. You can also join naturalists on deck to search for a variety of marine life, including the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale.

Day 6-14: Islands of the Sea of Cortez

With nature as your guide and camera in hand, you’ll take advantage of incredible photo opportunities as you explore the desert islands scattered throughout the Gulf of California, such as Isla San Pedro Martir, Los Islotes, Isla San Francisco, and more. Cruise past the spectacular Friars rock formations at Land's End, and enjoy an optional excursion to the historic town center of San José del Cabo. You’ll venture into waters that provide the best opportunities for spotting whales and employ a full range of exploration tools. Snorkel among sea lions and colorful fish, kayak in turquoise bays edged by dramatic cliffs and discover the peninsula's endemic wildlife on naturalist-led excursions, where you may encounter bottlenose dolphins, fin whales, Heermann's gulls and more.

Day 15: Loreto | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Disembark in Loreto after breakfast and spend the morning exploring this seaside town. Visit the Loreto Mission—the first Jesuit mission in Baja California—and learn about local history at a nearby museum. Meander quiet, tree-lined streets and discover quaint shops and cafés. After lunch, transfer to the airport to connect with your flight home.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Venture

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$12,726 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Located on the main deck. Approximately 136 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two portholes. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 2
Located on the main deck. Approximately 136 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two portholes. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 3
Located on the upper deck. Approximately 151 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and a large view window. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 4
Located on the upper deck. Approximately 151 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, sliding glass door and small, private balcony. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 5
Located on the observation deck. Approximately 185 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, large view windows, an expanded bathroom, writing desk, ample storage space, and a convertible sofa bed to accommodate a third person. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available, but is subject to availability. 
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • 14 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
  • The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
  • Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Rubber Boots: Please bring your own. 
  • Crew gratuities
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • 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
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)

Map

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor

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