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Photographer capturing the waves of the Sea of Cortez.

Wild Islands & Treasures of Baja California

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
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Discover the pure wildness of Baja's desert islands and the living sea, and then go further and delve into the Peninsula's unique culture and art from ancient times to modern. On this 8-day voyage you are sure to be enchanted by the dolphins, seabirds, and extraordinary marine life, and intrigued by the region's rich history and culture. When you catch sight of the rugged cliffs and white sand beaches along Baja's islands as they are reflected in an azure sea, it is immediately clear why UNESCO designated them a World Heritage Site.
A gray whale surprises a zodiac Hiking in BajaDolphins race through the water in Baja.Kayaking with sea lionsPhotographer capturing the waves of the Sea of Cortez.
Highlights
  • Search for humpback whales off the southern coast of the peninsula
  • Snorkel at Cabo Pulmo, a vibrant reef and model for ocean conservation
  • Kayak, swim, and hike the pristine desert islands of the Sea of Cortez
  • See whale sharks in the Bay of La Paz and possibly swim alongside them
Places Visited
  • Central America & Mexico
  • Mexico
  • Baja
  • Bahia Agua Verde
  • Cabo Pulmo
  • Gordo Banks
  • Isla Espiritu Santo
  • Isla Los Islotes
  • Isla Partida
  • Isla San Francisco
  • Isla San Jose
  • La Paz
  • Land's End
  • San Jose del Cabo
  • Todos Santos
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: Embark in La Paz

Arrive in La Paz and embark the Sea Bird. Settle into your cabin and familiarize yourself with the ship and her crew as you depart the port.

Day 2: Isla San Jose | Isla San Francisco

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Explore two gems of the Sea of Cortez: UNESCO World Heritage site islands, Islas San Jose and San Francisco offer abundant opportunities to snorkel, kayak, beachcomb, or hike.

Day 3: Exploring the Sea of Cortez

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today let mother nature be your guide while you explore further in the Sea of Cortez. Search for marine mammals, known to inhabit the region north of Isla San Jose.

Day 4: Los Islotes | Isla Partida

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Snorkeling with playful and curious sea lions is a highlight here. Tuck into a shallow, emerald green anchorage, where you can snorkel once more or hike the island’s beautiful arroyo.

Day 5: Bahía de La Paz

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today venture out in search of the largest fish on the planet. Each winter, whale sharks are attracted to the nutrient-rich waters of Bahía de La Paz. Take local boats out on the bay to watch these graceful giants, possibly entering the water to swim alongside them if conditions permit. Later, grab your camera and stroll along the bustling waterfront malecón to the cathedral on the main plaza. This afternoon return to the islands, with a later afternoon beach landing. 

Day 6: Isla Espiritu Santo

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Explore the island’s beautifully-indented bays by expedition landing craft, kayaks, or snorkeling. Go beachcombing or opt for a hike along the rocky coast, keeping your eye out for brown pelicans, gulls, wandering tattlers, great blue herons, and blue-footed boobies.

Day 7: Cabo Pulmo | Gorda Banks | Land's End

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Learn the inspiring story of Cabo Pulmo National Park conservation and snorkel the reef among red fan corals and large schools of fish. Meet some of the people responsible for protecting Cabo Pulmo and learn how it has become a model for reefs around the world. Search for humpback whales before taking in sunset at Land's End.

Day 8: Disembark in San Jose Del Cabo

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark this morning in San Jose del Cabo and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Sea Bird

Enjoy the company

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 1 and Category 1 Single Cabin.
Select a Date
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

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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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