Upon arrival in Loreto, transfer to San Carlos and embark on National Geographic Venture. Tonight, anchor off the coast of Isla Santa Margarita.

Awake this morning in Bahía de Almejas, where we will board local pangas and enter the lagoons to encounter gray whale mothers and calves. Whales tend to be very active here, seemingly oblivious to our presence, and sometimes curious and playful. Later, head to shore at Isla Magdalena to explore ever-shifting sand dunes on a cross-island walk to pristine beaches. Bird-watching can be excellent here, with abundant seabirds in action.

After breakfast, transfer by motorcoach to Puerto Lopez Mateos to spend the full day observing, and, with luck, interacting with these majestic creatures. With savvy local Mexican fishermen, we have known for years, we board boats to view the numerous mother-calf pairs that thrive in this sheltering region. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before returning to the ship in the late afternoon.  

Kickstart your day with morning stretches hosted by your onboard wellness specialist on the sun deck. After breakfast, enjoy opportunities to explore and better understand the ecosystems that makeup and power this diverse region. We sail through La Entrada this afternoon as we leave Bahía Magdalena behind. Traveling south along the coast of the peninsula, there is a chance to see a wide variety of marine life, including the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale. Hear naturalist talks and learn photography basics. 

Ease into the day with a majestic sunrise over the iconic Friars Rocks at Land’s End. We spend the rest of the morning searching the seas of the Gorda Banks seamount, a renowned gathering place for whales, especially humpbacks, dolphins, and other sea life. Following lunch, we set out to snorkel the pristine reefs of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, one of the world's most successful national marine parks, and chat with locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place. 

Conditions permitting, we'll wake off the rocky island of Los Islotes, where we don flippers, a mask, and snorkel (which we provide) and swim with curious sea lions. Then we reposition to the colorful city of La Paz to garner insight into the culture of Mexico, soak in the vibrant street art, and stroll the lively Malecón. Dinner is an unforgettable cultural experience with local cuisine, dancing, and folklore. 

The Gulf of California is home to great biological diversity, and with some luck, sightings of whales, dolphins, and other sea life are among the highlights of our journey. Our plan is flexible as we explore some of the uninhabited islands sprinkled across these waters. Our Captain and Expedition Leader collaborate to choose the perfect combination of activities for the day. We may go ashore at Isla San Francisco, where a sweeping arc of white-sand beach fringes waters perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Or perhaps we'll visit Bahía de Los Muertos to snorkel among the coral.

Disembark in Loreto after breakfast and transfer to the city center. Take the opportunity to visit the first mission in Baja California and the nearby museum to learn more about what makes this town so special. Enjoy free time to explore quaint shops and vibrant side streets. After lunch, transfer to Loreto Airport for flights home.