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Travelers interacting with the incredibly friendly California Gray Whale.

Whales & Wilderness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Sea Lion
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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.
Photographer capturing the waves of the Sea of Cortez.Following dolphins across the ocean in a zodiac.Beachcombing in BajaDolphins race through the water in Baja.Travelers interacting with the incredibly friendly California Gray Whale.
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: Home | Los Cabos, Mexico | Embark 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
Your route is designed with flexibility in mind in order to maximize opportunities for wildlife sightings. Your cruise includes the islands 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 fat, 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 turquoise waters, perhaps with some curious sea lions. Zodiac rides, rare bird sightings, the possibility of spotting an endemic black rabbit, or simply some relaxing beachcombing are all possibilities today.

Day 8: Disembark La Paz, Mexico | Los Cabos

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark in La Paz and transfer to the airport in Los Cabos for flights home. 

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Sea Lion

Dining Room

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$6,190
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 Cabin.
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 Cabins.
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 and Upper Deck cabins #214, 216, 217, 219. These cabins feature a seating unit with table, outside access and two large windows. Upper Deck cabins include two lower single beds which can convert to a double bed and a pull-out

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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