Embark on an 11-day voyage aboard the Safari Voyager, inspired by John Steinbeck's "Log from the Sea of Cortez." Explore the rarely visited islands of the Northern Gulf of California, from Punta Marcial’s rich marine life to snorkeling near Isla Catalina. Search for Blue and Fin whales between Isla Catalina and Santa Rosalia, and visit the historic mining town of Santa Rosalia. Snorkel, kayak, and beach walk at Punta Trinidad, Bahia San Carlos, and Bahia de los Angeles, known for its abundant marine life and whale sharks. Discover Puerto Refugio’s scenic waters, Isla San Esteban’s sea lion colonies, and bird-watch at Isla San Jose’s lagoon. Star-gaze under pristine skies and explore Isla Espiritu Santo’s biosphere reserve, capturing Baja California's natural beauty and history.
Highlights
Sail around Isla Espiritu Santo’s shores
Spot diverse bird species including hummingbirds, cormorants, and pelicans
Search for majestic whales in the Santa Rosalia corridor
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.
Arrive at San José del Cabo (SJD) and transfer to La Paz. Board the Safari Voyager and settle into a cabin. Time on deck at departure is possible as the ship leaves La Paz and heads toward the islands in the northern Gulf of California.
Anchor off Punta Marcial and explore the intertidal zone with the expedition team. Safety instructions are provided for kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and skiff tours. Time may also be spent relaxing on deck. In the afternoon, continue to Bahía Agua Verde. Possible activities include hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling from the beach. A visit with a local ranchero and family may be included, along with a guided burro ride through the nearby mountains, depending on availability.
Day 3: Morning Marine Mammal Search and Afternoon Isla San Marcos or Tortuga
Spend the morning searching for blue and fin whales in the corridor between Isla Catalina and Santa Rosalia. Your captain chooses the best adventure for the day, which may include more time at Isla Smith, Isla Coronado, or exploring Puerto Refugio farther north.
This rarely visited stretch of the Baja Peninsula offers excellent snorkeling, beach walks, and interior hikes. To the north, Roca El Rasito is a great spot for birdlife and experienced snorkelers. Your guides highlight Steinbeck’s historic stops in the region. If conditions are favorable, longer kayak outings may be offered.
Known as the “Marine Oasis of Baja California,” Bahía de los Ángeles teems with aquatic life. Explore by kayak or skiff or hike to Punta Gringa. This area is also one of the few places where leatherback turtles may be spotted. For Steinbeck enthusiasts, nearby sites from The Log from the Sea of Cortez await.
At the northernmost reach of your journey, Puerto Refugio is a tight, scenic anchorage known to local fishermen and yacht captains. Spend the day kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and beachcombing in this wild, remote setting. If the weather allows, end the day with a beach campfire before returning to the ship for dinner.
Day 7: Morning at Isla San Esteban, Afternoon Marine Mammal Search
Explore Isla San Esteban on a guided hike up its main arroyo, where you may see pinto chuckwallas and other desert wildlife. Hundreds of sea lions haul out along the southern shores, while pelicans, boobies, cormorants, gulls, and osprey crowd the coastline. Later, sail through the Canal de Salsipuedes, also known as “the Trench,” a deep channel where sperm whales gather to feed on Humboldt squid. It is one of the most dramatic whale-watching areas in the Sea of Cortez.
Day 8: Captain’s Choice – Marine Mammal Search and Playa Punta San Basilio
Today is a Captain’s Choice day. Depending on conditions, you may continue searching for blue, fin, sperm, humpback, and pilot whales or anchor at Playa Punta San Basilio. This calm bay offers excellent hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Your captain and expedition team select the best combination of activities to maximize your experience.
Arrive at Isla San José and explore its shallow interior lagoon, a great spot for kayaking and birdwatching. Mangroves line the water, and you’ll paddle through winding channels that feel a bit like the Everglades, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way. Later, return to shore for some relaxed beachcombing near Cayo Amortajada.
Day 10: Isla Espíritu Santo and Punta Lobos or Bonanza Beach
Spend the day exploring within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve around Isla Espíritu Santo, Punta Lobos, or Bonanza Beach. All activities are on offer, from snorkeling and kayaking to hiking and beach time. In the evening, enjoy the Captain’s Dinner and a slideshow of the highlights from your voyage.
Day 11: La Paz, BCS, Mexico | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast, bid farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. Disembark in La Paz and transfer to San Jose del Cabo International Airport (SJD) for your flight home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$7,5002-3 travelers
Navigator Cabin
Queen or twin beds, desk & chair, view window, private bath with shower. #103-108
Trailblazer Cabin
Queen or twin beds, desk & chair, view window, private bath with shower. #205-206, 209-212, 215-222
Initial deposit is 20% of the cruise plus port taxes and fees and 50% of any land services, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard or Discover
I could not be happier with my Adventure Life experience, from beginning to end. I travel a lot, and I think your company and personnel do an outstanding job. I truly appreciate your professionalism, attentiveness, and flexibility. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend your company and would be happy to serve as a reference.
