Baja California: A Remarkable Journey (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)

Description

Geography & Photography in Baja California
Baja California: A Remarkable Journey offers the most comprehensive Baja California and the Sea of Cortez experience available. A photo expedition that begins in the gray whale birthing lagoons on the Pacific side of the Baja Peninsula and then ventures into the Sea of Cortez for over a week of exploration.

Special access in the California gray whale lagoons
Each year California gray whales pause during their migrations to birth and nurse their calves in the same lagoons. We are the only foreign company permitted to enter the whale birthing lagoons with our own Zodiacs, meaning you get more up close encounters with these gentle and curious creatures when you travel with us. We are also the only company that visits lagoons in the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, ensuring more opportunities to see whales.

Hop among the islands in the Sea of Cortez
The desert islands in the Sea of Cortez are home to a variety of plant and animal species. Hike desert arroyos and forests of cacti in search of them. And between islands, keep an eye out for the incredibly diverse population of marine mammals—you may see fin, pilot, Bryde’s, sperm, or even blue whales.

Every day is active and engaging
You’ll be able to hike through forests of towering cacti and up striking desert canyons. You’ll take Zodiacs along the shore to see and shoot photos of plunge-diving pelicans and blue-footed boobies, and each day you’ll have the option to walk or kayak, and to join a different naturalist as you choose: there are no assigned groups.

Travel in excellent company
Explore under the sure guidance of an expedition leader, six veteran naturalists, including two National Geographic certified photo instructors, an undersea specialist, a National Geographic photographer and a wellness specialist. Their knowledge and passion for Baja California is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Trip Name

Baja California: A Remarkable Journey (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Comfortable Expedition Length: 52 metres Passenger Capacity: 62 (in twin cabins) Built: 1982 / Refurbished 2015 Twin Expedition ships, National Geographic Sea Bird & Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to their small size, yet each can comfortably accommodate 62 guests. The feeling, is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. Accessibility means freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so that you feel the places we visit are all ours. Full interior renovations have been completed on these twin 62-guest ships, National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird. The extensive renovation to guest cabins, the lounge and bar, dining room, public areas and spa has transformed the ships to provide the ultimate in expedition hospitality and comfort. Nothing has been left untouched, from the sleekly framed wall photos, to the fresh paint, and new carpets throughout the ships. - The lounge and bar have been completely redesigned and reconfigured to provide an open, enhanced environment with additional seating and better flow. The modern design features new tables and chairs, upholstery of settees, overhead ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The lounge also hosts a new food & beverage area, library, and Global Market. - The dining room’s upgrade features all new tables, chairs, ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The wine bar has been replaced and features a display showcasing selections from the regions explored. - Every cabin has been completely redone and all furnishings have been replaced. Modern aged cherry bed boxes, faux leather headboards, Lindblad signature bed linens, new windows, lighting, and additional USB outlets provide a dramatic makeover for a relaxing guest experience. Bathrooms now feature new shower doors and all new hardware. - Exterior renovations include new deck furniture and outdoor awning.

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1: Loreto/San Carlos/Embark

Upon arrival in Loreto, transfer to San Carlos and embark the National Geographic Venture. (D)

Day 2 - DAY 2: Bahía Magdalena

Explore the ever-shifting sand dunes of Isla Magdalena, on a cross-island walk to one of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific. Bird watching here can be excellent—magnificent frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis, whimbrels, and willets are among the species we might see. It’s not unusual to see forty species of birds in just one day along these fertile shorelines where they refuel for their destinations ahead. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - DAYS 3-4: Laguna San Ignacio

Laguna San Ignacio is a large bay and favored haunt of the gray whales in Baja. The ship will anchor at the mouth of this remote and important locale. We'll explore the lagoon via local pangas with expert local guides.For some reason, the whales here seem to be friendlier than they are elsewhere. It’s not unusual for mothers and calves to approach our boats, the calves often playing hide and seek—sometimes even welcoming a touch or a friendly chin scratch. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - DAY 5: At Sea

As we travel south along the Pacific coast of the peninsula, there is a chance of seeing a wide variety of marine life, including the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - DAYS 6-14: Islands of the Sea of Cortez

Cruise past the spectacular Friars Rocks at Land’s End. For those who wish, we will arrange a visit to the historic town center of San José del Cabo. Isla San Pedro Mártir, Los Islotes, Isla San Francisco—these are some of the melodious names of islands scattered throughout this beautiful sea. After over 20 years of exploration here, we are still discovering new places and experiencing exciting events: bow-riding bottlenose dolphins, or sperm whales near our ship; a pod of fin whales feeding around a convergence zone. The best areas for whale watching remain consistent—the waters south of Isla Carmen, Canal de Ballenas up north, and near the mouth of Bahía Concepción. Whether on the bridge of the ship, on Zodiacs, or kayaks, we will be in prime position to observe them all. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - DAY 15: Loreto/Disembark

Disembark in Loreto after breakfast and transfer to the city center. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the first mission in Baja California, as well as 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. (B,L)

Day 7 - Please note:

All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Get up close with California gray whales, and search for sperm, blue and fin whales
Hike the islands of the Sea of Cortez, searching for a variety of plant and bird species
Learn photo techniques from National Geographic photographers and certified photo instructors that will last a lifetime and create stunning images
Snorkel among playful sea lions and explore several idyllic sea gardens
Benefit from our 30+ years of experience and relationships in Baja California to see all you came for and more.