DETAILS
Each year California gray whales pause during their migrations to birth and nurse their calves in the lagoons of Baja California. Join us as we head out in local pangas with naturalists and local guides for rare opportunities to observe these gentle giants at water level. Travel aboard the 100-guest, National Geographic Venture, and get up close with whales, snorkel among sea lions, stand-up paddleboard, and hike the pristine desert islands dotting the Sea of Cortez. And all the while, learn from the top expedition team in the region: expert naturalists, an undersea specialist, and a certified photo instructor will help you take some of your best photos ever!
- Pricing from
- $6,986
- Trip Type
- Closer to Home, Group Travel Tour
- Departure Dates
-
Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 24, 2026
Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure date.
Date Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee
120 or more days – No penalty: Advance Payment will be credited toward your next expedition**
119-90 days – 50% of trip cost***
89-0 days – 100% of trip cost***
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
***Trip cost is total price paid including extensions, charter airfare, and other additional services.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
LORETO/EMBARK
Upon arrival in Loreto and embark National Geographic Venture. Savor the sunset as we set sail. (D)
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day 2
EXPLORING THE SEA OF CORTEZ
Our plan is flexible as we explore some of the Sea’s many uninhabited islands. Our Captain and Expedition Leader will 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 beckons you to kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Or, hike to the nearby ridge for unparalleled views over Isla Danzante with your naturalist. You may also visit the abandoned salt works on Isla Carmen. You’ll get a chance to see the great diversity offered in the Sea of Cortez, and with some luck, spot the amazing wildlife. (B,L,D)
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day 3
LOS ISLOTES AND LA PAZ
Awake this morning off the rocky island of Los Islotes, where we’ll don flippers, a mask, and snorkel (which we provide) and swim with curious sea lions. Then we’ll 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 Malecon on a guided walking tour. Dinner will be an unforgettable cultural experience, complete with local cuisine, dancing, and folklore. (B,L,D)
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day 4
CABO PULMO & GORDA BANKS
Kickstart your day snorkeling the pristine reefs of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, one of the most successful national marine parks in the world, and chat with locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place. We’ll spend the afternoon searching the seas of Gorda Banks seamount, a renowned gathering place for whales, especially humpbacks, dolphins, and other sea life, capping off our day with a majestic sunset over the iconic Friars Rocks at Land’s End. (B,L,D)
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day 5
CRUISING AND MAGDALENA BAY
Ease into your day with morning stretch hosted by the onboard wellness specialist on the sundeck, enjoy a lecture, or join your naturalists onboard as we travel north along the 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. Midday, we’ll arrive into Magdalena and anchor in the the northern reaches of Magdalena Bay where we’ll explore the vast mangrove system via kayak, stand-up paddleboard, and Zodiac, and learn how these massive ecosystems support their surroundings. (B,L,D)
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day 6
BOCA DE SOLEDAD
Each winter, during their long migration, gray whales travel south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and give birth and raise their calves in these sheltered waters. We’ll transfer by motorcoach to López Mateos and spend the full day observing, and with luck, interacting with these majestic creatures. Together with savvy local Mexican fishermen we’ve known for years, we’ll venture out in local pangas to view the numerous mother-calf pairs that thrive in this sheltering region. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the ship in late afternoon. (B,L,D)
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day 7
BAHÍA ALMEJAS/REHUSA CHANNEL/ ISLA MAGDALENA
Awake anchored in BAHÍA Almejas, the southernmost part of the Bay. We’ll stop at a large frigatebird colony enroute to the spectacular whale grounds of Bahía Almejas. Whales in this part of the bay tend to be very active, seemingly oblivious to our presence so settle in for some great experiences. During lunch, the ship will reposition to Isla Magdalena where we’ll head to shore to explore the ever-shifting sand dunes, on a cross-island walk to one of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific. Bird watching here can be excellent here with abundant seabirds in action and shorebirds patrolling the beaches as they fatten up and prepare for long journeys to Arctic breeding grounds. (B,L,D)
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day 8
SAN CARLOS/LORETO/DISEMBARK
Disembark in San Carlos after breakfast and transfer to Loreto. Here you can choose 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 the quaint shops and vibrant side streets. After lunch, transfer to Loreto Airport for flights home. (B,L)
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