Baja California: Among the Great Whales 

Arrive in Loreto by early afternoon for transfer to San Carlos. Embark National Geographic Venture in the evening, anchored off the coast of Isla Santa Margarita.

Meals Included: Dinner

This morning take a bus to Bahia de Almejas, where we'll enter the lagoons aboard local pangas. 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.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, transfer by motorcoach to Puerto López Mateos to spend the full day observing, and, with luck, interacting with these majestic creatures. Together 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 late afternoon.  

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kickstart your day with morning stretches hosted by your onboard wellness specialist on the sun deck.After breakfast, if conditions permit, we explore the bay's vast mangrove system via kayak, stand-up paddleboard, and Zodiac, and learn how these ecosystems support their surroundings. This afternoon, we sail out through La Entrada as we leave Bahía Magdalena behind. Traveling south 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. Hear naturalist talks and learn photography basics.   

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 most successful national marine parks in the world, and chat with locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Conditions permitting, we'll awake this morning 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, complete with local cuisine, dancing, and folklore. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 Bahia de Los Muertos to snorkel among the coral.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Disembark in Loreto after breakfast and transfer to the city center. Take 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. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch