Baja California Mosaic: Magdalena Bay and Gulf of California
From $4,417 per person
6 days
Ships: National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion
From $4,417 per person
6 days
Ships: National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion
Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.
San José del Cabo / La Paz / Embark Ship
Arrive in San José del Cabo and transfer to La Paz to embark the <i>National Geographic Sea Bird</i> or <i>National Geographic Sea Lion.</i> You may opt for a <a href=https://www.expeditions.com/extensions/baja-california-culture-and-cuisine-pre-voyage-extension>pre-voyage extension exploring the region’s culture and cuisine.</a> <b>Arrival Time: </b>Arrive before 2:30 p.m. local time. <br /><b>Arrival City:</b> San José del Cabo, Mexico
Exploring the Gulf of California
Dubbed the “world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, the Gulf of California is home to a tapestry of biological diversity. With some luck, and the help of your naturalists, you’ll encounter whales, bottlenose and common dolphins and other sea life in these wildlife-rich waters. The day's plan is flexible as you explore some of the uninhabited islands sprinkled across the Gulf, spend time on the bow searching for marine life or visit uninhabited islands to hike among huge cacti and diverse bird life. Swim or snorkel with king angelfish, surgeonfish, butterfly fish, damselfish and iridescent parrotfish.
Los Islotes and Espíritu Santo National Park
With deeply indented shorelines and dramatically eroded cliff faces, Los Islotes and Isla Espíritu Santo are two of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of California. Suit up in provided snorkeling gear to experience the thrill of swimming with the curious sea lions. This afternoon, choose to swim, kayak or hike at Isla Espíritu Santo where brown pelicans, gulls and boobies dot the landscape.
San José del Cabo and Gordo Banks
Start the day cruising past the spectacular Friars Rocks at Land's End, an iconic landmark named after its semblance to the hooded monks. Then, visit the historic town center of San José del Cabo, a culinary and cultural haven that’s home to the beautiful San José missionary and an array of art galleries. Spend the afternoon at the Gordo Banks seamount or La Fortuna, nutrient-rich gathering places for whales, dolphins and other exciting sea life. While on the lookout, naturalists are always available to inform and enlighten you with their deep knowledge of and passion for the peninsula.
Magdalena Bay
Explore the remarkable geography of Magdalena Bay—an immense system of protected coves and channels bordered by mangrove forests that transition into a vast, windswept plain. Hike across rolling sand dunes, kayak along pristine coastlines and explore this magical area by Zodiac. Watch for magnificent frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis and willets and capture their movements with the help of your certified photography instructor.
San Carlos / Disembark Ship / Loreto
After breakfast, disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for flights home or to Loreto's city center to begin your <a href=https://www.expeditions.com/extensions/two-night-blue-and-fin-whale-loreto-extension>two-night history and whale-watching extension</a>. <b>Departure Time:</b> Depart after 1:00 p.m. local time. <br /><b>Departure City:</b> Loreto, Mexico
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Explore the wild, rugged coastlines of North America aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird, a nimble 152-foot expedition vessel built for accessing places that larger ships cannot reach. With a shallow draft, agile maneuverability, and a relaxed, informal atmosphere, the Sea Bird is perfectly suited for in-depth exploration in regions like Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and Baja California.
Accommodating just 62 guests in 31 outside-facing cabins, the Sea Bird offers an intimate and welcoming environment where everyone feels like part of the expedition community. Cabins are cozy and functional, each with a large window, private en-suite bathroom, and ample storage. While simple in design, the accommodations are thoughtfully maintained and ideal for active travelers who value time in the field over time in their room.
Onboard life is centered around shared discovery and enrichment. The lounge serves as the hub for expedition briefings, lectures, and informal gatherings, while the dining room features fresh, regionally inspired cuisine sourced locally whenever possible. An open Bridge policy encourages interaction with the captain and crew, and an expansive deck space offers excellent vantage points for wildlife viewing and photography.
The Sea Bird is fully equipped for hands-on exploration, with a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. A team of expert naturalists, marine biologists, and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor accompanies each voyage, leading daily outings and offering insight into the ecosystems, cultures, and history of the destinations visited.
Whether navigating narrow fjords in Alaska, spotting gray whales in Baja’s Magdalena Bay, or hiking remote coastal trails in British Columbia, the National Geographic Sea Bird delivers a truly immersive, close-up travel experience—defined by discovery, community, and a deep connection to the natural world.
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