The Baja Peninsula and its surrounding islands have been described as the "Mexican Galapagos." Baja offers not only tremendous scenic and ecological variety, but the waters are a refuge for blue, gray, fin, minke and Bryde's whales, as well as killer whales and several species of dolphins. See our extensive 2008 Baja Species List for more information.

We cruise south from San Diego along the west coast of Baja, stopping at offshore islands for nature walks, bird watching, visiting elephant seal rookeries, and tidepooling.

We continue on to San Ignacio Lagoon where friendly gray whales approach our small boats for arm's length encounters. Rounding the tip of the Baja Peninsula, we enter the Sea of Cortez and spend the remainder of the expedition cruising the tropical waters, exploring the remote islands, and snorkeling in clear waters. Baja and the Sea of Cortez have tremendous scenic and ecological variety, and are refuge for blue, gray, fin, humpback, Bryde's, sperm and minke whales, killer whales, and several dolphin species.

We live on board ship, traveling by night. The days are spent whale watching, snorkeling and on nature hikes.

Travel and accommodations are aboard the Spirit of Adventure. Our movement from temperate to tropical waters makes this one of the richest and most varied expeditions possible.

Itinerary:

Day 1:
Arrive in San Diego. Board the Spirit of Adventure.

Day 2:
Todos Santos.

Day 3:
San Benitos.

Day 4 and 5:
San Ignacio Lagoon.

Day 6: Magdalena Bay Area/Cabo San Lucas.

Day 7 thru 11:
Sea of Cortez.

Day 12:
Expedition concludes in Cabo San Lucas.

Click for larger, interactive map

Naturalists:

Izzy Szczepaniak

2009 Date:

March 11-22, 2009 (dates may be adjusted by a couple of days)

2009 Cost: $3,445

Maximum group size: 28

Detailed Trip Information

2008 Baja Species List (pdf file)

Reservations & Information

Please fill out an APPLICATION to sign-up for the BAJA WEST COAST & THE SEA OF CORTEZ expedition.

Send E-mail regarding this specific trip: Baja West Coast - Sea of Cortez

Trip Forum:
Talk with your trip leader and other participants.

(For expedition members only)