Just south of California lies an inland sea known as the Gulf of California, Sea of Cortez, or Sea of Cortés. A birder’s paradise, this rich archipelago serves as an important bird refuge and migration corridor. It is a place author John Steinbeck found “ferocious with life” and described by Jacques Cousteau as “the aquarium of the world’’ and we tend to agree. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, noting it as one of the most biologically diverse marine environments on Earth.
Each winter, thousands of gray whales migrate south from their Arctic feeding grounds to Baja California Sur’s sheltered Pacific coastal lagoon. Their migration is the longest of any animal, covering more than 10,000 miles. Join us aboard the National Geographic Venture and discover a world of breathtaking beauty on a journey through these wildlife rich waters and to islands that are home to both plants and animals found nowhere else. Baja is an inexhaustibly rich place to explore and during our expedition we hope to observe grays during their breeding, calving and nurturing cycle and see fins, blues, orcas and humpbacks.
Baja is one of those rare geographies where the desert meets the sea. Its topography is stunning; there is literally something to see everywhere. Our ethos of using small ships to deliver big experiences comes into its own in this region and especially when using a vessel as small and as well-equipped as the National Geographic Venture. Board local panga boats and the onboard Zodiacs and enter pristine lagoons for up-close wildlife encounters, witness an undersea wonderland and experience the most beautiful sunsets on Earth. Swim with playful sea lions, watch whales, and discover a centuries-old mission town. Hike nearby shores, rimmed with white-sand beaches and cactus-clad ridges, then cool off in impossibly brilliant turquoise waters. Coastal mangroves and dunes, along with desert scrub and red rock cliffs provide the backdrop. To explore this extraordinary place is to know firsthand how small the human presence here truly is.
In addition, we have time before and after our cruise to explore Mexico City which is more than just a large, busy metropolis and well worth a few days of exploration. With a magnificent backdrop of the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes, this fascinating city is an eclectic mix of ancient ruins, colonial buildings and modern high rises and highlights will include our visits to the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan and the vibrant Coyocan neighbourhood which was home to Frida Kahlo.
-
What to Expect
No two expeditions are the same in Baja California and the itinerary is amended based on weather conditions and wildlife sightings. Below are extracts from logs of previous expeditions in the region with Lindblad Expeditions.
Los Isoltes & La Paz, February 2023: Our day aboard National Geographic Venture started with the rising of the sun. Standing at the bow of the ship we witnessed the sun paint a palette of colours on the horizon. After breakfast, we jumped into Zodiacs. We toured around a tiny island, Los Isoltes. This white-capped rock in the sea is home to a colony of sea lions. These curious and playful pinnipeds swam around our Zodiacs, showing off by leaping out of the water. Flying above us were blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and brown pelicans. Our vessel then docked at the nearby town of La Paz where we had the chance to walk around the Malecon boardwalk and stop at our favourite ice cream spot in town, Fuente. We then took a short bus ride to Rancho San Lorenzo where we were greeted with musicians, horses, and margaritas. At our tables we were able to enjoy folk dancers and authentic Mexican dishes. The big surprise of the evening was a concert from a world-famous opera singer and pianist. This will be a day and night to remember for quite a long time.
Bahia de Almejas, March 2023: Moderate seas and wind along with clear skies and sun greeted us as we journeyed by pangas to Bahia Almejas after breakfast. The bahia is where gray whales mate (earlier in the season), and immature males and females ‘hang out.’ This morning, the whales put on a ‘whale’ of a show! Many were spotted: some spyhopping, others rolling over each other, still others just swimming. We were very fortunate in that a few curious immature whales approached the pangas, allowing some of us to get the coveted ‘touch’ while others were sprayed with the whale’s exhalent ‘kiss.’ On the way back to the vessel for lunch, we passed by a large concentration of seabirds on a sand spit. Surprisingly, we spotted an immature bald eagle regally standing on the sand. A visit to the frigatebird colony rounded out the morning. After lunch, we did it again, as did the whales. Our afternoon in Bahia Almejas provided another opportunity to view several spyhopping whales, along with two spectacular breaches. A few whales swam back and forth under the pangas, giving unique views of their tremendous length and girth. And of course, some surfaced alongside the pangas to permit more touching and ‘kisses.’ Following a presentation about gray whales and recaps, we enjoyed traditional Mexican cuisine as part of the Mexican Festival Night. The evening was capped off by a classic piñata ceremony on the sun deck.
-
Why Lindblad Expeditions
For this adventure in Baja California Sur we are working with Lindblad Expeditions with whom we have a long association. Lindblad’s legacy of exploration in Baja California runs deep: for over 40 years, they have been taking travellers to this mesmerising region which is one of the world’s best places to observe majestic California gray whales and their newborn calves close up. We believe the small ship experience is far preferable to cruising on a larger vessel and are therefore delighted to be able to offer this voyage aboard the 100 passenger National Geographic Venture. This nimble expedition ship is able to explore remote bays and inlets, inaccessible to other ships and for a real close up experience we will use the onboard Zodiacs. For those who really wish to experience the magic of the wilderness, to come close to nature and enjoy the serenity of the beautiful landscape, the National Geographic Venture is the perfect vessel.
Joining You On Board
One of the most important aspects of expedition cruising is the knowledge of the expert expedition team that accompanies you on board and for the forays ashore. Joining you on board the National Geographic Venture will be a team of naturalists, one expert per 10 guests who provide talks, guidance ashore, and daily camaraderie. The staff will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights and searching out pods of dolphins, flying mobula rays, boisterous sea lions, and much more. Each member of the team is not only an expert in their field but passionate about sharing their knowledge and dedicated to seeing that you get the most out of your experience.
National Geographic Venture
Purpose-built to explore the North American coast, the National Geographic Venture accommodates just 100 guests in 50 outside cabins. The design and engineering of the National Geographic Venture were informed by nearly 40 years of experience of expedition cruising. Her twin boarding platforms, for example, enable the expedition team to load two Zodiacs at once, meaning guests can disembark the ship quickly to take advantage of wildlife sightings and maximise time spent exploring ashore. The vessel features a shallow draft, allowing the Captain to navigate the inner reaches and the onboard Zodiacs offer opportunities to get even closer to the action and land in remote locations. There are also kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment on board.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Mexico City, Mexico.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight to Mexico City. Arrive in the evening and transfer to the Marriott Reforma Hotel where we will stay for the next three nights. Enjoy a light dinner at the hotel this evening.
Day 2 Mexico City.
This morning we will head to the pyramid complex of Teotihuacan. It was the first city in the ‘New World’ built between 250 BC and 700 AD and its population at its height was approximately 250,000 people. However, its origins are a mystery. The city was built a thousand years before the Aztecs arrived in central Mexico and named it Teotihuacan. The site itself shows a patch work of pre-Colombian cultures including Maya, Mixtex and Zapotec. Exploring the archaeological site, we will walk the one kilometre ‘Avenue of the Dead’ taking in the sheer size of the site and wonder at how it was built by hand. The temple of Quetzalcoatl is considered one of the most beautiful structures of pre-Hispanic Mexico due to its distinctive decoration. It is adorned with 365 reliefs of serpent heads and sculptures of the ‘feathered serpent’. After lunch we return to central Mexico City to visit the Basilica of Guadalupe. A cult developed around the site after a Christian convert claimed in 1531 that the Virgin Mary appeared to him. After numerous sightings the lady’s image was miraculously emblazoned on his cloak causing a bishop to believe the story and build a shrine in her honour. To this day the basilica remains a place of pilgrimage and worship. The original basilica built in around 1700 was unable to cope with the number of pilgrims and visitors so in the 1970s a new basilica was built next to it and has capacity for 40,000 people. Dinner will be at a local restaurant this evening.
Day 3 Mexico City to La Paz.
Mexico City was built by the Spanish in the 16th century on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the old Aztec capital, and is now one of the largest cities in the world. It is a city of many contrasts from lively streets to tranquil squares, from ancient ruins to modern shiny high rises and is filled with a vibrant culture and delicious food. Today we will start to peel away the layers of this historic city with a walking tour through the historic centre. We will pass by the presidential palace, and through the main square, Zocalo, which prior to the colonial period was the main ceremonial centre of the Aztec city. We will also visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Mexico City, the oldest and largest cathedral in the Americas. We will then transfer to the airport for the afternoon flight to La Pax where we will overnight at the Catedral Hotel. The afternoon is free to explore La Paz before dinner this evening.
Day 4 Mexico City to Loreto.
After breakfast we will transfer Loreto. We will drive up the peninsula, taking in the mountainous desert scenery and stopping along the way for lunch before reaching Loreto where we will embark the National Geographic Venture. Dinner will be on board this evening along with welcome drinks.
Day 5 Exploring the Gulf of California.
The Gulf of California is home to great biological diversity and comprises of 244 islands, islets and coastal areas. The site not only contains 39% of the world’s total number of species of marine mammals but is also an area of natural beauty formed by rugged islands with high cliffs and sandy beaches. Today, with some luck we hope to see sightings of whales, dolphins and other sea life on our journey through the Gulf. Our plan is flexible as we explore some of the uninhabited islands sprinkled through the waters. The Captain and Expedition Leader will collaborate to choose the perfect combination of activities for the day. We may go ashore at Isla San Francisco, where a sweeping white sand beach fringes waters perfect for kayaking. Or perhaps we will visit Bahia de Los Muertos to snorkel among the coral.
Day 6 Los Islotes & La Paz.
Weather conditions permitting, we will awake this morning off the rock island of Los Islotes where we can snorkel and swim with curious sea lions. Later we will sail to the colourful city of La Paz where we will explore and gain insight into the culture of Mexico. The city was founded by Cortez in 1535 but did not become a permanent Spanish colony until 1811. Its deep harbour was a haven for Spanish galleons while the coves around its bay were hiding places for pirates like Sir Frances Drake. This evening we will have a dinner of local cuisine with dancing and folklore.
Day 7 Cabo Pulmo & Gorda Banks.
Today we will start with the option of snorkelling in the pristine reefs of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, one of the most successful national marine parks in the world. The reef of Cabo Pulmo is estimated to be around 20,000 years old with over 800 species of marine life. There will also be a chance to speak to locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place. We will spend the afternoon searching the seas of the Gorda Banks seamount, a renowned gathering place for whales, especially humpbacks, dolphins and other sea life. Capping off the day will be a majestic sunset over the iconic Friars Rocks at Lands End.
Day 8 Bahia Magdalena & At Sea.
This morning if conditions permit, we will explore Magdalena Bay’s vast mangrove system via kayak and Zodiac and learn about how these ecosystems support their surroundings. The bay is 50 kilometres long and has about 200 kilometres of lagoons and channels. The mangrove system is the longest in the whole of the Baja California peninsula. The contrast between the vast blue ocean, lush mangroves and sandy desert dunes creates a mesmerising view of colours and textures.
Day 9 Boca de Soledad.
Each winter gray whales travel south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and raise their calves in these sheltered waters. After breakfast, we will transfer by coach to Puerto Lopez Mateos to spend the full day observing, and with luck interacting, with these majestic creatures. Working together with local fishermen, we board boats to view the numerous mother calf pairs that thrive in this sheltering region. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the ship in the afternoon.
Day 10 Bahia de Almejas, Rehusa Channel & Isla Magdalena.
This morning we will take a bus to Bahia de Almejas, where we will enter the lagoons aboard local pangas. Whales tend to be very active here, seemingly oblivious to our presence and sometimes rather curious and playful. Later we will head to the shore at Isla Magdalena to explore the ever-shifting sand dunes with a cross island walk to its pristine beaches. Birdwatching can be excellent here due to the abundance of seabirds in action.
Day 11 San Carlos to Mexico City.
After breakfast we will disembark in San Carlos and transfer to La Paz for the flight back to Mexico City. On arrival in Mexico City we will transfer to the Marriott Reforma Hotel for our overnight stay. There will be a farewell dinner this evening.
Day 12 Mexico City to London.
Today we will explore the more contemporary history of Mexico City with a visit to the colourful neighbourhood of Coyocan. Coyocan is known for its cobbled streets, art galleries, colourful buildings and markets. It is filled with leafy parks that gives a village feel and it was also the home of Frida Kahlo. Explore Coyoacan with a visit to the Church of Coyocan, the Foniteca National with its lovely garden and the Jardin Centenario. After lunch we will transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight back to London.
Day 13 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
| 16 to 28 January 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| 1 Main Deck with two portholes | Fully Booked | |
| 2 Main Deck with two portholes | Fully Booked | |
| 3 Upper Deck with large window | Fully Booked | |
| 4 Upper Deck with sliding door & small balcony | Fully Booked | |
| 5 Observation Deck Suite with large windows | Fully Booked | |
| 1 Main Deck with two portholes for sole use | Fully Booked | |
| 2 Main Deck with two portholes for sole use | Fully Booked | |
Tour Reference Code: SCNGV160125
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Three nights accommodation at the Marriott Reforma Hotel, Mexico City • All meals in Mexico City inclusive of drinks One night accommodation at the Cathedral Hotel, La Pax including breakfast and dinner with drinks • Seven nights aboard the National Geographic Venture on a full board basis • All alcoholic and soft drinks on board (except certain super-premium brands) • Shore excursions • Onboard expedition team • English speaking local guides • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes - Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB: Flight schedules are yet to be released and the itinerary is subject to the domestic flight schedules from Mexico City to La Paz and La Paz to Mexico City. Wildlife sightings are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
National Geographic Venture
Purpose-built to explore the North American coast, the National Geographic Venture accommodates just 100 guests in 50 outside cabins. The design and engineering of the National Geographic Venture were informed by nearly 40 years of experience of expedition cruising. Her twin boarding platforms, for example, enable the expedition team to load two Zodiacs at once, meaning guests can disembark the ship quickly to take advantage of wildlife sightings and maximise time spent exploring ashore. The vessel features a shallow draft, allowing the Captain to navigate the inner reaches and the onboard Zodiacs offer opportunities to get even closer to the action and land in remote locations. There are also kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment on board.
-
Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 100
Cabins: 50
Decks: 4
Length: 73 metres
Width (Beam): 13.4 metres
Gross Tonnage: 2920
Speed: 10 knots
Registered: USA
Year Built: 2018AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature level in your cabin.
BRIDGE
Passengers are welcome to visit the ship’s bridge to see the business of navigation unfold. Ask the watch officer questions about navigation or help yourself to the ever-ready binoculars to scan the horizon for wildlife. There may occasionally be times when the bridge must be restricted to shipboard personnel only.
CABIN INFORMATION
Accommodation on board is arranged over three decks and all cabins are outside facing with either portholes or windows. The cabins and suites are all spacious ranging in size from 12.6 to 17.3 square metres with en-suite bathroom. They feature comfortable twin beds that can be converted to a Queen; the twin beds measure 41 x 74 inches and the Queen beds measure 82 x 74 inches. Category 4 cabins feature sliding glass doors leading onto a private balcony. All cabins and suites feature a writing desk, two nightstands, full length mirror, wardrobe and hairdryer. Bathroom amenities include shampoo, shower gel and lotion as well as an Expedition Essential Kit with SPF15 lip balm. Category 1 cabins are located on the Main Deck and feature two portholes. These cabins measure 12.6 square metres. Category 2 cabins are located on the Main Deck and feature two portholes. These cabins measure 14.9 square metres. Category 3 cabins are located on the Upper Deck and feature two windows. These cabins measure 14 square metres. Category 4 cabins are located on the Upper Deck and feature a sliding glass door leading on to a small private balcony. These cabins measure 14 square metres. Category 5 suites are located on the Upper Deck and feature two large windows, a convertible sofa bed and a wardrobe with extra space. These cabins measure 17.3 square metres.
CABIN KEYS
Keys are not issued and Lindblad Expeditions has always operated with a no-key policy. Experience has shown that keys are not necessary and a much more relaxed atmosphere prevails when cabins do not need to be locked. Cabin doors may be locked from the inside, however.
COMMUNICATIONS
The vessel features satellite internet access available through the purchase of an internet plan. Internet plans can be purchased through the onboard internet portal by connecting to the vessel’s Wi-Fi system. Telephone numbers for contacting the vessel are provided in your final documents. Additional information on making phone calls or sending/receiving eFaxes can be found on board in your cabin Guest Directory.
DAILY PROGRAMME
Each evening a copy of the following day’s daily programme will be placed in your cabin. Please remember that in remote areas or when weather conditions play an important role, the day’s events and timings may be altered. Flexibility is a must. If plans must be changed, you will be notified via the public address system.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods you require we recommend that you take some with you, although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your requirements.
DINING
The onboard chefs prepare local cuisine using fresh ingredients whenever possible, including locally grown produce and sustainably caught seafood. Breakfast and lunch will feature different cold and hot options to choose from daily. Each evening, you will have the opportunity to choose between three dinner entrees – meat, fish, or vegetarian. Dinner choices will change on a nightly basis. Every morning there will be an early riser snack available in the Lounge before breakfast is served. Meals aboard are almost always served in the dining room, located aft of the lounge deck. When weather conditions allow, lighter fare may be served on the observation deck.
DOCTOR
There will be a doctor or medically trained professional aboard, and his or her services will be provided free of charge. They will be available at any time in case of an emergency.
DRESS CODE ON BOARD
The atmosphere aboard is casual, there is no expectation of any formal dress whatsoever; after all, it is an expedition.
ELECTRICAL CURRENT
Each cabin is equipped with 110 volt (standard American-style) outlets. Electric razors, hairdryers and other small appliances may be used in cabin outlets. We recommend that you take an adaptor with you. Please note that the electrical current is sometimes uneven, so we suggest you use a surge protector if you have one for your computer or other sensitive equipment.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
KAYAKS
The ship is equipped with a small fleet of one and two-person kayaks. The onboard naturalists will help novices learn this increasingly popular sport, while experts can explore further afield.
LAUNDRY
At an additional charge, the ship’s laundry will handle personal laundry and ironing. There are no facilities for dry cleaning on board.
LIFT
There is a lift on board that services all decks.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and to advise of any associated costs.
LUGGAGE STORAGE
Your cabin has been designed so that luggage can be stored under your bed. There is space to hang and store clothing.
MAIL
Although the Purser will be happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en-route.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT & CURRENCY
The ship is equipped with a point of sales system that will track your daily shipboard expenses. You may be asked to sign for certain items, and you will be presented with an itemised ship’s bill at the end of your voyage. Personal cheques issued by U.S. banks, travellers checks, U.S. Dollars, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted to settle accounts on board. The official currency on board is the U.S. Dollar. Due to currency regulations, re-exchange to dollars or from one local currency to another is not permitted.
PADDLEBOARDS
The ship is equipped with eight stand-up paddleboards, for a fun, active and unique perspective. The paddleboards are made in the USA of ultra-durable, eco-friendly materials by Glide Stand-up Paddleboards – the paradigm of the industry. They are custom built to Lindblad’s specifications for versatility and performance.
PRESENTATIONS
The Expedition Leader and naturalists will offer presentations throughout your expedition. Held in the lounge, presentations will cover a variety of topics and reflect what you are learning and experiencing both on land and at sea.
PUBLIC SPACES
The ship features a specially designed open bow and observation deck for gathering to watch for wildlife or enjoy an evening cocktail with friends in the open air. A lift accesses all decks, and public restrooms are available on each deck.
Lounge: The lounge is the heart of the vessel and where the cocktail hour and recap will be held each evening. It is also where you will gather for presentations, photography talks, and guest speaker presentations. Seating design takes advantage of the wraparound windows for an optimal view and boasts multiple high-definition screens for slideshows and videos. Forward lounge doors provide direct access to the bow. There is a small reference library with board games and cards.
Bar: The bar is typically open from 11.00 am until one hour after lunch begins and from 5.00 pm until closing. Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are included aboard the National Geographic Venture. A selection of premium wines and spirts are also available for purchase. Sundeck: Morning stretch classes are held in the open air of the sundeck, located aft on the observation deck. After stretch class the deck is set with tables and chairs, and lounge chairs. Bow: The ship features a specially designed bow observation area that accommodates all passengers at once for a shared wildlife viewing experience. Mud room: Located aft on the main deck where you will embark and disembark Zodiacs, the mud room has lockers that provide convenient gear and storage. Spa: Massages, body treatments, natural facial treatments, and hand and foot treatments are available in the LEXspa.
Fitness Centre: Conveniently located on the lounge deck, the fitness centre is outfitted with two treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical machines, exercise bands, and sets of small hand weights.
Global Gallery: The global market is a collection of items made by local residents. It is conveniently located on the ship’s lounge deck. You may find silver jewellery crafted in Alaska, paintings, and books by your naturalist staff, plus expedition clothing and other essentials. Every item purchased in the global market contributes to the Lindblad Artisan Fund, which supports artisans in communities around the world.
QUESTIONNAIRES
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests.
SMOKING
Smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor areas. Smoking is not permitted in guest cabins.
VALUABLES
The ship is not equipped with safety deposit boxes. We recommend that you leave jewellery and other valuables at home. Lindblad Expeditions does not accept responsibility or custody for any money or other valuables while on board.
ZODIACS
The Zodiacs will enable exploration of otherwise inaccessible places. The National Geographic Venture is outfitted with eight Mark V Zodiacs which are built entirely in the USA. These boats are of a superior, military grade construction with customised features like extra holds for passenger stability and topside treads to improve footing. Guests will embark and disembark via custom designed ladders to improve safety and ease of movement. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given on board.
-
Deck Plan
-
What to Expect
No two expeditions are the same in Baja California and the itinerary is amended based on weather conditions and wildlife sightings. Below are extracts from logs of previous expeditions in the region with Lindblad Expeditions.
Los Isoltes & La Paz, February 2023: Our day aboard National Geographic Venture started with the rising of the sun. Standing at the bow of the ship we witnessed the sun paint a palette of colours on the horizon. After breakfast, we jumped into Zodiacs. We toured around a tiny island, Los Isoltes. This white-capped rock in the sea is home to a colony of sea lions. These curious and playful pinnipeds swam around our Zodiacs, showing off by leaping out of the water. Flying above us were blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and brown pelicans. Our vessel then docked at the nearby town of La Paz where we had the chance to walk around the Malecon boardwalk and stop at our favourite ice cream spot in town, Fuente. We then took a short bus ride to Rancho San Lorenzo where we were greeted with musicians, horses, and margaritas. At our tables we were able to enjoy folk dancers and authentic Mexican dishes. The big surprise of the evening was a concert from a world-famous opera singer and pianist. This will be a day and night to remember for quite a long time.
Bahia de Almejas, March 2023: Moderate seas and wind along with clear skies and sun greeted us as we journeyed by pangas to Bahia Almejas after breakfast. The bahia is where gray whales mate (earlier in the season), and immature males and females ‘hang out.’ This morning, the whales put on a ‘whale’ of a show! Many were spotted: some spyhopping, others rolling over each other, still others just swimming. We were very fortunate in that a few curious immature whales approached the pangas, allowing some of us to get the coveted ‘touch’ while others were sprayed with the whale’s exhalent ‘kiss.’ On the way back to the vessel for lunch, we passed by a large concentration of seabirds on a sand spit. Surprisingly, we spotted an immature bald eagle regally standing on the sand. A visit to the frigatebird colony rounded out the morning. After lunch, we did it again, as did the whales. Our afternoon in Bahia Almejas provided another opportunity to view several spyhopping whales, along with two spectacular breaches. A few whales swam back and forth under the pangas, giving unique views of their tremendous length and girth. And of course, some surfaced alongside the pangas to permit more touching and ‘kisses.’ Following a presentation about gray whales and recaps, we enjoyed traditional Mexican cuisine as part of the Mexican Festival Night. The evening was capped off by a classic piñata ceremony on the sun deck.
Why Lindblad Expeditions
For this adventure in Baja California Sur we are working with Lindblad Expeditions with whom we have a long association. Lindblad’s legacy of exploration in Baja California runs deep: for over 40 years, they have been taking travellers to this mesmerising region which is one of the world’s best places to observe majestic California gray whales and their newborn calves close up. We believe the small ship experience is far preferable to cruising on a larger vessel and are therefore delighted to be able to offer this voyage aboard the 100 passenger National Geographic Venture. This nimble expedition ship is able to explore remote bays and inlets, inaccessible to other ships and for a real close up experience we will use the onboard Zodiacs. For those who really wish to experience the magic of the wilderness, to come close to nature and enjoy the serenity of the beautiful landscape, the National Geographic Venture is the perfect vessel.
Joining You On Board
One of the most important aspects of expedition cruising is the knowledge of the expert expedition team that accompanies you on board and for the forays ashore. Joining you on board the National Geographic Venture will be a team of naturalists, one expert per 10 guests who provide talks, guidance ashore, and daily camaraderie. The staff will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights and searching out pods of dolphins, flying mobula rays, boisterous sea lions, and much more. Each member of the team is not only an expert in their field but passionate about sharing their knowledge and dedicated to seeing that you get the most out of your experience.
Marriott Reforma Hotel, Mexico City
This contemporary styled hotel is well located in the trendy Paseo de la Reforma area close to Chapultepec Park. The comfortable, spacious bedrooms have all the usual amenities including a television, safe, tea/coffee making facilities, mini-bar and Wi-Fi. There is a casual regional restaurant, a chic steakhouse and an elegant bar. Other amenities include an indoor pool and hot tub, an atrium lap pool with a retractable roof along with a spa and a gym.
Also of Interest
Natural Wonders of the Amazon & Galapagos
An extraordinary river cruise through the Ecuadorian Amazonia aboard the MV Anakonda combined with an island hopping cruise through the Galapagos aboard the Isabella II
Anakonda & Isabela II
Itinerary at a glance
- Quito / Coca / Yasuni National Park / Santiago Island / Chinese Hat Islet / Genovesa Island / Santa Fe Island / South Plaza Island / Baltra
13 nights
from
£8995
Next Departure:
17 November 2024
Rainforests, Corals & Cultures of the Caribbean
A passage from Antigua to Costa Rica including Colombia & Panama aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Antigua / Dominica / St Lucia / Grenada / Bonaire / Cabo de la Vela / Santa Marta / Cartagena / San Blas Islands / Bocas del Toro / Puerto Limon
15 nights
from
£9995
Next Departure:
13 January 2026
Ancient & Natural Wonders of Central America
A voyage from Costa Rica to Guatemala including Nicaragua & El Salvador aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- San Jose / Puerto Caldera / Curu National Park / Tortuga Island / Palo Verde National Park / Granada / Leon / La Union / Acajutla / Puerto Quetzal / Antigua / Lake Atitlan
13 nights
from
£8995
Next Departure:
7 February 2026
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000