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 lagoons. Their migration is the longest of any animal, covering more than 10,000 miles. Join 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 working with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and their 100-passenger vessel, the National Geographic Venture for which we have an allocation of cabins for this adventure. Board local panga boats to enter pristine lagoons for up-close wildlife encounters, witness an undersea wonderland and experience the most beautiful sunsets on Earth. Swim with curious sea lions, watch whales, and discover a centuries-old mission town. Hike nearby shores, rimmed with whitesand 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 three days before 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 world-renowned Anthropological Museum, the ancient city ruins of Teotihuacan and the vibrant Coyocan neighbourhood which was home to Frida Kahlo.
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.
Fly by scheduled flight to Mexico City. Arrive in the evening and transfer to the Marriott Reforma Hotel where we will stay for the next four nights. Enjoy a light dinner at the hotel this evening. (D)
Day 2 Mexico City.
This morning, we will start our exploration with the immense temple complex of Teotihuacan, once the largest and most populated city in the New World. Built between 250 BC and 700 AD its population at its peak was over 250,000 people. During our visit we will see the Pyramid of the Sun and walk along the Avenue of the Dead. After lunch 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 this evening will be at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Mexico City.
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. This morning before we start our exploration of the city there is an optional tour to visit the Chapultepec Forest with a birding guide. The forest is home to over 200 bird species including hummingbirds, herons, warblers and flycatchers. This morning we will start with a visit to the impressive National Museum of Anthropology. It is the most visited museum in Mexico and holds a wealth of treasures from the country’s long history. Learn about the Aztecs, Mexico City and Mexico as a whole. After lunch we will begin 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. Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 Mexico City.
Today we will explore the more contemporary history of Mexico City with a visit to the colourful neighbourhood of Coyoacan. Coyoacan is known for its cobbled streets, art galleries, colourful buildings and markets. It is filled with leafy parks that gives it a village feel and was the home of Frida Kahlo. During our exploration we will visit the Church of Coyoacan, the Fonoteca National with its lovely garden and the Jardin Centenario. After lunch we will return to the hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure to relax or continue exploring the city. (B, L)
Day 5 Mexico City to La Paz.
This morning we will transfer to Mexico City airport for the direct flight to La Paz in Baja California Sur State. Arrive this afternoon and check into the Catedral Hotel for our overnight stay. We will meet in the evening for dinner. (B, D)
Day 6 La Paz to Loreto.
After breakfast we will check out of the hotel and transfer to 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. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Bahia Concepcion.
Awake in Bahia Concepcion, one of the largest bays of the Baja California peninsula, with over 50 miles of beaches. Step out on deck to witness the colourful landscapes revealed by the first of many gorgeous sunrises. This biodiversity hotspot is a wonder to explore. Take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and other marine life, kayak through lush mangrove systems, and snorkel in turquoise waters. On land, join an invigorating hike among towering cacti, or stroll the pristine beaches and learn about the ecology from our naturalists. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Exploring the Gulf of California.
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 through these waters. The Captain and Expedition Leader will collaborate to choose the perfect combination of activities for the day. Conditions permitting, we may hike, kayak or paddleboard. Learn about this ecosystem from the naturalists and capture amazing photos with help from your certified photo instructor. (B, L, D)
Day 9 Boca de Soledad.
After breakfast we will drive from Puerto Escondido to Puerto Lopez Mateos and settle in for a morning of unforgettable experiences in this tranquil lagoon. Each winter, during their long migration, gray whales travel south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and give birth to their calves in these sheltered waters. Together with savvy local fisherman, we will venture out in local pangas to view the numerous mother-calf pairs. With luck, enjoy up-close interactions with these curious creatures. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before returning to the ship in late afternoon. (B, L, D)
Days 10 to 12 Cabo Pulmo, Los Islotes & Gulf of California.
Venture south to discover the gems of the southern Gulf. These islands and surrounding waters are celebrated for their conservation stories, marine life, and the many thrilling experiences on offer. Some of the locations we may visit or enjoy by Zodiac include Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, Espirito Santo Island - a national park as well as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Los Islotes – home to a large colony of sea lions, and Isla San Jose. (B, L, D)
Day 13 Loreto to London.
After breakfast, we will disembark the National Geographic Venture and transfer to Loreto airport for our indirect scheduled flight to London. (B)
Day 14 London.
Arrive London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 25 January to 7 February 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Main Deck with two portholes | £11295 | £10995 |
| 2 Main Deck with two portholes | £11995 | £11695 |
| 3 Upper Deck with large window | £12795 | £12495 |
| 4 Upper Deck with sliding door & small balcony | £13495 | £13195 |
| 5 Observation Deck Suite with large windows | £14495 | £14195 |
| 1 Main Deck with two portholes for sole use | £15295 | £14995 |
| 2 Main Deck with two portholes for sole use | £16295 | £15995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCNGV250127
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Four nights accommodation at the Marriott Reforma Hotel, Mexico City • Overnight accommodation at the Catedral Hotel, La Paz • Meals as indicated inclusive of drinks with lunch & dinner ( B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner) • Seven nights aboard the National Geographic Venture on a full board basis • Alcoholic and soft drinks on board (except certain super premium brands) • Shore excursions • English speaking local guides • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, US ESTA (required for transiting en-route).
FLIGHTS: Please note that flight schedules and routings are yet to be released at the time of promotion. At present, flights from Loreto to London are via the USA. Details will be confirmed approximately 10 months prior to departure. For flights which transit via the USA, passengers will be required to apply for an ESTA.
Optional Bird Watching Tour: On Day 2 of the itinerary an optional bird watching tour in Chapultepec Park is offered. The tour will start at approx. 7am from the hotel and return at approx. 10am in order to start the day’s sightseeing. The tour includes a birding guide, transport and use of binoculars should you need them. A minimum number of eight people will be required for the tour to run.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with 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.
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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.
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Deck Plan
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Why National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions
For this expedition we are working with our long time associates National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions who are making a limited number of cabins available for Noble Caledonia guests. 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 this nimble expedition ship is able to explore remote bays and inlets, inaccessible to other ships. And for a real close up experience the onboard Zodiacs will be utilised. 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 one is not only an expert in t heir field but passionate about sharing their knowledge and dedicated to seeing that you get the most out of your experience.
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 National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.
Los Islotes and Espiritu Santo National Park, April 2025:
We had a wonderful early morning at Los Islotes, where we enjoyed snorkelling and Zodiac cruising around the island. We observed sea lions, pelicans, and different nesting booby species. The sea lions were gregarious, zipping around the water and leaping out on occasion. We were welcomed back to a delicious breakfast and cruised around enjoying the scenery and wildlife. We saw mobula rays leaping out of the water and flipping through the air. In the afternoon, we found a beautiful beach on the north end of Isla San Jose. It proved to be an incredible spot for our afternoon activities. We set off on hikes along the beach, around the tidal lagoon, and up the arroyo. After a lovely time spent exploring, we were treated to a late afternoon cocktail hour and bonfire on the beach. Delicious snacks, s’mores, and gorgeous views!
Loreto Bay National Marine Park, March 2025:
National Geographic Venture awoke to an encapsulated bubble around us. Most of the morning was spent going in and out of fog, but just before lunch it lifted to reveal a glorious look at common dolphins, hundreds of them. Cameras clicked and whirred as we spent the late morning in the presence of these magnificent cetaceans! While some went snorkelling at Isla Coronados, a few of us went on a Zodiac cruise late this afternoon. We picked up a small pod of about 40 common bottlenose dolphins who played with our Zodiac and kept us all entertained. There were at least three calves with the adults, surfacing right beside their mothers. Truly a Day of the Dolphin!
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000