Mexico’s Sea of Cortéz
An 8 day Cruise from Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Whales & Wildlife (7 Nights)
This voyage visits unspoiled islands, teeming with plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. We'll take you to breathtaking private beaches, to turquoise coves that invite you to dive in, and to the mainland, where the giant cardón cactus grows.
Itinerary
Day 1 - ARRIVE IN CABO SAN LUCA Transfer from the Airport to Cabo San Lucas. Board your ship to begin your Sea of Cortéz cruise at sunset, past El Arco and finisterra (land's end), to enjoy evening scenery and cruising...
Day 2 - ISLA ESPIRITÚ SANTO This 23,383-acre island near La Paz is centered in one of the most biologically diverse marine areas in the world and is a major environmental success story. Several plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world, including the blacktailed jack rabbit and antelope squirrel. Drop anchor at Espiritú Santo's Bahía Bonanza for a day ashore. Take a guided walk among the tangle of exotic cacti, or swim, snorkel, and kayak the crystal clear sea here that supports 900 species of fish. No need to bring snorkel gear or wetsuits as gear will be provided to you. BLD
Day 3 - WHALE WATCHING This whole day is spent pursuing up-close viewing of marine life. The Sea of Cortés is home to huge schools of common and bottle-nosed dolphins, as well as humpback, minke, fin, and blue whales. From early February to mid-March, hundreds of gray whales congregate in the shallow lagoons of Baja's Pacific shore. When our local contacts tell us the whales are present*, we'll cross the peninsula by motorcoach to Puerto Adolfo Lopez Mateos. There board an outboard-equipped panga to observe the grays, who have migrated some 6,000 miles from Alaska's Bering Sea to mate, give birth, and rear their young. When whales are not present in Bahia Magdalena, we will use our maneuverable small ship to search for whales and other marine life in the Sea of Cortés.
* In December and January the weather and whale sightings can be unpredictable. Our knowledgeable crew knows where the action is! As opportunities present themselves we may alter our route to offer you the best possible experience.
BLD
Day 4 - ISLAND EXPLORATION ISLAND EXPLORATION Guided by the weather and tides, visit one of the beautiful and special islands of the Sea of Cortés. Exploration will possibly include nature walks, kayaking, and snorkeling. BLD
Day 5 - LORETO Founded in 1697, Loreto's Nuesta Señora de Loreto Mission was the original "mother" church from which all the other California missions were founded, eventually leading as far north as Sonoma, California. A museum adjacent to the mission displays artifacts and paintings from Baja's colonial era. Stroll the streets and plazas of this picturesque seaside village, capped by a reception with musical entertainment at the mission. Optional Shore Excursions available. BLD
Day 6 - LOS ISLOTES & ISLA PARTIDA Los Islotes is a steep seamount punctured by sea caves. Blue-footed boobies reside on the cliffs, and a large colony of California sea lions haul out on the rocks below. Weather permitting, swim and snorkel as the female sea lions and their curious young pups float about you in the sea. Continue to Isla Partida nearby, to hike the island¹s rugged canyons, kayak up-close to rock-walled headlands, or just relax on the beach. In the sheltered cove of Ensenada Grande, where the silky sandy bottom shelves out very gradually for hundreds of feet, gentle waves lap onto the mangrove-backed beach.In the sheltered cove of Ensenada Grande, the silky, sandy bottom shelves out very gradually for hundreds of feet, as gentle waves lap onto the mangrove-backed beach.BLD
Day 7 - LA PAZ Today, your ship ties up at the central waterfront of Baja California Sur¹s capital and largest city, which was founded in the 1530s. Explore the shops, gelaterías, and the miles-long waterfront malecón or promenade. A host of options will be available and you will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive fiesta, complete with Mexican music, dancers, and piñatas. Later, depart La Paz to sail overnight to Cabo San Luca. Optional Shore Excursions available BLD
Day 8 - DISEMBARK IN CABO SAN LUCAS After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the Los Cabos Airport.
Cruises depart every Saturday from
Dec 22 to March 01, 2008
Fares start from $2399 in a category A stateroom.
The cost of your cruise includes $194 per person which covers taxes/port charges/fees and on board services. On board gratuities are neither required nor expected. Prices are per person, double-occupancy, U.S. dollars. Single/Triple rates available upon request where applicable. Airfare extra.
About the Ship - the 'Spirit of Yorktown'
Measuring 257 feet long, 43 feet wide, and with a draft of just eight feet, the Spirit of Yorktown offers unique itineraries. Dine in casual, intimate, open-seating while never missing the scenery through the large picture windows.
- 138 guests
- 257 feet in length
- All cabins feature private facilities
- American crew
- Bed sizes vary from standard
- Cabin proportions as illustrated are approximate
- Cruising speed of 10 knots
- Registered in the United States
- Satellite phone
