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Baja California and the Sea of Cortez (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)

Baja California and the Sea of Cortez (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)

From AUD $8,240

Description

Unique, immersive style of travel
Each year California gray whales pause during their migrations to birth and nurse their calves in the Laguna San Ignacio. For most travelers, the only opportunity to observe the mothers and calves is to bus across the peninsula for a day trip.

Special access to Baja’s gray whale lagoons
Laguna San Ignacio is well known for being the preferred nursery for gray whale females to birth and instruct their young before making the annual migratory trek to the food-rich Arctic waters. Anchored inside the bay, we’ll enjoy three days of exclusive access. Each morning wake up and whale-watch while you sip your morning coffee on your balcony or on deck. Later, head out in Zodiacs with naturalists and local guides for an afternoon observing them at water level. Not only are we often rewarded with the close encounter of calves and watchful mothers, mere feet away, but often we’ll experience heart-touching eye contact with playful calves surfacing to interact with us. In the evening, hang out on deck under the stars, or depending on the calendar, a full moon, and listen to the whales breathing and moving around the ship. Encounters with these marvelous creatures don’t end there as we head into the Sea of Cortez where magical moments continue with possible sightings of other whale species and dolphins.

Every day is active and engaging
You’ll be able to hike through forests of towering cacti and up striking desert canyons. You’ll take expedition landing craft along the shore to see and shoot photos of plunge-diving pelicans and blue-footed boobies and to join a different naturalist as you choose: there are no assigned groups.

Travel in excellent company
Explore under the sure guidance of an expedition leader, five veteran naturalists, including a National Geographic certified photo instructor and an undersea specialist, plus a wellness specialist. Their knowledge and passion for Baja California is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Trip Name
Baja California and the Sea of Cortez (NG SeaBird & SeaLion)
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Comfortable Expedition Length: 52 metres Passenger Capacity: 62 (in twin cabins) Built: 1982 / Refurbished 2015 Twin Expedition ships, National Geographic Sea Bird & Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to their small size, yet each can comfortably accommodate 62 guests. The feeling, is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. Accessibility means freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so that you feel the places we visit are all ours. Full interior renovations have been completed on these twin 62-guest ships, National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird. The extensive renovation to guest cabins, the lounge and bar, dining room, public areas and spa has transformed the ships to provide the ultimate in expedition hospitality and comfort. Nothing has been left untouched, from the sleekly framed wall photos, to the fresh paint, and new carpets throughout the ships. - The lounge and bar have been completely redesigned and reconfigured to provide an open, enhanced environment with additional seating and better flow. The modern design features new tables and chairs, upholstery of settees, overhead ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The lounge also hosts a new food & beverage area, library, and Global Market. - The dining room’s upgrade features all new tables, chairs, ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The wine bar has been replaced and features a display showcasing selections from the regions explored. - Every cabin has been completely redone and all furnishings have been replaced. Modern aged cherry bed boxes, faux leather headboards, Lindblad signature bed linens, new windows, lighting, and additional USB outlets provide a dramatic makeover for a relaxing guest experience. Bathrooms now feature new shower doors and all new hardware. - Exterior renovations include new deck furniture and outdoor awning.

Itinerary



Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
24-02-201904-03-2019AUD $0Category 1
24-02-201904-03-2019AUD $0Category 2
24-02-201904-03-2019AUD $0Category 3
24-02-201904-03-2019AUD $0Category 1 Single
24-02-201904-03-2019AUD $0Category 2 Single

Inclusions

    • See California gray whales up close
    • Explore the entrance of Bahía Magdalena, as well as the breeding grounds of Laguna San Ignacio, the whales’ main breeding grounds
    • Hike desert islands, sculpted sand dunes and see a variety of wildlife in the Sea of Cortez
    • Snorkel with sea lions and search for marine mammals
    • Experience the Baja California undersea
    • Benefit from our 30+ years of experience and relationships in Baja California to see all you came for and more

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