Travel aboard the Safari Voyager for an unforgettable wildlife cruise as you explore the enchanting and abundant waters of the Sea of Cortez.
The Sea of Cortez, located off Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, has an incredible level of biodiversity with over 30 species of marine mammal seen here such as California sea lion, common bottlenose dolphin, humpback, sperm and even blue whale. Approximately 900 species of fish have been recorded, including leaping mobula rays and the largest fish in the world, the whale shark. Osprey, brown pelican and blue-footed booby are just some of the birds that can be encountered as well.
You navigate the enchanting and calm waters of the Sea of Cortez on board the Safari Voyager. Accommodating 66 passengers, it is one of the smaller boats to sail here, making it perfect for watching wildlife as it is nimble enough to keep up with movement of the animals, but it is also small enough to access secluded coves and islets.
With a superb expedition team, your dedicated naturalist guides will be eagerly searching the ultramarine waters for humpback whales and other marine life, watching for dramatic breaching and fin slapping displays, and the graceful glide of frigatebirds overhead. This is wildlife spotting at its best—a chance for a close encounter with extraordinary sea life along a pristine and rugged coast. There are also opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and nature walks on some of the scenic islands.
Spend your days exploring tranquil bays and secluded beaches, where turquoise waters teem with sea lions, reef fish, and passing dolphins. A highlight is swimming with playful sea lion pups, who swirl around snorkellers with infectious energy. Watch for mobula rays leaping in dazzling acrobatics above the surface. At the end of each day, savour locally-sourced ingredients, and unwind wildlife-watching on deck, socialising in the dining room, or relaxing on the sun deck.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrive at La Paz & Set Sail!
Arrive at La Paz, on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, for the start of your adventure. Transfer to the ship, board your vessel and set sail on your wildlife expedition!
Accommodation: Safari Voyager, 7-nights
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Day 2:
Isla San Francisco Park
Begin your day with a hike along dramatic ridges, where panoramic views await. Later, snorkel alongside vibrant sea life, including tropical fish, mobula ray, sea turtle, and possibly even gentle whale shark. Enjoy kayaking or try your hand at paddleboarding, where playful sea lions may swim up to investigate, and pods of dolphins might pass by. For bird enthusiasts, keep watch for blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and other seabirds soaring overhead.
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Day 3:
Bahía Agua Verde
Today, explore the coastline by skiff, scanning the horizon for dolphins, seals, seabirds, and with luck, majestic whales. For a truly authentic experience, meet a local ranchero and his family and enjoy a mule ride among the dramatic canyons and mountains. Afterwards, kayak through serene waters, hike scenic trails, or simply revel in the exceptional birding opportunities, where everything from frigatebirds to herons may cross your path.
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Day 4:
Honeymoon Cove on Isla Danzante
Today, prepare to discover the hidden gem of Honeymoon Cove. The water here dazzles with an extraordinary turquoise clarity, making it a snorkeller’s paradise. Dive in to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse fish species, playful rays, and other fascinating marine creatures. Nearby, Isla Danzante beckons. Take to the trails and hike to a mountain top for panoramic views of the island’s rugged beauty, or kayak along the rocky coast.
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Day 5:
Captain's Choice
This morning, set off to explore the awe-inspiring Volcán Coronado. For those ready to tackle the ascent, a hike to the cinder cone rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Sea of Cortez. If you'd prefer not to hike, the stunning beaches of Isla Coronado offer their own treasures. This afternoon, scan the waters for sightings of majestic blue whale, fin whale, orca, sperm whale, and pods of dolphin. You might spot the distant blow of a surfacing whale or witness the powerful fin slapping of one just beneath the waves. If conditions allow, you may anchor and take some time to explore Loreto town.
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Day 6:
Los Islotes & Isla Partida Park
Today, prepare for unforgettable close encounters with some of Baja's most delightful residents: the playful sea lion pups at Los Islotes! These curious creatures are naturally inquisitive and love interacting with humans, joyfully swimming alongside you as you snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. This afternoon, visit Isla Partida, a protected paradise perfect for outdoor adventures. Choose from kayaking, snorkelling and hiking or if you’d prefer to relax, join a laid-back beach gathering, complete with refreshing drinks.
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Day 7:
Isla Cerralvo, San Jose, or Espiritu Santo
Today, your captain will select a stunning bay to anchor in, setting the stage for a day of adventure and discovery. Enjoy the warm, golden sand on a leisurely beach walk, or hop into a kayak to explore the shoreline. For those seeking more of a challenge, head out on a guided hike to take in the breathtaking scenery and rugged beauty of Baja California.
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Day 8:
Disembark
After breakfast, bid your crew and fellow adventurers farewell and transfer to La Paz Airport.
EXPEDITION VESSEL
