Expedition Details
Board the National Geographic Sea Bird for an unforgettable family New Year's voyage in the breathtaking marine sanctuary of the Sea of Cortez.
Our approach during this voyage is one of discovery, and our schedule will remain flexible so that we can take advantage of weather conditions and wildlife-viewing opportunities. Throughout the voyage, we have planned exciting activities for every age group—from nature talks and games to Zodiac cruising, snorkeling, and hikes.
Trip Highlights
Itinerary - 8 Days
Day 1 — U.S./Los Cabos, Mexico
Upon arrival in Los Cabos, transfer to La Paz and board the National Geographic Sea Bird.
(D)
Day 2 — Isla Santa Catalina
Today, track bottlenose dolphins and other marine life around Isla Danzante. Then, explore Isla Santa Catalina and learn about its giant cactuses and extraordinary bird and marine life.
(B,L,D)
Day 3 — Bahía San Basilio/Isla San Ildefonso
Kayak and swim the serene waters off Bahía San Basilio. Younger expedition members will enjoy discovering the island's tiny lagoon. Later, see the nesting seabirds on the rugged island of San Ildefonso.
(B,L,D)
Day 4 — Sea of Cortez
Spend the day searching for whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other wildlife amid the tidal pools, isolated coves, and deserted islands off the Baja Peninsula.
(B,L,D)
Day 5 — Isla San Marcos
Swim and snorkel the idyllic coves of Isla San Marcos, and paddle a kayak along its shores. Discover intriguing birdlife on a walk to the island's interior.
(B,L,D)
Day 6 — Isla San José
Take a Zodiac cruise through the lush mangrove channels of Isla San José and discover nearby middens, or ancient shell mounds—evidence of the region's Indian history. Tonight, greet the New Year with family and new friends at a special celebration.
(B,L,D)
Day 7 — Islas Partida and Espíritu Santo
Characterized by dramatic cliff-lined coasts, Islas Partida and Espíritu Santo are considered two of the most beautiful islands in the Sea of Cortez. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, hiking, bird-watching, and—conditions permitting—a beach barbecue.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 — La Paz/Los Cabos/U.S.
Disembark in La Paz and transfer to Los Cabos airport for your flight home.
(B)
Please note: A State Department travel warning for Mexico is currently in effect (http://travel.state.gov). The area of concern noted in the warning is not near the region we visit on this itinerary. We expect to operate this trip as planned, but will continue to closely monitor events in the country.
Related Trip
View LargerExpedition Team
Accompanying each expedition is a diverse team of experts — from naturalists to regional specialists — who will share their knowledge and insights on the wildlife, landscapes, and local culture. See one of the members of our extraordinary team below.
Tierney Thys
National Geographic Emerging Explorer, Tierney Thys, is a marine biologist and documentary filmmaker whose work explores the breadth of animal diversity from pole to pole and chronicles global environmental change. Tierney is a world authority on the giant ocean sunfish, Mola mola, and has led numerous expeditions worldwide from Africa to Baja, Japan, Indonesia and the Galápagos Islands to study these bizarre jelly-eating behemoths. Tierney has also developed and guided National Geographic student marine biology expeditions in Monterey Bay.
Tierney will join the following departure:
Dec 26, 2010 - Jan 02, 2011
This trip is offered in association with Lindblad Expeditions.
Expedition Dates 
Expedition Costs
What To Expect
Please note: A State Department travel warning for Mexico is in effect (click here to view the State Department's information page on Mexico). The area of concern noted in the warning is not near the region we visit on this itinerary. We expect to operate this trip as planned, but will continue to closely monitor events in this country.
