Sea of Cortez Cousteau's Aquarium of the World December 25, 2015 January 2, 2016 With Laurie Santos Associate Professor of Psychology at Yale University Aboard the M/ V Safari Endeavour
Optional Pre-Trip Extension: Christmas at Land s End December 23 25, 2015 Arrive in San José del Cabo ahead of time and relax this Christmas season. Spend two nights at a charming hotel near the historic center. Drive among boulders and waterfalls into Sierra de la Laguna, visit an authentic working ranch, and explore a cacti forest. Walk through a beautiful canyon to a mountain pond with a natural rock slide. Horses are available for individual optional rides. Follow the magnificent coast along the Pacific Ocean lined with wide and open pristine beaches with opportunities to hike and to enjoy the surf and the sand. Visit the colonial village of Todos Los Santos a Magical Town situated in a fertile oasis. Extension includes twonight s accommodations (taxes included), excursions, entrance fees, gratuities to local guide and driver, transfers, snacks and bottled water during excursions, leadership and all meals starting with breakfast on December 24 and finishing with lunch on December 25. Extension is based on a minimum of 10 participants. Additional information will be sent to registered participants. Hotel Tropicana Inn Reader s Corner Want to learn more about Sea of Cortez? Here are some selections to get you started. Reef Fishes of the Sea of Cortez by Donald Thomas, Lloyd Findley, Alex Kersitich This book features not only excellent color plates and photographs, but also a very good introduction to the ecology and biogeography of the Sea of Cortez. The Log from the Sea of Cortez by John Steinbeck Sea of Cortez with marine biologist Ed Ricketts, first published in 1941. Subtitled A Leisurely Journal of Travel and Research, this much-loved book captures the wonders of the Gulf. www.yaleedtravel.org/seaofcortez15 Whale Shark
Dear Yale Traveler I invite you and your family to join me in the Sea of Cortez: December 25, 2015 January 2, 2016! This program is sure to delight budding explorers of all ages. This wonderful journey will feature delightful nature walks, living coral reefs on beautiful beaches, snorkeling, kayaking, child-friendly activities and fun science lectures. Each day offers several face to face encounters with some of the most fascinating animals on earth. Few places afford such close access to wildlife. I am so excited about the chance to watch these amazing animals up close! The Sea of Cortez has been captivating explorers for centuries and can boast such biological diversity. In this massive natural aquarium manta rays, mobula, dolphins, and blue, sei, orca, humpback and sperm whales and whale sharks can be found. Amongst islands once pillaged for their black pearls and hidden coves one can also encounter flocks of frigate birds, Blue-footed Boobies, tropicbirds, Brown Pelicans and cormorants. So when legendary diver Jacques Cousteau tagged the Sea of Cortez as the world s aquarium and the Galápagos of North America, he had experienced firsthand the natural richness of this world. And now it s our turn! Time to kick off our week and sail into the sunset, headed for the very island he explored- Isla Cerralvo, whose official name is Isla Jacques Cousteau. To introduce myself, I am Dr. Laurie Santos, Associate Professor of Psychology at Yale. I will be the Yale faculty lecturer on this program and look forward to traveling with the Yale group and exploring the world s aquarium. My lectures will put the animals we learn about in the Sea of Cortez into context by giving you a better understanding of evolution, animal behavior, and even human nature. I ll offer a crash course in evolutionary theory, trying to explain how natural selection shapes not only morphological traits but also all the behaviors we ll witness in the amazing animals we ll get to see on our trip. Finally, I ll discuss how natural selection has shaped human cognition, telling you a bit more about some of my own studies exploring the evolutionary origins of human cognition. Of course, I'm also anxious to share some of my experiences at Yale, both as Director of Undergraduate Studies for the Psychology Department here at Yale and as one of the faculty members pioneering some of Yale s new online courses. Home for this voyage is the comfortable expedition yacht the M/V Safari Endeavor, a versatile 84-guest expedition vessel with upscale amenities that have been newly refurbished. The Safari Endeavor is designed for active exploration of the Sea of Cortez. Aboard the vessel, a superb staff will offer their knowledge and love of the sea. They are specially trained to work with adults as well as children. Please visit www.yaleedtravel.org/seaofcortez15 to register now or call Yale Educational Travel at (203) 432-1952 or email edtravel@yale.edu with any questions. This Yale Sea of Cortez program is likely to sell out early as a holiday getaway so I urge you to send in your reservation today! Sincerely, Laurie Santos Associate Professor of Psychology Yale University Laurie Santos Dr. Laurie Santos is Associate Professor of Psychology at Yale University and Director of Yale University s Comparative Cognition Laboratory. She is interested in the evolution of the human mind, focusing specifically on social cognition and decision-making in non-human primates and domesticated dogs. At Yale, Laurie teaches Sex, Evolution, and Human Nature, an introductory psychology course exploring how human behavior is shaped by sex and evolution. In 2013, she opened Yale s first Canine Cognition Center. Laurie s scientific research has been featured in The New York Times, The Economist,The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal. She has also won numerous awards, both for her scientific achievements and for her teaching and mentorship. She is the recipient of Yale University s Arthur Greer Memorial Prize for Outstanding Junior Faculty and was recently voted one of Popular Science Magazine s Brilliant 10 Young Minds. In 2014, she was voted one of TIME Magazine s leading campus celebrities. What to Expect Snorkeling This tour is an inclusive island hopping cruise adventure that allows you to discover Baja s beauty and wildlife up close- sea turtles, lizard, blue footed boobies, whales, dolphins, whale sharks and mantas. For this seven-night cruise we have chosen an intimate expedition vessel, The Safari Endeavour (see ship description). Activities include: complimentary massages per guest, boating, kayaking through mangroves, snorkeling with perhaps a whale shark, hiking along cactus clad rims and desert shrub, and discovering century old towns. The mean temperature on the islands is upper 60 s/low 70 s and drops the low 60 s at night. The seasonal water temperature will be around the low 60 s. The temperature traveling along the seas is usually agreeable with an added breeze. Some walks take place over natural and uneven terrain where paths can be rocky and rugged. This program is described as active to moderately active.
M/V Safari Endeavour - Your Home for This Voyage M/V Safari Endeavour This newly refurbished 84-guest ship is casual elegance with a full menu of upscale amenities. Its new design is exquisitely appointed with features such as an intimate Wine Bar and multi- course meals. There are five stateroom categories aboard the M/ V Safari Endeavour: Master; Commander; Captain; Admiral; and Commodore Staterooms. All cabins have view windows or portholes, private bath with shower, flat-screen TV/ DVD, and ipod docking station. The Commodore Stateroom can accommodate up to a family of 4 (2 adults/2kids). The boat has an open bar which includes premium spirits, fine wines and microbrews. The M/ V Safari Endeavour's three decks provide ample outside viewing opportunities and relaxing public spaces for gathering with newfound friends. The EZ Dock launch platform makes launching a kayak or stand-up paddle board and boarding a skiff easy. Onboard adventure equipment includes kayaks and stand-up paddle boards; inflatable skiffs; hiking poles; yoga mats; hydrophone for listening to below-surface sounds; and a bow-mounted underwater camera pipes the action to the lounge and to your cabin TV. To relax, the vessel provides a sauna, hot tub and a massage suite with one complimentary massage for each passenger. You can escape through morning yoga stretches or work out on top-of-the-line fitness equipment. Wine Bar Commodore Stateroom Admiral Stateroom Salon Captain Stateroom King Commander Stateroom Twin Master Stateroom Twin Library Dining Room
Humpback Whale Horseback Riding Along the Coast ITINERARY U.S. San José del Cabo Friday, December 25 Depart the U.S. on a flight to San José del Cabo. Transfer to our hotel near the historic center. Welcome Christmas dinner. Hotel Tropicana Inn (D) San Jose del Cabo/ Cabo San Lucas/ Embarkation Saturday, December 26 Awake in this town at Land s End embraced by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. The old buildings of the historical center, the many art galleries and beautiful shops instill a sense of old Mexican charm into this traditional and slow-pace town surrounded by the desert and the beautiful coastline. Visit San José del Cabo with time to absorb the inviting atmosphere of the main plaza. Then travel to the nearby iconic natural rock arch of Cabo San Lucas. Take a glass bottom boat to visit the soft sand beach of Lover s Beach (Playa del Amor) and take fabulous family pictures at this soaring rock arch the end of the Californias. In the afternoon transfer to the hospitality area of the M/ V Safari Endeavour. Around 4:30 p.m. the Captain and the crew will welcome you aboard before setting sail for a sunset cruise, cocktails, and dinner. Cabo Pulmo / Isla Cerralvo (Cousteau Island) Sunday, December 27 Kick off your week at Cabo Pulmo National Park a snorkeler s jewel and home to a multitude of marine life, large groupers and snappers, sharks, manta rays, marlin, tuna, and sea turtles for a chance to snorkel, kayak, and explore by skiff in this living coral reef. Isla Cerralvo is located off the coast near La Paz. Alternately named, Isla Jacques Cousteau, French Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau led numerous expeditions in the area. The waters around the island support phenomenal marine diversity. An exploratory hike on a desert mountain and water sports in a setting of steep bluffs and sandy beaches make it an exciting first day. La Paz Monday, December 28 La Paz means peace in Spanish. The capital of Baja California Sur lies along a beautiful bay on the Sea of Cortez coast of the Baja peninsula. Whale sharks, the largest known species of fish in the ocean, are known to frequent the Bahía de La Paz. Keep watch for the footprint of these gentle giants along the water s tranquil surface. Conditions permitting, one may luck out with a chance to don snorkel gear and swim alongside this colossal and mysterious creature. An afternoon in centuries-old La Paz offers free time for shopping, a museum visit, and a stroll along the miles-long malecón. Dotted with potted palms and benches, the malecón or waterfront promenade offers a three-mile scenic stroll or jog along the beach. This is a perfect place to observe the famous brilliant crimson sunsets along the Port of Dreams. / Marine Mammal Search / Bahía Agua Verde Tuesday, December 29 Located about 80 km south of Loreto, Bahia Agua Verde is a bay nestled in the Sea of Cortez with vibrant turquoise blue glassy waters surrounded by the incredible geology of the Sierra de la Giganta mountains. The gulf s rich ecosystem is the perfect environment for a marine life search. With binoculars in hand, keep your eyes peeled for pods of dolphins, blue, fin, sei, orca and sperm whales. Blue-footed Boobies, Brown Pelicans, cormorants, and gulls also make this area their home. Bahia Agua Verde is also home to a small fishing village. Experience the real Baja on a skiff excursion, visiting a local ranchero family, bird watching, and exploring the arroyo on a burro ride. Scenic vistas, crystalline waters, and unmatched camaraderie fill your day. Loreto / Isla Carmen Wednesday, December 30 Situated on the edge of the Loreto National Marine Park created to protect the rich biodiversity of the area sits Loreto, founded in 1697 as the first Spanish settlement on the Baja California Peninsula. A bounty of arts and crafts shops line the streets and plazas of this leisurely seaside village and a guided walking tour reveals its history. Shop for local art and visit its historical buildings and mission. Enjoy an afternoon identifying animal tracks, seeking endemic wildlife, or snorkeling in the desert landscape of Isla Carmen. Lost Mission of Dolores / Isla San José Thursday, December 31 Put on walking shoes on this morning for an extended hike to the lost Dolores Mission abandoned since 1768 when the Franciscan s took control of the Baja missions from the Jesuits. Hiking five miles roundtrip, cacti, lizards, birds, and desert are common sights along the way. At Isla San José, explore the channels of a large red and white mangrove estuary by kayak and skiff, stroll remote beaches, and scramble up the striking red cliffs. After the sun sets, tuck into an isolated bay for a spectacular evening of stargazing. Optional activities are available for those who prefer not to hike. Los Islotes / Isla Espíritu Santo Friday, January 1 Rise up for an early morning snorkel at Los Islotes a protrusion of rock rising sharply from the sea. As you approach the cliffs, soon
spot a rookery with hundreds of sea lions lazing on its ledges. Bravely slip into a wetsuit to snorkel with the curious and playful sea lion pups, or tamely observe the colony from the boat and skiff. Formed by a volcanic crater and one of the most beautiful islands in Baja the Island of the Holy Spirit offers some of the best kayaking in the world. There ll be ample time ashore today for beachcombing along the shell-strewn shore; hiking inland among exotic desert cacti; kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and skiffing in one of the island s idyllic wild bays. After tonight s special Farewell dinner, the Expedition Leader recaps the week s adventure with a slideshow. San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur Disembark Saturday, January 2 After breakfast, the weeklong adventure ends back in San José del Cabo. Transfer directly from the ship to the Los Cabos Airport for the flight home. Due to the nature of the explorations, itineraries are guidelines and will change in order to maximize wildlife and natural encounters and at the discretion of the captain. Variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur. Dolphins PROGRAM COSTS (Per person, double occupancy unless otherwise noted) ADULTS CHILDREN (7 17 years old) Master Stateroom (fixed twin beds) $5,990 $5,890 Commander Stateroom (fixed twin beds) $6,590 $6,290 Captain Stateroom (king or twin beds) $6,890 $6,590 Admiral Stateroom (king or twin beds) $7,590 $7,290 Commodore Stateroom (sitting area, king or twin beds, bath with a Jacuzzi tub, and step-out balcony) $8,990 see below for triple occupancy* see below for triple or quad occupancy* *The Commodore Stateroom can be occupied as a triple with a third adult on a sleeper sofa at the rate of $8,190 per each adult. The Commodore Stateroom can also be occupied as a triple or a quad in the case of two adults and one or two children. The rate is $8,190 for each adult and $7,790 for each child. SINGLES: Master Staterooms can be occupied as a single at the special price of $7,995, subject to availability. There are a limited number of single cabins available in the other categories. Please call for a price quote or availability. Sample International Airfare from JFK $1,118 (subject to change) OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP CHRISTMAS at LAND S END December 23 25, 2015 (Per person double occupancy) $1,295 Adult $1,145 Child (7-17 years old) Kayaking *Single supplement $245. Price based on a minimum of 10 passengers. I would like to receive more information about the following trips: (check a box to receive a brochure) National Parks of the Southwest A Family Exploration June 23 July 2, 2015 www.yaleedtravel.org/nationalparks15 Galapagos Islands Return to Eden August 3 11, 2015 www.yaleedtravel.org/galapagos15 TERMS AND CONDITIONS PROGRAM COST INCLUDES Education programs of lectures and discussions with Yale Professor Lauri Santos and local guides. All accommodations and meals as specified in the itinerary, including seven nights aboard the Safari Endeavour. Open bar throughout duration of the cruise. All excursions, including entrance fees, as specified in the itinerary. Wetsuits and equipment for kayaking, snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding. Group airport transfers on arrival and departure days. Baggage handling; gratuities to porters, guides, drivers, and ship s crew for all group activities. Port fees and embarkation taxes. Bottled water on excursions. One complimentary massage treatment per person. Complete packet of pre-departure information. Professional Tour Manager throughout. PROGRAM COST DOES NOT INCLUDE Domestic and International airfare, air (quoted separately); meals not specified in the itinerary; personal items such as laundry, fax or telephone calls, liquor, dishes and beverages not part of included meals, room service, passport fees, excess baggage charges, individual transfers; medical expenses; travel insurance; deviations from the scheduled tour; gratuities for non-group services; medical expenses; airport taxes, fuel surcharges or security fees imposed after the initial pricing of this program are not included.
RESERVE YOUR TRIP TO THE Sea of Cortez TODAY Please accept my credit card authorization for ($1,000 deposit per person, plus $200 for the Christmas at Land s End pre-trip, if applicable) to hold place(s) on the Sea of Cortez, Cousteau s Aquarium of the World, December 25, 2015 January 2, 2016. Final Payment is due August 12, 2015 by check. name as it appears on passport dob yale affiliation name as it appears on passport dob yale affiliation child's name as it appears on passport dob relationship child's name as it appears on passport dob relationship child's name as it appears on passport dob relationship street address city / state / zip code phone number(s) Please charge my deposit of $1,000 per person to: Mastercard Visa AMEX Card credit card number exp. date security code name as it appears on card Accommodations cabin category preference #1 #2 date I will require single accommodations (limited availability) I/We wish to join the Christmas at Land s End optional pre-trip extension at an additional cost of Adult $1,295 Child $1,145 Single supplement $245 I/We will take care of our own international flight arrangements Please make round-trip international flight arrangements from: I/We confirm that I/we have carefully read the Costs, Terms & Conditions sections of this brochure and agree to their terms on behalf of myself and the members of my party named above. email(s) signature date signature Visit www.yaleedtravel.org/programs/seaofcortez15 To book online or return the above form with credit card authorization or check payable to Royal Adventures to Association of Yale Alumni, P.O. Box 209010, New Haven, C T 06520-9010. Phone: (203) 432-1952. Fax: (203) 432-0587. date RESERVATIONS, DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENT To reserve a space on this program, please visit http://www. yaleedtravel.org/programs/seaofcortez15, e-mail edtravel@yale.edu or mail authorization of a credit card payment or a check made payable to ROYAL ADVENTURES for $1,000 per person along with a completed reservation form to: Yale Educational Travel, Association of Yale Alumni, P.O. Box 209010, New Haven, CT 06520-9010 or Fax to (203) 432-0587. Reservations are acknowledged in the order of receipt. The initial deposit may be charged to a credit card. Final payment is due on August 12, 2015 by check. Royal Adventures handles all invoicing. CST #2009579-40. CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS All cancellations must be made in writing to Yale Educational Travel. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of the date of initial reservation; after that, deposits become nonrefundable. Final payment is due August 12, 2015. After August 12, 2015, any sums received are nonrefundable. Trip cancellation insurance is recommended. There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations, or other trip features or for any part of the program on which you choose not to participate. QUESTIONS Please visit http://www.yaleedtravel.org/programs/seaofcortez15, e-mail edtravel@yale.edu, or phone (203) 432-1952. INSURANCE Yale Educational Travel highly recommends that participants purchase trip cancellation insurance as the cancellation penalty in this brochure will apply. However, Yale does not recommend a particular insurance company. Yale travelers are free to purchase the insurance of their choice. Most travel insurance must be purchased with 7-21 days of paying a deposit in order to include certain provisions including pre-existing conditions. Neither the Association of Yale Alumni nor Royal Adventures accept liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour. RESPONSIBILITY Royal Adventures, its owners and employees act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services and transportation are offered or provided, and the Association of Yale Alumni and Royal Adventures and their respective, employees, agents, representatives, and assigns, accept no liability therefor. The Association of Yale Alumni and Royal Adventures, assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. The Association of Yale Alumni and Royal Adventures reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of the tour participants. They reserve the right to withdraw this tour without penalty. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour, or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, airfare, or fuel increases will be passed onto participants. Neither the Association of Yale Alumni nor Royal Adventures accept the liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline ticket. The air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. As part of the consideration and right to participate in this tour, each participant will be asked to sign a liability release.
Association of Yale Alumni Box 209010 New Haven, Connecticut 06520-9010 PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Oakland, CA Permit No. 379 Frigate Bird Sea of Cortez Cousteau's Aquarium of the Word With Laurie Santos Associate Professor of Psychology at Yale University Aboard the M/ V Safari Endeavour December 25, 2015 January 2, 2016 Hiking Baja California Sea of Cortez Sea of Cortez Highlights Lectures and discussions with Laurie Santos, Yale Professor of Psychology. Expedition cruising and water play in the marine life-rich waters explored by Jacques Cousteau. Skiff exploration and snorkeling at Cabo Pulmo National Park s living coral reef. Snorkel among gentle whale sharks and with playful sea lion pups. Hike Cousteau s Isla Cerralvo, along red rock cliffs, and to the lost Mission of Dolores. Included walking tour in the mission-town of Loreto and leisure time in centuries-old La Paz. Enjoy a desert burro ride, evening bonfire ashore, and time with a local family. The convenience of flying in and out of Los Cabos International Airport.