Detailed Itinerary Baja Peninsula Among the Great Whales Mar 07/14 Whale Emperor encounter. penguins Jack Swenson Each winter gray whales migrate south from their arctic feeding grounds to breed and rear their young in Baja California s and Mexico s sheltered lagoons, making it one of North America s premier whale watching sites. During our Baja Mexico cruise in the breeding lagoons of Bahia Magdalena, we venture among them in Zodiac landing craft. This gives us a water-level perspective for whale watching that is a rare privilege in the natural world. Also, it positions us perfectly for the increasingly common friendly encounters with these mammals that we ve shared with our guests. Our Baja Mexico cruise expedition also offers Naturalist-guided walks on uninhabited desert islands, swimming, snorkeling and kayaking in the Sea of Cortez. The itinerary remains flexible to make the most of whale watching and wildlife Facts & Highlights 8 days Start and finish in La Paz, Mexico All meals included Travel aboard the expedition ship, the National Geographic Sea Bird Visit Bahia Magdalena one of the main breeding areas for grey whales Explore the beautiful island of Espiritu Santoin in the Sea of Cortez Search for humpback whales and dolphins at the Gorda Banks seamount Observe the great diversity of bird life Snorkel with sea lions Swim, snorkel (with curious sea lions) and kayak in the Sea of Cortez Departure dates * Jan 17 Jan 24, 15 Feb 21 Feb 28, 15 Jan 24 Jan 31, 15 * Feb 28 Mar 07, 15 * Jan 31 Feb 07, 15 Mar 07 Mar 14, 15 Feb 07 Feb 14, 15 * Mar 14 Mar 21, 15 * Feb 14 Feb 21, 15 *Reversed itinerary from $6660 USD (Category cabin 1, twin-share) Accommodations Aboard the 62-passenger ship National Geographic Sea Bird. US/CAN 1-800-741-7956 UK 0808-234-1714 INTL. 001-416-588-5000
sightings. Whales, dolphins, sea lions, birds such as bluefooted boobies and frigatebirds, huge cardon cacti, mangroves and sand dunes are among the wonders you ll experience. Note: Baja California is the name of the Mexican State in which the tour takes place. Day 1 Arrive in La Paz, San Carlos and Embark Ship Arrive in La Paz and drive across the Baja Peninsula to San Carlos to board the ship. Note: Group flights from Los Angeles to La Paz may be arranged through our office. Days 2-4 Bahia Magdalena Bahia Magdalena is one of the main breeding and calving areas for the California gray whale. Each winter, the whales make the longest migration of any mammal south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and raise their calves in these sheltered waters. During our days in this otherworldly place, we ll have the opportunity to not only observe these enormous yet gentle animals from the ship, but also at water level from our Zodiacs. Because of our experience and knowledge of Baja s waters, we have enjoyed consistent success in achieving friendly encounters with gray mother and calf pairs. While we would never presume to predict Nature s behavior, it is highly likely that you will have the privilege of an up-close and personal sighting. In kayaks and Zodiacs we ll explore the canals of the mangrove swamps. Bird watching here can be excellent magnificent frigate birds, pelicans, baja california san carlos bahia magdalena pacific ocean sea of cortez mexico isla santa catalina isla san jose isla espiritu santo la paz los cabos Expedition Rates (all prices are in USD) Cost Per Person Category Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Category 1 $6,660 $9,990 Category 2 $7,660 $11,490 Category 3 $8,590 N/A Category 1: Main Deck # 300-305 Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a large window. Category 2: Bridge Deck # 100-104; Upper Deck # 200 212, 215 These well-located cabins include twin lower single beds, outside access and a window. Category 3: Bridge Deck # 105, 106; Upper Deck # 214, 216, 217, 219 These cabins feature a seating unit with table and two large windows. Upper Deck cabins include two lower single beds which can convert to a double bed and a pull-out singe bed for a third person. Bridge Deck cabins include two lower single beds only. Shared Accommodations: If you wish to share accommodations, we will be glad to make arrangements at the double occupancy rate in Category 2 only. (See the Q & A section in the back for a color coded deck plan.) 2
Stewart cormorants, terns and great blue herons, are among the species we might see. Day 5 Los Cabos and Gorda Banks Today, we cruise past the spectacular Friars Rocks at Land s End. For those who wish, we will arrange a visit to the historic town center of San Jose del Cabo. The afternoon is spent at the Gorda Banks sea mount, a gathering place for whales and dolphins. Humpback whales are often sighted here at this time of the year. See tail lobbing, flipper slapping and breaching. Marine biologists and Naturalists are always available to inform and enlighten you with their knowledge and their experience. Not only do they know where best to look for wildlife, their passion and respect for the area is infectious whether you ask a question or two or spend entire afternoons or evenings in their company. Day 6 Los Islotes and Isla Espiritu Santo With deeply indented shorelines and dramatically eroded cliff faces, Los Islotes and Isla Espiritu Santo are two of the most beautiful islands in the Sea of Cortez. Swim and snorkel here. Don mask, flippers and snorkel (which we ll provide with as much guidance as you need) and experience the thrill of swimming with the curious sea lions. Observe the impressive geological past of these islands from a kayak: see tons of compacted volcanic ash covered with solidified lava floods just yards from the shore. Brown pelicans, gulls, wandering tattlers, great blue herons and boobies are all part of the landscape. It is also home to the endemic black jack rabbit with any luck, we may spot one. There are possibilities for long walks or lazy beachcombing. Finish the day with a beach barbecue complete with campfire and a star-filled sky. 3
Day 7 Exploring the Sea of Cortez Today is a day with the luxury of no specific plan. We may spend the morning whale watching in the waters around Isla Danzante, an area that has proven to be one of the best for finding blue whales, bottlenose dolphins and common dolphins. Rich in nutrients, the Sea of Cortez is home to a huge variety of fish: king angelfish, surgeonfish, butterfly fish, damselfish and the beautifully colored parrotfish. Explore one of the many lovely, uninhabited islands such as Isla San Jose or Isla Santa Catalina, famous for the 12-foot wavy barrel cactus. Whether walking, kayaking or watching from the Bridge, you ll observe the great diversity of bird life ladder-backed woodpeckers, Costa s hummingbirds, Gila woodpeckers and verdin. Day 8 La Paz, disembark Disembark after breakfast in La Paz and drive to the airport for flights home. 4
Whale s fluke. National Geographic M.V. Sea Bird Search for the wildlife under the sea. Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Photo: Ralph Lee Hopkins 5
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Questions & Answers 1. How big are the groups? National Geographic Sea Bird can carry a maximum of 62 passengers. To explore such a region with just a small number of fellow passengers from all over the world is a real luxury and will help to make your voyage of discovery and adventure a truly unforgettable experience. 2. What is included in the tour price? Voyage and accommodations aboard your expedition ship National Geographic Sea Bird as indicated in your voyage confirmation All meals and nonalcoholic beverages throughout the voyage aboard the ship All shore excursions and sightseeing, entrance fees, special access permits Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and use of kayaks Transfers between group flights in La Paz and the ship Tips (except to ship s crew), taxes and service charges Services of a ship physician on most voyages Services of our expedition staff 3. What is not included in the tour price? Air transportation to and from La Paz Extensions Passport, visa, security and immigration fees Scuba diving Meals not indicated in the itinerary Baggage/accident/cancellation insurance Items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry Gratuities to ship s crew at your discretion 4. Are these educational tours? Yes, our naturalists and historians are true experts in their fields. And they, along with our invited Guest Lecturers, are also excellent travel companions, always available for questions and casual conversation. 5. How do we travel during the tour? We sail aboard a 62-passenger ship National Geographic Sea Bird. We use Zodiacs and kayaks for further explorations. 6. What are our accommodations like? During the voyage we stay aboard the vessel with a maximum capacity of 62 passengers in 31 outside cabins. All cabins face outside with windows. Each has private facilities, climate controls and ample space to hang and store clothing. Public Areas include lounge with bar and facilities for films, slide shows and lectures; library; sun deck with chairs; outside deck area for viewing. Our open Bridge policy allows you to meet officers and crew. 7. What about the weather? Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Although the days are generally warm, with temperatures in the 60 s F (15-20 C) and 70 s (22-25 C), some extremes may be experienced. The weather in Baja California, Mexico can sometimes be affected by cold fronts coming down from the U.S., in which case the temperature can drop markedly for two or three days at a time and it can be quite windy. For more information, please check the weather forecast website at: www.weather.com. 7
8. When is payment due? A non-refundable deposit of $750 (plus insurance if you require it) is due at time of booking and will reserve your place on the tour. Payment of the full trip cost is due 120 days before departure. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the Terms and Conditions section of our brochure. 9. What meals are included? All meals are included, starting with dinner on day 1, and finishing with breakfast on departure day. All meals are served in the Dining Room in one unhurried seating with fine views through panoramic windows. Breakfast is a wide selection buffet and lunch is often served family style. American chefs prepare wholesome and varied menus. Expedition does not mean deprivation: skillfully prepared and presented regional cuisine and comfortable quarters make pleasure a significant part of the expedition adventure. 10. What should I take on the tour? A detailed What to Take list which we will send to you once you have booked the trip. 11. Can you arrange my flights? We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries, as well as the recommended group flights between Los Angeles and La Paz. Stop over en route, come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us for a customized itinerary. 12. What if I would like more information? If you have any further questions about the trip, please do not hesitate to contact our trip specialists for additional information. A package containing further details on the destination will be sent to those who have booked on the tour, approximately 6 weeks after booking. National Geographic Sea Bird Specifications Capacity: 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. Registry: United States, Overall length: 152 ft. Special Features Zodiac landing craft, sea kayaks, snorkeling gear, wet suits, video microscope, hydrophone and Splash- Cam. An Undersea Specialist will be on board in Baja. A Video Chronicler will be on board all voyages.