Famed for its huge numbers of dolphins, sea turtles, blue whales, gray whales, orca, humpback, pilot and fin whales, whale sharks, manta rays and sea lions, it's no wonder Jacques Cousteau described the Sea of Cortez as 'the world's aquarium'.
Exploring by water is the best way to discover the region, but only a couple of expedition cruise lines currently operate here. We've put together a short guide to the best options available…
1. Lindblad Expeditions
One of the best expedition operators in the world, Lindblad have a close relationship with National Geographic and a reputation for offering more aboard, such as a certified photo instructor on every Baja California departure to assist you with camera settings, the basic elements of framing, composition and lighting and general tips to ensure you go home with fantastic photos.
Lindblad regularly operate three ships in the region between November and April, on a choice of six itineraries ranging from 4 to 14 nights including a Loreto round-trip, spending seven days sailing amongst the islands of the Sea of Cortez. Highlights include the secluded coves and golden beaches of Isla San Jose; Los Islotes, where you can swim with sea lions; and Isla San Francisco, all steep red bluffs, sweeping desert beach and colourful sea life.
You'll be sailing on the 100-guest National Geographic Venture, which launched in 2019. The ship has twin expedition craft landing platforms, allowing quick access to the Zodiacs to maximise time off the ship, whilst the bow has a uniquely tiered viewing system so you won't miss a thing. No matter which itinerary you choose, all of the Lindblad ships operating here have kayaks, paddleboards, snorkelling gear, hydrophones and multiple underwater cameras, and with a range of sailings from a number of departure points, there's sure to be an itinerary that suits.
2. UnCruise Adventures
UnCruise Adventures specialise in small ships exploring off the beaten track, giving inquisitive travellers who love wilderness, wildlife and exploration an unrushed and uncrowded opportunity to experience a holiday with a difference.
As well as offering all the expedition activity you'd expect, including snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding, whale watching and hiking, UnCruise's relaxed and informal approach is also apparent in the evening beach party included on each Sea of Cortez itinerary, celebrating the night sky with a bonfire, warm beverages and a constellation lesson.
UnCruise's Sea of Cortez voyages are on board the Safari Voyager, which operates a regular 7-night itinerary between January and April, accommodating a maximum of 66 guests. A bow viewing area and sun deck means space for wildlife viewing, and there's a kayak launch platform for ease. A basic yet comfortable vessel, she's equipped with a bow-mounted underwater camera, paddleboards, Zodiacs and snorkel gear, perfect for exploring both above and below the water.
Your itinerary includes plenty of snorkelling, swimming, hiking and wildlife spotting, with calls at Bahía Agua Verde, Isla San Francisco, Isla Partida, Isla Espíritu Santo and, if the gray whales have arrived on Baja's west coast, you'll often also drive across the peninsula to Magdalena Bay. Plus, UnCruise have also just released 14-night voyages inspired by John Steinbeck's "Log from the Sea of Cortez," with the chance to spot marine life at historic sites such as Punta Marcial, snorkelling near Isla Catalina, and whale watching between Isla Catalina and Santa Rosalia as well as a magical night of star-gazing.
