Westward Voyages in the Sea of Cortez
This unique Baja cruise and land adventure focuses on exploring the Sea of Cortez aboard the historic 8-guest adventure yacht Westward. Daily hikes, kayak paddles and snorkeling excursions are led by expert naturalist guides, and all land transfers and hotel accommodations are included. Enjoy one of the most intimate Baja cruises that travels primarily north and south between Loreto and La Paz, with seasonal variations to take advantage of the best wildlife opportunities.
The main Westward Voyages in the Sea of Cortez cruise follows an 11- or 12-day land-and-sea itinerary with a highlight being grey whale watching at the 30-mile Magdalena Bay or Laguna San Ignacio (when conditions are better farther north) on the Pacific Ocean. These lagoons are famed for the California grey whales that come here each winter to mate, give birth and prepare their young for the journey back north. Westward travelers access the region by crossing the Baja Peninsula, then returning to the ship in the Sea of Cortez. In addition to this classic route, a shorter 9-day cruise-centered itinerary skips the gray whale lagoons to focus on island hopping in the Sea of Cortez. All itineraries features 6 full days of island hopping and one day dedicated to snorkeling with whale sharks.
Whichever itinerary you choose, the goal of every Westward Baja cruise is to explore nature, which is why each night’s anchor is in a secluded cove or bay, free of manmade illumination. By day, enjoy close encounters with playful sea lions, leaping mobula rays, whales, dolphins and an array of Baja birdlife that traveling aboard this historic small ship so intimately affords.
Island hop aboard the Westward, a purpose-built adventure yacht registered as a Historic Place by the National Park Service. This intimate small ship offers historic charm and hearty, experienced crew members with character. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her cozy feel and size. Enjoy Baja’s sounds of serenity via windows and portholes that open and the absence of a motor or generator at night.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Baja cruises and Baja vacations. This cruise was featured in Travel Pulse magazine as one of the 6 Best Cruises for Whale Watching.