A group of hikers make their way to the top of a hillside overlooking the deep blue peninsula coastline of Baja's sea of Cortex below.
Sitting in a yellow kayak, a woman photographs a pelican flying across the ocean surface in front of her, a Baja mountain range fills the distance.
An underwater photo of a spotted eagle ray gliding through the clear teal ocean water, searching the ocean floor for food.
At a pastel sunset the Safari Voyager small ship anchors in a remote bay in Baja's Sea of Cortez surrounded by jagged mountains
An up-close underwater photo of a puffer fish in Baja's Sea of Cortez. An off yellow fish with wide set large eyes and swollen lips covered in small brown spots.
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North America Baja California Cruise

Baja California’s Whales & Sealife

Explore Baja California on this small ship cruise with a special focus on marine wildlife. Just south of California lies an inland sea known as the Gulf of California or Sea of Cortés. A birders’ paradise, this rich archipelago serves as an important bird refuge and migration corridor. It is a place author John Steinbeck found “ferocious with life” and once described by Jacques Cousteau as “the world’s aquarium.” As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve, it is one of the most biologically diverse marine environments on earth. 

The 66-guest Safari Voyager is home base for discovering a world of breathtaking beauty. Active explorations for various activity levels can be made by kayak, paddleboard, snorkel and skiff in impossibly brilliant turquoise blue waters. The itinerary features snorkeling with playful sea lions, hiking along red-rock cliffs and relaxing by a bonfire on the beach. The wildlife-rich waters invite up-close study and the islands welcome on-shore discovery of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. This itinerary is a fantastic cruise through Baja watching for whales, mobula rays, dolphins and birds.

Coastal mangroves and dunes along with desert scrub and red-rock cliffs provide the backdrop on this 8-night island hopping journey. Shores rimmed with white-sand beaches and cactus-clad ridges offer outstanding hiking and opportunities for relaxation. A visit with a local ranchero and family, alongside a mule ride, provides insights into local culture. To explore this extraordinary place is to know firsthand how small the human presence here truly is. This is a small ship Baja California cruise like no other!

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Baja cruises and Baja vacations.



Itinerary

Baja California's Whales & Sealife Itinerary

This 9-day Baja cruise sails round-trip from La Paz, Baja California Sur, with seasonal route variations to focus on different species. Mid-March through April are your best chance to see whale sharks. Later in the season, watch for resident whales and dolphins.

route map of small ship cruise steinbecks wake showing the route in red and highlighting each stop along the way
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Day 1
Arrive San Jose del Cabo

Arrive at San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) and be transferred to the Tropicana Los Cabos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Once settled in, you’ll have the perfect base to begin exploring everything Cabo has to offer. On Thursday evenings from 5–9 p.m., don’t miss the celebrated San José del Cabo Art Walk. Held weekly in the historic Gallery District, this lively event transforms the cobblestone streets into a vibrant cultural scene featuring local and international artists, renowned galleries, street performances, and live music. It’s an inspiring way to ease into your getaway. Dinner is on your own tonight—an ideal chance to discover one of the many acclaimed restaurants just steps from your hotel.

Accommodations

Tropicana Los Cabos or similar

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Transfer to La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico & Embark

In the morning, transfer by coach to La Paz. Spend some leisure time exploring La Paz at your own pace, discovering its relaxed seaside charm and vibrant local culture. Stroll the scenic Malecon, browse artisan shops, or simply enjoy the calm beaches and inviting cafes that make this coastal city so memorable. In the early evening board the Safari Voyager, settle into your cabin, meet your expedition team, and enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Morning Sea Life Search & Los Gatos

Spend the morning cruising the San José Canal while watching for marine mammals. During this time, you will receive gear and orientation from your expedition team. In the afternoon, go ashore at Los Gatos for snorkeling, kayaking, beachcombing, or hiking into desert landscapes.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Bahia Agua Verde & Burro Ride

At Bahía Agua Verde, turquoise water is framed by rugged, green-tinged mountains. Explore the coast by skiff while watching for birds, seals, dolphins, and whales. Meet a local ranchero and his family and take a burro ride through canyons and hillsides for an authentic glimpse of rural Baja life. This area also offers excellent hiking, kayaking, morning bird walks, or a possible snorkel.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Morning at Isla Monserrate & Afternoon Whale Search

Visit Isla Monserrate in the morning. Snorkel in clear water, paddle a kayak along rocky coves, or relax on the beach. Guided hikes lead up to ridges with sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez. Your crew may also set up a beach party here, where you can enjoy water activities or hang out on the beach with drinks and snacks. In the afternoon, search for whales and other marine life from the Safari Voyager.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Isla San Francisco Park & Cayo-Amatortajda

Arrive at Isla San José and explore its shallow interior lagoon, a great spot for kayaking and birdwatching. Mangroves line the water, and you’ll paddle through winding channels that feel a bit like the Everglades, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way. Later, return to shore for some relaxed beachcombing near Cayo Amortajada.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Isla San Francisco

Immerse yourself in the striking beauty of Isla San Francisco, where red bluffs, white sand beaches, and sweeping ridgelines set the stage for a full day of exploration. This is a true big beach party day, with time to spread out along the crescent shaped shore, wander quiet salt flats, and relax by the water. The highlight is the ridge hike, rewarding those who climb with panoramic views across the Sea of Cortez. From shore walks and kayaking along dramatic coastlines to snorkeling among colorful fish, the day offers a perfect blend of active adventure and laid-back island time.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Sea Lion Snorkel (Los Islotes) & Isla Partida

Rise early for an advanced snorkel at Los Islotes, home to a thriving colony of juvenile sea lions, where curious pups often swirl and glide alongside snorkelers for truly unforgettable encounters. Skiff tours offer another perspective on the colony, with excellent opportunities to observe sea lion behavior from the water, while keeping an eye out for blue-footed boobies perched along the rocks. In the afternoon, continue to Isla Espíritu Santo or Isla Partida for a mix of kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, or a festive beach gathering with your shipmates, rounding out a day rich in wildlife, exploration, and classic Baja adventure.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 9
Disembark La Paz to San Jose del Cabo & Depart

After breakfast, say farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. Disembark in La Paz and transfer to San Jose de Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) for your return flight.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

One pre-cruise hotel night in San José del Cabo; accommodations aboard vessel; onboard meals; premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines); non-alcoholic beverages; group transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embarkation/disembarkation day; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-vessel activities and equipment; exclusive activities and shore visits; wellness amenities; presentations by onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts.

Exclusions

Airfare to and from your home city; discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew; travel insurance and insurance of any kind; optional excursions and land tours; excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature; taxes and port fees of $495 (2026 – 2027) per person.

Payment & Cancellation

For bookings made on or after October 1, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
121 days or more – 50% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 50% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

For bookings made up to September 30, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 days or more – 100% of deposit (transferable to a Future Travel Certificate)
90 to 61 days – 67% of total trip cost
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Baja California’s Whales & Sealife cruise begins and ends in Los Cabos, Mexico (SJD). Plan flights to arrive to Los Cabos by 1:30pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. If you wish to arrive in La Paz, speak to your Adventure Specialist for arrival details. Plan flights to depart Los Cabos no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for moderate activity or vigorous, extended and challenging outdoor pursuits, the crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks and wildlife observation. Snorkeling gear and wetsuits are available, along with a limited quantity of hiking poles. To ensure availability and fit, we encourage you to bring your own gear.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.

Families & Children

Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures. Children under 18 years old traveling with a third party of legal age (grandparent, aunt/uncle, etc) require a special consent document by Mexican Migration Law.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Jan 21 - Jan 29, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Jan 28 - Feb 05, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Feb 04 - Feb 12, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Feb 11 - Feb 19, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
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From $6900USD
Per Person
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Feb 18 - Feb 26, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Feb 25 - Mar 05, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Mar 04 - Mar 12, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Mar 11 - Mar 19, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Mar 18 - Mar 26, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Mar 25 - Apr 02, 2027
Safari Voyager • 9 days
From $6900USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Safari Voyager

The Safari Voyager small ship carries her guests in comfort and style. All cabins are above the waterline with large picture windows. An elegant dining room, library and ample deck space make this ship ideal for comfortable and adventurous small ship cruising.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires April 30th, 2026
Save $500 Per Person On Baja Adventure Cruises

Save $500 per person when you book any 2026 or 2027 Baja cruise aboard Safari Voyager.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires December 31st, 2026
Family Savings On Select Expedition Cruises Globally

Bring the whole crew! Save $500 per child on select 2025-2027 expedition cruises.

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Offer expires December 31st, 2026
Groups Of 6+ Save On Select 2026 & 2027 Expedition Cruises Globally

Bring the whole crew! Groups of 6 or more save big on select 2026 or 2027 expedition cruises.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires December 31st, 2026
Veterans & Active Duty Save $250 Off Select Expedition Cruises Globally

Military veterans get aboard select 2025–2027 expedition cruises and save $250 per person.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Lis Larson • March 25th, 2016
Expert Review: Baja California's Whales & Sealife Cruise

It’s only fitting that when you visit the Sea of Cortez—the body of water that Jacques Cousteau dubbed the aquarium of the world—that you travel by water. Lis reviews her 8 days aboard the Safari Endeavour.

Our experts will save you hours.

A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Add to Wishlist
8 Day Land Tour
Seas & Sierra: Glamping Baja California Sur

Experience the best of glamping Baja California Sur, from a secluded seaside camp on a quiet island, to bright casitas in an artistic town and a tented mountainside retreat. Meet excellent naturalist guides, hospitable rancheros, local chefs and more along the way.

From $3795USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
6 Day Land Tour
Baja Intimate Insider

Travel like a local on this customizable Baja Insider active adventure. Mingle with owners, artists, rancheros and chefs amidst a small group of likeminded travelers. With our hand-picked local guides and connections, you will quickly become an "insider" in Baja California!

From $3000USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Oct Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
5 - 5 Day Cruise
Discovering Channel Islands National Park

Enjoy unique access into this national marine sanctuary, complete with National Geographic guides, naturalists, photographers and wellness experts by your side in exploring this remote area from 100-guest Nat Geo Venture.

Special Offer
From $3680USD
Apr May Oct Nov
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