A large gray whale breaches the teal ocean surface jumping into the air as a zodiac boat full of excited Baja travelers watch
Kayaking w/NatGeo Venture in Background in San Evaristo Baja California Sur, Mexico
Guests gather on the bow of the ship National Geographic Venture and photograph the sunrise at Lands End, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California, Mexico
Guests exploring and taking pictures in San Esteban Island, Gulf of California, Mexico on a sunny blue day
two humpback whales underwater near baja among the great whales cruise
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North America Baja California Cruise

Baja California: Among The Great Whales

Each year California gray whales pause during their migrations to birth and nurse their calves in the Bahia Magdalena lagoons. For most travelers, the only opportunity to observe the mothers and calves is to take a bus across the Baja peninsula for a day trip. Fortunately, this 8-day Baja California: Among the Great Whales cruise explores both coastlines of the Baja Peninsula and offers ample on-water time inside key bays, enhancing every passenger’s experience among the great whales.

Spend time with these gentle giants in Boca de Soledad, making Zodiac forays for up-close observations. Ply the warm Baja water on kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, Zodiacs and local pangas. Desert island hikes complement time spent on the water, offering a true variety of wildlife spotting in the Gulf of California. Snorkel with sea lions and search for marine mammals, all while benefiting from professional naturalist guides with more than 30 years’ experience.

The 100-guest National Geographic Venture offers the best in active small ship cruising. Each expedition is crafted for the most in-depth experience of Baja California possible and to maximize time spent in the company of California gray whales. Flexibility is paramount to take advantage of a sighting of blue or sperm whales. Be prepared to linger in expedition landing crafts to watch blue-footed boobies plunge dive into a massive school of bait fish. With captain and crew focused on seeking the best opportunities and an expert expedition team including a National Geographic-certified photo instructor and an undersea specialist enhancing the experience, this Baja California: Among the Great Whales cruise is truly a trip of a lifetime.

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



Itinerary

Baja California: Among the Great Whales Itinerary

This Baja cruise conveniently operates round-trip from Loreto, cruising south to Cabo Pulmo and back, with an overland day trip to the west coast’s Boca de Soledad to view gray whales.

Route map of Baja California: Among the Great Whales, operating round-trip from Loreto, south to Cabo Pulmo & back with a day overland to Boca de Soledad.
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Day 1
Embark Loreto, Baja

Arrive in Loreto, a picturesque gulfside town dotted with Spanish colonial architecture. Transfer to the ship to set sail at sunset.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Bahia Concepcion

Awake in Bahía Concepción, one of the largest bays of the Baja California peninsula, with over 50 miles of beaches. Take your coffee to the deck to witness the colorful landscapes revealed by the first of many gorgeous sunrises. This biodiversity hotspot is ripe for exploration. Board Zodiacs in search of whales and other marine life, kayak through lush mangrove systems, and snorkel in turquoise waters. On land, join an invigorating hike among towering cacti, or stroll the pristine beaches and learn about the ecology from your naturalists.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Exploring the Gulf of California

The Gulf of California is home to great biological diversity, and with some luck, sightings of whales, dolphins and other sea life are among the highlights of your journey. The plan is flexible as you explore some of the uninhabited islands sprinkled across these waters. Your captain and expedition leader collaborate to choose the perfect combination of activities for the day. Conditions permitting, you may hike, kayak or paddleboard. Learn about this ecosystem from naturalist and capture amazing photos with help from your certified photo instructor.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Transfer to Boca de Soledad, Gray Whales & Return Transfer

After breakfast, transfer by motorcoach from Puerto Escondido to Puerto López Mateos. Settle in for unforgettable experiences in this tranquil lagoon. Each winter, during their long migration, gray whales travel south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and give birth to their calves in these sheltered waters. Together with savvy local fisherman, venture out in local pangas to view the numerous mother-calf pairs. With luck, enjoy up-close interactions with these curious creatures. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before returning to the ship in late afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 5 - 7
Cabo Pulmo, Los Islotes & Gulf of California

Venture south to discover the gems of the southern Gulf. These islands and surrounding waters are celebrated for their conservation stories, marine life, and the many thrilling experiences on offer. Some of the locations you may visit or enjoy by Zodiac include:

Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
Set out to snorkel the pristine reefs of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, one of the most successful national marine parks in the world. Chat with locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place, including a cessation of fishing to protect the reef.

Isla Espíritu Santo
A national park as well as UNESCO World Heritage site with volcanic rock formations, scenic beaches and coral reefs. This magical island offers excellent hiking opportunities and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. It’s a popular destination for researchers monitoring sea turtles.

Los Islotes
Located at the northern tip of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Los Islotes is largely inaccessible to people and home to a large colony of sea lions. Conditions permitting, anchor off the rocky island where you’ll don flippers, a mask and snorkel (which will be provided) and swim with these curious inhabitants.

Isla San José  
One of the larger islands in the Gulf of California, San José offers several landing possibilities depending on conditions and the whim of the moment. Photograph the ochre cliffs of the island’s eastern shore, hike an enchanted, cactus-laden arroyo, or visit the abandoned salt works to the west. Discover rare wildlife among desert islands.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Disembark Loreto

After breakfast, disembark the ship and transfer to the Loreto airport for flights home or to Loreto’s city center.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of snorkeling equipment and kayaks; all port taxes and service charges; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation 

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the 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 payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

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: Among the Great Whales cruise begins and ends in Loreto, Baja, Mexico (LTO). Plan flights to arrive to Loreto by 2:30pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Loreto after 12:00pm Noon on Day 8 of the itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, whale watching and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

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. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. 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

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jan 03 - Jan 10, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7639USD
Per Person
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Jan 10 - Jan 17, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7354USD
Per Person
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Jan 17 - Jan 24, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7354USD
Per Person
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Jan 24 - Jan 31, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7511USD
Per Person
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Jan 31 - Feb 07, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7140USD
Per Person
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Feb 07 - Feb 14, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7661USD
Per Person
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Feb 14 - Feb 21, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $8478USD
Per Person
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Feb 21 - Feb 28, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7661USD
Per Person
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Feb 28 - Mar 07, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7661USD
Per Person
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Mar 07 - Mar 14, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7457USD
Per Person
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Mar 14 - Mar 21, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7120USD
Per Person
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Mar 21 - Mar 28, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7120USD
Per Person
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Jan 09 - Jan 16, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7354USD
Per Person
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Jan 16 - Jan 23, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7575USD
Per Person
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Jan 23 - Jan 30, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7739USD
Per Person
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Jan 30 - Feb 06, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7354USD
Per Person
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Feb 06 - Feb 13, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7896USD
Per Person
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Feb 13 - Feb 20, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $8332USD
Per Person
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Feb 20 - Feb 27, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7896USD
Per Person
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Feb 27 - Mar 06, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7896USD
Per Person
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Mar 06 - Mar 13, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7661USD
Per Person
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Mar 13 - Mar 20, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7661USD
Per Person
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Mar 20 - Mar 27, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 8 days
From $7661USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Venture

The 100-guest National Geographic Venture is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built expedition vessel made for exploring coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels while sailing with the luxury of supreme comfort.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires June 13th, 2025
Save 20% On Select 2025 Nat Geo Cruises Worldwide

Save 20% on your Bridge Deck cabin when you book a select 2025 departure Nat Geo-Lindblad cruise sailing in the Arctic, Antarctica, Patagonia, Scotland, Caribbean or Baja California.

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Offer expires June 13th, 2025
Groups Save 5% On Select 2025 Nat Geo Cruises Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Expert Review

Ship Reviews from our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Mary Montalbano • August 1st, 2023
Expert Aboard: Venture & National Geographic Quest Reviews

Learn from two AdventureSmith experts about identical sister ships Nat Geo Venture and Quest. Tips on choosing your cabin, what the food is like and why choose to sail aboard.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Exactly As Advertised"

We were absolutely delighted with this trip and would not hesitate to book another expedition in the future.

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5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"A Truly Magical Time"

We had a truly magical time in Baja...Mom and I will never forget the experience for the rest of of our lives.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
4 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Baja Cruise

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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
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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
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Baja California: Among The Great Whales

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