Pelican sits on a rock while tandem kayakers paddle with a blue & white small ship in the background in Baja California.
4 hikers walk a sandy, red-rock ridgeline with a bay in the distance on a sunny day on a Northern Gulf of California cruise.
Gray sea lion with long whiskers looks at the camera underwater, seen on Gulf of California cruises by small ship.
Man & woman paddle a yellow tandem kayak on calm water with a small blue & white ship & rocky hillside behind in Baja.
Aerial view of Baja shoreline with sand, dusty rock, green shrubs & turquoise sea with small ship sitting in the distance.
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North America Baja California Cruise

In Steinbeck’s Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez

On this 12-day cruise to the northern Gulf of California, go farther on the Baja Peninsula than most ships. Skiff, kayak and paddleboard through bays and beaches as wildlife greet you from land and sea.

Inspired by John Steinbeck’s “Log from the Sea of Cortez,” this voyage explores marine life at historic sites such as Punta Marcial, marine mammal searches in the corridor between Isla Catalina and Santa Rosalia. The itinerary features a variety of activities including kayaking, hiking and snorkeling at scenic spots like Punta Trinidad, Bahia de los Angeles and Isla Espiritu Santo. The adventure concludes with a mesmerizing night of star-gazing before returning to La Paz.

Explore the Sea of Cortes UNESCO World Heritage Site—a marine life-rich natural aquarium. Snorkel with sea lion pups and colorful reef fish. Ride a mule into the arroyos with local rancheros. Search for blue, fin, sperm, orca and pilot whales, with an opportunity for whale watching on every departure. Also watch for whale sharks, superpods of dolphins and mobula rays. Go birding for cormorants, blue- and red-footed boobies and pelicans. Hike among desert shrub and cacti, along ridges, and take on a rock scramble, watching for chuckwallas along the way.

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 dramatic desert ridgelines 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.

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



Itinerary

In Steinbeck's Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez Itinerary

Cruise the northern Gulf of California up to Puerto Refugio and back, round-trip from La Paz, to explore farther than most ships in Baja.

route map of small ship cruise in Baja California showing stops along the way and a path in red
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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. Dinner is on your own tonight—an ideal chance to discover one of the many acclaimed restaurants just steps from your hotel.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

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 Malecón, browse artisan shops, or simply enjoy the calm beaches and inviting cafés 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
Punta Marcial & Agua Verde

Anchor off Punta Marcial and explore the intertidal zone with your expedition team. Learn safe practices for kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and skiff tours at this historic Steinbeck site. Or simply relax on deck and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, head to Bahia Agua Verde, which translates to Green Water Bay. You will have the opportunity to hike, kayak, or snorkel from the beach. Meet a local ranchero and his family and take a guided burro ride through the mountains. Whichever activity you choose is sure to be an amazing adventure.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Morning Marine Mammal Search & Afternoon Isla San Marcos or Tortuga

Spend the morning searching for blue and fin whales in the corridor between Isla Catalina and Santa Rosalia. Your captain will choose the best adventure for the day, which may include more time at Isla Smith, Isla Coronado, or exploring Puerto Refugio farther north.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Punta Trinidad & Bahia San Carlos

This rarely visited stretch of the Baja Peninsula offers excellent snorkeling, beach walks, and interior hikes. To the north, Roca El Rasito is a great spot for birdlife and experienced snorkelers. Your guides highlight Steinbeck’s historic stops in the region. If conditions are favorable, longer kayak outings may be offered.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Bahia de los Angeles or Isla Smith

Known as the “Marine Oasis of Baja California,” Bahía de los Ángeles teems with aquatic life. Explore by kayak or skiff or hike to Punta Gringa. This area is also one of the few places where leatherback turtles may be spotted. For Steinbeck enthusiasts, nearby sites from The Log from the Sea of Cortez await.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Puerto Refugio

At the northernmost reach of your journey, Puerto Refugio is a tight, scenic anchorage known to local fishermen and yacht captains. Spend the day kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and beachcombing in this wild, remote setting. If weather allows, end the day with a beach campfire before returning to the ship for dinner.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Morning at Isla San Esteban & Afternoon Marine Mammal Search

Explore Isla San Esteban on a guided hike up its main arroyo, where you may see pinto chuckwallas and other desert wildlife. Hundreds of sea lions haul out along the southern shores, while pelicans, boobies, cormorants, gulls, and osprey crowd the coastline. Later, sail through the Canal de Salsipuedes, also known as “the Trench,” a deep channel where sperm whales gather to feed on Humboldt squid. It is one of the most dramatic whale-watching areas in the Sea of Cortez.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 9
Captain’s Choice – Marine Mammal Search & Playa Punta San Basilio

Today isa Captain’s Choice day. Depending on conditions, you may continue searching for blue, fin, sperm, humpback, and pilot whales or anchor at Playa Punta San Basilio. This calm bay offers excellent hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Your captain and expedition team select the best combination of activities to maximize your experience.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 10
Isla San Jose & Cayo Amortajada

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 11
Isla Espiritu Santo & Punta Lobos or Bonanza Beach

Spend the day exploring within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve around Isla Espíritu Santo, Punta Lobos, or Bonanza Beach. All activities are on offer, from snorkeling and kayaking to hiking and beach time. In the evening, enjoy the Captain’s Dinner and a slideshow of the highlights from your voyage.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast

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Day 12
Disembark La Paz to San Jose del Cabo & Depart

After breakfast, bid farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. Disembark in La Paz and transfer to San Jose del Cabo International Airport (SJD) for your flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

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

In Steinbeck’s Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez Itinerary 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

Apr 01 - Apr 12, 2027
Safari Voyager • 12 days
From $7900USD
Per Person
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Apr 11 - Apr 22, 2027
Safari Voyager • 12 days
From $7900USD
Per Person
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Apr 21 - May 02, 2027
Safari Voyager • 12 days
From $7900USD
Per Person
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May 01 - May 12, 2027
Safari Voyager • 12 days
From $7900USD
Per Person
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May 11 - May 22, 2027
Safari Voyager • 12 days
From $7900USD
Per Person
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May 21 - Jun 01, 2027
Safari Voyager • 12 days
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From $7900USD
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.

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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.

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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.

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Extend Your Trip

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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!

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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.

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