Small ship cruise off in the distance, panaga with person near by and a close up of Sea Coral Fan
A guest snorkeling and photographs a seal in Los Islotes, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Blue-footed boobies standing on a small islet near Salsipuedes Island, Baja California, Gulf of California, Mexico.
Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Festive colorful banners over a street in Todos Santos.
Guests get a upclose encounted with a dolphin bow-riding next to their zodiac in Baja California, Mexico
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$4417USD
Starting At
8
Days
Jan
North America Baja California Cruise

Baja California Mosaic: Magdalena Bay & Gulf of California

Experience Baja California aboard a purpose-built ship small enough to navigate both the wildlife-rich islands of the Gulf of California and the sheltered lagoons of Magdalena Bay. As you sail along both sides of this incredible peninsula, you’ll enjoy unforgettable moments of discovery, from snorkeling with curious sea lions off Los Islotes to visiting the historic missionary town of San José del Cabo. Each day offers multiple ways to explore—kayak in protected mangroves, hike desert landscapes dotted with cacti or beachcomb endless stretches of sand—all while witnessing the remarkable biodiversity that make this region a naturalist’s paradise.

Immerse yourself in Magdalena Bay’s expansive ecosystem of protected waterways, mangrove channels and sheltered coves inaccessible to larger ships. Snorkel among curious sea lions at Los Islotes and swim among colorful tropical fish in the pristine waters of the Gulf of California. Visit the historic town center of San José del Cabo, where the beautiful San José mission stands alongside art galleries and cultural landmarks. Scan the waters of Gordo Banks, a renowned gathering place for marine mammals, where dolphins, sea lions and seasonal whales congregate in the nutrient-rich sea.

Travel aboard sister ships National Geographic Sea Bird or Sea Lion, 62-guest purpose-built small ships ideal for exploring Baja’s famed Magdalena Bay. Onboard expedition technology enhances the expedition, with a hydrophone, splash-cam, underwater video camera and video microscope. Aboard these sister ships, guests are in the most excellent company. Explore under the sure guidance of an expedition leader and veteran naturalists, including a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, plus a wellness specialist.

Sail through Baja with experts in marine and terrestrial biology, botany, geology and more, and benefit from their passion to share the wonder of this incredible region. These Baja expedition guides are highly engaging and fun to share a drink or dinner with in addition to being ideal hiking companions. This Baja California Mosaic cruise begins in La Paz, Mexico, and ends in San Carlos, Mexico, with a cruise-provided transfer to and from the airport.

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



Itinerary

Baja California Mosaic: Magdalena Bay and Gulf of California Itinerary

On this 8-day Baja California Mosaic: Magdalena Bay & Gulf of California cruise from La Paz, Mexico to San Carlos, Mexico. Navigate both the wildlife-rich islands of the Gulf of California and the sheltered lagoons of Magdalena Bay.

Route map of small ship cruise that goes from magdalena bay to the gulf of califorina
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Day 1
Arrive San Jose del Cabo, Transfer to La Paz & Embark

Arrive in San José del Cabo and transfer to La Paz to embark the ship.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Exploring the Gulf of California

Dubbed the “world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, the Gulf of California is home to a tapestry of biological diversity. With some luck, and the help of your naturalists, you’ll encounter whales, bottlenose and common dolphins and other sea life in these wildlife-rich waters. The day’s plan is flexible as you explore some of the uninhabited islands sprinkled across the Gulf, spend time on the bow searching for marine life or visit uninhabited islands to hike among huge cacti and diverse bird life. Swim or snorkel with king angelfish, surgeonfish, butterfly fish, damselfish and iridescent parrotfish.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Los Islotes & Espíritu Santo National Park

With deeply indented shorelines and dramatically eroded cliff faces, Los Islotes and Isla Espíritu Santo are two of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of California. Suit up in provided snorkeling gear to experience the thrill of swimming with the curious sea lions. This afternoon, choose to swim, kayak or hike at Isla Espíritu Santo where brown pelicans, gulls and boobies dot the landscape.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
San Jose del Cabo & Gordo Banks

Start the day cruising past the spectacular Friars Rocks at Land’s End, an iconic landmark named after its semblance to the hooded monks. Then, visit the historic town center of San José del Cabo, a culinary and cultural haven that’s home to the beautiful San José missionary and an array of art galleries. Spend the afternoon at the Gordo Banks seamount or La Fortuna, nutrient-rich gathering places for whales, dolphins and other exciting sea life. While on the lookout, naturalists are always available to inform and enlighten you with their deep knowledge of and passion for the peninsula.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 5 - 7
Magdalena Bay

Explore the remarkable geography of Magdalena Bay—an immense system of protected coves and channels bordered by mangrove forests that transition into a vast, windswept plain. Hike across rolling sand dunes, kayak along pristine coastlines and explore this magical area by Zodiac. Watch for magnificent frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis and willets and capture their movements with the help of your certified photography instructor.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
San Carlos & Disembark

After breakfast, disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for flights home or to Loreto’s city center to begin your two-night history and whale-watching extension.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard vessel; all meals as indicated in itinerary; complimentary beer, wine & full bar; non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship, including cappuccinos, lattes, filtered water, and 24-hour coffee, tea and soda on demand; shore excursions; sightseeing; entrance fees and special access permits; round-trip transfers for guests using group flights; use of kayaks, bicycles and stand-up paddleboards; services of the ship’s physician, expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; all port charges and service taxes; gratuities to local guides and drivers; 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

Baja California Mosaic: Magdalena Bay and Gulf of California cruise begins in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico (SJD) and ends in Loreto, Mexico (LTO), with ship embarkation in La Paz, Mexico and disembarkation in San Carlos, Baja.  Two group transfers are provided, a roughly 2.5-hour drive. Plan flights to arrive to San Jose del Cabo, Mexico by 2:30pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Loreto after 1:00pm on Day 8 of the itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography exist on and off the ship. Off-vessel activities can be tailored to most activity levels and may include hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and Zodiac excursions.

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. 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

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

Jan 07 - Jan 14, 2026
National Geographic Sea Lion • 8 days
From $4417USD
Per Person
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Jan 10 - Jan 17, 2026
National Geographic Sea Bird • 8 days
From $4417USD
Per Person
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Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion

National Geographic Sea Lion is a tried and true educational-based 62-guest expedition ship. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship, and its twin the National Geographic Sea Bird, unique.

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Bird

National Geographic Sea Bird accommodates 62 guests with special features including a hydrophone and Splash-Cam. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship and its twin sister, the Sea Lion, an extra special experience.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires December 31st, 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.

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Offer expires December 31st, 2025
Kids Save $500 On Nat Geo Cruises Worldwide

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2025 or 2026 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

In conjunction with this cruise, the following pre- and post-cruise option is available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing.

Baja California Culture and Cuisine is a 3-day pre-voyage extension where you can explore the local sustainable food scene while sampling traditional dishes derived from fresh seafood and the desert’s surprising bounty, and witness the merging of old and new artistic traditions as you peruse museums, galleries, street murals, and more.

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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
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Oct Nov Dec
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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
Jan Feb Mar Apr Nov Dec
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11 Day Cruise
In Steinbeck's Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez

Sail farther north on the Baja Peninsula than most ships on this 11-day Northern Gulf of California cruise aboard 66-guest Safari Voyager. On an itinerary inspired by John Steinbeck's "Log from the Sea of Cortez," skiff, kayak and paddleboard through bays and beaches as wildlife greet you from land and sea.

Special Offer
From $6500USD
Apr May Nov Dec
Travel Guides

Planning Your Trip to Baja

View All Baja Travel Guides
Travel Essential • July 1st, 2020
How to Choose Your Baja Cruise

Small ship cruises to Baja California and the Sea of Cortez offer nature, adventure and wildlife right in our own backyard. We have created this Baja cruising guide to help you select the trip and ship that are best for your interests, ability and budget.

Travel Essential • August 29th, 2024
Best Time To Visit Baja

When is the best time to visit Baja? Consult this month-by-month guide for travel planning tips on the many Baja seasons for gray whales, whale sharks, mobula rays, enjoyable Baja weather and more.

Travel Essential • October 13th, 2023
Baja California Books & Reading List

Our experts recommend their favorite Baja California books on this comprehensive reading list. Prepare for travel with recommended books, field guides, travel guides, maps, & resources.

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Baja California Holiday Voyage: A Living Sea & Desert Isles

On this 8-day Baja expedition on 100-guest Nat Geo Venture, watch whales and dolphins by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, Zodiac cruise and snorkel. Take advantage of consistently calm waters and the colorful cactus blossoms.

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Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay

Experience several days in the company of California gray whales on this Baja whale watching cruise while also exploring mangrove forests, desert landscapes and pristine beaches aboard 62-guest sister ships National Geographic Sea Bird or Sea Lion.

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Baja California: Among The Great Whales

Encountering a gray whale is a life-changing experience! Sail Baja's protected east coast and enjoy a day trip to the west coast to be among these giants. Actively explore via kayaks, Zodiacs, and snorkeling from the 100-guest National Geographic Venture.

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From $6450USD
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Baja California Mosaic: Magdalena Bay & Gulf of California

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