In Steinbeck’s Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez
Sail farther north on the Baja Peninsula than most ships on this 12-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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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; taxes and port fees.
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.
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 anytime 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 5:00pm 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.
Loading rates & dates…
No upcoming departures available at this time.
No departures match your filters.
The 66-guest M/V Safari Voyager (formerly the Sea Voyager) is a 174-foot vessel offering a comfortable basecamp for travelers wishing to experience a Central America small ship cruise. She is a leader in expedition functionality and features the most advanced skiff launching platform among her sister ships Safari Explorer and Safari Endeavour. She is also specifically built to handle the humidity and heat that can challenge lesser-designed vessels.
Safari Voyager Review
AdventureSmith Explorations' Safari Voyager review includes a detailed description of the small ship, including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition cruise experts have been aboard the Safari Voyager firsthand. Please read our Safari Voyager ship review below then contact us to compare the Safari Voyager with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Baja cruises and Costa Rica cruises.
The Safari Voyager was built in 1982 by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland, with specifications that enable her to handle the humidity and heat of Central America, which can challenge lesser-designed vessels. A seamless extension of her cruise destinations, the ship and her mostly Costa Rican or Panamanian crew exude pura vida (pure life). Her most recent renovation, a $15 million upgrade in 2016, included structural changes to accommodate the kayak launch platform, a new galley, new electrical and air conditioning systems, new carpet, soft goods and local art throughout the ship.
Common Areas Aboard Safari Voyager
Three public decks offer breathtaking views, and during the heat of the day, a window-lined, air-conditioned lounge provides refuge and offers an uncompromised 270-degree view with seating for all 66 guests. The lounge's full-service bar offers complimentary refreshment including liquors, wine and microbrews. Other features include an elegant dining room and a DVD/book library on the Cabin Deck featuring 8 floor-to-ceiling windows, plush furniture and handcrafted decor. The Observation Deck's Sun Deck area offers an al fresco public space with fitness equipment and lounge chairs. Please note: Safari Voyager is equipped with limited internet connectivity; instead, enjoy the opportunity to disconnect. Cell phone reception may be available when the ship is in more populated areas; a satellite phone is available (added cost) for emergencies.
Dining Aboard Safari Voyager
The dining room, located on the Main Deck seats all 66 guests in a casual open seating atmosphere. The skilled chef offers unique and delicious creations for every meal, and mixed-meal plates are an option for the indecisive eater. Weather-permitting, meals will be served outside on the Sun Deck. Breakfast is served buffet-style while lunch and dinners are plated, three-course affairs. Early risers are treated to coffee and muffins. Self-serve coffee and tea is available early in the morning, through the day and into the night. Buffet breakfasts give guests the flexibility to enjoy healthy and delicious options on a flexible schedule between activities and wildlife sightings.
Activities Aboard Safari Voyager
Every day provides new opportunities to go off-vessel. An aft EZ Dock launch platform provides convenient access into and out of adventure activity vessels. The small ship is outfitted with a fleet of double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and inflatable skiffs, in addition to snorkel gear and hiking poles. Hydrophones for listening and an underwater camera for viewing allow guests to connect with the underwater environment from the comfort of the ship. The onboard wellness program with fitness equipment and yoga mats (including daily sunrise yoga classes) allows guests to rejuvenate and relax between activities. The open bridge policy encourages interaction with the captain and crew as they discuss navigation, itinerary and logistics.
Crew & Guides Aboard Safari Voyager
Safari Voyager's professional and service-oriented crew creates a casual-yet-attentive atmosphere. Local guides teach about the wildlife, history and culture of each visitor stop. During the daily sunset cocktail hour, guides brief guests on the next day's activities, offering various options, including casual walks to strenuous hikes, that suit a variety of activity levels as well as nightly presentations after dinner. On select departures, onboard expert naturalists and guides are complemented by guest hosts in the fields of ornithology, photography, marine biology, wine and wellness, among others.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Safari Voyager
Generously-sized stateroom categories include 8 Navigator, 14 Trailblazer, 3 Pathfinder, 2 Admiral, 4 Jr Commodore Suites and 1 Commodore Suite. In some categories, single and triples can be accommodated. All Safari Voyager cabins feature turndown service, wide panoramic view windows above the waterline, individually controlled air conditioning, generous storage and closet space, handcrafted artwork representative of the Central American communities she visits, desk and chair, iPod/MP3/4 docking station, TV/DVD player, binoculars, reusable water bottles. speaker from which to privately take-in nightly presentations if desired, private bath with shower, hair dryer, bathrobes, and conditioning shampoo and body wash.
Current Deals on This Trip
Loading deal details…
Unable to load deal details. View full page →
Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
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.
Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us
“”
You have questions. We have answers.
Start a one-on-one conversation now for unbiased advice.
Trips You Might Also Like
View All Baja Cruises
Seas & Sierra: Glamping Baja California Sur
Combine Baja’s mountains & ocean via glamping & guided activities
Baja Intimate Insider
Insider experience featuring local culture, surfing, hiking, beaches & coastal exploration
Save 5% on groups
Discovering Channel Islands National Park
Active, time-efficient island adventure with kayaking & hiking
Inspiration & Education from Our Staff
View All Baja Travel Guides-
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.
-
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.
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise
View All Baja Cruises
Save $500 per person
+4
Baja California’s Whales & Sealife
Active Baja expedition with whale watching, snorkeling & desert island exploration
Westward Voyages in the Sea of Cortez
Expedition via historic yacht & beach camp with whale lagoon options
Save 5% on groups
+1
Baja California: Among The Great Whales
Encounter gray whales up close in Baja lagoons with Nat Geo
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.
