Bienvenido! (Welcome in Spanish!)
In the wake of author John Steinbeck’s and marine biologist Ed Ricketts’ high-spirited expedition to the Sea of Cortés, we welcome you aboard for your own journey of exploration. Natural beauty, fascinating culture, and a land and sea brimming with wildlife are in store.

This guide includes important information about your cruise and will provide assistance with your trip preparation. At any time during your adventure, direct questions, concerns or comments to your captain or expedition leader.

Indentification: Submit identification & emergency contact information for each traveler to our office via the online guest forms available on our Guest Portal at https://guests.un-cruise.net/customers/login.

Passports/Visas: All guests need a valid passport to board the vessel. Passport and visa requirements are dependent on your travel destinations and nationality. Most countries require that your passport be valid 6 months beyond your arrival into that country. It is your responsibility to verify entry requirements. Failure to do so could result in denial of entry into that country.

Minors (children under 18 years of age) travelling into or within Mexico, not accompanied by both parents/legal guardians, have additional entry requirements. Visit our website for more information: https://uncruise.com/pages/family-travel-choices.

Homeland Security: Laws and procedures in effect for all passengers boarding SOLAS vessels (Safety of Life at Sea) are:
- No one is allowed on board the vessels without prior permission or checking-in with the Captain.
- Untagged luggage will be searched; any luggage is subject to search. Please properly tag all luggage and carry-on bags.

Boarding Vouchers: We pride ourselves on being intimate and small enough to make your trip as easy and worry-free as possible. Therefore, vouchers for services are not necessary. Your name will appear on transfer and boarding manifests.

Delays & Emergency Contacts: In case of delay on embarkation day, contact our Seattle office during office hours (6:00-6:00 PT/Monday-Friday; 7:00-4:00 PT/Saturday) at 888-862-8881. In Mexico and/or after hours, call: 907-957-3501. Family/friends can use these numbers for emergencies requiring you to be contacted during your voyage. Our Seattle staff will relay a message to the ship or our land operators.

Medical: If you have a physical disability, require on-going or frequent medical attention, or take special medications complete the medical needs section of your online guest forms: https://guests.uncruise.net/customers/login.

While crew members are trained in first aid, there isn’t a doctor on board. Expedition vessels are equipped with emergency firstaid supplies. Any emergency beyond the capability of the crew will be handled by motoring and/or air services to the nearest medical facility. Any costs for emergency evacuations or service are the responsibility of the traveler

Seasickness: In the event of high winds or some open passageway crossings, you may experience seasickness. Seasickness medication provided on board is not recommended for children.

Vaccines: There are no required vaccines for entry into Mexico. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all visitors be up to date on vaccinations. For additional information: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.

Luggage: It is your responsibility to check directly with your airline and departing airports for current regulations concerning prohibited items, luggage allowances, overweight baggage and other airline charges.

UnCruise Adventures representatives will handle and transfer your luggage once you arrive for embarkation. However, baggage handling services may be unavailable within restricted areas of airports, so it is a good rule not to pack more than you can carry or wheel yourself.

Transfers: On embarkation and disembarkation days, roundtrip group transfers are provided between the airport/hospitality area/vessel.

Recommendations: Make photocopies of important documents, such as passport, or save photos of documents on your smartphone/camera. Keep copies separate from originals. Keep essential items with you in your carry-on bags while traveling.

Cruising Philosophy: Our intimate size gives us access to secluded passages, coves, and wilderness areas-allowing for spontaneity and the ability to take advantage of opportunities as they arise. A day's schedule may change when wildlife or adventure opportunities present themselves. Your captain and expedition leader will keep you informed.

Activities: Throughout your voyage, activities such as guided hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and small skiff excursions are available. You should be able to comfortably walk distances of at least 1/2-mile at a time. A certain amount of agility is necessary when boarding your expedition vessel and kayaks, motorized skiffs, or hiking over exposed vegetation and rocks on trails. All activity equipment is provided.

Gratuities: Recommended gratuities for exceptional service are $315 per guest, per week or 7-10% of charter fare for private full vessel charters. Gratuities will be settled along with your boat tab toward the end of your cruise. Personal checks, traveler’s checks, cash, or credit cards are accepted. Shipboard credit cannot be used toward gratuities. Gratuities to shoreside tour guides and drivers are not included and are at your discretion.

Meals & Drinks: Meals and premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included at no additional charge. Charges apply only for super premium wines and spirits. Legal drinking age aboard is 21 years. Specific mealtimes and daily entrée choices will be announced on board. If you have any food allergies or special diets, complete the dietary needs section of your online guest forms: https://guests.un-cruise.net/customers/login.

Photography: Crew members photograph guests, activities, and wildlife during the cruise. Some images may later be used in marketing materials. Guests who prefer their image not be used must notify the expedition leader on board at the beginning of the cruise. Guests who give images to our onboard team are thereby giving UnCruise Adventures permission to use such images for promotional purposes.

Drones: The use of drones is not allowed from our vessels. We travel in National Parks and remote, protected areas where the use of a drone is prohibited and/or not appropriate.

Smoking/Marijuana: Smoking or vaping is prohibited inside the vessels and is not permitted during shore excursions or on nature trails. Smoking or vaping tobacco products is only allowed on outside aft decks away from doors and windows. Smoking materials are not sold on board and should not be thrown overboard.

While marijuana is legal in many U.S. states for medical or recreational use, federal law supersedes state law. Since marijuana is still a federally controlled substance, it is prohibited aboard all of our vessels, in all destinations. (Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act (MDLEA) 46 U.S.C. 70501-70507, prohibiting the illegal transportation of controlled substances by a vessel.)

Cabins: All cabins are well-appointed, comfortable, and keyless. The small size and intimate nature of the vessel make it possible to avoid the inconvenience of keys. You can always lock your cabin from within. Cabins offer a full private bathroom with a shower. A collection of bath toiletries (conditioning shampoo, body
wash, body lotion), bathrobes, towels, hair dryer, and TV/DVD player are provided. Tap water is potable; we provide refillable bottles and water stations.

On our vessels we use marine style toilets. These toilets are designed to receive, retain, and treat sewage. Important to know - the only thing that should go down the marine head is human waste and toilet paper - with no exceptions. Anything other than human waste and toilet paper can cause severe plumbing issues throughout the ship. Only use the toilet paper provided.

Standard 110v electrical outlets can accommodate electric shavers, travel irons, cell phones, and camera battery chargers. Check all of your equipment to ensure that you have the required chargers, adapters and converters for safe operation at 110v. At this time internet access is not available on board. at 110v. Please note that internet access is not available on board.

Communications: The vessel is equipped with a modern navigation and communications system including a Global Positioning System (GPS), satellite phone, marine radio, and cellular phone. Guests may make or receive emergency calls on the satellite phone at a rate of $10.00 per minute—times are rounded up to the next minute and charges must be paid prior to disembarkation. Please be aware that service is often unavailable when using any cell phone or the vessel’s satellite phone. Again, there is no internet access available onboard.

Equipment: Your expedition vessel carries inflatable skiffs used for transfers to/from shore. Tandem sea kayaks and paddle boards are available with instruction provided by the crew. An exercise bike, stair stepper or elliptical machine is also available.

Laundry: There are no guest laundry facilities on board.

Special Events: We are happy to assist in celebrating a special event, such as a birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary. Please advise us as far in advance as possible by indicating your occasion on your online guest forms: https://guests.un-cruise.net/customers/login.

In an effort to ensure your flights/travel are arranged for your cruise at the correct time, please follow our guidance below. The times are for all itineraries. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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In Steinbeck's Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez (10 Nights)

On embarkation day, your flight should arrive no later than.

City/Port: Los Cabos (SJD)
Arrival Time: 1:30 pm

On disembarkation day, your flight should leave no earlier than.

City/Port: Los Cabos (SJD)
Departure Time: 1:00 pm

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Baja California's Whales & Sealife (7 Nights)

On embarkation day, your flight should arrive no later than.

City/Port: La Paz (LAP)
Arrival Time: 3:30 pm

On disembarkation day, your flight should leave no earlier than.

City/Port: La Paz (LAP)
Departure Time: 11:00 am

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If you prefer to fly out of Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) instead of La Paz, you will be responsible for your own transportation to the airport. The vessel will disembark around 9 AM. We would recommend you book your departure from SJD no earlier than 2:00 PM if transferring there independently.

One of the most cloud-free regions of the world, the weather in Baja California Sur is pleasant throughout the year. Climactic zones range from tropical to semi-arid, though, and it can be windy at times. Showers are infrequent, but when they come, they can be intense—a sight to see! November and March, daytime temps range between 70° and 85°F, while nights are cooler and dip into the low 50s and 60s. Water temperatures vary depending on location, but generally hover in the neighborhood of 65-70°F.

The UnCruise style is casual, and every day you’ll have opportunities for active adventure—kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, or riding the skiff. Shorts, convertible hiking pants/khakis, skirts, plus tank tops, t-shirts, and breathable long-sleeved shirts that layer easily together will be comfortable and appropriate at any time. Bringing clothing that layers together allows you to adjust for varying weather, temperatures, and protection from the sun, by easily peeling off or adding on a layer.

It can get breezy and chilly on board, especially at night, so a hooded rain/wind jacket, fleece or zip-up vest, light sweater, sweatshirt, and/or casual jacket will be important to have available.

Bring a brimmed hat for sun protection from the sun, and remember your bathing suit for snorkeling and hot tubbing.

Clothing
 Sweater or sweatshirt for windy evenings on deck
 Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
 Short sleeve t-shirts, shirts, or blouses
 Lightweight or convertible hiking pants
 Jeans/khakis, shorts, skirts/dresses
 Bathing suit

Outerwear
 Light rain or wind jacket
 Fleece or hooded jacket/pullover
 Brimmed hat & sun hat that covers ears/neck
 Long sleeve rash guard/sun-shirt

Luggage
 Dry bag for camera, binoculars, snacks, etc.
 Collapsible or nesting luggage recommended to
  maximize cabin storage space
 Daypack for hiking and skiff rides

Footwear

  Day hikers or sturdy walking shoes
 Water socks or water shoes/sandals
 Comfortable deck shoes
 Socks

Pack comfortable sneakers, sturdy walking shoes, or day hikers for hikes and walks. You'll also want sandals or reef shoes that you don’t mind getting wet for wet landings and water activities.

Optional Items
 Travel binoculars with safety strap
 Camera, memory cards, extra batteries/charger,
  safety lanyard
 Paddling / waterproof gloves                                                                                                                                                         Reef safe sunscreen                                                                                                                                                                                Water bottle (also available on board)                                                                                                                                          Travel binoculars with safety strap
 Sunglasses & retainer strap
 SPF-rated lip protection
 Insect repellent
 Adventurous spirit!

*Please note: if you are going on a pre- or post-cruise land tour, be sure to bring your own refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellant.

Your cabin comes complete with a hairdryer, towels, eco-friendly shampoo/conditioner, body wash and robes.

Provided On Board
 Adventure gear including mask/snorkel/fins, wet suits & yoga mats

 Refillable water bottles
 Sunscreen & insect repellant
 Fun and adventure!

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all visitors of Mexico are up-to-date on vaccinations. Get specific recommendations on the CDC website.

* The CDC also provides updated recommendations concerning the Zika virus in destinations around the world.

Find out more on Covid-19 protocols and vaccinations on our Health Policy and Vaccination page. More details continue to be updated.

Over 700 miles long, the Sea of Cortes is a glittering turquoise jewel, dotted with islands along its western shoreline and outlined by the long arm of the Baja Peninsula. A dramatic desert of soft, muted greens, golds, and reds, the land rises quickly from the sea along the Sierra de la Giganta—the peninsulaʼs mountainous spine.

On land, and on—or in!—the water, itʼs easy to get lulled into the quiet, gentle rhythm of this sun-kissed state. But below the surface of the sea and in all the nooks and crannies of rocky red cliffs and high-reaching cardon cactus, the land is teeming with life. More than 40 reptile and amphibian species, over 50 mammal species, and nearly 200 bird species call Baja California Sur home. Here are some animals and plants you’re likely to see on an UnCruise Adventure in Mexico.

Animals and Birds

• Spiny-tailed iguana
• Horned, zebra-tailed, and worm lizards
• Coyote
• Brush rabbit and jackrabbit
• Blue-footed booby
• Pelican
• Cormorant
• Magnificent Frigatebird
• Sandpiper

Marine Life

• Gray, humpback, blue, and fin whales
• Whale shark and dolphin (pictured)
• Sea lion
• Elephant seal
• Mobula ray
• Butterflyfish, parrot fish, oarfish, and starfish
• Nudibranch
• Squid
• Eel
• Sally Lightfoot and hermit crabs

These resources are suggested to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the history, unique culture, wilderness, and wildlife of Mexico.

The Desert Islands of Mexico’s Sea of Cortez - Stewart Aitchison
Get an in-depth look at the natural history of the unique and unexpectedly, biologically rich islands dotting the coastline.

Eye of the Whale: Epic Passage from Baja to Siberia - Dick Russell
A narration of the incredible migration gray whales make each year from Baja to the Bering Strait is interwoven with the history of a 19th-century whaling captain whose change of heart leads him to become a renowned naturalist.

Roadside Geology and Biology of Baja California - John Minch, Edwin Minch and Jason Minch
Intelligent, fascinating mile-by-mile guide with photos and sketches describing Baja's unique geology and biology.

King of the Moon: A Novel of Baja California - Gene Kira
A beautiful, vividly told big fish tale of real Baja as told through the fictitious lives of a family in a small fishing village along the Sea of Cortés.

The Log from the Sea of Cortez - John Steinbeck
In 1940, Steinbeck and his friend, biologist Ed Rickets set out aboard The Western Flyer for a 6-week exploration collecting plant and animal specimens along the Sea of Cortés. This is their colorful day-by-day account.

Almost an Island: Travels in Baja California - Bruce Berger
Berger paints an unforgettable picture of remote Baja in vibrant stories of the characters he meets throughout his 30 years living on and exploring the peninsula.

Into A Desert Place - Graham Mackintosh
An adventurous account of an Englishman’s experience falling in love with Baja and his journey to walk the entire 800-mile length of the peninsula.