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

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

Route: Roundtrip La Paz
Duration: 11 Nights
Price From: $8,400 / Person
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Overview:

Join Captain Dan Blanchard on an epic voyage through the seas of Baja California. Inspired by John Steinbeck's "Log from the Sea of Cortez," the voyage explores marine life at historic sites such as Punta Marcial, snorkeling near Isla Catalina, and whale watching around Isla Catalina. 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 stargazing before returning to La Paz.

Included Highlights:

  • Included hotel night in the colorful town of San José del Cabo.
  • Exclusive sailing hosted by Captain Dan. 
  • Spend the day in the protected waters of Puerto Refugio, known as an adventurer's paradise. 
  • Enjoy farm-to-table meals with ingredients sourced from local farmers. 
  • Search for different whale species, including blue whales, fin whales, and orcas. 
  • Conclude your adventure with a night of stargazing on Isla San Jose. 

Day-by-day Details

Day 1

San Jose del Cabo, BCS, Mexico – Arrival

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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.

Day 2

La Paz, BCS, Mexico – Embarkation

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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.

Day 3

Punta Marcial & Agua Verde

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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.

Day 4

Morning Marine Mammal Search and Afternoon Isla San Marcos or Tortuga

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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.

Day 5

Punta Trinidad and Bahía San Carlos

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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.

Day 6

Bahía de los Ángeles or Isla Smith

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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.  

Day 7

Puerto Refugio

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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.

Day 8

Morning at Isla San Esteban, Afternoon Marine Mammal Search

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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.

Day 9

Captain’s Choice – Marine Mammal Search and Playa Punta San Basilio

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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.

Day 10

Isla San José and Cayo Amortajada

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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.

Day 11

Isla Espíritu Santo and Punta Lobos or Bonanza Beach

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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.

Day 12

La Paz, BCS, Mexico - Disembarkation

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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.

Rates & Dates

Duration: 11 Nights
10 nights aboard the Safari Voyager from La Paz, with one included pre-cruise hotel night in San Jose del Cabo

All prices are per person.

SAFARI VOYAGER - 2027 Compass Cabin Navigator Cabin Trailblazer Cabin Pathfinder Cabin Admiral Cabin Jr. Commodore Suite Commodore Suite Full Ship
Embarkation Dates Single Double Single Double Single Double Single Double Single Double Single Double Single
 May 21 $10,200 $8,400 $14,700 $9,500 $16,700 $9,700 $17,000 $10,500 $18,400 $11,700 $20,500 $14,500 $25,400 Inquire

Night one is spent at the Tropicana hotel in Los Cabos. Port fees & taxes included. Gratuities not included.