The newest addition to the American Safari Cruises fleet, the 86-guest Safari Endeavour, embarks on a new Baja’s Bounty adventure cruise from November 2012 through April 2013. Weeklong expedition cruises sail roundtrip from La Paz, Mexico to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site & Biosphere Reserve.
In true expedition style, the itinerary is flexible to ensure maximum opportunities to view the array of wildlife found on land and sea. The cruise explores Isla Espíritu Santo, Isla Partida, Isla San Francisco, Loreto, Isla Coyote and Isla San José. Snorkeling with playful, young sea lions at Los Islotes is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
A port call in the centuries-old mission town of Loreto includes a guided walking tour exploring the town’s plazas, historical buildings and mission. In Bahia Agua Verde, guided hikes explore the mainland’s canyons and scenic vistas before joining a local ranchero and his family for a shoreside BBQ dinner enlivened with local music and stories.
An excursion to the remote island of Isla Coyote visits the twenty members of the Cuevas family who inhabit the island and make their living as fishermen.
“The Sea of Cortés remains a secret oasis perfect for small group exploration by boat,” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. “The intimate size of the Safari Endeavour allows us privileged access to small bays and coves, and combined with our philosophy to be guided by nature, it’s an ideal way to explore the area.”
The remote beauty of Baja, Mexico’s desert landscape amidst a sea teaming with marine life sets the stage for the inclusive cruise full of water sports activities and opportunities to view marine life such as pods of dolphins; sea lions; blue, fin, sei, orca and sperm whales; flying manta rays; blue-footed boobies; brown pelicans and cormorants. A swim step and kayak launch platform on the stern of the ship serves as the hub for guests embarking on water-borne adventures—kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, snorkeling and small boat adventures.
Exhilarating skiff rides to shore transport guests to spectacular desert islands for guided hikes and beachcombing walks led by expert on board expedition leaders. Hikes may traverse a forest of Cardón cactuses or on top of a desert ridge for sweeping views of the Sea of Cortés.
Families with children under 12 can travel together on March 9 and 23 Kids in Nature cruises. Selected to coincide with many spring break dates, families will enjoy activities geared toward kids with varying levels of activity. The emphasis remains on outdoor adventure with on-location learning woven into the day’s activities.
