Today was the first day of our expedition in Baja California Sur. The day started with anticipation and excitement to explore this section of Magdalena Bay, Bahia Almejas, the Bay of Clams. Local guides use seagoing open boats called pangas. The goal was to seek out new wildlife viewing opportunities among this unique ecosystem known for gray whale sightings. Shortly after breakfast, guests led by the naturalists were greeted by various bird species on the shore and gray whales swimming nearby. The morning sun begged us onward.
After lunch onboard National Geographic Sea Lion, guests returned to the pangas to explore the bright green waters. It was then we encountered more gray whales and seabirds. The whales were displaying several behaviors such as spy-hopping (when a whale lifts its head out of the water into the air and views its surroundings). Near the end of today’s adventures, a group of bottlenose dolphins swam across our bow in a playful way. The sun was shining, and the sunset was beautiful. It was a fine day to be exploring Baja California Sur.
