We awoke on National Geographic Sea Bird to discover fine misty dew lightly covering our decks. This fog covering is important to the dry desert climate around us, providing a fresh water source for the plants and animals of the otherwise barren sandy land. Our morning started early at 6:30 a.m. as we stretched, ate breakfast, and prepared for our visit into the gray whale inhabited waters. The cruises started in the rolling fog venturing out in all directions with wonderful local guides. In order to prevent disorientation, each ELC (expedition landing craft) was equipped with a GPS unit. The gray whale mothers and babies joined us as they swam, played, and continued their morning rituals, while we admired from the comfort of our ELCs. They did not disappoint with grand displays of breaching, spy-hopping, and rolling in the water. There was one especially exuberant baby whale that breached over and over, repeating the movement to our awe and amazement. In the distance, a few mature females were inspired, or perhaps instructing the youngsters, and also breeched with strength and grace. It was a most excellent sight for all out and involved in viewing the behaviors of these giants of the ocean. The next ELC groups had great opportunities to touch the whales and play with them for the rest of the morning. It could not have been more glorious.
The afternoon commenced with a fantastic picnic lunch on the sundeck, with a lovely view of the rolling dunes. The food was scrumptious, as usual, with more wonderful cookies, as a satisfying dessert. We cruised through the Hull Canal with a coyote sighting and arrived at La Entrada into the Pacific Ocean and continued south toward the cape of the Peninsula. There was a funny, yet informational presentation on snorkeling, afterwards everyone gathered to collect snorkel gear on the deck. Later, Bette Lu gave a thought-provoking talk on “Baja California Fisheries.” The sunny afternoon was delightful right into the evening with a sunset that looked like puffs of pink cotton candy! The first Recap got underway with photo tips from Sharon, wise words from William and Adrian and questions for Carlos and Megan about marine mammals, notably whales. What a full and exciting day in Baja California, BCS, Mexico!
