We
find ourselves this morning along the southern coast of the Sea of Cortez. The
sky is blue and the winds are high, yet second only to group spirits! We have
seen a great deal of wildlife native to this region. Such experiences in
settings as intimate as this is an opportunity not many have.
We
are underway with 50 knot winds and surrounded by the prospect of rarely seen
animals all around us: if this isn’t delight! While winds are high, the weather
is warm and comfortable. Despite whitecaps in the sea having prevented us from
spotting whales on this day, these are the first strong winds of the trip and a
worthwhile bookend to a voyage rich in lovely weather.
Luckily
for us, the afternoon ushered in calmer seas and a chance to go ashore at a
place called Bahia Encantada on San Jose Island. The area is known for its lush
array of vegetation, protected anchorage, sandy beach, and spectacular arroyo
(dried river-bed) which slices into the island’s interior. Along its winding,
twisting length there were sightings of the Xantus’ hummingbird, as well as
short-eared owls and many turkey vultures soaring overhead.
With the warm, comfortable weather continuing into the late afternoon, we headed back to the ship for farewell drinks and a curated slideshow to help us relive the whole expedition.
