Los Islotes & La Paz
Just after sunrise the ship’s anchor dropped in the lee of Los Islotes, a tiny island where California sea lions cluster on pink volcanic rocks. Loud barks and wails reached the ship long before we climbed into Zodiacs for a chance to snorkel in the realm of these graceful creatures. Once in the water, curious youngsters born last summer came in for a close look at the strange creatures and rubber boats. King angelfish, leopard groupers, sergeant majors and even Brandt’s cormorants swam in the midst of their larger neighbors. Whenever a cormorant approached a school of fish, the small silvery shapes raced for their lives. These pelican relatives have large webbed feet that propel them as they search for their fishy prey. It was fascinating to watch all the activity in this undersea world.
After leaving Los Islotes, the ship headed south towards La Paz. The hotel staff provided a delicious ice-cream buffet on the top deck complete with all sorts of tasty toppings.
Once tied up at the dock, everyone scattered away with naturalists or on their own to explore this fascinating town. Some strode off to see the old church or joined our photo instructor for a stroll. Artistic sculptures and a bridal ensemble offered the perfect subject matter for photographic pursuits. As if our earlier ice cream feast were not enough, many stopped at La Fuente, a favorite ice cream store near the dock. Another option was a walk along the the malecón, the tiled path beside the waterfront. Egrets, ibises, and several species of sandpiper foraged along the shore. Local fishing boats known as pangas lay pulled up on the sand. In addition, there was some holiday flair, with Christmas ornaments decorating the street lamps and a brass band playing carols to those passing by.
Before dinner on this last night together in Baja California, we shared the group’s photos in the lounge. It was delightful to see the different images collected by so many who took part in this special voyage in the Sea of Cortez.
