Loreto Bay National Park, Isla Danzante
Throughout the night the National Geographic Sea Bird traveled north, and at first light we found ourselves in the scenic waters of Loreto Bay National Park. We dedicated the morning to cruising in search of marine mammals. Following breakfast, there was an enthusiastic announcement of a whale just ahead. As we rushed to the bow, the animal surfaced again. It was a blue whale! These cetaceans are thought to be the largest creatures to have ever lived on our planet. This one rose again and again, exposing the mottled blue-gray skin and ever-so-tiny dorsal fin. It was a very lucky sighting with great conditions for viewing. Eventually we moved on in search of other wildlife. Soon after getting outfitted with snorkel equipment, bottlenose dolphins appeared and positioned themselves beneath the bow where they caught the pressure wave for a free ride.
Our photo instructor, Linda, provided an informative presentation that provided tips for better shots and ideas for using one’s photographs back home. Suddenly, more bottlenose dolphins raced to the front of the ship. Everyone scattered to the decks or watched real-time action of these creatures via the bow cam from the lounge. Once the action settled down, a workshop started for those interested in learning more about the capabilities and functions of their own cameras.
By early afternoon the Sea Bird lay at anchor near Isla Danzante, where we planned to go ashore to explore by foot, kayak, or by snorkeling. This island is a beautiful site for an introduction to Baja California’s desert country by the sea. A stunning sunset painted the clouds pink and delicate peach as dusk enveloped the landscape. Before long we lined up for a delicious fiesta dinner. Alberto, our undersea specialist, then offered a presentation as a further welcome to Mexico and the biological and cultural diversity of this fascinating part of the world.
