Isla Carmen, Baja California Sur, Mexico, 12/28/2023, National Geographic Venture
Aboard the
National Geographic Venture
Baja California
Our first full day of this incredible New Year’s trip began with dolphins riding the bow of National Geographic Venture on its way southeast from Puerto Escondido to Isla Carmen. Everyone broke in their recently fitted snorkel gear and jumped into the water to view tons of fish and sea creatures in the Baja California waters.
Following the afternoon’s snorkel operations, guests enjoyed Zodiac cruises and witnessed blue-footed boobies diving for fish.
It was an incredible afternoon that ended with a beautiful cocktail hour on the sundeck. This was followed by recap, dinner, and an after-dinner presentation with undersea footage by Patrick Webster.
A true animal enthusiast from a young age, Ayla grew up in landlocked Kentucky amidst rolling hills of farmland, backwoods, and immense cave systems. Fortunate enough to grow up near many freshwater sources; lakes, rivers, creeks, and ponds were her ...
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Happy New Year from the Gulf of California! Our new year started on Isla San Esteban with a variety of hikes offered on this beautiful island in the middle of the gulf. Esteban is noted for a wide and scenic arroyo that is easily navigated. Its large cardon cactus and unique lizards make this remote island a very special landing! In the afternoon, National Geographic Venture repositioned to another remote and special island, San Pedro Martir. This island is home to massive numbers of blue-footed- and brown boobies, as well as brown pelicans, red-billed tropicbirds, and California sea lions. Zodiac cruises around this protected rock in the middle of the Gulf of California were amazing!
Happy New Year! Imagine a place with warm sun, smooth sand beaches, and the perfect gentle breeze to keep you cool. That place is Playa del San Juanico. We slipped behind jagged rocks to the most glorious beach. Ospreys circled above, building their nests and keeping an eye on us. We explored the hills on hikes, the shoreline via kayaks and Zodiac cruises, and all the nooks and crannies while snorkeling near rock edges. A barbecue dinner was served on the beach by a warm, glowing fire. Then we returned to the ship for some New Year’s trivia followed by ringing in the New Year with all of our newfound friends aboard National Geographic Venture. Happy 2024, everyone!
As we near the year’s end, we are in the midst of an extraordinary journey here in Baja California marked by natural spectacles and memorable adventures. The day began with a breathtaking sunrise, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson and casting an ethereal glow over the tranquil water. This was a perfect start to early morning snorkeling at Los Islotes, a haven for marine life. Guests immersed themselves in the vibrant undersea world, encountering playful sea lions and a kaleidoscope of colorful fish darting through crystalline waters. In the afternoon, our landing at Punta Colorado on San Jose Island led to an invigorating hike up an arroyo. We trekked through the shaded and rugged terrain, dotted with endemic flora and fauna. Throughout the day, our knowledgeable naturalists enriched the experience, sharing insights into the region's ecology, history, and conservation efforts. As the sun set on this memorable day, we are left with cherished memories of a day filled with adventure and discovery in the captivating realm of Baja California. As the year draws to a close, this expedition serves as a testament to the wonders of nature and the importance of conservation. With each step taken on San Jose Island, we embraced the significance of preserving these extraordinary environments for future generations.
