Today we investigated an arroyo on Isla San Marcos that I personally have not visited since 2008. Back then we labeled it “the secret garden.” It was still very clear why as we wound our way around orange-flowered globemallow, white-petaled passion flowers, blue saucers of morning glory, and delicate white flowers of a desert wildflower sometimes called orchid flower. We also had our first opportunity to kayak and the rocky shores of Isla San Marcos provided the perfect area to paddle around. The town of Santa Rosalia in the afternoon offered delights to a different sense as the sweet, yeasty aroma of freshly baked goods drew us to the Boleo Bakery.
3/10/2018
Watch
National Geographic Sea Lion
Isla San Jose & Cruising for Wildlife
In true expedition photography style, we were up an hour before the dawn and landed on the shore at Punta Colorado on Isla San Jose for a sunrise shoot. The warm light reflecting off the blue water on the red cliffs was a photographer’s dream. The sun cast beautiful shadows on the fossilized bones and shells imbedded in the red sedimentary rocks. After a quick breakfast back on the ship, we returned to the shore for energetic walks in the colorful arroyo and atop the beautiful red cliffs with stunning views of the Gulf of California. In even more true expedition travel, our plans changed by the hour as we encounter great pods of whales. First about a dozen sperm whales that logged on the surface right next to our ship between long deep dives. Then a pod of a few dozen short-finned pilot whales came close to investigate the ship which allowed for incredible photo opportunities. Just when we thought it was safe to venture south, we happened upon a sea of mobula rays jumping out of the water and a humpback whale that breached a few times as the sun set on this very special day. Southward tomorrow for more adventures.
