“Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet, and the winds long to play with your hair.”
– Kahlil Gibran
The morning announcement came slightly earlier this last day of our voyage. While we slept, the National Geographic Sea Bird had traveled south to Los Islotes, and many climbed aboard expedition landing crafts in the dawning light before breakfast to enjoy sunrise on the water. We were greeted by barks and squeals of the California sea lions hauled-out there, as well as the flapping and soaring of winged creatures, including blue-footed and brown boobies, brown pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, and turkey vultures. Afterwards, many donned snorkel gear to take a look below the surface. Common fish seen were king angelfish, surgeonfish, and damselfish. And, of course—the highlight!—we marveled at the acrobatic grace of the swimming sea lions. Splash, twirl, zoom, zing! They are so fast and fun, zipping effortlessly through the water, and ever curious about the human visitors.
In the afternoon, we visited Bahia Bonanza, a gorgeous white-sanded, turquoise-blue-watered protected bay along Isla Espiritu Santo. It’s just a spectacularly stunning place! We brought the kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, and many brought snorkel gear for one last dip. The afternoon was hot with a cooling breeze, and the water, deliciously refreshing. Sun and sand and salt… healing elixirs for the soul. What an amazing week this has been in beautiful Baja California Sur.
