12-night Channel Islands National Park to Baja California Cruise
National Geographic - Lindblad Expeditions · National Geographic Venture · 12 nights · Los Angeles–La Paz, Mexico
Special Offer The Signature Collection
From $7,500 per person
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.
What's Included
- 12-nights accommodations
- All meals aboard ship
- And more
Available Add-Ons
Optional roundtrip airfare
Optional pre or post cruise nights
Itinerary
Nov 22 Los Angeles
Much of Los Angeles lies in a fairly flat basin, surrounded by mountains and ocean. Although the Santa Monica Mountains, one of the most unheralded of the city’s remaining natural treasures, splits LA between the familiar sights of La-La Land to the south and the charmless suburbs to the north, the metropolis is easily traversed. Places for visitors to explore include Hollywood, Mid-Wilshire, the central strip of Wilshire Boulevard with faded Art Deco "Miracle Mile" zone and good museums, and the beach towns of Santa Monica and Venice, where visitors can stroll along the former’s remodeled pier and Third Street Promenade outdoor mall, or visit the latter’s famed Muscle Beach and oceanside Boardwalk. Lengthier trips to LA may include the old-fashioned charm of Old Pasadena, home of ever-popular Rose Parade and Bowl, Downtown, site of much city heritage and setting for what skyscrapers the area does have, the South Bay, the place to find the region’s second biggest city of Long Beach, and Malibu, where visitors can try to get a glimpse of movie stars and assorted celebrities.
Nov 23 Channel Islands National Park, CA
Channel Islands National Park is one of the great undiscovered attractions in California. It encompasses the five northernmost Channel Islands, which are seaward extensions of the Santa Monica Mountains.
The establishment of the 250,000-acre/101,250-hectare national park (half of this area is underwater) was the culmination of preservation efforts that began with U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938. All five islands in the park can be visited—conditions permitting. There are three Channel Islands that are not part of the national park: San Nicolas and San Clemente are owned by the U.S. government and can't be visited, but Santa Catalina is a well-known tourist destination.
Luxuriant 24-mi-/38-km-long Santa Cruz Island has the most to offer first-time visitors. Take a guided Nature Conservancy hike, kayak just offshore, scuba dive and explore sea caves, or watch birds.
Another good choice is Anacapa Island. It's the closest to the mainland, just 11 mi/17 km from Oxnard; hence many people start there. A visit begins with a 154-step climb up from the boat landing to the island plateau. There's a nature trail as well as a lighthouse and a museum. Overnight camping is possible with advance arrangements. The other islands in the park are Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa and San Miguel.
The national park visitors center is located at the harbor in Ventura (on the mainland, 75 mi/120 km northwest of Los Angeles), and it's the best source for current information about each island, including camping and other permit requirements.
The Channel Islands has some of the best scuba diving in the world, and is home to a number of animal species not found on mainland California. There, you enter the realm of the mighty giant kelp forest, bright orange garibaldi fish, the small but beautiful blue-banded gobie, and large schools of jacks, sardine and senoritas. Lobsters also thrive in this area, luring eager lobster hunters for the October-March season. The visitors center in Ventura on the mainland is open daily. Phone 805-658-5730. http://www.nps.gov/chis/index.htm.
Nov 24 Ensenada
Ensenada is a small fishing and commercial port catering to weekend and summer travelers from southern California. La Bufadora on the southern end of the bay is a natural rock formation where the sea explodes into a natural geyser. Beaches for swimming and surfing spots are found both north and south of Ensenada. Other local sports attractions include mountain climbing, beach-combing and hiking. Ensenada hosts the very popular Rosarito-Ensenada Bike Ride, the Baja 1000 Off-Road Race and the Newport Beach-Ensenada Regatta. Valle de Guadalupe, one of Mexico's finest wine growing area is close by. Gray whale watching in the winter time is very popular in Todos Santos Bay.
Nov 25 Bahia de San Quintin
Nov 26 Islas San Benito
Nov 27 Islas San Benito
Nov 28 Islas San Benito
Nov 29 Bahia Magdalena
The great Bahía Magdalena is the gate entrance to the Pacific. It is a unique place and, as a natural reserve of gray whales that arrive to its waters to fulfill their biological cycle during the months of January to March, a great location for whale watching. The islands of Magdalena and Margarita contribute with the counter coastline that protects it from the strong waves which characterize the Pacific Ocean. The elongated form and low altitude of the islands, shaped almost totally by white sand dunes, permits visitors to simultaneously enjoy the inside and outside ocean view from some of its points. A very beautiful coastline offers plenty of beaches, inlets, marshes and mangrove swamps that are the sanctuary of resident and migratory sea birds and its waters are rich in species for commercial and sports fishing.
Nov 30 Cabo San Lucas
Once sought after by pirates for its safe harbors, the Los Cabos region of the Southern Baja Peninsula is now home to bustling towns of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Each offers travelers an exciting, fun-filled destination. Cabo San Lucas, with a population of 25,000, is the faster-growing of the two. In the past few years, swanky new hotels and sleek condos have been added to round out this vacation destination. Superb sportfishing put Cabo San Lucas on the map, but non-fishermen will enjoy the thriving beach community as well. Snorkeling gear, boats, waverunners, kayaks, paddleboats and windsurf boards are all available for the active vacationer.
Excursions
Whale Watching - 2 hours (December - April)
— Optional Private Excursions
The sheer volume of whales along both coastlines makes the Baja Peninsula a heaven for whale watching enthusiasts. With over a third of all cetacean species found in the Sea of Cortez during the winter months, Cabo becomes the epicenter of extraordinary marine splendor. Humpback whales are the most common to see as they often delight us with their acrobatic shows.
Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZmovulhMjc
Suggested departure: 9:00 am
Highlights:
- Encounter some of the biggest animals that have lived on earth: Whales
- Commonly seen: Humpack & Grey whales
- Panga style boat
- Guide
- Refreshments
- Comfortable clothing
- Sneakers
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
Cabo 4 Kids - 4 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Soak in the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez and immerse in the natural beauty of Los Cabos, where every path leads to an adventure. Let us tailor make your ideal beach day in one of Cabo’s Blue Flag beaches and experience the natural beauty of the destination. Get a glimpse of the wonderful marine wildlife that lives just below the surface, enjoy the SUP boards or simply relax at the beach and allow our dedicated guides to take care of your children.
Suggested departure: 9:00 am
Highlights:
- Visit blue flag beach
- Snorkel
- SUP
- Beach picnic
- Transportation
- Guide
- Snorkel equipment
- SUP nad body boards
- Sand toys
- Beach picnic
- Box lunch and refreshments
- Comfortable clothing
- Sneakers
- Sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swimsuit
- Camera
Discover Los Cabos - 6 Hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Discover the magic of Cabo in an excursion that will show you the most iconic places in town. Set sail to see the renowned Arch of Cabo San Lucas, visit a glass blowing factory, walk by the historic San Jose’s Mission and delight your palate with an exquisite Mexican inspired lunch. This experience is a kaleidoscope of culture, shopping, sightseeing and history all rolled into one.
Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFeOKW8YWn8
Suggested Departure: 9:00 am
Highlights:
- Private glass bottom boat
- Visit the arch & Lover's beach
- Shopping time
- Blown Glass factory exhibition
- San Jose del Cabo & Cabo San Lucas downtown
- Local craft stores
- Tequila tasting
- Comfortable clothing
- Sneakers
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Transportation
- Guide
- Panga Style Boat
- Tequila Tasting
- Refreshments
Sunrise Sup To Lands End - 2.5 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
There is nothing better than a sunrise in the middle of the sea. Experience the renowned Arch of Cabo San Lucas like few have ever seen it. Early in the morning, paddle through the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez while enjoying the incredible view of the dramatic rock formations, Lover’s beach and the sea lion colony. Then, see the glory of the rising sun heralding the day over the Arch.
Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8AqA-SLtl4
Suggested departure: 6:00 am
Highlights:
- See Land’s End & the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula
- Paddle to the Sea Lion Colony
- Visit Lovers Beach
- Snorkel at Pelican Rock
- Transportation
- Guide
- Stand Up Paddle Boards
- Refreshments
- Snorkeling equipments
- Comfortable clothing
- Sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swimsuit
- Camera
Shore Fishing - 4 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Explore the wild coast with our waterman pros in the ultimate surf fishing adventure. With an extensive coastline in the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez and over 800 species of fish, the Baja Peninsula is a fishing heaven. Learn the art of fishing and target some of the angling
Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3A5UwRWY2qU
Suggested departure: 7:00 am
Highlights:
- Fishing experience with a local expert
- Access to a secluded beach
- Transportation
- Expert waterman
- Fishing equipment
- Beach Camp
- Refreshments
- Comfortable clothing
- Sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swimsuit
- Camera
Cabo Reefs - 4 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Sea of Cortez aboard a traditional panga-style boat. This intimate snorkeling experience unveils some of Cabo’s most beautiful coral reefs, teeming with colorful tropical fish and marine life. Guests can glide through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the serene beauty of this protected marine ecosystem. Perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, it’s a refreshing and authentic way to connect with the natural splendor of Los Cabos. A true glimpse into the magic Jacques Cousteau once called “the aquarium of the world.”
Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZmovulhMjc
Suggested departure: 9:00 am
Highlights:
- Visit blue flag beach
- Snorkel
- Visit two of Cabo’s most
- Iconic beaches
- See the Arch of Cabo San Lucas
- Transportation
- Guide
- Snorkel Equipment
- Panga style boat
- Box lunch and refreshments
- Comfortable clothing
- Sneakers or sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swimsuit
- Camera
Blue Gate - Freediving
— Optional Private Excursions
Unspoilt coral reefs, an abrupt seabed and crystalline water make the Sea of Cortez a paradise for free divers of all levels. Whether you are new to freediving or an experienced water enthusiast, our elite instructors will guide you to freedive safer, longer and deeper.
Private Vessels
— Optional Private Excursions
Enjoy the perfect mix of wellness, luxury and adventure during what is sure to be a fantastic day on the water. Explore Baja’s spectacular coast, Lover’s Beach and The Arch dropping anchor off scenic Pelican Rock to enjoy the Sea of Cortez.
Pelican 17 - 110 ft
Pelican X - 55 ft
Pelican 11 - 55 ft
Dec 1 Los Islotes
Los Islotes includes a wetland preserve, as well as an estuary visited by monkeys and other wildlife. Behind the community lies a range of green and rugged mountains, including Cerro Hoya, the highest peak on the Azuero Peninsula. Los Islotes is a haven for active outdoor lovers, with trails for hiking through the lush landscape, riding horseback from our stables into the surrounding hills, or mountain biking to nearby Cerro Hoya National Park.
Dec 2 Los Islotes
Los Islotes includes a wetland preserve, as well as an estuary visited by monkeys and other wildlife. Behind the community lies a range of green and rugged mountains, including Cerro Hoya, the highest peak on the Azuero Peninsula. Los Islotes is a haven for active outdoor lovers, with trails for hiking through the lush landscape, riding horseback from our stables into the surrounding hills, or mountain biking to nearby Cerro Hoya National Park.
Dec 3 La Paz, Mexico
La Paz is one of the most beautiful towns of northwestern Mexico, and tourism now plays a major role in the city's economy. The Gulf of California is home to over 800 species of fish, including giant manta rays, whales, dolphins, and sea lions. In the mountains behind the city the Sierra De La Laguna Biosphere Reserve is home to an incredible abundance and diversity of flora and fauna, including species unique to the area. The city has an aquarium, two marinas, museums, theaters, and an art institute. The Las Californias Library is located within the former Government Palace, and holds the most important manuscript collection on the region's history.
Excursions
Espiritu Santo Island - 9 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Whale Shark Encounter - 8 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Venture a once-in-a-lifetime experience by swimming next to the largest fish in the ocean: whale sharks. These gentle giants feed on plankton and travel large distances to find enough food to sustain their huge size - which can be up to 60 ft in length with a weight of 11 tons! Enjoy a scenic drive through the Pacific coastline to La Paz downtown and embark in a private “panga style” boat with our local certified naturalist guide.
Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pvuYCAIUHc
Suggested departure: 7:00 am
Highlights:
- Swim with the biggest fish on the planet: Whale Sharks
- Underwater sealife
- Transportation
- Panga style boat
- Guide
- Snorkeling equipment
- Park entrance fees
- Lunch
- Refreshments
- Comfortable clothing
- Sneakers
- Sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swismsuit
- Camera
Cabin Categories
Outside Cabin
From $7,500 per person
Outside Cabin
From $8,030 per person
Outside Cabin
From $8,590 per person
Suite
From $11,340 per person
Balcony Cabin
From $10,310 per person
Terms & Additional Information
Prices are per person and include cabin fare, taxes, fees, excursions and all meals while onboard. Airfare is available at an additional charge unless otherwise stated.
Price is per person, double occupancy.
Cost Includes: All accommodations aboard ships or in hotels per itinerary or similar, all meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship, meals on land as indicated, air transportation where indicated as included, shore excursions, sightseeing and entrance fees, special access permits, transfers to and from group flights, use of snorkeling equipment and wet suits, use of kayaks (where available), tips (except to ship’s crew), taxes and service charges, services of a ship physician on most voyages, and services of our expedition staff.
Not Included: Air transportation (except where shown as included), extensions, passport, visa, immigration fees, scuba diving (where available), meals not indicated, baggage/accident/travel protection plan, items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry. Gratuities to ship’s crew at your discretion.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.