We had an incredible day in Bahia Almejas, the southern bay within Bahia Magdelena. We spent time with more gray whales than we could count. Our permitted pangueros, local fishermen from Puerto Chale, have exceptional knowledge about navigating this sometimes challenging area. With Isla Santa Margarita in the background, we watched and photographed gray whales spyhop, breach, mate, and swim right up to the side of our pangas. We had a rare day where 100% of our guests got the honor of touching a whale with up to seven whales around our boats at one time. The look on the children's faces after having such a special experience was the highlight of the day for our staff. Due to lucky timing and a high morning tide, we were able to travel back to National Geographic Sea Bird via an inside mangrove passage, allowing us to see multiple bird species including herons, cormorants, and brown pelicans. This high tide allowed us to get close and personal with the magnificent frigatebird colony of Isla Santa Margarita. We even got to see some males with their red gular pouches inflated as they tried to attract the females. We ended our night with a Mexican fiesta on board while passengers and staff shared photos, videos, and favorite moments of the day with each other.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 21 Feb 2023
Bahia Almejas, 2/21/2023, National Geographic Sea Bird
- Aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird
- Baja California
Share Report
Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay
VIEW ITINERARYRelated Reports
3/15/2025
Read
National Geographic Sea Bird
Puerto Magdalena
Walks in the desert can hold a plethora of surprises, and today was no exception. From clusters of scarlet Palo Adan flowers, the gems of the morning, to purple and white striped passion flowers. The numerous fruits on the vine attested to a series of flowers earlier this month. A diminutive bird, the verdin, was also interested in the Palo Adan flowers. The verdin’s short beak cannot reach the nectar, so this bird approaches the base of the flower, nips it open, and takes a nectar reward; pollination of the flower is thwarted in this thievery. The exoskeleton of a tarantula was found under the scrub, an indication of a spider that has molted and grown a bit bigger. At the end of the trail, we were all rewarded with a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean. Good things come to those who venture outdoors.
3/14/2025
Read
National Geographic Sea Bird
Boca de la Soledad
Today we woke up in the northernmost part of Magdalena Bay. In the morning, we went whale watching at Boca de la Soledad, where we came across a mother and calf. Later, we went to Estero Chivo at high tide, where we observed a variety of birds. We were particularly interested in the numerous shorebirds, egrets, and herons. We raised anchor to continue our day. While transiting Hull Canal, we spotted bow-riding bottlenose dolphins. National Geographic Sea Bird set anchor in front of Magdalena Island. The wind was blowing, causing the dunes to come alive. After walking among dunes and desert plants, we arrived at the Pacific coast of Magdalena Island. We enjoyed walking along the beach and observing various shells, snails, and sand dollars. In the distance, we spotted the carcass of a beached gray whale and contemplated both life and death. These animals begin their lives on the coast of Mexico, and their cycle also ends here.