Today was the definition of “a rich full day” here in Baja. National Geographic Venture made anchorage early in the morning as guests readied themselves for an exciting start to the day, dawn snorkeling! As the sun rose, we entered the water and were greeted by sergeant majors, pufferfish, sea cucumbers, glowing Sapphirinas, and all their friends! This was a magical way to start the day, but we were only just beginning. After snorkeling, we came back to the ship for a delicious brunch. Who doesn’t love brunch? Early in the afternoon, we boarded Zodiacs and dispersed for hikes on this picturesque island filled with cactus, various lush green plants, and chirping birds hiding amongst the branches. One guest remarked, “It was like walking through the garden of Eden.” Returning with stories and fantastic pictures, it was time for a beach barbecue dinner. We watched diving pelicans and enjoyed delicious food with our feet in the sand and a warm fire nearby, perfect for smores. Returning to the ship during sunset offered yet more unique scenery as the waning light glowed against the desert cliffs. On this unique evening, we finished the day with a rousing game of trivia in the lounge. A truly “rich full day.”
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 24 Dec 2023
Isla Espiritu Santu Archipelago, Baja Sur, Mexico, 12/24/2023, National Geographic Venture
- Aboard the National Geographic Venture
- Baja California
Travis Patten, Naturalist
Travis Patten grew up in Minnesota on the shore of Lake Superior where he was brought up in a family culture of appreciation for all things water related. He learned an appreciation for nature from his grandfather and works to echo the lessons he was...
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What a fantastic way to kick off 2025 aboard National Geographic Venture. Today we awoke anchored at Puerto Los Gatos and as the sun rose, everyone knew we were in for a treat as we saw the light shining on the red rocks of the petrified sandstone cliffs ashore. We shuttled ashore where guests chose from a variety of activities including kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and hikes ranging from casual to strenuous. Back on board, we made a short move over lunch to Isla San Jose where we anchored the ship at a protected beach called Playa Encantada and went ashore to explore the arroyo and slot canyon. We beach combed the area, also investigating various bones from trigger fish, porcupine fish, moray eels and even feral goats. After the hikes, guests were amazed at the incredible service from our hotel team when they set up a beach BBQ, campfire, and even a s’more station!! To top it off, one of the guests, Elizabeth, put on a three-song show showcasing her incredible voice. Back on board, we ended the day with an evening of board games, stargazing with Sharyn and Tim, and were even treated to an amazing show of feeding fish off the stern. Wow, this trip is only 2/3 of the way through and we have had so many incredible experiences!!! Let’s see what tomorrow brings.