Among the Great Whales!
BAJA CALIFORNIA
Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
January 22-29, 2011

Each winter, one of the world’s most exciting wildlife phenomena takes place in the bays and lagoons of Baja California’s Pacific coast — gray whales arrive by the thousands to breed, give birth and nurture their young. This year why not follow the whales on your own migration to the warm and sunny climate of Baja?

Join us January 22-29, 2011, aboard the intimate 62-guest expedition ship, National Geographic Sea Bird, on a voyage exploring both Baja California’s Pacific side and the Sea of Cortez. Linger in the sheltered lagoons observing gray whale mother and calf pairs. Sail around the tip of Baja, searching for fin, blue, sperm and humpback whales in the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez. Go ashore on uninhabited desert islands for Naturalist-guided walks among huge cardon cacti and sand dunes.

National Geographic Sea Bird is ideal for exploring this remarkable region and can easily maneuver to follow whales or a school of playful dolphins. She carries a fleet of Zodiac landing craft and sea kayaks for further exploration. Venture out in Zodiacs for an up-close, water-level perspective of the majestic grays — a rare privilege in the natural world. Paddle in our sturdy kayaks along remote island shorelines and make your own personal discoveries.

Although whales are the highlight of this journey, there’s much more. Awake to a desert-hued sunrise; look for the green flash on the horizon at sunset; savor a beach barbecue as stars move across the desert sky; snorkel among playful sea lions in the clear waters of an isolated cove; search for dozens of species of birds as you kayak along mangrove-fringed channels.

Join a dedicated staff of Naturalists, experts in their fields who know this region well and take pleasure in sharing their knowledge. The Captain and his crew keep a constant watch, surveying the seas for the next whale blow or giant fluke slapping the water’s surface. And an Undersea Specialist provides a fresh perspective on the fascinating world beneath the surface.

To make getting to and from the ship easier, we are offering complimentary round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Baja California. I hope you will join us on this exciting adventure where the desert meets the sea. To make your reservation, please call toll free at 800-252-4910 or return the attached reservation form.

Sincerely,

Margaret M. Betchart
President Betchart Expeditions, Inc.

From $4,990 per person (twin share) + air.

Brochure (Requires an Adobe pdf reader to view)