
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION
Copyright Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Michael S. Nolan and Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Sven-Olof Lindblad and Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Ralph Lee Hopkins and Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Ralph Lee Hopkins and Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Ralph Lee Hopkins and Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Michael S. Nolan and Lindblad Expeditions

Copyright Sven-Olof Lindblad and Lindblad Expeditions
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THE WHALES OF MAGDALENA BAY
WILD BAJA ESCAPE
ABOARD NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION
February 9-14, 2023
"Many times I have closed my eyes and taken myself back to this enchanting place since we arrived back home...thank you for your work and that of your staff in helping to make this trip a "trip of a lifetime" for my husband and myself." (Baja travelers 2018)
DEAR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS,
Magdalena Bay is well known as one of three lagoons on
Baja California’s Pacific coast that becomes home to over
20,000 California gray whales each winter. This extraordinary
inland water system is absolutely the best place to view this
remarkable gathering. Mid-January until early April is the
season for the whales, and our voyage there aboard the
National Geographic Sea Lion occurs at peak time for possible
encounters with active, curious calves and mothers.

Although never guaranteed, the phenomenon known as
“friendly whales” was first documented in 1972. These
encounters have increased over the years, becoming quite
common. Our visit is timed to provide us with the greatest
chance to observe and, if we are fortunate, interact with these
overwintering cetaceans.
Explorations of Magdalena Bay traditionally have been a part of
longer voyages around Baja California. But now, for the first time,
you have an opportunity to focus on this remarkable place, and
with a nimble and comfortable expedition ship as your base camp.
Magdalena Bay is so much more than the gray whales. There
are untouched beaches that go on for miles, full of shells and
sand dollars. There are sand dunes which are spectacular to
explore by day and, if you wish, by night when all kinds of critters
emerge. Navigate intricate, intimate mangrove channels by
Zodiac or kayak. And observe seabirds–large flocks of grebes,
pelicans, and frigate birds. As an added bonus for those shy
about being in open ocean, rest assured, you will always be in
protected waters.
Magdalena Bay is a jewel of contained natural wonder. I hope
this brochure gives you a good sense for what’s in store–very
close by but as exotic as it gets. To reserve your space, please
send in the reservation form or call 800-252-4910.
Sincerely,
Margaret M. Betchart
President, Betchart Expeditions, Inc.
For AAAS Travels, ACS and Sigma Xi Expeditions
www.betchartexpeditions.com
2021 Brochure (PDF)

2018 Group Photo

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