Sea of Cortez Expedition: In Steinbeck’s Wake

Arrive into San José del Cabo, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy time at leisure in this charming coastal town, known for its historic character, gallery-lined streets and refined dining scene. In the evening, you may wish to explore the vibrant Gallery District, where art, live music and a relaxed atmosphere bring the town to life. Dinner is at your own arrangement. Overnight accommodation: Tropicana Los Cabos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (or similar) in twin or single room depending on cabin choice.

Meals:  Nil

Transfer to La Paz by coach, travelling across the Baja Peninsula to the shores of the Sea of Cortez. On arrival, enjoy time at leisure to explore this laid-back coastal city, where a scenic waterfront promenade, local boutiques and inviting cafés reflect its relaxed charm. In the early evening, board your expedition vessel and settle into your cabin. Meet your expedition team and fellow travellers before a welcome drink and your first dinner onboard as you prepare to set sail.

Meals:  B,L,D

Begin at Punta Marcial with a guided exploration of the intertidal zone — a site linked to Steinbeck’s original journey. Take to the water by kayak or paddleboard, join a snorkelling session, or explore by skiff, with time to settle into the rhythm of expedition life. Later, continue to Bahía Agua Verde. Head ashore for a hike, swim or paddle, or visit a local ranchero family for a glimpse of life in this remote region, including a traditional burro ride into the surrounding hills.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning is dedicated to wildlife, cruising the nutrient-rich waters between Isla Catalina and Santa Rosalía — a known feeding ground for blue and fin whales. Keep watch as your guides scan for movement across the open sea. By afternoon, your captain selects the best landing based on conditions, with options including Isla San Marcos, Isla Tortuga or more remote northern anchorages. Explore by zodiac, snorkel in sheltered bays or paddle along the coastline.

Meals:  B,L,D

Discover a rarely visited stretch of the Baja Peninsula, where desert landscapes meet clear, wildlife-rich waters. Spend the day snorkelling, walking along quiet beaches or heading inland on guided hikes. For those keen to venture further, longer kayak outings may be available. Near Roca El Rasito, look for seabirds and enjoy rewarding snorkelling in deeper water. Throughout the day, your guides share stories of Steinbeck’s time in the region.

Meals:  B,L,D

Explore Bahía de los Ángeles — often described as a marine oasis — or the remote shores of Isla Smith. Choose between coastal hikes, skiff cruising or time on the water, with wide views across this expansive, island-dotted seascape. Wildlife sightings are a highlight here, from dolphins and rays to the rare chance of spotting a leatherback turtle. The area also features locations referenced in Steinbeck’s writings, adding context to your journey.

Meals:  B,L,D

Reach the northern extent of your voyage at Puerto Refugio, a secluded anchorage known to few beyond local mariners. The day is yours to explore — paddle along the coastline, snorkel in calm waters, hike inland or simply wander the shoreline. If conditions allow, the day may end with a relaxed beach campfire before returning to the vessel for dinner.

Meals:  B,L,D

Step ashore on Isla San Esteban for a guided hike through its rugged arroyo, home to desert species including pinto chuckwallas. Along the shoreline, observe sea lion colonies and an array of seabirds. In the afternoon, transit the Canal de Salsipuedes — a deep-water passage known as “the Trench.” This dramatic stretch is one of the best places in the Sea of Cortez to search for sperm whales feeding on Humboldt squid.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today remains flexible, allowing your captain and expedition team to follow wildlife activity and conditions. Continue the search for blue, fin, sperm, humpback and pilot whales, or anchor at Punta San Basilio. Here, a calm bay invites exploration, with options to hike, paddle or snorkel along this quiet stretch of coastline.

Meals:  B,L,D

Arrive at Isla San José and explore its sheltered lagoon system by kayak, paddling through winding mangrove channels where birdlife is abundant and the landscape feels calm and remote. These shallow, protected waters offer a unique contrast to the open coastline. Later, come ashore near Cayo Amortajada for time to beachcomb and explore at a relaxed pace, with opportunities to take in the island’s desert terrain and clear, tranquil waters.

Meals:  B,L,D

Spend your final full day exploring the protected waters of the Espíritu Santo Biosphere Reserve. Choose from snorkelling, kayaking or guided walks, or enjoy time on the beach in this pristine setting. In the evening, come together for the Captain’s Dinner and a slideshow of voyage highlights — a fitting close to your expedition.

Meals:  B,L,D

Return to port in La Paz and disembark after breakfast, with a transfer back to Los Cabos for onward travel. NB* Itineraries are a guideline and are subject to weather conditions, tides and wildlife opportunities. Your expedition leader and captain will keep you informed during the voyage.

Meals:  B