After steaming all night from La Paz, we made the first landing of our voyage under stars and moonlight. Punta Colorada on the west side of Isla San Jose is a stunning backdrop for a sunrise, and as the sun rose in the west and the moon set in the east, we captured the daily phenomenon in pixels. This was also our first opportunity to snorkel in the rich, productive waters of the Gulf of California. A highlight of the morning was the moray eel found and filmed by our undersea specialist. For the afternoon we navigated out towards deep water and found about two dozen sperm whales scattered south of Isla Santa Catalina. Their angular blow, blocky heads, and raisin-y skin were distinctive features we could clearly see as they dove nearby the National Geographic Sea Bird. This was a magnificent start to our week of discovery in Baja California.
4/5/2023
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National Geographic Venture
Bahia Concepcion
Sunrises in Baja deserve their legendary status. The light paints the hillsides as it peeks over the horizon before erupting in a shower of oranges, yellows, and reds. In the morning light, seabirds swirled about the ship, silhouettes dancing in the breeze. Leaving a sizzling wake to our north, we greeted the day with anticipation and excitement. A delightful breakfast prepared us for a morning spent exploring Bahia Concepcion. This area was exactly what we needed, offering protection from howling winds and swells. We set out in expedition landing craft to spend time with the flora and fauna of the bay and the islets around it. Endemic yellow-footed gulls nested near the tideline with ospreys conspicuously perched on bluffs. Brown pelicans were a delight to watch as they plunged down into the inviting, blue-green waters. Locals in brightly painted cabanas rimmed the shoreline. It’s no surprise this is a destination for many. In the afternoon, we sheltered on National Geographic Venture . The north winds continued howling, so we enjoyed presentations on the cultural history of Mexican foods. Our crew performed delightful music in the afternoon, which set a great mood for the Mexican fiesta dinner that followed. It was a joyful day that also allowed for some well-deserved resting on the ship. With an idyllic sunset matched with a brilliant moon rise to wrap up the day, we were surrounded with reminders of how this corner of the world is teeming with vibrant beauty.