Isla San Francisco
Today was the first day of our trip on the National Geographic Sea Bird. We decided to search the waters south of Isla Santa Cruz just north of Isla San Jose in hopes of seeing some marine mammals. The morning was delightfully brisk and Baja delivered an amazing electric pink sunrise complimented by hovering clouds. The light warm wind, bottlenose dolphins and gentle rocking, accompanied the stretch class on the bridge deck.
Soon we found our ship surrounded by several hundred common dolphins! We admired their playful ways as we watched them feeding, leaping through the air, and riding our wake. Excitement and laughter lingered around the ship as our guests’ enthusiasm for marine mammals was apparent.
We had a fabulous deck BBQ for lunch and enjoyed sunshine, light wind, and wondered what the afternoon of this expedition would bring. After lunch, Pete Pederson gave a geology presentation of Baja California. Meanwhile we anchored the ship at Punta Colorada. Here we found a fine display of the beautifully sculpted geological wonders that Peter was teaching about. Red sandstone and white fossil layers sloped into nature’s works of art. We previously thought we would spend the afternoon here. However, the tide and landing conditions were less than ideal. So with the freedom that an expedition offers, we decided to venture to a more protected anchorage at Isla San Francisco. It was calm and the turquoise water was placid and gave us a peek at the ocean floor. For many it was their first time snorkeling, and screams of laughter and joy could be heard at the water’s surface. Those who were kayaking got close up views of pelicans plunge diving. Hikers learned of the nearby salt ponds, Baja’s cactus species, and devils claw plants. They noticed tracks across the sand dunes left by lizards, crabs, and great blue herons.
As the Zodiacs were loaded back on the ship, we enjoyed the sunset and stories of our epic day.
