Ensenada Grande, Isla Partida
After having dealt with wind coming from all corners of the compass rose, it was a relief to have calm conditions this morning as the Sea Bird made her way into the beautiful bay known as Ensenada Grande. The dawn light on the sculpted pinkish volcanic cliffs made for a surreal setting for our mornings activities. The long hikers made it to the destination of the day which was an overlook a thousand or so feet above sea level. The group was able to catch a glimpse of the endemic black jackrabbit that resides on this island; a rare treat indeed. Other groups were able to enjoy parts of the arroyo at a more leisurely pace and learn about the botany, birdlife, and geology along the way. Many had views of another endemic species, the antelope ground squirrel, as the small rodents enjoyed their morning foraging.
After some cruise time, the good ship dropped anchor in a small protected bay called Puerto Ballena on Isla Espiritu Santo where kayaking was enjoyed as the sun set over the Baja Peninsula. Later, dinner was served ashore and followed by a bonfire, during which, singing could be heard, perhaps celebrating a great experience in the Sea of Cortez.
After having dealt with wind coming from all corners of the compass rose, it was a relief to have calm conditions this morning as the Sea Bird made her way into the beautiful bay known as Ensenada Grande. The dawn light on the sculpted pinkish volcanic cliffs made for a surreal setting for our mornings activities. The long hikers made it to the destination of the day which was an overlook a thousand or so feet above sea level. The group was able to catch a glimpse of the endemic black jackrabbit that resides on this island; a rare treat indeed. Other groups were able to enjoy parts of the arroyo at a more leisurely pace and learn about the botany, birdlife, and geology along the way. Many had views of another endemic species, the antelope ground squirrel, as the small rodents enjoyed their morning foraging.
After some cruise time, the good ship dropped anchor in a small protected bay called Puerto Ballena on Isla Espiritu Santo where kayaking was enjoyed as the sun set over the Baja Peninsula. Later, dinner was served ashore and followed by a bonfire, during which, singing could be heard, perhaps celebrating a great experience in the Sea of Cortez.
