“Los Islotes – Isla San Francisco”
Our first day of the trip sailing through the Gulf of California. The morning greeted us close to Los Islotes, which translates to “Islets”. A good size group of early risers went for a sunrise cruise around the small island, enjoying the first sunrays of the day surrounded by California sea lions (Zalophus californianus). A colony of about three hundred sea lions live in this place, sharing their environment with hundreds of sea birds; blue-footed boobies, brown boobies, brown pelicans, herons, cormorants, and many others.
After wonderful tours, and perfect conditions the decision was made to go snorkeling with the sea lions, for sure a highlight of this trip and something to remember. Once snorkelers and divers were in the water, action built up, sea lions were in the water and a true ballet started. These “fin-footed” marine mammals propel themselves rapidly using their large fore-flippers, trailing the hind flippers behind. Specially the young pups like to interact with us, they are just too curious, friendly and unafraid of us. They will zoom past with only minimum effort and veer off very quickly.
After gathering everyone and saying our goodbyes we headed to Isla San Francisco, well known for its beautiful “half moon” bay, with a long white sandy beach. Perfect for our afternoon activities. Our colorful fleet of kayaks was laid out on the beach, and many of us decided to explore the shoreline and venture through the bay. When the sun was lower and the temperature was cooler nature hikes around the island, got started, finding along the way beautiful cacti and interesting desert plants.
As a great finale of the day, we had a barbecue dinner, where we enjoyed a delicious meal and the warmth of a bonfire, without forgetting the traditional “smores” that made us all very happy.
