Isla San Marcos
As the sun came up this morning, we sailed the productive waters in the vicinity of the town of Santa Rosalia. Squid fisheries are the primary economic industries of this town. In fact, we spent all day in the most important area for squid fishing in Mexico. These waters are not only preferred by fishermen, but also by marine mammals who benefit from this rich ecosystem.
We sailed close to the northern end of Isla San Marcos where we spotted at least a couple fin whales. The tall columnar blows of these giants were visible from a considerable distance. The fin whales were more interested in feeding under the surface and soon disappeared from our sight. Shortly after, a group of long-beaked common dolphins joined the Sea Voyager, escorting us as they rode the bow wave and the ship’s wake.
The day’s highlight for most of us was a group of short-finned pilot whales that appeared as we approached our landing. These odd-looking, black and gray cetaceans feed mainly on the plentiful squid stocks. The big males showed their broad, hooked dorsal fins and some of the females were followed by their young. We had great looks at these amazing creatures right before we landed for our afternoon activities.
Isla San Marcos offers great kayaking and snorkeling opportunities. The good weather conditions plus the excellent visibility in the water made this day special. Some of us explored the desert in search of interesting plants and birds. Snorkelers explored the submarine world and encountered a number of fascinating fish and invertebrates, while kayakers traveled along the shoreline in a peaceful and relaxing way.
To end this beautiful day, the galley prepared a very special dinner ashore. The sun went down as we experienced the beauty and simplicity of an evening on the beach, surrounded by nature and the subtle light of our bonfire. As a farewell to an outstanding day, the moon rose from behind the mountains, majestic, bright and orange like a twilight sun.
As the sun came up this morning, we sailed the productive waters in the vicinity of the town of Santa Rosalia. Squid fisheries are the primary economic industries of this town. In fact, we spent all day in the most important area for squid fishing in Mexico. These waters are not only preferred by fishermen, but also by marine mammals who benefit from this rich ecosystem.
We sailed close to the northern end of Isla San Marcos where we spotted at least a couple fin whales. The tall columnar blows of these giants were visible from a considerable distance. The fin whales were more interested in feeding under the surface and soon disappeared from our sight. Shortly after, a group of long-beaked common dolphins joined the Sea Voyager, escorting us as they rode the bow wave and the ship’s wake.
The day’s highlight for most of us was a group of short-finned pilot whales that appeared as we approached our landing. These odd-looking, black and gray cetaceans feed mainly on the plentiful squid stocks. The big males showed their broad, hooked dorsal fins and some of the females were followed by their young. We had great looks at these amazing creatures right before we landed for our afternoon activities.
Isla San Marcos offers great kayaking and snorkeling opportunities. The good weather conditions plus the excellent visibility in the water made this day special. Some of us explored the desert in search of interesting plants and birds. Snorkelers explored the submarine world and encountered a number of fascinating fish and invertebrates, while kayakers traveled along the shoreline in a peaceful and relaxing way.
To end this beautiful day, the galley prepared a very special dinner ashore. The sun went down as we experienced the beauty and simplicity of an evening on the beach, surrounded by nature and the subtle light of our bonfire. As a farewell to an outstanding day, the moon rose from behind the mountains, majestic, bright and orange like a twilight sun.
