Our first morning in Baja California did not disappoint. We were greeted with a beautiful sunrise as we sailed through Bahia de Loreto National Park. Breakfast was wrapped up with whales sighted off the bow of National Geographic Venture. Two blue whales were in the waters around the ship near Isla San Jose. One of the blue whales made its way to the bow of the ship, providing everyone with close-up views of the biggest animal on earth. Stories and pictures about the close encounter were discussed over lunch in the dining room.

The afternoon started with a quick snorkel and beach time for everyone. Hikes through the cardon cactus forests near Encantada on Isla San Jose were a great way to stretch our legs.

Everyone made their way back to the ship as the sun set on Isla San Jose and on the first day of our voyage.