Our gorgeous day began near Loreto Bay National Park, where a lovely pod of dolphins were spotted bounding from the water while feeding and bow riding. The rays of sunshine highlighted the glistening bodies as they twisted and performed their rituals of habit that has long ago been coded into their DNA. After clicking photos of these amazing creatures and taking in their majesty, all on board the National Geographic Sea Bird retired to the lower decks for a bite to eat. We then gathered for introductions to the natural history staff, and learned basic information about the ship.
Continuing to cruise before lunch, we viewed stunning craggy, volcanic tuff, mountain silhouettes, completing the mystique of the marine landscape. We were dazzled by a humpback’s blows and surfacing. Shortly after, two fin whales emerged, staggering their shallow dives, providing quite a performance. One of the world’s largest marine mammals, the fin whale, is known for their long sleek body sporting a small identifying dorsal fin. The two fin whales displayed them proudly as they slithered along through the deep blue waters.
The afternoon activities commenced with a fabulous lunch leading into the briefings about our expedition landing craft, snorkeling, and kayaking. All participants were then sent up to the aft 100 level deck where staff passed out all necessary snorkel gear.
Arriving at the next location of Isla Santa Catalina and Bahia Elefante, we prepared ourselves to snorkel, hike, and cruise under the expert care of the crew and staff members. Many adventurous snorkelers jumped into the warm, clear waters in search of different, brilliantly colored fish swimming about the reef. Some noticed were yellow-tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish, and various parrotfish, among many more. As for the shore hikers, they sighted side-blotched lizards, a northern mockingbird, ash-throated flycatcher, a red-tailed hawk, and white-winged doves. The highpoint of the hike had to be the blooming giant barrel cactus and the large cardon cacti.
It was a complete day with many great experiences in our natural world.
