Wild Baja California Escape: The Whales of Magdalena Bay
Enjoy several days in the company of majestic gray whales in Baja California’s Magdalena Bay, one of the best places in the world to encounter gray whale mothers and their curious calves. On this compact trip, we explore the bay aboard our nimble expedition ship, and set out in local pangas for up-close encounters. Kayak mangrove forests and hike desert islands, look for pelicans and ospreys, and soak up the sun on pristine beaches.
Highlights
Search for gray whale mothers and their calves aboard Zodiacs and local pangas, delighting in up-close encounters
Kayak and paddleboard stunning mangroves, or beachcomb along endless beaches
Explore diverse landscapes, and ride a fat-tire bike along desert island terrain
Scan the skies for bird species, from diving pelicans to magnificent frigatebirds
Learn about desert ecosystems, seabird migrations, and whale behavior from our experienced naturalists
With National Geographic Global Explorers, our exclusive family program, kids and teens will learn about this vibrant part of the world—from migrating gray whales to desert plant species
From
$3,677
/ per person
Does not include flights
$500 AIR CREDIT
View our brochure for more details
From
$3,677
/ per person
View our brochure for more details
From
$3,677
/ per person
$500 AIR CREDIT
View our brochure for more details
Dates & Rates
Ships
National Geographic Sea Lion
Guests
62
Cabins
31
A U.S.-flagged vessel, she and her sister National Geographic Sea Bird discover domestic waters
Before they built the National Geographic Venture and National Geographic Quest, U.S. shipbuilder Nichols Brothers built the twin ships National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird. Nimble, reliable, and intimately scaled, they both continue to sail the waters of the west coast of North America and Central America.
National Geographic Sea Lion accommodates just 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. Her inviting public spaces foster a sense of shipboard life where everyone is integral to the adventure, engendering a rewarding sense of community and esprit de corps. National Geographic writer Andrew Evans called National Geographic Sea Lion the “closest thing to Cousteau’s Calypso” he’s ever had the pleasure to be on.
National Geographic Sea Bird
Guests
62
Cabins
31
American-flagged, she and her sister, National Geographic Sea Lion, are ideal for discovering domestic waters
Before they built the National Geographic Venture and National Geographic Quest, U.S. shipbuilder Nichols Brothers built the twin ships National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion. Nimble, reliable and intimately scaled, they both continue to sail the waters of the west coast of North America and Central America.
With a shallow draft and small size, she can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships. She can venture into fast-moving channels where whales come to feed, transit a series of locks in the Pacific Northwest, nose up to waterfalls in secluded coves, and sail into protected anchorages in small bays perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
Book now and join us on an unforgettable journey
Make a reservation
Talk to an Expedition Specialist
Expedition Extensions
Two-Night Blue and Fin Whale Loreto Extension
3 Days
From
$1,280
/ per person
Expedition Team
Over 50+ years of exploring, Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran staff and the quality companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Some join a few expeditions each year to explore the same sites, some of them spending some time in the field away from rigorous academic work. And others lead expeditions all around the world—with many guests saying, “Where you’re going, we’re going,” and returning time after time to travel with them. Browse our team directory to discover the full cast of expedition staff.
Special Offers
$500 AIR CREDIT
WAIVE SOLO PREMIUM
4TH GUEST TRAVELS FREE
2025: BRING A FRIEND
2025: BOOK 2 OR MORE VOYAGES AND SAVE 10%
BOOK EARLY TO LOCK IN YOUR 2025 RATE
EXTEND YOUR STAY: 1 NIGHT COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL STAY OR 50% OFF BLUE WHALE EXTENSION
Take advantage of our additional offers
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
BRINGING THE KIDS
COMBINING OFFERS
Combine now and save!
View our brochure for more details