Mexico's Sea of Cortés & Copper Canyon: Whales & Wildlife

(aboard the 138 passenger Spirit of Yorktown)

* 2008 Cruises: Save $125 per person if you book by May 23, 2008. Save an additional $50 per person if you also pay in full by the same date.

* 2009 Cruises: Save $250 per person if you book by June 27, 2008. Save an additional $100 per person if you also pay in full by the same date.

* Shipboard Credit of $50 per person!

* 2008 Cruise & Land Cost from $4,299 per person (excludes the above mentioned discounts/credit)
* 12 Days / 11 nights
* Cabo San Lucas to Chihuahua
* Remaining 2008 Departures: December 20, 27.

* 2009 Cruise & Land Cost from $4,349 per person (excludes the above mentioned discounts/credit)

* 2009 Departures: Jan: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. Feb: 7,14, 21, 28. Mar 1. Dec: 19, 26.

TRIP BACKGROUND

* Whale watch and possibly visit the famous gray whale nurseries of 
   Baja.
* Join playful sea lions in their games and antics.
* Step back in time as you tour Loreto's 17th century mission.
* Go snorkeling among colorful tropical fish.

Each of our breathtaking destinations in the Sea of Cortés has an exceptional wonder all its own. Isolated coves, pristine waters. Playful sea lions, dolphins and whales. Remote islands, exclusive wildlife and historic missions. Desert beauty and remarkable sunsets. Let the beautiful small Spirit of Yorktown take you away to the world you've dreamed on this Whales & Wildlife cruise on the Sea of Cortés!

Over 140 million years ago the Baja peninsula began to move slowly away from the mainland, forming the Sea of Cortés - the planet's newest sea. In this region more than 900 species of fish, one-third of the world's species of whales and dolphins, hundreds of varieties of birds and thousands of species of marine animals flourish. Many of them found only here. And many of them as curious to learn about you as you are to learn about them.

Stand on the deck as hundreds of dolphins welcome us into their midst. Swim with playful sea lions in their home waters. Kayak over gently flapping butterfly rays and schools of sergeant majors. And go ashore on islands that are home to both plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.

The turquoise waters here are so impossibly brilliant and crystal clear that floating on the surface can be disorienting, like walking into space with nothing but air below you. Nearby shores are rimmed with white-sand beaches and cacti. And idyllic towns still echo with mission bells of a bygone era.

To explore this extraordinary place is to know firsthand how small the human presence on earth truly is.

ITINERARY
(Note: For detailed descriptions of the destinations, please refer to the Port & Places section at the bottom of this page.)

DAY 1 - CRUISE CABO SAN LUCAS TO LA PAZ
    Transfer from Los Cabos Airport to Cruise West¹s hospitality area at Cabo¹s inner harbor. Board your ship to begin your  Sea of Cortés cruise at sunset, past El Arco and finisterra (land's end), to enjoy evening scenery and cruising. D

DAY 2 - ISLA ESPIRITÚ SANTO
    This 23,383-acre island near La Paz is centered in one of the most biologically diverse marine areas in the world and is a major environmental success story. Several plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world, including the blacktailed jack rabbit and antelope squirrel. Drop anchor at Espiritú Santo¹s Bahía Bonanza for a day ashore. Take a guided walk among the tangle of exotic cacti, or swim, snorkel, and kayak the crystal clear sea here that supports 900 species of fish. No need to bring snorkel gear or wetsuits as gear will be provided to you. BLD

DAY 3 - WHALE WATCHING
    This whole day is spent pursuing up-close viewing of marine life. The Sea of Cortés is home to huge schools of common and bottle-nosed dolphins, as well as humpback, minke, fin, and blue whales. From early February to mid-March, hundreds of gray whales congregate in the shallow lagoons of Baja's Pacific shore. When our local contacts tell us the whales are present*, we'll cross the peninsula by motorcoach to Puerto Adolfo Lopez Mateos. There board an outboard-equipped panga to observe the grays, who have migrated some 6,000 miles from Alaska's Bering Sea to mate, give birth, and rear their young. When whales are not present due to varied migration patterns,, we will search for whales and other marine life in the Sea of Cortés.

    * In December and January the weather and whale sightings can be unpredictable. Our knowledgeable crew knows where the action is! As opportunities present themselves we may alter our route to offer you the best possible experience.    BLD

DAY 4 - ISLAND EXPLORATION
    Guided by the weather and tides, visit one of the beautiful and special islands of the Sea of Cortés. Exploration will possibly include nature walks, kayaking, and snorkeling. BLD

DAY 5 - LORETO
    Founded in 1697, Loreto¹s Nuesta Señora de Loreto Mission was the original "mother" church from which all the other California missions were founded, eventually leading as far north as Sonoma, California. A museum adjacent to the mission displays artifacts and paintings from Baja¹s colonial era. Stroll the streets and plazas of this picturesque seaside village, capped by a reception with musical entertainment at the mission. BLD

DAY 6 - LOS ISLOTES & ISLA PARTIDA
    Los Islotes is a steep seamount punctured by sea caves. Blue-footed boobies reside on the cliffs, and a large colony of California sea lions haul out on the rocks below. Weather and sea conditions permitting, swim and snorkel as the female sea lions and their curious young pups float about you in the sea. Continue to Isla Partida nearby, to explore the island¹s rugged canyons, kayak up-close to rock-walled headlands, or just relax on the beach.  In the sheltered cove of Ensenada Grande, the silky, sandy bottom shelves out very gradually for hundreds of feet, as gentle waves lap onto the mangrove-backed beach. BLD

DAY 7 - LA PAZ
    Today, your ship ties up at the central waterfront of Baja California Sur's capital and largest city, which was founded in the 1530s. Explore the shops, gelaterías, and the miles-long waterfront malecón or promenade. A host of options will be available and you will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive fiesta, complete with Mexican music, dancers, and piñatas. Disembark in La Paz and overnight at your included La Paz hotel. BLD

DAY 8 - LA PAZ TO EL FUERTE TRANSFER
    Transfer to the airport for your included flight to Los Mochis. On your way to El Fuerte stop at the Maya Indian village of Tehueco for a traditional dance performance. Travel to the Posada del Hidalgo in El Fuerte. Founded in 1564, El Fuerte for many years was a frontier outpost where expeditions to California and New Mexico began.

    You will visit the colonial-era City Hall, the town¹s oldest church, and the Main Plaza on a leisurely walking tour. BLD

DAY 9 - COPPER CANYON (SIERRA TARAHUMARA) BY RAIL
    Transfer to the Chihuahua-al-Pacifico Railroad to begin the ascent into the Sierra Madres, traveling east through farmland and foothills. The Sierra Tarahumara is a maze of 200 gorges combining to form six interconnecting canyons. You will rise over 8,000 feet, crossing deep ravines and passing through more than 68 tunnels.

    Upon arrival at Divisadero, transfer to your hotel, situated near the rim of the Urique Canyon.     BLD

DAY 10 - COPPER CANYON
    After breakfast travel by motorcoach to Cusarare to visit the Jesuit Mission and the new museum featuring recently restored 16th, 17th, and 18th century paintings collected by the Jesuit missionaries.

    While there, stop next door at the Tarahumara boarding school for a chance to interact with the children. After lunch in Creel, you will have the opportunity to wander around the small rustic town and enjoy the unique rock formations that surround the area. Overnight at your rim hotel.     BLD

DAY 11 - MOTORCOACH TO CHIHUAHUA
    Descend from the mountains by motorcoach on your way to Chihuahua, the capital city of the State of Chihuahua. Along the way, stop for lunch. Continue on to Chihuahua and visit the Museum of the Revolution, formerly the home of Chihuahua¹s most famous citizen, Pancho Villa. Don¹t miss the cathedral the organ was brought from Germany with sculptures originating from Italy. Tonight, celebrate your explorations with a farewell dinner. BLD

DAY 12 - TRANSFER TO THE CHIHUAHUA AIRPORT FOR YOUR TRIP HOME.    B

(Code: B-Breakfast; L-Lunch; D-Dinner)

CRUISE DATES & PRICES

* 2008 Cruises: Save $125 per person if you book by May 23, 2008. Save an additional $50 per person if you also pay in full by the same date.

* 2009 Cruises: Save $250 per person if you book by June 27, 2008. Save an additional $100 per person if you also pay in full by the same date.

* Shipboard Credit of $50 per person!

* 2008 Cruise & Land Cost from $4,299 per person (excludes the above mentioned discounts/credit)
* 12 Days / 11 nights
* Cabo San Lucas to Chihuahua

* 2009 Departures: Jan: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. Feb: 7,14, 21, 28. Mar 1. Dec: 19, 26.

The costs do not reflect the above mentioned discounts and/or credits. The cost of your cruise does include $194 per person which covers taxes/port charges/fees and on board services.  On board gratuities are neither required nor expected.  Prices are per person, double-occupancy, U.S. dollars.  Single/Triple rates available upon request where applicable.  Airfare extra.

Note: For most of the destinations in this cruise, small motorized excursion craft are the only way to get ashore.  Travelers should have confident balance and mobility to participate.   The order of stops and associated activities on this itinerary are subject to change due to weather conditions and safety concerns.

SPIRIT OF YORKTOWN DECK PLAN

SHIP INFORMATION

Spirit of Yorktown

Measuring 257 feet long, 43 feet wide, and with a draft of just eight feet, the Spirit of Yorktown offers unique itineraries. Dine in casual, intimate, open-seating while never missing the scenery through the large picture windows.

    * 138 guests
    * 257 feet in length
    * All cabins feature private facilities
    * American crew
    * Bed sizes vary from standard
    * Cabin proportions as illustrated are approximate
    * Cruising speed of 10 knots
    * Registered in the United States
    * Satellite phone

PORTS & PLACES

Cabo San Lucas.

    Cabo San Lucas is located at the southernmost tip of Baja California, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and inviting soft-sand beaches. Its dramatic, picturesque landscape includes arched rock caves (Los Arcos), which accentuate the southernmost point of land called Finisterra or Land’s End. Here is a true end of the road for western North America – and the beginning of an incredible journey of discovery!

    The aboriginal people in this region were the Pericus, who led a nomadic lifestyle. By the mid to late 1500's, Spanish conquistadors and pirates invaded the peninsula. Land’s End was the perfect lookout point, as the likes of Sir Francis Drake and other pirates would search for and attack Spanish galleons returning with treasures from Manila.

    Cabo San Lucas is now a popular destination getaway for those interested in fun, relaxation, boating, world-class golfing, sport-fishing, and diving. A unique aspect of advanced diving includes observing the “sand falls,” created by underground currents that carry great amounts of sand, which fall or cascade into underwater canyons.

Baja California Sur
   
    The southern state of the Baja Peninsula is a unique world of contrasts and incredible diversity, where the desert meets the sea. The topography includes deserts and bays, mangroves and lagoons, jagged mountain peaks, and remote islands.

    Only recently “discovered” and considered to be the Last Frontier of Mexico, the state of Baja California Sur was created in 1974 after the Transpeninsular Highway was built to provide access along the entire length of the peninsula from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas. The state capital and largest city by far is the port of La Paz. With its unique offerings of desert, sea, and sunshine, Baja California Sur has become a favorite tourist destination for mainland Mexicans, Americans, and Canadians. Visitors are drawn to Baja for the world-class diving, sport fishing, golfing, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and sailing.

    The southern cape region of this state, the Los Cabos corridor, offers an array of exclusive resorts. Many other smaller, remote communities retain a more traditional, tranquil atmosphere, while still offering all the necessary amenities. All stops offer a rich cultural history, traditional charm, and easy access to the natural wonders of the region.

Baja Peninsula

    The peninsula of Baja California consists of two states of Mexico that basically split the peninsula in half. The northern state on the peninsula is Baja California Norte (North); the southern state of the Baja Peninsula is Baja California Sur (South). The entire Baja Peninsula is approximately 800 miles long with an average width of 70 miles. The widest part of the peninsula is Punta Eugenia at 144 miles; the narrowest point of the peninsula is the La Paz region at 26 miles across. The combined east and west shoreline of the peninsula is approximately 1,980 miles. If you were to stretch out this shoreline, it would run from Juneau, Alaska, to Tijuana, Mexico.

    The northern part of the peninsula offers a Mediterranean climate with rain in the winter. The southern part of the peninsula is more tropical, with precipitation in the summer. The local flora includes Sonoran Desert vegetation, sand dunes, coastal wetlands, tropical thorn forests, and tropical forests. Over 400 species of birds live in, breed, or pass through Baja and the Sea of Cortés.

Isla Coronado - Hike volcanic Isla Coronado, where sea turtles nest.

    This island most likely emerged from a volcanic cone thousands of years ago. It is approximately six miles north of the town of Loreto. A 1,500-foot extinct volcano lies at the northern end of the island. Large volcanic boulders cover the craggy hills everywhere except the flatter southeastern portion of the island, where sea turtles visit the sand dunes to lay their eggs during various seasons.

Isla Danzante - Look for great whales off Isla Danzante.

    Isla Danzante is a small island south of Isla del Carmen. It is one of the five islands of the Loreto National Marine Reserve, and is a natural bird refuge. The underwater terrain around Isla Danzante is steeply stair-stepped, quickly dropping over 100 feet into deep canyons and crevices lined with soft and hard corals. Many great whales can be spotted in this area, including blue, fin, Brydes, and humpback whales.    

Isla Del Carmen - Follow a burro trail to the top of Isla del Carmen.

    Approximately 18 miles long, Isla del Carmen is one of the largest islands in the Sea of Cortés. It once was home to one of the largest salt works in this part of the world. Discovered during the Spanish missionary era, the first rights to the salt mine were granted to Father Salvatierra at the beginning of the 18th century. Salt production has since ceased, leaving behind a ghost town.

    Today, Isla del Carmen is part of the Loreto Marine Reserve ecological sanctuary, offering excellent fishing, snorkeling, and whale watching. Bighorn sheep have also been reintroduced to this island. An old burro trail starts at the abandoned pier and leads up to the salt-filled crater of a 1,600-foot volcano. There are many great diving sites along its shoreline. A 120-foot fishing boat wreck in Bahía Salina is now home to a variety of fish.     

Isla Espiritu Santo

    Isla Espiritu Santo means Island of the Spirit of the Saint. At one time, Isla Espiritu Santo and its neighbor, Isla Partida, were a single land mass, but a volcanic crater that formed between them has subsided and opened to the sea, forming a channel that now separates them. Vegetation includes a variety of annuals, perennials, halphytes, elephant trees, wild figs, and members of the cactus family such as cardóns, pitahaya dulce, and prickly pear. The black jackrabbit is an endemic animal found only on these two islands. A favorite anchorage on the southeast side of the island at Bonanza Bay offers remote, exclusive, and pristine opportunities to kayak, hike, go for a nature walk, go birding, or snorkel.

Isla Partida

    Isla Partida is positioned due north of Espiritu Santo. Isla Partida means Departed Island. At one time, both islands were one land mass but a volcanic crater that formed between them has subsided and opened to the sea, forming a channel that now separates them. Vegetation includes a variety of annuals, perennials, halphytes, elephant trees, wild figs, and members of the cactus family such as cardóns, pitahaya dulce, and prickly pear. The black jackrabbit is an endemic animal found only on these two islands. A favorite anchorage on the southeast side of the island at Bonanza Bay offers remote, exclusive and pristine opportunities to kayak, hike, go for a nature walk, go birding, or snorkel.    

Isla San Jose - Look for coyote and deer near the springs

    Located approximately 50 miles north of La Paz, this large and beautiful island has a peak elevation of 700 meters or 2,300 feet. The island is primarily comprised of volcanic rock and precipitous cliffs. In the early days, sailors would store water, meat, and salt here for later retrieval. This island also contains fresh water springs that support populations of deer, coyote, and ringtail.

La Paz, Baja Sur - Absorb local history with a visit to the museums or serpentarium in La Paz.

    La Paz means “peace” in Spanish. The capital of Baja California Sur lies along a beautiful bay on the Sea of Cortés coast of the Baja peninsula. This bustling community of over 180,000 residents is by far the largest community in Baja California Sur. La Paz is the political and commercial center for a huge region of the peninsula, and its Old World charm attracts legions of Mexican tourists from the mainland. The La Paz area is bordered by spectacular beaches and pristine islands to the north and east, and desert to the south and west. This is a world-class region for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and other ecotourism activities. The tiled boardwalk/pier is dotted with potted palms and benches, and the malecón or waterfront promenade offers a three-mile scenic stroll or jog along the beach. This is a perfect place to observe the famous brilliant crimson sunsets along the Port of Dreams.

    Hernan Cortés, the first non-native to arrive here, was drawn to the region by tales of possible great wealth He named this area the Bay of Santa Cruz in 1535. Despite sending several exploratory expeditions over the years, interest remained minimal in the region due to the great difficulty of taming such a harsh environment.

    Early colonization began in 1720, when the Jesuits built the Mission of Nuestra Senora del Pilar de La Paz. La Paz received its name from Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino, who established a base camp here for exploration of the peninsula. In 1829, La Paz became Baja’s capital when the first settlement of Loreto was devastated by a hurricane. La Paz was also a center for the pearling industry until the 1940's when a mystery disease and over-harvesting decimated the oyster population.

    Besides the wonderful recreational and ecotourism opportunities, La Paz offers a glimpse into its past with a visit to the stunning Cathedral of Nuestra Senora of La Paz, with origins in the 18th century. In the heart of the city is the picturesque main square, Velasco Garden, surrounded by historic buildings.The Library of the Californias is housed in the former Government Palace, with a room dedicated to the history of Baja California Sur. Another room offers a pictorial history of the peninsula. The Anthropological Museum offers exhibits of archeological artifacts, fossils, and historical maps and documents.

    The La Paz Serpentarium houses reptiles such as snakes, iguanas, lizards, and other species found on the peninsula and surrounding islands. The institution aims to promote conservation of these important, though sometimes unpopular, creatures. Unique arts and crafts shops featuring weaving and pottery are found throughout the city. The local university specializes in marine biology, botany, and whale research.

Loreto
    Located on the Sea of Cortés coast of the Baja peninsula, Loreto is the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement on the Baja peninsula. Many unsuccessful attempts to settle on the peninsula were made over a period of 162 years. Finally, Jesuit Padre Juan Maria Salvatierra founded the first mission in all the Californias at Loreto in 1697. This mission became a base for California exploration and the expansion of the mission system throughout the peninsula and as far north as Sonoma in Northern California.

    Loreto prospered until a hurricane devastated the community in 1829. Although the mission church survived, the damage was so extensive, and the fear of future hurricanes so high, that the capital was moved from Loreto to La Paz in 1830. The town was deserted until the mid-1800's when many English immigrants resettled the area. After World War II, Loreto became a small commercial and sport-fishing center. The current population is approximately 10,000. Loreto is serviced by a small airport with direct flights from Los Angeles. A few miles south, the seaside Nopolo resort offers a wonderful tennis center and 18-hole golf course.

    Locals and visitors alike enjoy this small, friendly, picturesque community located on the edge of the protected Loreto National Marine Park. This reserve was created to protect the rich biodiversity of this spectacular area. The reserve includes five deserted islands to the east and the shoreline west of the islands. The majestic Sierra de la Giganta mountain range dominates Loreto’s western view.

    In the springtime, Loreto's offshore waters offer world-class yellowtail fishing. In the summer, sport fishermen angle for marlin, dorado, and sailfish.

    Manicured fig trees shade the cobblestone streets, which meander throughout the colonial architecture. The pace in town is friendly and leisurely, with arts and crafts shops lining the streets. The Mission Museum offers a glimpse into Baja’s past with exhibits of archeological artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and fossils. The mission contains five oil paintings, the Stations of the Cross, bell, and crucifix from the 18th century.

    Loreto National Marine Park consists of 500,000 acres, including the islands of Coronado, del Carmen, Danzante, Monserrate, and Santa Catalina, and the coastal region west of the islands.

Sea Of Cortés - Look for whales, porpoise and dolphins in the Sea of Cortés.

    The Sea of Cortés, also known as the Gulf of California, is the newest sea on our planet. It separates mainland Mexico from the Baja Peninsula, and contains a stunning diversity of marine life. Powerful tidal action, strong ocean currents, fluctuating water temperatures, and a nutrient-rich estuarine mix of fresh water from the Colorado River contribute to heavy plankton blooms in the Sea of Cortés which are unequalled in seas of similar size. Jacques Cousteau once proclaimed the abundant biodiversity of the Sea of Cortés as the “Aquarium of the World.” The east and west coasts of the peninsula are home to over 800 species of fish. Unusual whale sharks and manta rays ply the plankton-rich waters, while hundreds of intertidal creatures live along the zone that bridges the desert and sea. Over 20 species of cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoise) have been identified in the Sea of Cortés. From giant blue whales to the near-extinct vaquita, the smallest porpoise known to man, sightings bring joy to everyone who sees them.