Central America

Baja and the Sea of Cortez: In Search of the Great Whales – with Smithsonian Journeys

11 Days aboard Le Bellot. From AUD $15,270pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This 11-day voyage aboard Le Bellot to the peninsula of Baja California and the Sea of Cortez is an extraordinary opportunity to explore a part of the world that Jacques Cousteau famously called “the world's aquarium.” Few places on earth can rival the abundance and variety of marine life to be found on this itinerary: playful sea lions, dolphins, sea turtles, dozens of different species of fish, and above all, whales. Nor is the rich profusion of species confined to the sea. The ibis, cormorants, and great blue herons that inhabit the dense mangroves of the peninsula's Pacific Coast, as well as the pelicans, gulls, and boobies living in the Sea of Cortez—all these, and more, make for a birder’s paradise.

Itinerary Highlights

  • A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion or activity in each port of call.
  • Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.
  • Extraordinary whale watching in their breeding habitats.
  • The UNESCO World Heritage site of Loreto Bay.
  • A day of sun and swimming on world-famous Balandra Beach.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Cabo San Lucas
  • Day 2: At sea
  • Day 3: Guerrero Negro
  • Day 4: At sea
  • Day 5: Magdalena Bay
  • Day 6: Cabo Pulmo National Park
  • Day 7 and 8: Loreto Bay National Park - Coronado Island
  • Day 9: Los Islotes
  • Day 10: La Paz (Pichilingue)
  • Day 11: Cabo San Lucas

Ship Information

For more information on the Le Bellot please view the ship page.

View Le Bellot

Travelling with Eclipse

Peace of Mind
  • Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
  • 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
  • We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
  • No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
  • We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Cabo San Lucas

Embarkation 2/10/2027 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 2/10/2027 at 7:00 PM

A seaside resort located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean come together, Cabo San Lucas has much to offer. Famous for its rock formation emerging from the ocean and its magnificent white sand beaches, the small town also has lively nightlife. Surrounded by charming landscapes, between arid deserts dotted with cacti and spectacular rocky pinnacles, this very popular destination will certainly win you over.

Dinner included.

Day 2: At sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3: Guerrero Negro

Surrounded by dunes and salt pans, Guerrero Negro offers an unparalleled natural spectacle between the aridity of the desert and the rich marine life. Its bay is a huge expanse of calm and crystal-clear water, providing sanctuary for the grey whales that come here to breed each winter, preserving their ancient migratory cycle, the longest of all mammals. And with good reason, as the survival of the whale calves is always guaranteed by the large quantities of salt that come from Mexico’s largest salt mine and make the density of the water higher, thus enabling the new born calves to rise to the surface.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: At sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: Magdalena Bay

Magdalena Bay, a wild setting on the western coast of Baja California Sur, inspires contemplation. Famous for its protected bay and its exceptional ecosystem, it will fully immerse you in nature, with its landscapes of rare beauty and incomparable tranquillity. Its peaceful waters welcome grey whales and schools of bottlenose dolphins, while the islands of sand sheltered by the bay are home to thousands of birds: cormorants and large pelicans. Finally, you will be captivated by the majestic sand dunes on Magdalena Island. A timeless moment...

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6: Cabo Pulmo National Park

Cabo Pulmo National Park, at the southeastern point of Baja California, is home to one of North America’s oldest coral reefs. This exceptional ecosystem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a real paradise for diving and snorkelling fans. Its turquoise waters, teeming with marine life, from shoals of trevallies and colourful fish to majestic devil rays, earned this place the recognition of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, who described it as “the world’s most beautiful aquarium” in 1970. It is here that the first Baja California community initiated the protection of its area by creating a national marine park. With the help of scientists and local NGOs, these people have abandoned fishing, which was once their main activity, to embrace eco-tourism and transform the region into a model of marine conservation.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7 and 8: Loreto Bay National Park - Coronado Island

Bahía de Loreto National Park, a jewel of the Sea of Cortez, is a sanctuary where the horizon dances with the turquoise waters. Its volcanic islands rise up, mysterious, like guardians of a rare biodiversity. Here, bottlenose dolphins play, blue whales glide, and seabirds, such as large pelicans, draw arabesques in the sky.

Seated on the eastern coast of Baja California Sur, the secluded stopover of Loreto offers a blend of culture and spectacular nature. Quiet little streets are edged by colonial buildings such as the Mission de Notre-Dame de Loreto, which bears witness to the townメs status as an 18th-century Californian capital. Hiking paths lead to the impressive mountains of the Sierra de la Giganta and ᅠthere are lots of stunning beaches, where. kayaking is a great way to explore the regionメs rich marine life.

In the heart of the Gulf of California, Coronado, the main island of the eponymous archipelago, will delight wilderness fans. Uninhabited and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site among the islands and protected areas of the Gulf of California, the island is home to extremely rich biodiversity. During a snorkelling trip, you’ll be able to admire the exceptional underwater fauna that lives in these turquoise waters: sea lions, sea turtles and multi-coloured fish will provide moving encounters. During a walk with your expedition team, don’t miss out on discovering the ancient volcano buried inland.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 9: Los Islotes

Los Islotes are rocky islets located to the south west of the California Bay: the site is famous for sheltering a large colony of California sea lions. Used to humans, these sea lions are not shy and can be easily approached. An excursion on a Zodiac® dinghy will provide you with a fantastic opportunity to admire these playful animals, and you will have the possibility of swimming alongside them: a moving experience.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10: La Paz (Pichilingue)

Located on the shores of the Sea of Cortez, nestling between golden deserts and turquoise waters, La Paz will invite you to escape from it all. In this oasis combining a fascinating past with natural beauty, fall under the spell of Balandra, considered to be Baja California’s most beautiful beach, or admire the stunning scenery during a walk along the Malecon boardwalk. Its turquoise waters shelter abundant marine life and are ideal for swimming or kayaking in the mangrove.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 11: Cabo San Lucas

Arrival 2/20/2027 early morning
Disembarkation 2/20/2027 at 8:00 AM

A seaside resort located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean come together, Cabo San Lucas has much to offer. Famous for its rock formation emerging from the ocean and its magnificent white sand beaches, the small town also has lively nightlife. Surrounded by charming landscapes, between arid deserts dotted with cacti and spectacular rocky pinnacles, this very popular destination will certainly win you over.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 10 Feb 2027
DatesCabinFromAdditional
10 Feb 2027 - 20 Feb 2027 AUD$15270ppExpand to view prices
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3AUD$15270ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4AUD$17700ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5AUD$19430ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6AUD$20470ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 4AUD$28090ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 5AUD$28090ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 6AUD$28090ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 3AUD$28090ppContact us
Prestige Suite Deck 5AUD$37250ppContact us
Prestige Suite Deck 6AUD$39160ppContact us
Privilege Suite Deck 6AUD$41060ppContact us
Privilege Suite Deck 5AUD$41060ppContact us
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6AUD$45050ppContact us
Owner's SuiteAUD$47290ppContact us

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3

19m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi.

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 3

27m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi.

Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4

27m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi.

Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5

27m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi.

Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Deluxe Suite Deck 6

27m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi.

Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6

45m2, private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Bathtub, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, Butler service.

Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4

19m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, 1 stateroom for people with reduced mobility.

Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5

19m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, 1 stateroom for people with reduced mobility.

Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6

19m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, 2 staterooms of 27.5 m² with a private balcony of 6 m² for people with reduced mobility.

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Prestige Suite Deck 5

38m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 tall sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet access wifi.

Prestige Suite Deck 5
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Prestige Suite Deck 6

38m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 tall sofa Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet access wifi, Butler service.

Prestige Suite Deck 6
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 5

38m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet access wifi, Butler service.

Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6

38m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet access wifi, Butler service.

Privilege Suite Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite

45m2, Private balcony, Individually-controlled air-conditioning, King-size bed or twin beds, 1 sofa, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen, Satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod(TM) players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet access wifi, Butler service, Private round-trip transfer (airport - hotel - airport).

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite

Le Bellot Deckplan

deck plan

Specifications

  • Passengers: 184
  • Crew: 112
  • Length: 430 ft
  • Beam: 59 ft
  • Draft: 15 ft
  • Speed: 12.5 knots
  • Ice class: 1C
  • Classification: Bureau Veritas
  • Gross Tonnage: 9976 UMS
  • Power: 6400KW
  • Decks: 5

What's included?

  • A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
  • Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in San José del Cabo to the ship on the day of embarkation
  • Comprehensive 10-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bellot, with all the amenities for which these ships are famous
  • One included shore excursion or activity in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
  • Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
  • Transfer from the ship to the airport in San José del Cabo at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
  • Accommodation in your selected stateroom
  • Landings and zodiac outings
  • A full meal plan
  • Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
  • Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day
  • Port taxes

What's not?

  • Independent meals and beverages ashore
  • Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Central America

Let us take you on an authentic journey throughout this rich and versatile region with its spectacular Caribbean beaches, smouldering volcanoes and lush green jungles sheltering a rich variety of fauna. Throw in its fascinating history, hidden Mayan ruins and the rhythm of Cuban salsa and we’re certain you’ll find this region is a treat to the senses.

Downloadable travel guide

Planning your next adventure has never been easier with our free downloadable travel guides. Get in-depth insights into local attractions, dining options, and hidden gems, all curated by our team of travel specialists with decades of experience.

You may also like…

Baja and the Sea of Cortez: In Search of the Great Whales – with Smithsonian Journeys

11 Days aboard Le Bellot. From AUD $15,270pp.