Sea of Cortez:

Aquarium to the world

Nicknamed ‘the aquarium to the world’ by French explorer Jacques Cousteau, the Sea of Cortez stretches for more than 1100 kilometres between the Baja Peninsula and mainland Mexico. Also known as the Gulf of California, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most diverse seas on the planet, home to a large number of dolphins and whales (including the magnificent blue whale) with more than 900 species of fish. The scenery is stunning with pristine beaches, volcanic islands and green mangrove forests meeting the shore. Scenic Discovery Naturalist and Zodiac driver Adam Jenkins shares his highlights of the Sea of Cortez discovery voyage onboard Scenic Eclipse.

ALL ABOUT ADAM JENKINS

Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team

After university, Adam spent four years aboard his 27-foot yacht sailing the Sea of Cortez, Panama Canal, Caribbean Sea – working as a professional sailor – along the east coast of the US to Nova Scotia, Canada. Adam’s career includes working as a field biologist, expedition leader, science project manager, supporting marine mammal and eco-system researchers in Antarctica and the Eastern Pacific. Now part of the Scenic Eclipse expert Discovery Team, as a Naturalist Adam hosts lectures in the state-of-the-art theatre; and as an elite Master Diver and Divemaster, takes guests scuba diving and on Discovery Excursions by Zodiac.

Why is the Sea of Cortez so special?

The Sea of Cortez offers a unique discovery experience, from its deep blue waters to pristine beaches, rugged Sonoran desert and unspoilt mountain landscapes. With kilometres of coastline and stunning beaches, witness awe inspiring scenery from one of Scenic Eclipse’s on board helicopters^. The warm water is perfect for water sports and swimming, with wildlife beneath the surface, which guests can experience on board Scenic Neptune, Scenic Eclipse’s custom-built submarine^.

MARINE SPECIES

Vaquita

The world’s rarest marine mammal, the vaquita (meaning “little cow”) is a tiny porpoise found here and is on the edge of extinction.

Mobula Ray

One of the most entertaining species found here, the mobula ray can be seen leaping from the water, sometimes reaching up to two metres.

Sea Turtle

Home to five species of sea turtle, all of which are endangered: hawksbill, loggerhead, leatherback, green turtle and olive ridley.

Blue Whale

There are many whale species to keep an eye out for, including the world’s largest animal – the blue whale – which comes here to mate between February and March each year.

Sea Lion

These playful marine mammals breed at Los Islotes with around 300 calling the islands home during summer, producing up to 70 pups. The male sea lions can weigh up to 270 kilograms; most forage near the shore and snorkelling here is excellent.

5 MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Witnessing the amazing sunrises and sunsets
Snorkelling in azure waters
Whale-watching Zodiac cruises and from the bow of Scenic Eclipse
Walking on unspoilt beaches
Hiking along an arroyo (a creek) through a cardon cactus forest

TOWN SPOTLIGHT

LORETO

Loreto is a captivating Baja resort town with the beautiful Sierra de la Giganta mountains as its backdrop and turquoise ocean and pristine beaches along its coast. It was the first Spanish colonial settlement on the Baja Peninsula, and its cobblestoned township has historic buildings dating back to the 18th century.

LET'S GO

Why not experience this for yourself and take advantage of our exclusive offers:

Super Earlybirds Offer - Save from $2,220^pp

Scenic Club loyalty members will receive 50% bonus tier points when using the code WONDER50% at the time of booking.

Offers end 31 October 2021

^Helicopters and submarine at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions. Submarine is unable to operate in US waters.