Exploration in the Heart of Baja California

Cabo San Lucas is the sunny resort town on the tip of Mexico’s Baja California. This colourful small town is known for its excellent big-game fishing, great diving spots and challenging surf waves. Ships will anchor offshore in Cabo San Lucas bay and tender guests to shore.

Top things to do in Cabo San Lucas:

• catch the sunset at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
• snorkel the coral reefs along the Sea of Cortez
• relax on Medano beach
• explore nearby Todos Santos

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 Ponant 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.

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.

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 Ponant 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.

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...

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.

Loreto, situated on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is celebrated for its tranquility and historical richness. As the oldest Spanish settlement on the Baja peninsula, established in 1697, Loreto offers a deep dive into the past with its beautifully preserved Mission Loreto, a prime example of colonial architecture. The town centre, with its quaint streets and charming shops, reflects a profound cultural heritage.

Framed by the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range and overlooking the Sea of Cortez, Loreto is a hub for outdoor activities. The Loreto Bay National Marine Park, known for its extraordinary marine biodiversity, offers opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, and seasonal whale watching. This serene destination beautifully combines historical depth with the surrounding natural beauty.

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.

La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, Mexico, is a tranquil city that showcases the best of both desert and marine environments. Nestled along the Sea of Cortez, known as the Gulf of California, La Paz attracts those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst natural beauty. The city's Malecón, a long, scenic waterfront promenade, is lined with art installations, shops, and restaurants, offering a vibrant place to stroll and soak in spectacular ocean views.

Activities in La Paz often involve the surrounding sea, famous for its rich marine life. Snorkelling with the friendly sea lions of Espíritu Santo Island, watching majestic whales, or exploring the coral reefs are just some of the unforgettable experiences available. The city's commitment to eco-tourism is evident in its careful balance of development and natural preservation.

Pichilingue, located in Baja California Sur, Mexico, serves as the gateway for cruises arriving at La Paz. The port is about 17 kilometres (around 10.5 miles) from downtown La Paz, approximately a 25-minute drive. Visitors can arrange transport to take them from the port to explore the city and its surroundings.

La Paz is renowned for its stunning waterfront promenade, vibrant marine life, and beautiful beaches. For a quick and enriching experience, consider visiting the Museo de la Ballena to learn about the region's marine biodiversity or take a short boat trip to the nearby Isla Espiritu Santo, a natural paradise.

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.

Cabo San Lucas is the sunny resort town on the tip of Mexico’s Baja California. This colourful small town is known for its excellent big-game fishing, great diving spots and challenging surf waves. Ships will anchor offshore in Cabo San Lucas bay and tender guests to shore.

Top things to do in Cabo San Lucas:

• catch the sunset at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
• snorkel the coral reefs along the Sea of Cortez
• relax on Medano beach
• explore nearby Todos Santos