Experience two of North
America’s greatest natural treasures on one unique journey. You'll begin
with four glorious nights aboard our 70-guest expedition ship, exploring the
Sea of Cortez which fills the large cleft separating Baja California from
the Mexican mainland. Some refer to the over fifty uninhabited islands in
this incredibly rich sea as "Mexico's Galápagos," for each island is
different, with its own specialized plants and animals.
You’ll enjoy premier birdwatching, observing many kinds of seabirds, among
them hundreds of pelicans, blue-footed and brown boobies, and magnificent
frigatebirds. The desert islands have a tremendous abundance of plant life,
including arrays of enormous cacti, some of them in flower. While sailing
you'll be on the deck actively engaged in whale watching — finbacks, Bryde's
and blues, to name a few — and dolphins will be regular escorts, riding the
bow wave. Don a face mask and snorkel and a whole new world awaits your
discovery: brilliantly-colored fish, and perhaps even a graceful sea lion or
manta ray. Our ships are equipped for kayaking for more personal, "eye
level" explorations.
You'll then fly across to the Mexican mainland and enjoy a remarkable rail
journey to the rim of one of the world's greatest canyons — the Copper
Canyon. For centuries, these thousands of square miles of spectacular
mountains and canyons were known only to a few adventurous and determined
outsiders.
Until the railroad's completion just four decades ago, the Copper Canyon
could only be reached through an arduous journey by burro or on foot. It's a
thrilling ride, and you'll enjoy it in comfort aboard the Chihuahua al
Pacifico Railroad. During your time on the mainland you'll also enjoy the
colonial town of El Fuerte and the vistas of the San Antonio Valley.
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Day 1 - U.S./Los Cabos/La Paz,
Mexico/Embark Ship
As our journey begins, we’ll fly into Los Cabos Airport to board the
comfortable motor coach that will take us to the ship, docked in the
picturesque town of La Paz. Along the way during our three-hour ride, we
make a stop in the artistic town of Todos Santos for a light snack at a
colorful local restaurant called Los Adobes where we have our first
taste of Mexican cuisine. The ship is docked along the Malecon, La Paz’s
lovely waterfront esplanade, putting you in prime terrain for strolling
through this gracious, old town with its feel of Old Mexico and lively
festival spirit. We’ll embark the ship at 5:00 p.m. Since this area is
known for its spectacular sunsets, make sure to take some time on deck.
Soon after embarkation, our Captain will point the ship north into the
Sea of Cortez.
Day 2 - Isla Santa Catalina
This morning we go whale watching in the waters around Isla Danzante, an
area that has proven to be outstanding for finding blue whales, and
bottlenose and common dolphins. At times, they can number in the
hundreds as they surround the ship, riding the bow wave. Leaping out of
the water, sometimes with their young at their side, they put on a
memorable water ballet. In the afternoon, we visit lovely Isla Santa
Catalina to walk among huge cacti, swim, snorkel, and enjoy bird
watching. Snorkeling near Elephant Rock is a favorite spot for seeing
tropical fish. On Zodiacs, we chart a course taking us into the area’s
beautiful small coves. After dinner, and the inevitably dazzling sunset,
perhaps we’ll see the rise of a luminous moon as another beautiful day
comes to a close.
Day 3 - Exploring the Sea of Cortez
Today, we explore some of the dozens of islands of the Sea of Cortez.
After over 20 years of exploration in the Sea of Cortez, we are still
discovering new places and experiencing exciting natural events. To give
you an example of the kind of experiences you can anticipate in this
area, here are a few highlights from just one recent voyage: one hundred
bottlenose dolphins leaping over sperm whales near our ship; a pod of
fin whales feeding around a convergence zone; and one evening, the
vision of hundreds of Humboldt squid illuminated in the ship’s bow
lights.
Our Captain and the expedition team collaborate, pooling their knowledge
and experience to position the ship as consistently as possible — at the
right place, at the right time. And whether you’re on deck or the
Bridge, out in a Zodiac or kayaking — you will be in a prime position to
observe the myriad wonders that make a day in the Sea of Cortez another
bit of magic. Add swimming, snorkeling, beach-combing and basking to the
list of the day’s options, as well.
Day 4 - Islas Los Islotes and Espiritu Santo
With deeply indented shorelines and dramatically eroded cliff faces,
Islas Los Islotes and Espiritu Santo are two of the most beautiful
islands in the Sea of Cortez. They lie near the entrance to Bahia de La
Paz. Although considered two islands, they are more like one — separated
by a narrow channel. We have a leisurely afternoon for swimming and
snorkeling. Once you put on your mask and flippers and start breathing
through your snorkel (we’ll not only provide the equipment, but as much
advice as you need to succeed), you’ll be able to experience a thrill
not soon forgotten: swimming with the curious and friendly sea lions.
The best way to observe the impressive geological past of the island is
from a kayak. Easily seen just a few yards from the shore are tons of
compacted volcanic ash covered with solidified lava floods. It is quite
an unusual sight. Brown pelicans, gulls, wandering tattlers, great blue
herons and boobies are all part of the landscape. An excellent place for
long walks, we may end the day with a beach barbecue.
Day 5 - La Paz/Disembark Ship/El Fuerte
This morning we rise with the sun, disembarking the ship in La Paz for
our early flight to Los Mochis on the Mexican mainland. In less than an
hour, we land and meet up with the Lindblad staff awaiting our arrival.
We all board a motor coach for a short ride to the charming Santa Anita
Hotel where we have brunch. At 11:30, we board the motor coach for a
two-hour ride to the town of El Fuerte, in the pretty foothills of the
Sierra Madre Mountains. This lovely small town is set along the banks of
the Rio Fuerte. Surrounded by orchards and vegetable farms, it is a
place of quiet charm, with cobblestone streets lined with buildings from
the colonial era, and a lovely town square. We have the afternoon to
explore at our leisure. As we explore the town, it’s interesting to try
and picture the town in the 1500s when it was an important missionary
and commercial center. A riverside fort once stood on the banks to
protect El Fuerte from outsiders trying to rob the silver haul from the
local mines. This afternoon, we have the choice of taking a float trip
on the El Fuerte River or a bird walk during which our naturalist’s
expert eye will point out the herons, egrets and other species found
here. We spend the night at the Posada del Hildago, a former colonial
mansion built in 1890. Many of the rooms still have the feel of the
house’s original bedrooms with high ceilings and period furnishings. The
newer rooms face the property’s lush gardens.
Days 6-7 - Copper Canyon
This morning, we leave the hotel after breakfast for our 8:30 boarding
of the famed Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad. The construction of this
railroad is considered a true feat of engineering and it is the only way
to reach Copper Canyon. As we travel in first-class comfort, our journey
takes us from just above sea level to almost 8,000 feet in a little more
than six hours, crossing deep ravines and passing through more than 70
tunnels and over 35 trestles before emerging onto a breathtaking scene
of mountain ranges and canyons extending to the horizon. We arrive at
the rim of Copper Canyon at 3:00 in the afternoon and check in to our
hotel, the spectacular Mirador. If the Copper Canyon is a wonder of the
natural world, the Mirador is a wonder of architecture. Perched like an
eagle’s nest, the hotel sits near the highest point of the canyon,
overlooking the breathtaking scenery below. Built atop natural rock, the
hotel’s design is in such harmony with its setting, it, too, appears to
be carved out of the rock.
During the afternoon and the following day, there will be plenty of time
for leisurely walks along the rim and short or long hikes down into the
canyon itself. Our naturalists are more than familiar with this terrain
and will chart a course that suits your interests and your level of
energy. A local guide will also join us and give us insights about the
canyon.
Located far below are the dwellings of the Tarahumara Indians, who have
managed to maintain many of their pre-Columbian traditions into the
present day, protected against outside influence by their rugged
surroundings. The hotel’s décor takes its cue from the Tarahumara, so
while here, you are truly steeped in the natural feel of the area. There
are stone paths leading in many directions, making all levels of
exploring a simple proposition. If you prefer, you can simply relax and
enjoy the view from your room’s private terrace or the hotel’s public
areas. This evening, there is time to share adventures and compare notes
during happy hour at the hotel, followed by dinner at the beautiful
Mirador restaurant overlooking the canyon. As the sun sets, casting
golden shadows across the burnished rocks, reflect on the wonder of
staying in this once inaccessible, awe-inspiring canyon. The Grand
Canyon is visited by so many. Copper Canyon is seen by so few — and you
are among the fortunate few.
Day 8 - Copper Canyon/Chihuahua
After enjoying sunrise over the canyon, we have time for a walk along
the rim to enjoy this incredible setting. Later we check out of the
Mirador and board our motor coach, stopping briefly in the town of
Creel, which has become a busy little place due to its proximity to
Copper Canyon. It’s a popular beginning point for exploring the canyons
and the town has the rustic atmosphere of an old frontier town. High in
the mountains, Creel is surrounded by fragrant pines. After a short look
around, we re-board our motor coach for the trip to Chihuahua,
descending from the mountains into the broad San Antonio Valley seeing
communities of Mennonites, the primary settlers of this fertile
agricultural region. After arriving at our hotel, we’ll enjoy a farewell
dinner with our traveling companions. Our final infusion of Mexican
culture comes with a folkloric dance performance by a talented local
troupe.
Day 9 - Chihuahua/Return U.S.
After breakfast, we'll head to the airport for your return flight to the
U.S.
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Please click on the date that interests
you for applicable pricing.
Rates may vary according to departure date. |
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Departure Dates |
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2006: |
January 5 |
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Sea Bird |
Per Person Double Occupancy |
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Sole Occupancy |
| Category 01 |
$3,230 |
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$3,990 |
Main Deck #300, 301,
302, 303
Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these
cabins feature twin lower beds, and a large view window.
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| Category 02 |
$3,530 |
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$4,410 |
Upper Deck #200-212,
215; Bridge Deck #100-104, 108
These well-located cabins include twin lower beds and a large view
window.
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| Category 03 |
$3,880 |
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Upper Deck #214,
216-219, 221; Bridge Deck #105, 106, 107, 110
These large cabins feature a seating arrangement with table and two
view windows. Certain cabins include twin lower beds. Ask for
details.
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Cost Includes:
Accommodations, all meals, flight to Los Mochis on Day 5.
Not Included: Round-trip airfare U.S./Mexico.
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| Sea Bird Deck Plans |
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