Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay

January 14–19, 2026

Pomona College Alumni Association Presents 
Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay

Update (August 2025):  The dates, vessel and itinerary for this cruise have been updated. Please see new details below. 

Picture this: Start 2026 off with an unforgettable 5-night adventure in Baja California's Magdalena Bay, one of the best places in the world to encounter gray whale mothers and their calves. Aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Lion, set out in local pangas for up-close encounters with these majestic creatures, kayak through mangrove forests, hike desert islands and look for pelicans and ospreys – all while soaking up the sun on pristine beaches.

See full itinerary below.

Dear Pomona Sagehens and Sagehen Families and Friends,

Baja California is a special place for me. As an undergraduate and a master’s student, my studies were focused on intertidal and subtidal systems. During this time, I traveled extensively throughout Baja California with the objective to see all the tidepools and scuba dive every day. I spent multiple weeks traveling through Baja California each spring break and summer and remember these times as some of my life’s highlights.

I shifted my research to terrestrial systems during my PhD, and my current research program focuses on the preservation of California sage scrub and the many organisms that call this ecosystem home. The California sage scrub ecosystem spans from central California through Claremont and extends into Baja California. The sage scrub in Baja California differs from sage scrub in southern California, faces different threats, and has different fire regimes. For me, it will be interesting to get a chance to travel inland, when my tide-pooling and scuba aspirations allow, to make observations about how best to protect biodiversity in this continuously changing landscape.

At Pomona College, I have taught a variety of courses including: Conservation Biology, Invasion Biology, Ecology of Southern California, and Fire Ecology. Most recently, I co-taught a faculty-led course where we traveled to Hawaii and learned about cultural and biological conservation. I can imagine leading a similar class in Baja California in the near future. I am looking forward to passing on my knowledge of these subjects, learn from all of you, and get to know what excites our alumni.

I am so excited to be going on this trip with all of you. I am easy to spot as I have a large, unfortunately grey beard, and long grey hair. When you are on board, please come find me. I will likely be on the deck looking for whales, dolphins, and birds. When we stop, I will either be in the water tide-pooling or snorkeling or hiking in inland areas. I also imagine you will occasionally be able to find me at a taco stand! I can guarantee that I do not have all the answers, but I am excited to find new surprises and celebrate the beginning of 2026 on an adventure.

Sincerely,

Wallace M. Meyer III “Marty”
Associate Professor of Biology, Pomona College & Director, Robert J. Bernard Field Station

Expedition Highlights:

• Search for gigantic gray whale mothers and their calves in the nursery waters of
  Magdalena Bay, delighting in up-close encounters
• Kayak and paddleboard in stunning mangrove forests or beachcomb along endless
  stretches of sand
• Hike and fat-tire bike across diverse desert landscapes, from windswept dunes
  to cactus forests
• Scan the skies for myriad bird species, like diving pelicans and magnificent frigatebirds
• Extend your expedition with a fascinating history and whale-watching extension in
  Loreto, or a cultural and culinary extension in La Paz and San José del Cabo

Itinerary (and Optional Extensions):

DAY 1 – LORETO, MEXICO / SAN CARLOS / EMBARK

Arrive in Loreto by early afternoon for the transfer to San Carlos. Embark this evening in time for cocktails and an introduction to the staff and crew. (D)

DAYS 2-5 – EXPLORING IN AND AROUND MAGDALENA BAY

Below is a selection of locales you may visit during the expedition. (B,L,D Daily)

BAHÍA ALMEJAS

The southernmost of the waters you'll explore, Bahía Almejas, or Bay of Clams, is known for its many seabird species and its remarkably active gray whale populations. With luck, you'll have the opportunity to view a large frigatebird colony before heading out on a whale-watching trip. Board small, open boats called pangas, operated by pangueros—expert local guides. The areas around Magdalena Bay are primarily supported by whale-watching and small-scale, artisanal fishing; our pangueros make their livings as fishermen outside the gray whale season and have a deep familiarity with these rich waters.

ISLA MAGDALENA/SAND DOLLAR BEACH

Explore ever-shifting sand dunes on a cross-island walk to one of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific. Take in the impressive desert plant life of this exotic terrain, home to five species of cacti. Enjoy a stroll and tally the treasures offered up by the ocean on the aptly named Sand Dollar Beach, and capture images of your discoveries with the help of our certified photo instructor.

PUERTO MAGDALENA

Wake up anchored at this small fishing village, surrounded by the open Pacific to the west, Magdalena Bay to the east, mangroves to the north, and mountains to the south. With a population of 85, Puerto Magdalena is the only inhabited area of Isla Magdalena. Meet a local resident and learn how his family has lived off the area since the 1800s—from lichen harvesting to managing an open-air cantina, where you'll enjoy local bites and beverages. Time permitting, visit the desalinization plant that supplies fresh water to the community. Get active on a fat-tire bike ride or, conditions permitting, a kayaking excursion through the mangroves in Man of War Cove.

HULL CANAL

Take in the scenery and watch for pods of bow-riding dolphins in this winding canal. Within its narrow channels, bordered by mangroves and sand dunes and filled with Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay abundant wildlife, join the keen-eyed naturalists on deck to spot species and hear expert commentary. Weather permitting, explore the vast mangrove system by kayak and Zodiac. Birdwatching can be excellent here, with various seabirds and shorebirds patrolling the beaches as they fatten up and prepare for long journeys to their summer breeding grounds. You might see anything from diving pelicans and wheeling cormorants to terns, great blue herons, ibis, whimbrels and willets.

BOCA DE SOLEDAD

Settle in for unforgettable experiences in this tranquil lagoon. Each winter, during their long migration, gray whales travel south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and give birth to their calves in these sheltered waters, often called “Grand Central” for California gray whales. Venture out in local pangas to view the numerous mother-calf pairs that thrive in the region. With luck, enjoy up-close interactions with these curious creatures.

DAY 6 – SAN CARLOS/DISEMBARK/LORETO

After breakfast, disembark the ship and transfer to the Loreto International Airport for flights home or to Loreto’s city center to begin your two-night history and whale watching extension. (B,L)

Optional Extensions:

PRE-VOYAGE BAJA CALIFORNIA CULTURE AND CUISINE - 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS

Discover an emerging cultural and culinary destination on visits to the vibrant cities and towns of San José del Cabo, Todos Santos and La Paz. Explore the local sustainable food scene while sampling traditional dishes, and witness the merging of old and new artistic traditions as we peruse museums, galleries, street murals and more.

POST-VOYAGE LORETO HISTORY AND WHALE-WATCHING - 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS

Discover Loreto’s history through its stunning Jesuit missions and explore its streets and buildings largely untouched since 1875. Board local boats at the Loreto National Marine Reserve for a chance to see magnificent blue and fin whales, the two largest animals on earth. Top it off with a hike through the canyons of the Sierra de la Gigante.

Included in Cruise Fare:

• Accommodations aboard the ship
• Transfers to/from airport if traveling within recommended arrival and departure windows
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary, beer, wine, cocktails and spirits with premium wines and liquors available for purchase
• All shore excursions, sightseeing, special access permits and entrance fees
• Morning stretch classes and access to the fitness center
• Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker
• 24-hour access to the lounge, observations desks, library and other shared spaces
• Complimentary reusable water bottle
• Onboard expedition guides and services of Lindblad Expeditions' natural history staff
• National Geographic certified photo instructor, medical professional and local guides
• Port taxes and service charges
• Basic Wi-Fi with the option to upgrade

National Geographic Sea Lion

CAPACITY: 31 outside cabins accommodating 62 guests.

OVERALL LENGTH: 152 feet.

PUBLIC AREAS: The ship features a library; global market; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; observation deck; partially covered sundeck with chairs and tables. The open Bridge provides guests an opportunity to meet the officers and captain and learn about navigation.

MEALS: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere. Menu highlights fresh, sustainable local fare with a regional flair.

CABINS: All cabins face outside with windows, private bathroom and climate controls.

EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT: Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, fattier bikes, bow camera and video microscope.

SPECIAL FEATURES: A National Geographic certified photo instructor will be on board.

WELLNESS: The ship is staffed by a wellness specialist and features exercise equipment, LEXspa and outdoor stretching area.

Cabin Categories and Prices

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy (except Category 1 Solo and Category 2 Solo) 

Terms & Conditions:

• Deposit: 15% of the cruise portion of the booking is due at time of booking
• Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure

Cancellation Terms:

• 120+ days prior to departure: 100% of deposit payment is non-refundable but transferrable
• 90-119 days prior to departure: Forfeit 50% of full gross cruise fare
• 0-89 days prior to departure: Forfeit 100% of full gross cruise fare

For further information, please contact:

Travelstore VIP

Karen Goodrich
18881 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 1400
Irvine, CA 92612
Tel: 949.930.9288
Email: Karen.Go@Travelstore.com