Where the Desert Meets the Sea
The Sea of Cortez harbors over fifty remote islands, many with plants and animals that have evolved into distinct endemic species. Some in the scientific world refer to this region as “Mexico’s Galápagos.” This unique journey includes the seldom-visited Midriff Islands and is designed with no set itinerary, adding a stimulating sense of adventure to each day. Come join our spring season in Baja!
Important Notice: Day 1 is the day you should plan to arrive at the meeting point for the trip. This may require departing your hometown one or more days in advance and traveling on an overnight flight.
Where the Desert Meets the Sea Itinerary:
- Day 1 - US / Loreto / Embark Ship
- Days 2-7 Exploring the Sea of Cortez
- Day 8 - Loreto / Disembark Ship / Return U.S.
Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.
All accommodations and meals; kayak usage; taxes, service charges, and tips (except to ship's crew). There's never a charge for kayaks, Zodiacs, or the services of Lindblad's expedition staff.
Airfare; alcoholic beverages; extensions; personal items; baggage/ accident/ cancellation insurance; and gratuities to ship's crew.
This trip is rated as an Easy Active [2] adventure cruise; excursions include kayaking, snorkeling and beach walks, which average about 2 - 4 hours of activity most days. Beginners are welcome. A kayaking orientation is held aboard ship the first full day of the cruise.
During the lush months of April, May, June and early July is an ideal time for an expedition among the islands in the Sea of Cortez. Some in the scientific world refer to this region as "Mexico's Galapagos". Conditions are excellent — consistently calm and warm waters make for ideal swimming, snorkeling. Air temperatures are warm but not oppressively hot and spring rains bring forth colorful cactus blossoms.
An advance payment of approximately 10% of your voyage cost is required at the time of reservation to confirm your place; payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover or check.
For trips eight nights or less, final payment is due 60 days prior to departure. For trips nine nights or more, final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
| Cancellation Policy: | |
| For Expeditions 8 Nights or Less | |
| Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start | Per Person Cancellation Fee |
| 90 or more days | $150* |
| 89-60 days | Advance payment cost |
| 59-30 days | 50% of trip cost |
| 29-0 days | No refund |
| For Expeditions 9 Nights or More | |
| Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start | Per Person Cancellation Fee |
| 120 or more days | $150* |
| 119-90 days | Advance payment cost |
| 89-60 days | 25% of trip cost |
| 59-30 days | 50% of trip cost |
| 29-0 days | No refund |
*Note: You will be issued a $150 Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate.
This policy is in accordance with the cruise company and REI Adventures’ standard payment and cancellation policies do not apply.
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Where the Desert Meets the Sea
Weather
Gear Checklist
- Kayaks
- Snorkeling gear
- Wet suits
- Passport
- Airline tickets
- Duffel bag, sturdy and large enough to hold all your gear
- Small daypack for camera, water bottle, light jacket, sunscreen, etc.
- Passport pouch or money belt
- Luggage tags and luggage locks
- Lightweight, easily washable items for city and boat wear— casual and comfortable clothes are recommended
- Walking or hiking shorts
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeve shirts (for cool evenings and sun protection)
- Walking or hiking pants
- Sun hat—this is essential!
- Bandana
- Swimsuit(s) and on-deck cover-up
- Lightweight fleece or pile sweater
- Lightweight rain / wind shell
- Comfortable running or hiking shoes
- Watersport sandals or booties
- Mask and snorkel (if you prefer your own)
- Water bottle—this is essential!
- Small, personal first-aid kit
- Toiletry kit
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Waterproof, high-SPF Sunscreen
- Plastic bags to keep your gear dry inside your daypack, and to separate wet/dirty items from dry/clean items
- A good pair of binoculars
- Guide books for Baja California
- Stuff sacks, various sizes for organizing clothing and gear inside duffel
- Camera, film and spare batteries
- Disposable underwater camera
- Small dry bag for camera gear while on ship-to-shore rides
- Reading and writing materials
- Watch with alarm or travel alarm
- Insect repellent
Things to Consider
- Always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, medications and one set of spare clothes in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
- A sweater and wind shell are often needed, as it can be breezy and evenings are usually cool. Note: You’ll need the sweater if you want to spend the night up on deck, under a very bright, star-studded sky.
- Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. Quick-dry items are advisable, since laundry facilities are not available. Clothes should be casual and loose fitting. Long and short sleeve shirts are recommended.
- All bedding and towels are provided on the boats.
- Feel free to give us a call at (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores or REI’s Direct Sales (800-426-4840) is also happy to help you with gear questions. Or visit REI’s website at www.rei.com. The “Expert Advice” section has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
