The National Geographic Sea Bird anchored last night at Ensenada Grande, one of the most beautiful of all Espiritu Santo Island archipelago’s coves. Today, guests and naturalists explored the fascinating arroyo and bay by hiking, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding along the whole day. The weather conditions were perfect, with a calm sea, light breeze, and moderate sunlight. Many plants of the Sonoran Desert (the most biodiverse in North America), were meet, for the first time, by our guests: cardon, cholla, galloping and organ pipe cacti, plus jojoba, wax plant, fairy duster, agave in flower, and a community of mangroves that thrive at the small tidal lagoon of the island. We all also observed lizards, individuals of an endemic ground squirrel, and birds that constitute part of the land’s wildlife community. Yoga practice, stretches and meditation were also part of the activities. In the afternoon, all guests concluded this busy day with a beach barbecue, bonfire and happiness.
1/10/2022
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National Geographic Venture
Isla San Jose & Espiritu Santo National Park
The day began with heavy winds and plentiful whitecaps in the Sea of Cortez. As we sailed through the Vermillion Sea, we saw a group of blue-footed boobies (a “brassiere”) fly by on their way to a meal. We actively searched for mammals but with the winds creating substantial waves and whitecaps we were unsuccessful. Weather dictates our plans in Baja California Sur, and we quickly adapted and went to Kelley’s Beach on Isla San Jose. Hiking in an arroyo, walking in the cardon forest, and a beachcombing stroll were each offered in two rounds so everyone could partake in two different activities if they desired. In the afternoon, the heavy winds created a favorable surprise, and we had an unexpected opportunity to snorkel at Ensenada Grande near Isla Partida, which is a part of the Espiritu Santo National Park. This was a drift snorkel next to some stunning lava cliffs which offered nice views of a diversity of fish and coral species. As we finished snorkeling, the sun was setting as we headed back to the National Geographic Venture .
