Sailing the Sea of Cortez Expedition
A Wild Sailing Odyssey through Baja’s Marine Paradise
Sailing through the Sea of Cortez is like stepping into an ancient dream — where desert mountains meet turquoise waters, and life pulses above and below the surface. Jacques Cousteau once called it “the world’s aquarium”, and with good reason: it’s home to one third of the world’s marine mammals like whales, dolphins and sea lions, and almost 900 species of fish, like puffer fish, mahi-mahi and flying mantarays.
This expedition isn’t just about sailing — it’s about connecting deeply with one of the most biodiverse and pristine marine ecosystems on Earth.
Guided by me, Paulo Goa — naturalist, wildlife photographer, and sailboat skipper — we’ll navigate by wind across quiet bays, uninhabited islands, and rich snorkeling grounds. Each day is shaped by nature’s rhythm: morning light over volcanic cliffs, afternoons exploring island trails or swimming with sea lions, and evenings anchored in calm coves under a sky full of stars.
You’ll learn the basics of sailing (or deepen your skills), immerse in the ecology of this incredible region, and capture it all through your lens if you're a photographer. This is a small-group, low-impact journey designed for curious minds, adventurous spirits, and anyone seeking that rare feeling of freedom at sea.
Bellow you will find 2 itinerary options (7-Day and 4-Day), but I am open to have a fully tailor made itinerary special for you!
Logistics & Itinerary: 7-Days
Seven Days of Wind, Wildlife & Wonder in Baja’s Blue Wilderness
Trip Start & End: La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Trip Length: 7 days / 6 nights
Group Size: Small and personal (max 6 guests)
Activity Level: Easy to moderate — includes swimming, snorkeling, light hiking, and sailing
Day 1 – Setting Sail to Isla Espíritu Santo
We meet after breakfast in La Paz, go through a welcome orientation, safety briefing, and boat familiarization, then set sail to Isla Espíritu Santo — a protected island of red cliffs and turquoise coves. Our first night is anchored in the beautiful Bahía Candelero, where we’ll take a sunset walk on the island and share dinner under the stars. The expedition begins with the sound of the wind and the waves, salty air, and stars overhead.
Day 2 – Explore Espíritu Santo: Bays, Hikes & Wildlife
We spend a full day exploring the wild beauty of Espíritu Santo. Depending on weather and group interest, we may hike desert trails with sweeping views, snorkel in vibrant coral patches, or paddle along rugged coastlines. The pace is relaxed, allowing time for photos, naturalist talks, and simply soaking in the serenity of this UNESCO-protected island. Overnight anchored in a new bay nearby.
Day 3 – Sail to San Francisquito
Today we lift anchor and set course northward for Isla San Francisco. It’s a long but beautiful sailing day, tracing the eastern coast of Isla Partida and crossing open water with breathtaking views. With luck, we may spot dolphins or rays en route. We arrive by evening to San Francisquito Bay, where a perfect crescent of white sand welcomes us to this iconic island.
Day 4 – Island Life in San Francisquito
Today is for full immersion in one of the most iconic islands in the Sea of Cortez. Hike the ridge trail for dramatic views, snorkel vibrant reefs, and spend time relaxing or journaling on the beach. There’s space to be as active or contemplative as you like. This remote setting is ideal for photography, mindful reflection, and ocean connection.
Day 5 – Sail to Isla La Partida & Anchor in Ensenada Grande
We weigh anchor early and sail south to Isla La Partida, Espíritu Santo’s sister island. We arrive in the stunning Ensenada Grande, considered one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. Spend the afternoon exploring the cove, swimming in calm waters, or capturing the play of light on red cliffs and turquoise sea.
Day 6 – Snorkel with Sea Lions & Farewell Under the Stars
This morning, a local panga boat picks us up for a guided snorkeling adventure at Los Islotes, where playful sea lions swirl and twirl through crystalline waters — one of the most exhilarating wildlife encounters in Baja. After returning to the sailboat, we begin our final sail toward La Paz, anchoring near El Merito or La Gaviota, just outside Balandra Bay. We’ll enjoy a last sunset at sea, a celebratory farewell dinner aboard, and one more night rocked gently by the water.
Day 7 – Breakfast & Disembark in La Paz
We share a final breakfast aboard, then return to the marina in La Paz mid-morning. It’s time to say goodbye — or hasta luego — and carry the salt, sun, and memories with you wherever you go next. I’ll assist with local transport or offer tips for continuing your Baja Sur adventure.
What’s Included:
All lodging aboard the sailboat (6 nights)
All meals from lunch Day 1 to breakfast Day 7, chef on board
Licensed skipper, naturalist guide & photography mentoring
Use of snorkeling gear & paddleboards
Local panga boat for Los Islotes excursion with own captain and guide
Park & conservation area permits
Drinking water, snacks, and onboard safety gear
Not Included:
Flights to/from La Paz
Ground transportation to/from the marina
Travel insurance (required)
Alcoholic beverages (BYOB welcome)
Personal expenses and crew gratuities
Logistics & Itinerary: 4-Days
Four Days of Sails, Shores & Sea Life in Baja’s Wild Waters
Trip Start & End: La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Trip Length: 4 days / 3 nights
Group Size: Small and personal (max 6 guests)
Activity Level: Easy to moderate — includes swimming, snorkeling, light hiking, and sailing
Day 1 – Setting Sail to Isla Espíritu Santo
We meet after breakfast in La Paz, go through a welcome orientation, safety briefing, and boat familiarization, then set sail to Isla Espíritu Santo — a protected island of red cliffs and turquoise coves. Our first night is anchored in the beautiful Bahía Candelero, where we’ll take a sunset walk on the island and share dinner under the stars. The expedition begins with the sound of the wind and the waves, salty air, and stars overhead.
Day 2 – Explore Espíritu Santo & Anchor in Ensenada Grande
We dedicate the day to discovering the wild beauty of Isla Espíritu Santo, a UNESCO-protected gem. Depending on weather and group interests, we may hike along desert trails with panoramic views, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, or paddle beside sculpted cliffs and hidden coves. Naturalist talks and unhurried moments for photography or simply soaking in the island’s serenity are woven into the day.
By afternoon, we sail north to Isla La Partida and drop anchor in Ensenada Grande—renowned for its calm turquoise waters and red-hued cliffs. Enjoy a swim, explore the beach, or relax aboard as the sun sets over one of Mexico’s most stunning anchorages.
Day 3 – Snorkel with Sea Lions & Farewell Under the Stars
This morning, a local panga boat picks us up for a guided snorkeling adventure at Los Islotes, where playful sea lions swirl and twirl through crystalline waters — one of the most exhilarating wildlife encounters in Baja. After returning to the sailboat, we begin our final sail toward La Paz, anchoring near El Merito or La Gaviota, just outside Balandra Bay. We’ll enjoy a last sunset at sea, a celebratory farewell dinner aboard, and one more night rocked gently by the water.
Day 4 – Breakfast & Disembark in La Paz
We share a final breakfast aboard, then return to the marina in La Paz mid-morning. It’s time to say goodbye — or hasta luego — and carry the salt, sun, and memories with you wherever you go next. I’ll assist with local transport or offer tips for continuing your Baja Sur adventure.
What’s Included:
All lodging aboard the sailboat (3 nights)
All meals from lunch Day 1 to breakfast Day 4, chef on board
Licensed skipper, naturalist guide & photography mentoring
Use of snorkeling gear & paddleboards
Local panga boat for Los Islotes excursion with own captain and guide
Park & conservation area permits
Drinking water, snacks, and onboard safety gear
Not Included:
Flights to/from La Paz
Ground transportation to/from the marina
Travel insurance (required)
Alcoholic beverages (BYOB welcome)
Personal expenses and crew gratuities
Meet the Sailboat
Beneteau 50
3 double berths (bedrooms, + 1 crew)
3 heads (toilets, + 1 crew)
galley (kitchen)
cockpit
2 additional outdoor living spaces
dinghy
