Baja California, an Unprecedented Exploration Codeveloped with Local Communities
- HC Editor
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
It took three years for the PONANT EXPLORATIONS Product Research & Development team to design this unique itinerary in Baja California, Mexico. More than a voyage of exploration, it is a rare experience in a timeless place where humans and nature coexist in harmony, set to be offered in the winter of 2027. A look back at an intense reconnaissance mission.
Between the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez, ‘Baja California’ invites exploration of a world apart, where rolling dunes, clear turquoise waters, green line of mangroves, and coral reefs shape a landscape both wild and sublime. A true maritime sanctuary, ‘this world’s largest aquarium’, as captain Cousteau once called it, reveals its secrets in winter – the majestic dance of the ocean giants that come here to reproduce.
It was in this unspoiled setting that José Sarica, PONANT EXPLORATIONS Director of R&D Expedition Experience, conducted a scouting trip last January in search of a future itinerary. In the stillness of a quiet lagoon, he witnessed a scene of striking beauty — an intimate encounter with a grey whale and her calf. From this rare and moving moment came the inspiration to share with guests the full intensity of these experiences when nature unveils its grandeur – in an unspoiled, temperate environment, far removed from typical seaside settings.
A Complete Experience, Blending Active Exploration with Timeless, Suspended Moments
Wildlife watching will be a highlight: encounters at sea with grey whales, bottlenose dolphins and pelicans at sea, swimming alongside Californian sea lions and the enchanting aquatic ballet of mobula rays, etc. Blue whales, humpback whales, and orcas also frequent the area.
Landings with the naturalist team will provide guests access to places untouched by human presence. Visits to small, typically Mexican towns — such as Loreto in particular — will also offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the local culture.
A wide range of activities will be offered to guests, adaptable to their preferences — whether they seek relaxation or a more active experience. On the agenda: snorkelling (with wetsuits, as the water temperature in Mexico is cool at that time of year), scuba diving, and hiking through canyons.
“Exploration in the Heart of Baja California”
Cabo San Lucas - Cabo San Lucas, 3 departures aboard Le Bellot on 31 January, 20 February, and 2 March 2027, 11 days-10 nights. From AU $10,950 per person* price is subject to change without notice at any time. – Find out more about the voyages
A Voyage Codeveloped with Local Communities
"Creating an itinerary in Baja California was a challenge for me. We have a huge responsibility to share this exceptional environment, to pass it on to future generations, and to show that we are worthy of the trust placed in us by the people who live there. What I experienced there compares to no other experience: it's the powerful feeling of being truly alive, connected to nature, and that's what our guests will discover."
José Sarica, Director of R&D Expedition Experience
Long threatened by intensive fishing in the 1970s and 1980s, the Sea of Cortez has gradually regained balance thanks to the commitment of local communities. Former fishermen, now stewards of conservation, spearheaded the creation of protected areas, leading to the establishment of several national parks. A renewed dialogue between humans and nature — one that the PONANT EXPLORATIONS team set out to witness firsthand in the field.
By drawing on local communities and their logistical resources for most of the visits and activities offered to guests, PONANT EXPLORATIONS will take part in a positive momentum toward building effective partnerships between authorities, the private sector, and civil society. These partnerships must be inclusive, founded on shared principles and values, and place both people and the planet at the heart of their priorities.
A Strict Biosafety Protocol to Respect the Environment
To honor the trust placed by local communities, PONANT EXPLORATIONS implements a biosecurity protocol tailored to the region. For example, before any interaction with whales, hands must be washed with disinfectant soap. The sunscreen used for diving and swimming is formulated to be environmentally safe.