June 12, 2025

Smithsonian Journeys, the educational travel program of the Smithsonian Institution and a leader in authentic and enriching cultural travel, and PONANT EXPLORATIONS, a world leader of small-ship explorations, have announced a unique new itinerary in Baja California, Mexico, for winter 2027 designed to suit both leisure and adventure travelers. Three years of development in partnership with local communities have resulted in a 10-night voyage, Baja and the Sea of Cortez: In Search of the Great Whales, Feb. 10–20, 2027, that offers travelers an immersive experience in an eco-rich region where nature and culture exist in harmony.  As with all Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT EXPLORATIONS small-ship cruises, two Smithsonian Journeys experts will accompany the voyage, sharing their insights through engaging conversations and during an onboard lecture series that will delve into the region’s natural history, geology, wildlife and culture.  

The natural wonders of the Baja Peninsula encompass spectacular desert islands fringed with mangroves and pristine beaches, as well as the extraordinary marine life and coral reefs of the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortez), which Jacques Cousteau called “the aquarium of the world.” The curated itinerary spotlights the ways that local communities are working to protect this treasure—such as the people of Cabo Pulmo, who have embraced eco-tourism to evolve the region into a model of marine conservation.

Sailing round-trip from Cabo San Lucas, travelers will immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery of Baja, cruising from the wildlife-rich Pacific coast to the rugged islands and reefs of the turquoise Sea of Cortez. Exploring these World Heritage-listed regions expedition-style, guests will get up close to fascinating species on boating and snorkeling excursions and on walks and hikes with naturalists. The itinerary includes encounters with curious gray whales in Bahia Magdalena, and in Guerrero Negro, a remote lagoon that teems with life—and where no other cruise line operates. Guests will also have the chance to seek out humpbacks and enormous blue whales in Loreto Bay National Park, snorkel the reefs of Cabo Pulmo and enjoy a thrilling opportunity to swim with sea lions off Isla Coronado and Los Islotes. Certified divers will also have the chance to scuba dive (wetsuits provided).

Other wildlife guests may encounter include orcas, bottlenose dolphins, graceful Mobula devil rays, a host of brightly colored reef fish, magnificent frigatebirds and blue-footed or brown boobies. Shore landings led by the onboard naturalist team will grant access to pristine areas such as Balandra Beach and Bird Island, while an overnight anchored in the mission town of Loreto offers cultural immersion and local flavor. 

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. To bolster the authenticity of the experience, PONANT EXPLORATIONS has collaborated with local communities to develop most of the offered excursions and activities. To honor the trust placed by the local communities and to protect the environment, PONANT EXPLORATIONS has implemented a biosecurity protocol tailored to the region. 

Smithsonian Journeys is taking reservations for this trip now, with fares starting at $9,560 per guest based on double occupancy. For more information on this trip, travelers can contact 855-330-1542 or visit www.smithsonianjourneys.org/PONANT.

About Smithsonian Journeys

Smithsonian Journeys is a global leader in cultural travel, offering unique, expert-led trips on all seven continents. It offers a robust collection of small-group land journeys, small-ship exploration cruises, river cruises, active journeys, cultural stays, private jet trips and tailor-made journeys for the independent traveler and student travel. Smithsonian Journeys is part of Smithsonian Enterprises, a division of the Smithsonian that oversees the Institution’s commercial activities, including the Smithsonian Channel; the retail operation, which includes 35 museum and airport stores and food concessions; Smithsonian magazine, which reaches more than 8 million monthly readers; Smithsonianstore.com, an E-Commerce business; consumer and education licensing; and books. For more information, visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org or call 855-330-1542.  

About the Smithsonian    

Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery. It is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers and libraries. Two of the 21 museums—the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum—are in the early planning stages. The Smithsonian Campaign for Our Share Future, which began in 2018 in a quiet phase, was publicly launched in September 2024 with a goal of $2.5 billion. There are more than 6,200 Smithsonian employees and 3,800 volunteers. The total number of objects, works of art and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at nearly 157 million, of which nearly 148 million are scientific specimens at the National Museum of Natural History. www.si.edu.

About PONANT EXPLORATIONS

PONANT EXPLORATIONS has been committed to more responsible tourism and purposeful voyages of exploration for over 35 years. Aboard a fleet of 13 French-flagged ships, fitted with the latest environmental technologies, the journey of exploration is always elegant, authentic and inspiring. For more information, visit us.ponant.com.