The Whales of Magdalena Bay
Spend six extraordinary days in the company of majestic gray whales, on this compact expedition. This is not an ordinary whale-watching experience, as we will literally anchor among the whales in Bahía Magdalena, where mothers and calves relax and play after the longest mammal migration on earth. We’ll see and hear them around the ship and venture out in Zodiacs or local pangas for exhilarating up-close encounters. We will visit multiple sites in this 70-mile-long bay to maximize our opportunities for interactions. While whales may be the highlight of your voyage, this area is home to so much more. Explore intricate mangroves by kayak in the narrow channels of the Hull Canal. Fat-tire bike along remote beaches (we have a fleet of bikes aboard). Beachcomb endless crescents of sand, studded with thousands of sand dollars on Isla Magdalena. And revel in the vastness and serenity as you view the many species of birds, including magnificent frigatebirds and diving brown pelicans, in this world-renowned region. Throughout the voyage, we’ll choose from our favorite locations to hike in small groups and kayak peaceful shorelines, engaging with the region in the most immersive, educational, and fun way possible.
The National Geographic Sea Bird is ideal for exploring Magdalena Bay. Intimate and inviting, her scale fosters a rewarding sense of community and esprit de corps, accommodating just 62 guests in 31 outside cabins.
Our expert expedition team will illuminate the wonders of the region from every possible angle. Your expedition leader, undersea specialist, certified photo instructor and naturalists, plus a wellness specialist, are dedicated to ensuring an incredible voyage. You will learn about the desert ecosystems, seabird migrations, and whale behavior from our experienced naturalists. And you’re sure to capture your best photos ever, learning from the photo instructor on board.
Special Offers
Book by August 31, 2023, for a $500 air credit. New bookings only. See attached brochure for details.
Book by August 31, 2023, for a complimentary pre-voyage hotel night in Loreto, Mexico. See attached brochure for details.
$500 discount extended to all guests under the age of 18.
Day 1: Loreto, Mexico to San Carlos to embark National Geographic Sea Bird
Day 2: Bahía Almejas/Rehusa Channel/Isla Magdalena
Day 3: Transit the Hull Canal/Boca de Soledad
Day 4: Boca de Soledad
Day 5: Boca de Soledad
Day 6: Puerto Lopez Mateos/Disembark Ship/Transfer to Loreto
Moderate
Faculty
Celia Chen, research professor of Biology, graduated from Dartmouth College in 1978. After receiving her M.S. in biological oceanography from the University of Rhode Island, Chen returned to Dartmouth for her Ph.D. in aquatic ecology, earned in 1994. She teaches Dartmouth undergraduates in courses about marine science and ecotoxicology. Her research focuses on the bioaccumulation and fate of metals–mercury, in particular–in aquatic ecosystems including lakes and ponds, reservoirs, streams and rivers, and estuaries. She works with policy makers, other stakeholder groups, and the public at state, national, and international levels to communicate and apply the research findings in context. She serves on committees and partnerships of the United Nations Environment Programme related to the Minamata Convention; on Science Advisory Board Panels of the USEPA; and locally, on the Town of Hartford Conservation Commission and the Board of Trustees of the Vermont Chapter of The Nature Conservancy and of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies.
Celia lives in Hartford, VT, with her husband, Professor Doug Bolger, and two daughters, Jane and Maya.
