Coming to the end of a week full of dynamic experiences, National Geographic Sea Lion chose to set the bar even higher by having guests awaken anchored off Los Islotes. Widely known for its gathering of California sea lions and excellent snorkeling, we took the water early before any other boats could arrive. With but a glance into the shimmering world below, the scope of life that inhabits the islands were quickly realized. Large schools of scissortail damselfish and yellowtail surgeonfish scoured the rocks in search of the algae that grew upon them, as well as the even more colorful loners like the Cortez rainbow wrasse and panamic fanged goby.
Not to be outdone, the California sea lions quickly leapt into the water to look over the new inhabitants. With the young pups being the most curious, our guests were circled, splashed, and effervesced by the bubbles blown by these playful marine mammals. To be so close to such creatures, to look them in the eye, is an experience that none soon forget. It is the reason we come to these places—to be reminded of what wilderness truly can be when it is left to its own devices.
Dropping anchor inside Bahia Bonanza, our afternoon was one of beautiful relaxation. With a beach that stretched for miles, our guests sauntered along reflecting on all that the week has been. With countless shells and the odd fish skeleton to try and identify, the beach was properly combed, while others set out into the bay upon our kayaks for one last intimate moment upon the water. As always, the Gulf of California provides, giving us reasons to return and memories that will stay with us always.
