Jul 29 – Aug 5, 2029

SEA OF CORTEZ/MIDRIFF ISLANDS TRIP DESCRIPTION AND ITINERARY

SEA OF CORTEZ/MIDRIFF ISLANDS 8 days / 7 nights / 6 days of diving July through Mid-September Imagine yourself immersed in a world teeming with life, a vibrant underwater ballet unfolding before your eyes. This isn't a dream; it's the Sea of Cortez, a place Jacques Cousteau famously dubbed the "world's aquarium." Adventure awaits beneath the surface in the warm embrace of the Mexican sun. Picture this: You descend into the nutrient-rich waters, where pristine walls explode with color. See the regal king angelfish, the endemic Cortez angelfish, dozens of triggerfish, and the schools of other fish as they shimmer and swirl, a kaleidoscope of marine diversity. Fields of black coral create an ethereal and otherworldly landscape. Playful sea lions, with their curious eyes and acrobatic antics, invite you to share their underwater playground. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the many rays and eels while octopuses, masters of disguise, blend into the rocks upon which they sit. On the surface, stay alert for mobula rays leaping from the water in a breathtaking aerial display, a dance of nature you won't soon forget. The Captain stays alert to tell you when we come across giant pods of dolphins, fin, sperm, or pilot whales. You may even see the powerful dorsal fin of an orca in the distance. And don't forget that we stop at Bahia de Los Angeles to snorkel with whale sharks, these gentle filter feeders, as they glide effortlessly through the water. But the magic of the Sea of Cortez isn't just about the big encounters. It's in the details, too. For macro photographers, the Sea of Cortez is a paradise. Vibrant nudibranchs crawl across the reef in a rainbow of hues while colorful blennies peek out from their rocky homes. Watch closely; you might spot dancing jawfish or the elusive seahorse clinging delicately to a swaying strand of seaweed. The Sea of Cortez is more than just a dive destination; it's an experience that awakens your senses and connects you with the wonders of the natural world. It is where the desert meets the sea, where the stars seem so close at night you can touch them. Enjoy all this and more in comfort aboard one of our two vessels, Rocio del Mar and Quino del Mar. Both boats feature ten cabins, accommodating 20 divers, each with an ensuite bathroom. Our expert crew is dedicated to ensuring a safe and fun experience, from providing top-notch dive guidance to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere onboard. And between dives, you'll savor delicious cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients, adding another layer of enjoyment to your adventure. Join us and discover the magic of this underwater Eden for yourself. This trip is excellent for snorkelers. ITINERARY Below is our scheduled diving itinerary. Weather and sea conditions may alter this itinerary, and if unique animal sightings arise, we may suggest options to divers. Day 1 - Embark at 5 pm in Puerto Peñasco / Dinner and departure at approximately 7 pm Day 2 - Isla Ángel de la Guarda / 3 dives / Sunset cruise with sea lions Day 3 - Isla Ángel de la Guarda / 3 dives and a night dive Day 4 - Isla San Pedro Mártir / 3-4 dives Day 5 - Isla San Pedro Mártir / 3-4 dives Day 6 - Isla Salsipuedes / Isla Las Ánimas / 3 dives and a night dive Day 7 - Bahía de los Ángeles / 2 dives / Snorkel with whale sharks Day 8 - Arrive in Puerto Peñasco and disembark at 7:30 am AVERAGE WATER TEMPERATURES The Sea of Cortez is a highly seasonal sea, meaning it undergoes rapid changes based on the seasons. Our trips begin in early July, when the temperatures are approximately 74-78°F. They increase by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit per week, peak at about 85 degrees in mid-August, and remain there until about mid-September.