24/7: (877) 691-4488, +1 (626) 539-7506, Skype : Support.adventurelink.com

Deals

Destinations

Activities

Type of Traveller

Blog

HIGHLIGHTS

A quick look about this trip!

DURATION

8 DAYS

COMFORT

LANGUAGE

RATING

Search for the whale sharks
Participants will have a chance to assist in obtaining DNA samples, taking photographic IDs and observing whale sharks
Visit some of the best dive sites in the area

ACTIVITIES ON THIS TRIP

Primary:	Scuba Diving
Other:	Hiking, Snorkeling, Kayaking

$1795USD

Prices vary by date. Make sure to pick your departure date.

Available Dates:

Available Spaces:

8 SPOTS AVAILABLE

Ready to book? Want more info?

Call Us

Email Us

Chat with Us

You can also talk to an expert or book online:

BOOK ONLINE NOW

ONGOING PROMOTIONS

"Get 5% off when you book with AdventureLink before May 31st, 2012!"

SAVE 5%

Applies to Departures Between:

4/25/2012 and 1/1/2013

Promotion lasts :

From 4/25/2012 To 6/1/2012

TRIP MAP

See the locations you'll visit!

Whale Shark Research and Natural History Expedition

Join our quest as we cruise the sea in search of the world's largest fish and actively collaborate in an important study of whale sharks.

SAVE FOR LATER

SEND TRIP TO A FRIEND

Pin It

TRIP OVERVIEW
TRIP ITINERARY
NUTS & BOLTS
REVIEWS

Join our quest as we cruise the sea in search of the world's largest fish and actively collaborate in an important study of whale sharks.

Aboard the Don Jose, you don’t need to be a diver to be wowed by wildlife in the rich waters of the Sea of Cortez. Bring the whole family for a cruise in this magical “world’s aquarium” (as Jacques Cousteau described it). You can hike, kayak, swim, and explore nature in between whale shark sightings, Or if you’re a scuba diver, jump in!

A spotter plane will help marine biologist Dení Ramírez locate the enormous, spotted plankton feeders, who migrate here to feed and give birth. Like sharks everywhere, these animals are threatened worldwide, and Deni’s research – with your help – contributes to the knowledge base necessary to their preservation.

Each spring these amazing fish migrate to the Sea of Cortez, which teems with plankton, their primary food source. Feeding at the surface, the whale sharks give you plenty of opportunities for close encounters—even without the need for scuba gear. To increase the odds of finding them, we use a spotter plane for a limited time each trip to direct our boat towards the animals as they feed.

During each encounter, you'll observe and assist Dení as she obtains DNA samples, takes photographic IDs and records behaviors. Data on feeding zones, biology, genetics and migratory patterns will be gathered and analyzed to promote global conservation of this threatened species. You'll also learn how you can even help with whale shark research after your trip —by submitting photos and sighting information which will be used in mark-recapture studies.

The thrills of this expedition don't end with big fish sightings. We'll also stop at some of the best dive sites in the area that have earned the Sea of Cortez its world-famous reputation for diving excellence.

Your adventure is aboard our 80' Don Jose. Its high second and third decks provide spectacular vantage points as you ply the seas in search of whale sharks. This vessel was designed and built in 1978 especially for Baja Expeditions. The Don Jose comfortably accommodates up to 16 passengers in seven above-deck cabins, each with a changing area, storage closet, adjacent shower and head, plus a sink in most.

Air conditioning is available at night in each cabin. With a convenient swim step, storage lockers, DVD and VHS video system and a natural history library for your perusal, this vessel will make your adventure a true pleasure.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are freshly prepared by our onboard cooks. Each evening, you'll also enjoy our famous Don Jose-style happy hour as you watch the sun and moon change guard.

Day 1: Arrive in La Paz, Mexico

Arrive in La Paz and transfer to the Marina Don Jose to meet your dive master and visiting guide and check into the Don Jose. Spend the rest of the day exploring the colorful city of La Paz on your own before spending the night dockside on board the Don Jose. (No meals)

Day 2 - 6: Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California)

Early in the morning of Day 2 our search for the whale sharks begins, as we head out to the Sea of Cortez, also called the Gulf of California. Each spring the plankton-rich waters near La Paz provide excellent feeding and breeding grounds for a variety of marine animals including whales, dolphins, sea lions and whale sharks.

While all these species may be in the area, we will focus on encounters with whale sharks, the largest fish in all the oceans. The periodic aid of a spotter airplane will direct us to any animals found in the area.

Our visiting guide and researcher, Deni Ramirez, will be on hand to help you learn more about this magnificent fish. So little is known about the whale sharks that the research she is conducting is vital to understanding and protecting this threatened species.

Obtaining DNA samples, taking photographic IDs and observing whale sharks to obtain sex ratios and sizes has allowed Dení to begin the process of defining the population. Participants will have a chance to assist Deni as she works with the sharks and learn more about the global effort to protect them through talks, discussions, and demonstrations.

Not only will we encounter whale sharks, but we will visit some of the best dive sites in the area, explore these legendary islands, snorkel with playful sea lions and investigate odd and mysterious plants that somehow thrive in the rocky desert.

The daily itinerary depends on the groups' experience level, location of the whale sharks, weather conditions, and other variables. (B/L/D daily)

Day 7: Sea of Cortez to La Paz

After a morning dive to savor the last moments of this incredible getaway, it's time to say goodbye. We return to La Paz, having lunch en route, and transfer you to your hotel. (B/L)

Day 8: La Paz to your home city

Depart to your home city. (No meals) This is a general itinerary and subject to change.

Overall Rating	Guide Rating	Accommodation Rating	Itinerary Rating	Value Rating

Dennis Divins and Sherry Piatt, Arnold, California, USA, 2010

“An overall excellent experience with an amazing crew... Deni was very good. Her presentations and knowledge made the trip very enjoyable.”

Overall Rating	Guide Rating	Accommodation Rating	Itinerary Rating	Value Rating

Lucille James, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 2010

“Very unique experience. Excellent crew. Food very delicious.”

Overall Rating	Guide Rating	Accommodation Rating	Itinerary Rating	Value Rating

Cecelia Mooney, Spokane, Washington, USA, 2010

“Definitely would travel with Baja Expeditions again! Having Deni share her expertise was a big advantage.”

Overall Rating	Guide Rating	Accommodation Rating	Itinerary Rating	Value Rating

TRIP INCLUDES

Deluxe or standard shipboard accommodations on days 1-6
B/L/D on Days 2-6
B/L on Day 7, hotel on night 7
Beer, soda and wine while shipboard
Spotter plane to search for whale sharks (Limited time)
Dive tanks, weights and belts
Transfer from airport to the Don Jose on Day 1
Services of knowledgeable guides and caring crew members
Detailed pre-departure information to help you plan your trip

TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE

Air and ground transportation to and from La Paz or Loreto
Meals and beverages, other than specified
Gratuities to guides and crew members
Laundry and other items of a personal nature
Personal and travel insurance
Fuel surcharges
Cost for anything not specifically mentioned in the listing
Park access fee
Conservation Passport Fee of $25

CANCELLATIONS: 20% cancellation fee applied if cancelled 60 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 60 days are 100% non-cancelable

Did you know that you can customize this trip?

Customizing a trip is a great way to:

Change anything about the itinerary you don't like.
Change the size of the group or make this a private tour.
Change the duration or departure date of the trip.
Because we use the local operator, this customization usually won't cost you extra!

Customize the Brochure

<center>
        <h1 style="margin: 0px; font-family: 'philosopher'; font-weight: bold; font-size: 22px; color: #604c3d;">Whale Shark Research and Natural History Expedition</h1>
    </center>
    <div style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: 'Futura Bold', 'Gill Sans', Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; color: #928164;">Join our quest as we cruise the sea in search of the world's largest fish and actively collaborate in an important study of whale sharks.</div>

<div style="margin-top: 10px;border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-image: linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -o-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -moz-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -ms-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);

background-image: -webkit-gradient(
		linear,
		left bottom,
		left top,
		color-stop(0.2, #F3F3F3),
		color-stop(0.81, #FEFEFE)
	);
	background-color: #FEFEFE;">
                        <div style="background-color: #F3F3F3">
                        <div style="width: 248px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
                            <div style="float: left; width: 61px;">
                                <center>
                                    <div style="font-family: 'philosopher'; font-weight: bold; font-size: 10px; color: #907878; padding-top: 5px;">DURATION</div>
                                    <div style="font-family: 'alice'; font-size: 18px; color: #7a9ebf; padding-top: 10px;">8 <span style="font-size: 10px;">DAYS</span></div>
                                </center>
                            </div>
                            <div style="width: 1px; float: left;">
                                <img style="margin-top: 25px;" src="/Content/Images/highlights_divider_bg.png" />
                            </div>
                            <div style="float: left; width: 55px;">
                                <center>
                                    <div style="font-family: 'philosopher'; font-weight: bold; font-size: 10px; color: #907878; padding-top: 5px;">COMFORT</div>
                                    <div style="padding-top: 5px;">
                                        <span style="display: inline-block;" class="sprite_icons icn_comfort_selected"></span><span style="display: inline-block;" class="sprite_icons icn_comfort_notselected"></span><span style="display: inline-block;" class="sprite_icons icn_comfort_notselected"></span>
                                    </div>
                                </center>
                            </div>
                            <div style="width: 1px; float: left;">
                                <img style="margin-top: 25px;" src="/Content/Images/highlights_divider_bg.png" />
                            </div>
                            
                            <div style="float: left; width: 55px;">
                                <center>
                                    <div style="font-family: 'philosopher'; font-weight: bold; font-size: 10px; color: #907878; padding-top: 5px;">LANGUAGE</div>
                                    <div style="padding-top: 15px;">
                                        <img src="/Content/Images/FlagIcons/us.png" />
                                    </div>
                                </center>
                            </div>
                            <div style="width: 1px; float: left;">
                                <img style="margin-top: 25px;" src="/Content/Images/highlights_divider_bg.png" />
                            </div>
                            <div style="float: left; width: 62px;">
                                <center>
                                    <div style="font-family: 'philosopher'; font-weight: bold; font-size: 10px; color: #907878; padding-top: 5px;">RATING</div>
                                    <div style="padding-top: 5px;">
                                        <span class="sprite_icons icn_star_selected" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span class="sprite_icons icn_star_selected" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span class="sprite_icons icn_star_selected" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span class="sprite_icons icn_star_selected" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span class="sprite_icons icn_star_selected_half" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span class="sprite_icons icn_star_notselected_half" style="display: inline-block;"></span>
                                    </div>
                                </center>
                            </div>
                            <div style="clear: both;"></div>
                        </div>
                        </div>
                        <div style="font-family: 'sorts mill'; font-size: 13px; color: #544741; margin-top: 20px;" id="Div1">
                            <div><ul><li>Search for the whale sharks<li>Participants will have a chance to assist in obtaining DNA samples, taking photographic IDs and observing whale sharks<li>Visit some of the best dive sites in the area</li></li></li></ul></div>
                        </div>
                    </div>
                    <div style="margin-top: 10px; padding: 10px;border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-image: linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -o-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -moz-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -ms-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);

background-image: -webkit-gradient(
		linear,
		left bottom,
		left top,
		color-stop(0.2, #F3F3F3),
		color-stop(0.81, #FEFEFE)
	);
	background-color: #FEFEFE;">
                        <div style="font-family: 'philosopher'; font-weight: bold; font-size: 14px; color: #604c3d; text-align: center;">ACTIVITIES ON THIS TRIP</div>
                        <table cellpadding="5" style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
                            <tr>
                                <td><span style="color: #544741;">Primary:</span></td>
                                <td><a href="/search/for/Scuba%20Diving/in/Anywhere%20in%20the%20World/any-travel-style">Scuba Diving</a></td>
                            </tr>
                            
                            <tr>
                                <td><span style="color: #544741;">Other:</span></td>
                                <td><a href="/search/for/Hiking/in/Anywhere%20in%20the%20World/any-travel-style">Hiking</a>, <a href="/search/for/Snorkeling/in/Anywhere%20in%20the%20World/any-travel-style">Snorkeling</a>, <a href="/search/for/Kayaking/in/Anywhere%20in%20the%20World/any-travel-style">Kayaking</a></td>
                            </tr>
                            
                        </table>
                    </div>

<div style="border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-image: linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -o-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -moz-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);
	background-image: -ms-linear-gradient(bottom, #F3F3F3 2%, #FEFEFE 81%);

background-image: -webkit-gradient(
		linear,
		left bottom,
		left top,
		color-stop(0.2, #F3F3F3),
		color-stop(0.81, #FEFEFE)
	);
	background-color: #FEFEFE;">
                        
                                <div style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 0px; border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-color: White;
	padding: 10px;
	margin-left: 10px;
	margin-right: 10px;
	margin-top: 15px;">
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: 'sorts mill'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: #604C3D;">
                                        Day 1: Arrive in La Paz, Mexico
                                    </div>
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; font-family: 'Futura Bold', 'Gill Sans', Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #544741; line-height: 20px;">
                                        Arrive in La Paz and transfer to the Marina Don Jose to meet your dive master and visiting guide and check into the Don Jose. Spend the rest of the day exploring the colorful city of La Paz on your own before spending the night dockside on board the Don Jose. (No meals)

</div>
                                    
                                    </div>
                            
                                <div style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 0px; border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-color: White;
	padding: 10px;
	margin-left: 10px;
	margin-right: 10px;
	margin-top: 15px;">
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: 'sorts mill'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: #604C3D;">
                                        Day 2 - 6:  Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California)
                                    </div>
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; font-family: 'Futura Bold', 'Gill Sans', Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #544741; line-height: 20px;">
                                        <div>
    <div>
        Early in the morning of Day 2 our search for the whale sharks begins, as we head out to the Sea of Cortez, also called the Gulf of California. Each
        spring the plankton-rich waters near La Paz provide excellent feeding and breeding grounds for a variety of marine animals including whales, dolphins,
        sea lions and whale sharks.
    </div>
    <div>
        <br>
    </div>
    <div>
        While all these species may be in the area, we will focus on encounters with whale sharks, the largest fish in all the oceans. The periodic aid of a
        spotter airplane will direct us to any animals found in the area.
    </div>
    <div>
        <br>
    </div>
    <div>
        Our visiting guide and researcher, Deni Ramirez, will be on hand to help you learn more about this magnificent fish. So little is known about the whale
        sharks that the research she is conducting is vital to understanding and protecting this threatened species.
    </div>
    <div>
        <br>
    </div>
    <div>
        Obtaining DNA samples, taking photographic IDs and observing whale sharks to obtain sex ratios and sizes has allowed Dení to begin the process of
        defining the population. Participants will have a chance to assist Deni as she works with the sharks and learn more about the global effort to protect
        them through talks, discussions, and demonstrations.
    </div>
    <div>
        <br>
    </div>
    <div>
        Not only will we encounter whale sharks, but we will visit some of the best dive sites in the area, explore these legendary islands, snorkel with
        playful sea lions and investigate odd and mysterious plants that somehow thrive in the rocky desert.
    </div>
    <div>
        <br>
    </div>
    <div>
        The daily itinerary depends on the groups' experience level, location of the whale sharks, weather conditions, and other variables. (B/L/D daily) 
    </div>
</div>

</div>
                                    
                                    </div>
                            
                                <div style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 0px; border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-color: White;
	padding: 10px;
	margin-left: 10px;
	margin-right: 10px;
	margin-top: 15px;">
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: 'sorts mill'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: #604C3D;">
                                        Day 7: Sea of Cortez to La Paz
                                    </div>
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; font-family: 'Futura Bold', 'Gill Sans', Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #544741; line-height: 20px;">
                                        After a morning dive to savor the last moments of this incredible getaway, it's time to say goodbye. We return to La Paz, having lunch en route, and transfer you to your hotel. (B/L)
                                    </div>
                                    
                                    </div>
                            
                                <div style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 0px; border-radius: 5px; 	
	-moz-border-radius: 5px; 
	-webkit-border-radius: 5px; 
	border: 1px solid #dddddd;
	background-color: White;
	padding: 10px;
	margin-left: 10px;
	margin-right: 10px;
	margin-top: 15px;">
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: 'sorts mill'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: #604C3D;">
                                        Day 8: La Paz to your home city 
                                    </div>
                                    <div style="margin-top: 5px; font-family: 'Futura Bold', 'Gill Sans', Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #544741; line-height: 20px;">
                                        Depart to your home city. (No meals) This is a general itinerary and subject to change.

</div>
                                    
                                    </div>
                            
	                </div>
                    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/13b003ff-9bd2-421b-86c6-a61f7ebe9644.jpg" />
    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/4a9248ec-a647-4bb0-b0cc-3b22f88b4a4a.jpg" />
    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/7b52eca1-28d3-47ba-ae16-1de37837a844.jpg" />
    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/914beaf1-d67b-4a41-a3b8-eca3e072b9b0.jpg" />
    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/31c09a97-2367-42cd-9bd3-ba4c86404725.jpg" />
    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/41fee86f-0033-40fb-804f-9f0ad3c813f7.jpg" />
    
                <img style="width: 660px; padding: 2px; border: 1px solid #ccc; margin: 10px;" src="https://d35b54kuuvhi57.cloudfront.net/545fa697-5776-4fff-ae0e-b9b6fb662492.jpg" />

Download Brochure

AS SEEN ON

Company

About Us Our Blog API Terms of Use Privacy Policy

California Seller of Travel #2088061-40

Customers

Why book with AdventureLink? Invite Friends - Get $100 Trip Credit! Talk to an Expert - Get Travel Advice & Booking Help

Tour Operators

List your Trips on AdventureLink Tour Operator Portal Login

Affiliates

Become an Affiliate Affiliate Widgets

Help & Support

Call Us or Our Experts:
(877) 691-4488
+1 (626) 539-7506
Skype : Support.adventurelink.com

Talk to an expert to book or learn more.
First Name:
Your Phone Number:	(e.g. 685-555-2222 )
Call Me Now Talking to an expert is 100% free. We want to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Name:
Email:
Phone Number:
Any Comments (optional)
Interested in Trip:	Whale Shark Research and Natural History Expedition

Email this Trip to:	Seperate multiple emails by a new line.
Customize your message:	Checkout this awesome trip: Whale Shark Research and Natural History Expedition. Join our quest as we cruise the sea in search of the world's largest fish and actively collaborate in an important study of whale sharks. Check it out here: http://www.adventurelink.com/trip/39941/whale-shark-research-and-natural-history-expedition