Ponant Explorations has announced a new itinerary in Baja California, Mexico for winter 2027, featuring a unique 10-night journey—Exploration in the Heart of Baja California.
From January through March, the 184-guest Le Bellot will offer four round-trip departures from Cabo San Lucas including one operated in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys. The highly-curated voyages spotlight the advancements of Cabo Pulmo locals who have embraced eco-tourism to evolve the region into a model of marine conservation alongside the natural wonders of the Baja California Peninsula—from extraordinary marine life to the coral reefs that inhabit the UNESCO-designated Gulf of California.
Voyage in Alliance with Smithsonian Journeys – February 10-20, 2027
Unique among these voyages is a singular Baja and the Sea of Cortez: In Search of the Great Whales with Smithsonian Journeys departing on February 10, 2027. With the added benefit of having two Smithsonian Journeys Experts aboard, guests on this voyage will enjoy engaging conversations during an onboard lecture series that explores the region’s history, culture, environment, and wildlife. The voyage is part of Ponant Explorations’ esteemed alliance with Smithsonian Journeys—the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution—offering intellectually enriching insight on voyages designed for English-speaking travellers. All voyages in collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys feature a curated excursion and/or activity included at each port of call as well as airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days for a seamless experience.
Wildlife encounters will be a defining feature on all four of the Baja California voyages. Guests may witness gray, blue, and humpback whales, orcas, bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, pelicans, and graceful mobula devil rays in their natural habitat. Shore landings led by the line’s naturalist team will grant access to pristine areas untouched by development, while visits to coastal towns like Loreto offer cultural immersion and local flavor. The itinerary will also feature a visit to Guerrero Negro offering a high-impact whale experience* that no other cruise line operates.
Designed to suit both leisure and adventure travellers, the itinerary includes options for snorkeling and scuba diving (wetsuits provided), and canyon hiking, to showcase the region’s striking biodiversity and natural landscapes.
Departures for the new Baja California itinerary include: January 31, February 20, and March 2, 2027 and February 10, 2027 for the Smithsonian Journeys voyage.
For more information on Ponant Explorations, travellers can contact their preferred travel advisor, 888-400-1082 or visit en.ponant.com.
