Sea of Cortez Yacht Charter Itinerary

Cabo San Lucas to Cabo San Lucas

Sea of Cortez 10-day Charter Itinerary

Get ready to explore the Sea of Cortez

Exploring the Sea of Cortez on a Superyacht: A 10-Day Charter Itinerary

Introduction to the Sea of Cortez

The Sea of Cortez, a UNESCO-protected wonder, is located between Baja California and mainland Mexico. Known for its rich marine life, desert landscapes, and secluded islands, it’s one of the world’s most biodiverse seas. November to April is the ideal cruising season, when calm seas, mild weather, and abundant marine life offer perfect conditions for snorkelling, diving, and fishing.

 

Arrival in Cabo San Lucas for Embarkation

Guests arriving by private jet can land at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), located about 45 minutes from Cabo San Lucas. The yacht crew will arrange for seamless transfers from the airport to the marina. Marina Cabo San Lucas is the primary embarkation point, with state-of-the-art facilities and direct access to luxury services and shops. The marina offers high-end accommodations for superyachts and is conveniently located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, providing an ideal setting to start the Sea of Cortez journey.

Day 1
Cabo San Lucas

Area Description: Cabo San Lucas is a dynamic resort town and gateway to the Sea of Cortez. Famous for its iconic Arch, luxury marina, and nightlife, it is a popular destination for superyachts. The waters here are calm and ideal for cruising, with plenty of anchorages nearby.

Highlights & Activities: Cruise by tender to visit the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Pelican Rock for snorkeling. Hiking enthusiasts can venture to Mt. Solmar for panoramic views of Cabo and the Sea of Cortez.

Marina: Marina Cabo San Lucas – Offers secure berths, fueling, and easy access to town.

Dining: Edith’s – A renowned Mexican coastal restaurant that combines Baja’s fresh flavors with a sophisticated ambiance.

Day 1
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 2
Cabo San Lucas to Cabo Pulmo (60 Nm)

Area Description: Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is an ecological treasure, protecting one of North America’s oldest coral reefs. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Cabo Pulmo is ideal for water activities. The anchorage here is calm but basic, with no formal marina facilities due to the park’s strict conservation regulations.

Highlights & Activities: Dive among vibrant coral reefs and swim with whale sharks. The park’s preservation status means excellent visibility and abundant marine life.

Anchorage: Anchor offshore near the reef in calm weather; be mindful of environmental regulations.

Dining: Onboard dining recommended, as dining options are limited in this protected area.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 2
Santa Maria Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 3
Cabo Pulmo to Isla Cerralvo, Overnight at La Ventana (70 Nm)

Area Description: Isla Cerralvo, also known as Jacques Cousteau Island, is an uninhabited paradise for sport fishing and diving. Anchoring in La Ventana offers convenient overnight accommodations and access to the village’s restaurants and kite-surfing spots.

Highlights & Activities: Dive, fish, or snorkel in the rich waters of Isla Cerralvo. In La Ventana, the Punta Arena Lighthouse Trail provides a scenic coastal hike.

Anchorage: Anchor near La Ventana or in Cerralvo’s protected bays.

Dining: Marlin Azul – This laid-back beachside restaurant in La Ventana is known for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere.

Santa Maria Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 3
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur is a vibrant city
Day 4
La Ventana to La Paz (25 Nm)

Area Description: La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, is a vibrant city with a bustling waterfront and rich local culture. Known for its malecón, La Paz is a gateway to the region’s marine parks and islands.

Highlights & Activities: Walk along the malecón, visit the Whale Museum, or swim with whale sharks. The El Mogote Sand Dunes near La Paz offer hikers a stunning desert-meets-ocean experience.

Marina: Marina CostaBaja – Offers luxury facilities, full services, and secure mooring, with easy access to downtown La Paz.

Dining: Sorstis – A fine dining restaurant with Mediterranean-Baja fusion dishes, set in an elegant courtyard in La Paz.

La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur is a vibrant city
Day 4
Isla Espiritu Santo
Day 5
La Paz to Isla Espiritu Santo (20 Nm)

Area Description: Isla Espiritu Santo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its dramatic red cliffs, sandy beaches, and clear waters. This uninhabited island is home to various endemic species and offers incredible opportunities for snorkelling and exploring natural landscapes.

Highlights & Activities: Snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes, kayak through hidden coves, and hike the El Mechudo Trail for panoramic views across the island.

Anchorage: Anchor in Ensenada Grande or Candelero Bay, both sheltered spots with calm waters.

Dining: Onboard dining allows more time to explore the island’s unique landscapes.

Isla Espiritu Santo
Day 5
Isla Espiritu Santo’s untouched beauty
Day 6
Isla Espiritu Santo

Area Description: Isla Espiritu Santo’s untouched beauty makes it ideal for a day filled with exploration. With its secluded beaches, azure waters, and vibrant wildlife, Espiritu Santo is the epitome of a desert island paradise.

Highlights & Activities: Enjoy diving, snorkelling, and beachcombing, or take a scenic hike along the Punta Lobos Trail to capture the island’s stunning vistas.

Anchorage: Remain anchored in Ensenada Grande or move to another bay like Bahia San Gabriel for variety.

Dining: Clam Shack by the Beach – This pop-up dining option offers fresh seafood in a beachside setting.

Isla Espiritu Santo’s untouched beauty
Day 6
Isla San Francisco
Day 7
Espiritu Santo to Isla San Francisco (45 Nm)

Area Description: Isla San Francisco is a small, uninhabited island known for its crescent-shaped bay, which is perfect for anchoring. The island’s pristine beaches and rugged hills make it ideal for hiking and snorkelling.

Highlights & Activities: Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear bay, or hike the Ridge Trail for panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez and surrounding islands.

Anchorage: Anchor in the crescent-shaped bay for calm waters and excellent access to the beach.

Dining: Enjoy an exclusive beach picnic, prepared by your yacht’s chef, on the island’s stunning beach.

Isla San Francisco
Day 7
Loreto is one of Baja’s oldest settlements
Day 8
Isla San Francisco to Loreto (70 Nm)

Area Description: Loreto is one of Baja’s oldest settlements, blending rich history and Mexican culture with scenic coastal beauty. The town’s colonial architecture and nearby marine park make it a captivating destination for nature lovers.

Highlights & Activities: Visit the Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto, explore the town center, or snorkel in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park. Hikers will enjoy Tabor Canyon, a trail with impressive rock formations and lush vegetation.

Marina: Marina Puerto Escondido – Located just south of Loreto, this marina offers full amenities, including fuel, provisions, and secure berthing.

Dining: Orlando’s Mexican Cocina – A charming restaurant offering fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine with local ingredients.

Loreto is one of Baja’s oldest settlements
Day 8
California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) sunbathing on the rocks of Isla Coronado
Day 9
Loreto to Isla Espiritu Santo (70 Nm)

Area Description: Return to Isla Espiritu Santo for a final experience of its secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and rich biodiversity.

Highlights & Activities: Snorkel, kayak, or relax with a sunset beach picnic. The Bahia San Gabriel Trail offers a scenic hike with sweeping coastline views and nearby islets.

Anchorage: Bahia San Gabriel provides a sheltered anchorage with access to beaches and hiking trails.

Dining: Onboard Baja-inspired dining prepared by the yacht chef, ideal for a memorable final evening in the Sea of Cortez.

California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) sunbathing on the rocks of Isla Coronado
Day 9
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 10
Isla Espiritu Santo to Los Cabos (120 Nm)

Area Description: The journey back to Los Cabos offers scenic views of the rugged Baja coastline, perfect for reflecting on the trip. Los Cabos is known for its luxurious marina, lively town, and expansive beaches, offering a fitting conclusion to the Sea of Cortez adventure.

Highlights & Activities: Unwind with onboard spa services or enjoy the scenic coastal views as you return to Cabo.

Marina: Marina Cabo San Lucas – A full-service marina located in Cabo’s luxury resort area.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 10
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Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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1. An aerial image of Lands End and the Arch at Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico, at the point where the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California converge.