This year I’m adding a brand new destination to my offer – Mexico!
More specifically, we will explore the beautiful and wild Sea of Cortez, where I have sailed for several years and which I carry deep in my heart.
WHY: Because it is one of those hidden corners of the world that captivates you with its wild nature, sense of solitude, and the warmth of its people. A place where the desert meets the ocean, and where even in winter the climate is mild, lush, and perfect for escaping Europe’s cold. I’ve designed this trip with the desire to show you something different – something that’s not in the tourist catalogues, but lives in me as one of the most beautiful sailing destinations I’ve ever visited.
The Sea of Cortez has many beautiful bays and wonderful fauna. We’ll do lots of swimming, snorkelling, sailing, paddling, enjoying the sandy beaches and taking photos. Don’t expect beach pubs or nightlife, because there are none. This destination is a paradise for lovers of peace and nature.
About the Sea of Cortez
Sea of Cortez (or Gulf of California) is similar in size and shape to the Adriatic, and the sailing conditions are similar, meaning that the distances between the bays are relatively small and the sea is calm (no ocean swells). This part of the world is known for its great biodiversity - you can see dolphins, whales of all kinds, sea lions, manta rays, stingrays, whale sharks and much more. There are many birds and few sailing boats. This bay is off the usual shipping lanes, so we don't have the problems of crowded bays like in the Caribbean or Croatia. Instead of palm trees, the landscape is defined by desert scenery, cacti, and striking red rock formations, set in vivid contrast against the turquoise waters of the bays.
Program
After landing in La Paz, we will spend the night in a hotel near the marina, allowing time to rest after the long flight and ease into Mexico. We will then explore La Paz and its surroundings—a pleasant, authentic Mexican city with a lively seafront promenade.
In the afternoon, I recommend the first excursion (optional), swimming with whale sharks.
If you wish, you may choose a different activity on the first day, such as diving with sea lions, or simply wander the streets and soak up the local Mexican atmosphere.
La Paz
After landing in La Paz, we will spend the night in a hotel near the marina, allowing time to rest after the long flight and ease into Mexico. We will then explore La Paz and its surroundings—a pleasant, authentic Mexican city with a lively seafront promenade. In the afternoon, I recommend the first excursion (optional), swimming with whale sharks. If you wish, you may choose a different activity on the first day, such as diving with sea lions, or simply wander the streets and soak up the local Mexican atmosphere.
Sea lions
We will sail from the marina in La Paz to the first anchorage. On the way there, we will pass by the Roca Lobos islet, home to a colony of sea lions, where the bravest of you will be able to jump in the water with them.
Balandra
The next stop will be at the picturesque Balandra Bay, for a jump into the sea and the first dreamlike photos of the turquoise lagoon and the famous El Hongo "mushroom" - the stone sculpture that is the symbol of the bay.
Isla Espiritu Santo
From there we will sail north to Isla Espiritu Santo, which has become a protected marine park for its beauty. This island is dotted with many stunning coves where you could easily spend days - each with its own colour, its own silence and its own story. We'll have the chance to snorkel amongst the brightly coloured fish, walk amongst the cacti and paddle under the towering orange rocks.
Isla San Francisco
From there, we will continue our voyage north to San Francisco Island. We will take an easy hike to the top, where you can enjoy magnificent views over both bays. Our next stop will be an anchorage off the small fishing village of San Evaristo, offering a glimpse into everyday life in Mexico. Tourism here is virtually non-existent, giving the village an authentic, almost timeless feel.
Sailing south
We will continue southwards, choosing our stops according to the wind. We will certainly visit at least one additional bay in Espíritu Santo National Park that we missed on the way north.
Dates and duration
Duration: 12 days (including flights)
Dates:
- 10. – 21. February 2026
- 19. – 30. November 2026
Sailing boat: depending on the number of enties
Crew: from 4 to 6 persons (+Jasna)
Additional activities
We will sail together for 5 days before moving ashore for two more great adventures.
First, we’ll dedicate a day to the Mexican festive spirit, with Carnival (February) and Mexican Revolution Day (20 November), both of which feature a long parade of masks on the waterfront that’s not to be missed.
In February we will travel to Magdalena Bay to see grey whales up close, and in November we will go on an excursion to Todos Santos village or snorkelling off Cabo Pulmos (optional).
There will be plenty of good Mexican food, drinks and mariachi music all day long.
The programme is indicative and may be adjusted as needed. Individual arrangements are also possible.
Further reading: https://www.ourspace.si/en/blog/playful-sea-lions
Frequently asked questions
How much we sail: we will sail about 100 miles, which is about 4 hours per day on average. I will, of course, adjust the program to the weather.
Price: €1600 per person plus €100 entrance fee to Espiritu Santo National Park
The price includes: boat rental with all extras, insurance and deposit, skipper, fuel, organisation, return airport–city transfers, and three nights of hotel accommodation in La Paz.
What’s not included: airfare, food and additional excursions (whale watching approx. €100 per person, grey whales approx. €150-200 per person for a full day excursion).
Flight: depends on your departure city, from Venice to La Paz the price is around €1000
Food: Provisions will be purchased on the first day before departure. Meals are prepared together in a relaxed, informal way, with everyone helping out as they feel comfortable. No cooking skills are required. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let me know well in advance so I can plan the shopping accordingly.
For questions, bookings or anything else, I’m here to help.
