Prepare for an extraordinary adventure as part of the Baja Experience—a remarkable exploration journey! Your hosts, Meghann, Executive Director of VSI, and Abby, a marine biologist, dive master and former intern with VSI, will guide you through this truly exceptional live aboard expedition in the captivating Midriff Islands of the Gulf of California. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore vibrant marine life, and make lasting memories on this fabulous adventure.

Our adventure begins in Puerto Peñasco where we’ll board the spacious, stable Rocio del Mar for an unforgettable sunset cruise heading south toward Bahía de Los Ángeles. As the sun rises on our first morning near Isla Angel de la Guarda, we’ll dive into the sea, refreshing our water skills in one of Earth’s most extraordinary underwater habitats.

After rediscovering our sense of wonder in the sea, we’ll visit the vibrant fishing village of Bahía de los Ángeles and the Vermilion Sea Field Station. Learn about the station’s century-long legacy and connect with the future of the Gulf through discussions and presentations led by enthusiastic young Aventureros. 

Our skilled captain will chart a course through the pristine Midriff Islands, with possible stops at Esteban, San Pedro Mártir, Las Ánimas, and Ángel de la Guarda. Over seven days, enjoy six days of immersive diving and snorkeling adventures in these captivating locations. Plus, experience the thrill of snorkeling alongside majestic whale sharks in the Bahía de los Ángeles Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Whether you're snorkeling or SCUBA diving, experienced Divemasters will assist you with equipment and underwater exploration. Enhance your identification skills and embark on thrilling night dives. SCUBA divers can also benefit from Nitrox certification, paying only additional PADI fees.

The Gulf of California is a haven for SCUBA diving, snorkeling, and exploration, often referred to as the “world’s aquarium” by legendary diver Jacques Cousteau. Encounter large and small whale species, swim with playful sea lions, and explore a vibrant underwater world inhabited by eels, octopus, fish, and leaping mobula rays. Macro photographers will relish capturing nudibranchs, colorful blennies, dancing jawfish, and seahorses. Between dives, explore remote, uninhabited islets and gaze at the Milky Way.

**Important Note: Although we anticipate encountering a diverse range of wildlife, including whale sharks, we cannot guarantee the presence of any specific species.

Our trip begins when we board the boat in Puerto Peñasco at 5 pm on our first day. Most guests choose to fly into Phoenix, Arizona Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) as their gateway to Puerto Peñasco. There is an easy and comfortable shuttle that takes scenic 4.5 hour journey through saguaro forests with restroom breaks and opportunities to purchase snacks and beverages. You can add on the option for VSI to manage your shuttle booking when making your reservation—we'll handle the scheduling and coordination of our group on this shuttle.

Or, make your own way to Puerto Peñasco and leave your car in a secured lot for ~$5/day.

During our Baja Experience, we encourage you to embrace being “unplugged” with limited or no access to cell/wifi (except for emergencies). This allows you to connect more deeply with the local environment and fellow travelers. However, the boat plans to offer internet connectivity for an additional charge (~$50).

You’ll be comfortably accommodated aboard the 110-foot Rocio del Mar, designed with both relaxation and adventure in mind. The vessel hosts just 20 guests in 10 double-occupancy staterooms, each with its own private ensuite bathroom and shower. This intimate setting creates the perfect balance of privacy and community, giving you a restful retreat after unforgettable days on the water.

Rooms are double occupancy, with singles having the option to choose a roommate or be paired. See boat layout and vessel photos HERE.  The main deck has a large salon and a dining room. All indoor areas are fully air-conditioned, including cabins, salon, and dining room. There is a shaded sun deck with deck chairs, a bathroom on the dive deck, and two additional fresh water showers on the back deck.

Embark the Rocio del Mar at 5 pm in Puerto Peñasco / Dinner and departure at approximately 7 pm. 

Isla Ángel de la Guarda / Sunset cruise with sea lions

Bahía de los Ángeles / Visit the Vermilion Sea Field Station / Snorkel with whale sharks**

Important Note: Although we anticipate encountering a diverse range of wildlife, including whale sharks, we cannot guarantee the presence of any specific species.

 Isla Salsipuedes / Isla Las Ánimas

Isla San Pedro Mártir

 Isla San Pedro Mártir 

Sunset cruise with wildlife viewing.

 Isla Ángel de la Guarda

Arrive in Puerto Peñasco and disembark at 7:30 am