5-DAY ITINERARY IN THE SEA OF CORTEZ

A short first leg across Loreto Bay that settles the week into sheltered water and clear island outlines. Isla del Carmen’s coastline is rugged and mineral toned, with steep slopes that reduce wind fetch in the right coves. Technical note: holding is typically strongest on sand in the inner bay, while rocky edges can appear quickly as you shoal toward shore.

Daily Highlights:

• Afternoon swim in calm water close to the anchorage
• Tender coastline tour to view cliffs and small pocket beaches
• Light hike for a high viewpoint over Loreto Bay
• Dinner aboard with a still, quiet night at anchor

This is the defining passage of the itinerary, shifting from the protected bay system into open water before land rises again at Espiritu Santo. The Sea of Cortez here feels vast, with long sightlines and a clean horizon, then a sudden return to island relief and sheltered coves. Technical note: afternoon sea breeze can steepen short chop in open water, so an early departure typically delivers the smoothest ride.

Daily Highlights:

• Offshore morning run with a steady, purposeful helm
• Arrival swim in the lee of the island once swell drops away
• Snorkelling along reef edges where depth falls off quickly
• Sunset anchorage set in a bay framed by volcanic rock

A compact reposition that keeps you inside the island system, trading one bay profile for another with minimal time underway. Caleta Partida is known for a narrow, protected feel and a clean visual contrast between dark rock and pale seabed. Technical note: the anchorage can be sensitive to wind direction because of its funnel shape, so scope and swing room matter even on calm forecasts.

Daily Highlights:

• Morning paddleboard session in flat water close to the stern
• Short snorkel circuit along the calmer edges of the cove
• Tender landing for a low effort coastal walk on firm ground
• Late afternoon set for photography when light softens on the cliffs

A full island day without repositioning, designed for water time and quiet shore access at your own pace. The protected setting makes it easy to plan around the day’s breeze, with early glass off conditions often best for visibility. Technical note: clarity is frequently strongest in the morning before wind driven surface texture builds.

Daily Highlights:

• Early snorkel while the surface remains smooth
• Longer tender exploration to nearby beaches and headlands
  
• Beach setup for a private lunch and a slow afternoon
• Night at anchor with minimal light pollution and a calm deck rhythm

A final run into La Paz that feels controlled and sheltered as you enter the bay, with the city and marina infrastructure coming into view gradually. The approach is straightforward, with wide water and clear navigation, then tighter marina handling as you dock. Technical note: evening Coromuel winds can pulse through the bay in warmer months, so docking earlier can keep conditions more settled.

Daily Highlights:

• Easy coastal run with time for a final swim stop if conditions allow
• Arrival into La Paz with provisioning and shore access simplified
• Waterfront walk and a reserved lunch to close the voyage
• Smooth disembarkation planning with Polaris handled logistics