The Cape Region – San Jose del Cabo and La Fortuna
A crescent moon and blanket of stars filled the pre-dawn sky this morning south of the Tropic of Cancer, near Cabo Falso. As light replaced darkness, The National Geographic Sea Bird rounded Finisterra, and faced El Arco near the city of Cabo San Lucas just in time for sunrise. Early morning stretchers enjoyed the gentle rocking of the ship as we continued on toward the marina for the city of San Jose del Cabo at the eastern end of the Cape region.
We spent the morning hours visiting the town of San Jose Del Cabo and walking along the estuary on the edge of town. The change in temperature and climate from the Pacific side to the Cape Region was noticeable – what a delight to trade our fleece and wind-breakers from the previous few days for tank tops and t-shirts! After being on water all day yesterday, it felt great to stretch our legs on land. The estuary proved a tranquil place to stroll and encounter many species of birds… from the snow-white plumage of the great egrets to the squabbling of common moorheads. Likewise in town, a relaxed atmosphere accompanied strolls through markets and galleries, with stops at sidewalk cafés for thirst-quenching libations.
Once back onboard for lunch, we cruised the waters off La Fortuna, keeping eyes out for wildlife as we headed around the cape. Indeed we were rewarded by some blows of humpback whales, and also three gray whales just off the starboard bow. Late afternoon we convened in the lounge for Naturalist Steve MacLean’s talk on the geological history of Baja California, a sneak preview of what’s in store for us in the coming days.
