The Sea of Cortez, or Gulf of California as it is also known, is a sea with incredibly rich marine life, scenic desert shores and coastal wildlife. These yacht-based experiences set their sights in particular on seasonal opportunities to snorkel with giant aggregations of Mobula Rays & chances to swim with Orcas. A spotter plane is used to help enhance our chances.

We find marine life aggregations all over the world on our Ocean Giant expeditions. None can match the sheer mass of life within seasonal ‘swarms’ of Mobula Rays which amass in the Sea of Cortez. The most iconic species of Mobula Ray is the Munk’s Pygmy Devil Ray, which can sometimes gather in tight schools of tens of thousands of individuals. They often swim close to the surface, as well as leap acrobatically out high above the water, giving Mobula Rays the nickname “flying rays”.

The crews onboard these 8-day ocean safaris are well acquainted with the most likely places to find Mobulas, reinforced by a spotter plane which seeks to locate them, as well as marine megafauna as they break the sea surface. Opportunities to swim with them is not limited to daylight hours – evening and night swims may also be a possibility.

Amongst more than 900 islands in the Sea of Cortez are thousands of seabirds which find opportunities to nest and raise chicks out of reach from predators. Food is particularly abundant in marine protected areas where fishing is no longer permitted, so populations can thrive.

Many rare and endangered marine mammals live here, feeding off the abundance of prey which seasonally accumulate in these waters. During this season, Orcas, or Killer Whales are a notable species which you may see, with chances to snorkel with them sometimes presenting themselves.

Other marine life you might see includes California Sealions, Bottlenose Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins and Risso’s Dolphins.

There are diving opportunities in the Sea of Cortez, with some highlights including huge schools of fish; Hammerhead and Tiger Sharks too, which are making a comeback after 20 years of fishing restrictions. Divers can be sure to get some dives at local sites throughout the week.

Please check our Dates & prices for your chance to experience the Sea of Cortez during the peak Mobula season of April to June. Boat options include a selection of motor liveaboard yachts and a 45-foot sailing catamaran.