An unforgettable Blue whale season in Loreto aboard “La Puma”
As the sun rises over the stunning waters of the Gulf of California, Baja Adventures invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey aboard La Puma in Loreto.
LA PUMA, exploration boat at Baja Adventures.
Guided by the expertise of Regina Domingo and Leopoldo Sanmiguel, with Captain Jorge Lombera at the helm, this blue whale season has been nothing short of spectacular. Beginning on December 24th, our team has been privileged to witness the majestic blue whales in their natural habitat, and as of February 17, 2025, our encounters have only grown more remarkable.
Blue whale monocular, photographed in Loreto by Regina Domingo, wildlife guide and photographer at Baja Adventures.
A Symphony of marine life
Throughout this season, we have not only observed blue whales but also encountered humpback whales and fin whales feeding on abundant sardines and krill.
Common dolphin pod, photographed in Loreto by Regina Domingo , wildlife guide and photographer at Baja Adventures.
The waters of Loreto are alive with activity, showcasing large super pods of common dolphins and the friendly bottlenose dolphins that locals affectionately call "the residents." Each sighting adds to the rich tapestry of marine life that thrives in this biodiverse ecosystem.
Humpback whale, photographed in Loreto by Regina Domingo wildlife guide and photographer at Baja Adventures.
The giants of the sea: Blue Whales
Blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, rely on one of the smallest: krill. In Loreto, these magnificent creatures feast on dense aggregations of krill species, particularly Nyctiphanes simplex. This tiny crustacean plays a crucial role in the marine food web, thriving in nutrient-rich waters that support a diverse array of marine life.
Blue whale, photographed in Loreto by Regina Domingo, wildlife guide and photographer at Baja Adventures.
The energetic demands of blue whales are immense; they must carefully choose when to feed. Every time they open their mouths to consume krill, they slow down significantly, making their feeding strategy critical for survival. Observing these gentle giants as they navigate their environment is a breathtaking experience.
Citizen science expeditions
Regina Domingo Baja Adventure wildlife guide and photographer at Baja Adventures explaining to our guest the differences of Fin whales and Blue whales.
Join us on our citizen science-oriented expeditions! Not only will you witness these incredible animals up close, but you will also learn from our knowledgeable team about species identification, ecology, and behaviors.
Regina Domingo wildlife guide and photographer collecting cetacean data.
Our mission goes beyond observation; we are actively collecting data to analyze cetacean distribution within the park. Collaborating with marine biologist Mario A. Pardo, we aim to develop effective strategies and management plans to protect these magnificent species.
The importance of Loreto Bay National Park
Loreto Bay serves as a vital habitat for blue whales during their migration. This area is recognized as an important aggregation zone where females with calves can be seen nursing and feeding before embarking on their long journey back to northern feeding grounds. The presence of human activities in our world, such as mining and marine traffic, and big cruise ships or vessels, poses challenges for these majestic creatures. Our commitment to responsible whale watching ensures that we minimize disturbances while maximizing educational opportunities.
Be part of something extraordinary
This season remindws us how precious and fragile life in the ocean is.
As we continue our expeditions aboard La Puma, we invite you to join us in celebrating these incredible animals while contributing to their conservation.
Working hand-in-hand with our sister project, the Nakawe Project 501(c)(3), we aim to create sustainable solutions that protect these majestic animals and their habitats. Join us as we explore the wonders of Loreto's marine ecosystem. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the conservation of these vital ecosystems and ensure that blue whales continue to thrive in a world where their existence is increasingly threatened. Let’s celebrate all cetaceans and marine species that call Loreto home and contribute to a brighter future for our oceans.
Together, we can deepen our understanding of blue whales and other marine species while working towards solutions that ensure their survival for generations to come.
La Puma expedition boat and Baja Adventures crew and team, Leopoldo Sanmiguel, Regina Domingo and captain Jorge Lombera.
Come explore the wonders of Loreto’s marine ecosystem and biodiversity with us, where every encounter leaves us a mark and a mission.