Pristine Waters
Our family
business was established in 2010 to showcase to the world our ecologically diverse, protected and pristine seas. Loreto, our friendly town, is nestled on the edge of one of the
largest national marine parks in Mexico. Our mission is to educate all on
how to value and care for this exceptional environment through one's own unique
experience of it.
What makes us different
Passion. Knowledge. Commitment.
We are the only company in Loreto that, in addition to a captain, always provides a local guide from our team with specialized KNOWLEDGE. Our boats are configured for maximize viewing areas and comfort.
For 15+ years we have actively participated in important whale research including documenting behaviors and identifying whales. It’s not just business it’s a PASSION.
Our COMMITMENT is not only to a safe and positive experience for our valued guests, but to our local community and youth as well.
Whale Magic
Blue, Fin, Humpback, Sperm, Bryde, Pilot, Minke & Sei Whales
What we Offer
Our Sister Company Offerings
1+
Tours
1+
Blue Whale Sightings
1+
Total Whale Sightings
1+
Years Experience
Blue Whale Adventure Details
Your 5-7 hour adventure begins from the downtown Loreto harbor early in morning sun, typically around 7:30 a.m. In the glistening light as we travel to the feeding area we scan the horizon for signs of the largest mammal on earth. We typically find them in the “triangle” between Carmen, Danzante, and Montserrat islands.
The marine park is 206,000 hectares of sea, so that is a very large playground. We monitor all our sources and use our historical experience along with any current information to identify
the whereabouts of these beautiful massive creatures.
Many clues are available each time we depart and all can
participate by simply keeping a keen eye for a “blow”. This refers to the
powerful exhalation that occurs when a whale surfaces to breathe, expelling air
from its lungs through its blowhole, which is located on top of its head. When a blue whale exhales, it can release air at speeds of
up to 600 km/h (approximately 373 mph), creating a visible spout or mist that
can reach heights of up to 30 feet above the water's surface. This
spout is not just air; it also contains water vapor, mucus, and oils, giving it
a characteristic appearance and sometimes odor. The blow is significant not
only for respiration but also for identifying different whale species based on
the shape and height of their spouts.
There is no mistaking the power and drama of a blue whale blow!
On our tour, a certified naturalist guide will be leading
the group and answering your questions while the captain focuses on your
comfort and safety. Our guide will interpret and explain the behavior of
these majestic mammals. As responsible ecologically principled operators, we follow
the passive method that we developed in the GbaL (Grupo Ballena Azul Loreto) with scientists from La Paz. Once we find the first blow, we start the
passive method for whale watching which emphasizes:
Respectful Observation: Captains are trained to approach
whales without causing disturbance, maintaining a safe distance and turning off
engines when close to whales.
Guideline Compliance: Tours adhere to Mexican regulations
regarding whale watching, ensuring that vessels do not encroach on the whales'
natural behaviors or habitats. This approach enhances the experience for tourists and
whales allowing whales to behave naturally.
A relaxed whale
dramatically increases the opportunity to witness in close proximity tail
flukes, feeding, courting, diving, breathing and more! Overall, we provide a unique opportunity for whale
enthusiasts to engage with marine life in a sustainable manner, fostering
appreciation for these magnificent creatures while prioritizing their
well-being.
We pause in the excitement to eat lunch at sea and many
times are accompanied by the blowing of some whales. Your additional option is
to lunch at one of the nearby beautiful islands. Your whale adventure includes Marine Park Fees, lunch, snacks, fruit, soft drinks and water.
Grey Whale Adventure (Pacific Coast)
Gray whales make one of the longest migrations of any mammal. They travel between 15,000 and 20,000 miles every year from their feeding grounds in the Arctic to and from the warm waters off the west coast of the Baja California Peninsula. At the end of the fall, gray whales begin their journey south where they will spend winter and the beginning of spring to give birth and reproduce in three coastal lagoons in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Magdalena Bay is not only world famous for being one of the three reproduction sites of the gray whales. It is also key habitat for many migratory and resident bird species, commercial fisheries and sea turtles. A highly productive marine ecosystem, islands worthy of being declared as natural protected areas, dunes and thousands of acres of mangrove forests, surround gray whales during their stay. Perhaps that is what makes them so friendly when they see you while on a whale-watching tour out of the coastal community of Puerto López Mateos.
It’s estimated that between 1846 and 1874,
approximately 8,000 grey whales were killed by American and European
whalemen, with over half of these being killed in Magdalena Bay alone. Whaling
in the lagoons contributed to the near extinction of grey whales.
Thankfully, due to strict regulations and protections, the eastern North
Pacific (North American) grey whale population has recovered, and you can enjoy
this unique experience.
Gray whales in Magdalena Bay exhibit fascinating behaviors and characteristics. They are considered the “friendlies” of whales because of their social behavior. These whales often approach boats and engage with humans, showcasing unique behaviors like spy-hopping and tail slapping. They are very curious and playful.
Your day will begin about 7:30 a.m. as you are transported through the beautiful La Giganta mountains for approximately 1.5-2 hours from Loreto to Magdelena Bay where your Gray Whale adventure awaits.
Enjoy the landscape, fauna and flora, and along the way and be educated and entertained by your guide as you prepare for a very unique experience that few have the opportunity to enjoy.
Once you have arrived at Puerto Lopez Mateos you will board a panga for a 2 hour magical adventure to interact with and observe mamma and baby gray whales. You may encounter them sleeping on the surface or mamma many times presents the baby by holding it up on her back. We frequently see spy-hopping, breaching, or mating behaviors.
Their winter presence offers a remarkable opportunity for
whale watching in a protected habitat.
After a thrilling time on the water you will enjoy a special lunch in one of the local restaurants. And if you prefer, take a little siesta in the van on the way back after a fun filled day. You return approximately 2:30.
Please note there is a minimum of 6 for this excursion. We can assist in putting smaller groups together, so please check with us. This is a very family friendly excursion and recommended for children age 3 up. Please contact us for more details and any requests you have.
What Our Guests Say
Muy satisfecho con nuestro guia y capitan. Un tiempo fabuloso en el mar observando animales tan hermosos. Gracias.
I love capturing photo's of whales, especially the big blues. What makes the experience precious is the care and respect of our guides during these mind blowing encounters. I have learned so much about whales from Maria and her team.
Wow! Everything was amazing. Thank you for making my dream a reality. Highly Recommended.
Contact Us
explore@whalesloreto.com
Calle Madero esquina Juarez Loreto, Centro, 23880 Loreto, B.C.S.