Mexico offers some fantastic opportunities for small ship cruises, allowing travelers to explore its diverse coastlines, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant marine life in a more intimate and immersive setting.

Small ship cruises often explore the rugged coastlines and pristine waters of Baja California. You can cruise along the Sea of Cortez, known as the “Aquarium of the World” for its incredible marine biodiversity, including whales, dolphins, sea lions, and colorful fish. Stops may include remote islands, charming coastal towns like Loreto and La Paz, and natural wonders like Espiritu Santo Island and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cabo Pulmo National Park.

Mexican small ship cruises often incorporate cultural experiences, such as visits to traditional villages, interactions with local artisans, and culinary tours to savor authentic Mexican cuisine. You may also have the opportunity to learn about Mexico’s history, art, and music through onboard lectures and performances.

Many small ship operators in Mexico prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices, aiming to minimize their environmental impact and support local communities. Some cruises may offer opportunities to participate in conservation initiatives, such as whale watching research or beach clean-ups.

Mexico Cruise Itineraries

A wooden boat filled with cruise guests in the background watching a humpback whale in the foreground

Baja California Whales & Sealife

On this 8-day Baja California’s Whales & Sealife aboard the 66-guest Safari Voyager, follow Steinbeck’s path into the protected waters of Cousteau’s “world’s aquarium.” Active exploration and a menagerie of wildlife await you!

Humpback Whales greeting cruise guests in inflatable zodiacs in Baja Mexico

Wild Baja Escape: The Whales of Magdalena Bay

On this 6-day Wild Baja Escape: The Whales of Magdalena Bay itinerary, spend several extraordinary days in the company of majestic gray whales in Mexico’s Bahía Magdalena, one of the best places in the world to witness interactions between gray whale mothers and their curious calves.

California Gray Whale underwater in San Ignacio Lagoon on the Pacific side of the Baja Peninsula, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Among the Great Whales

On this 8-day Among the Great Whales cruise aboard the 100-passenger National Geographic Venture, explore Baja California’s Pacific Coast and the Gulf of California in search of dolphins, sea lions, and as many as four different varieties of whales.

Guests observing a grey whale spy-hopping

Baja California: A Remarkable Journey

On this 15-day Baja California: A Remarkable Journey cruise aboard the 100-passenger National Geographic Venture, venture into the gray whale birthing lagoons on the Pacific side of the Baja California Peninsula to get up close with these gentle giants. Then, spend over a week in the Gulf of California exploring waters teeming with whales, pods of dolphins, and leaping rays.