A World of Colour

La Paz is the gateway to the Sea of Cortez. A peaceful city, always warm, this is the capital of Baja California – though it’s kept its identity as a sleepy harbour town. Head to the bay of La Paz to seek out whale sharks, especially in August, September and October, when you can snorkel alongside them. Your yacht captain can show you the best of this island’s world-class diving and snorkelling spots and biodiverse reefs.

The surf-free, crystal-clear waters of Bahia Balandra are an ideal starting point for scuba adventures, where rocky formations and underwater caves will fascinate keen divers. on the beach, shallow waters enable long walks out to sea and reefs offer good snorkelling. discover these waters at leisure on your yacht's paddleboards or kayaks.

Isla Espíritu Santo, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is inhabited only by sea creatures (on land, it is the sole habitat of the elusive black jackrabbit). Swim with sea lions. Kayak in turquoise blue waters, backdropped by fiery volcanic rocks. Head to Ensenada Grande on the nearby Isla Partida – voted Mexico’s most beautiful beach.

These tiny islands house a collapsed sea cave known as La Lobera, unique as a home to sea lion colonies. Observe them from the decks of your yacht or its underwater camera, or snorkel towards shore until the sea lions swim out from the rocks to play below you. Dives with sea lions can be arranged. Swim through the arch, where orange fan and white fire corals sway in the current and seahorses cling to ribbons of seaweed.

Anchor in the perfectly curving bay of San Francisco Island. Beachcomb for agates that have fallen from the steep, colourful rocky cliffs. This remote island was once a haven for gold miners and the water was worked by pearlers in the 1880s. Today’s young charterers can find their own haul on a treasure hunt set up by the crew.

Snorkel or kayak along the reef of Bahia Amortajada, the largest mangrove lagoon found on any island in the Sea of Cortez. Later, retreat to the sundeck and observe pelicans soaking in the sun and dipping down to the lagoon’s warm waters.

On the entrancing San Jose Island, rocky colours adorn the coast, set off by turquoise waters. A refuge for sea birds, you’ll spot pelicans, heron and fish hawks here, attracted by the great estuary of the lush green mangroves. Explore the canals by paddleboard to be rewarded with a lagoon 2km wide. The only sound here comes from nature.

Feel alone in the world in Del Carmen Island, which is still largely undiscovered. The Island is also a wildlife conservation area, with 15,000 private and protected acres, allowing nature to preside. The crew can set up your yacht’s water toys - sportsfishing, snorkelling, kayaking, diving and mountain biking are excellent here.

The stunning beaches of Montserrat island are ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Your captain will point out the best spots. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range. Walk and explore the islands – bring a camera. Further on, explore the caves dotted along the sea.

An unknown gem, San Evarsito is enjoyed only by local fisherman, who depend on the sea and use traditional methods to hook their catch along the saltwater dams. Enjoy the secluded sandy beach – an ideal sunset spot. The crew can set up a fresh seafood beach barbecue for you and your family.

Once a quiet fishing village, Cabo San Lucas, at the tip of Baja California, is now the favoured haunt of many celebrities, thanks to its scenery, sun, snorkelling and of course, parties. Local restaurants offer excellent seafood, many allowing you to bring in your own catch of the day to be grilled. Escape the busier areas to surf in secluded beaches, shop in quaint artistic towns, see pristine deserts and jagged mountains, or dive coral reefs.