FAQ: BAJA EXPEDITION
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
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Q: Why travel with Life Aquatic Expeditions to Baja?
A: Owners, Dr. Lei Lani Stelle and Shane Keena, MFA, will personally lead this expedition, and have extensive experience in Baja, Mexico. Lei Lani has studied gray whales for over 20 years and earned her Ph.D. on Gray Whale Ecology from UCLA. She has led multiple travel courses to the gray whale calving lagoons. Shane has organized and led four trips to Guerrero Negro and San Igancio lagoons, with an emphasis on documenting the thrilling encounters for his travelers.
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Q: Is this Baja trip right for me?
A: Interacting with "friendly" gray whales is an incredible and unique experience but it is difficult to reach the remote lagoons. We decided to charter a live-aboard (instead of making a grueling drive and camping on windy beaches) to provide participants with the chance to enjoy the journey, explore other islands along the way, and be surrounded by the gray whales while at anchor.
Only a minimum levels of physical fitness is required but you should consider your comfort getting in and out of bunks, moving between ship and skiff via ladder, exploring islands and snorkeling (activities are optional), and susceptibility to seasickness. Keep in mind that we will be in remote areas, far from US medical facilities.
- Contact Life Aquatic Expeditions Team with specific questions
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Q: What does the expedition cost include?
A: Everything once you board the ship: all meals, cabins, activities, services of the expedition leaders and naturalists, lectures/discussions, permits, Mexican visas, tips, and photographs.
Note: the $300 tip is for the boat crew, not the expedition leaders or naturalists. You are welcome to contribute additional tips.
Not included: transportation to San Diego, personal travel insurance, personal gear.
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Q: Can I travel alone?
A: YES, but the cost is based on shared occupancy. If you are willing to share a cabin with another participant (same gender) then you will pay the listed price, but if you want a private cabin then you will need to pay for two.
Not included: transportation to San Diego, personal travel insurance, personal gear.
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Q: Are there age limits?
A: There are no set minimum or maximum ages, just consult us if you are concerned. Families are welcome on this expedition and there is a discount price for kids in a shared cabin.
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Q: Can special diets be accommodated?
A: Three meals a day, fruit and snacks are included, along with a soda bar, coffee, tea, and beer. Special diets (e.g. vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) can be accommodated with advance notice.
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Q: What are the accommodations?
A: Shared cabins have double or triple bunk beds. Each has shelving and a vanity with mirror and sink (hot and cold water). Bathrooms are shared (total of 4 restrooms and 3 showers) Cabins are compact yet comfortable and you will be spending the majority of your time outside enjoying the view or in the spacious galley for meals, presentations, and conversation.
Q: What do I need?
A: A valid passport (expiration more than 60 days after your return), any other visas if from outside of the USA.
A detailed packing list will be provided.
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Q: Payment policy?
A: Payments can be made by credit card or check.
Total cost = $3295 (includes $300 tip for boat crew)
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A deposit of $500 is required to reserve your space
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payment plans are available
Cancellations made more than 180 days before departure are refundable minus 10%; within 180 days all payments are only refunded (at 90%) if we can fill your spot.
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