OUR MISSION : EXPLORE - LEARN - PROTECT
The Gulf of California and La Ventana are one of the most extraordinary marine ecosystems in the world, home to nearly 39% of all marine mammal species. Yet, much about these incredible creatures remains unknown: Which species are resident? What is their population estimation ? How does increasing tourism impact them? Whales and dolphins are the sentinels of the ocean, playing a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Understanding them means protecting the ocean itself.
At Aguacea Explora, we turn curiosity into action. By blending adventure with science, we invite you to not just observe in a respectful way, but to contribute—helping collect real data that supports marine research and conservation.
But conservation starts with people. By involving both visitors and the local community, we aim to create a movement—where knowledge inspires action, and where the native people become the true guardians of their marine heritage.
JOIN THE MONITORING ADVENTURE
Step aboard for a unique 6-hour expedition at sea, where science meets adventure. Our monitoring trips are not just about watching marine wildlife—they’re about actively contributing to cetacean research while experiencing the beauty of La Ventana’s ocean.
With a small group (4 to 7 participants), we set out to observe everything from the tiniest marine creatures to the ocean’s giants. Instead of swimming with wildlife, we collect valuable data from the surface, focusing mostly on cetaceans :
✅ GPS tracking of sightings
🌡️ Water surface temperature
📸 Photo identification to recognize individual whales & dolphins
🎤 Acoustic recordings to listen to their underwater world
🚁 Drone-based morphometrics to measure and study from above
During the trip, you’ll learn how to identify different species, interpret their behaviors, how to collect relevant data for each species and understand the broader scientific efforts aimed at protecting them. An opportunity to marvel at the ocean’s wonders while directly contributing to marine conservation !
Who Can Participate?
No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn! We provide a brief training session at the beginning of each trip so that everyone, from curious travelers to passionate ocean lovers, can contribute meaningfully. Our small group size ensures a hands-on experience where everyone feels involved.
How to Join?
📅 When? Available year-round, with departures on wind-free days for optimal monitoring conditions
🌍 Languages spoken: English, Spanish & French
📩 To book: info@aguacea.com / +52 612 149 1840
CONTRIBUTING TO CETACEAN RESEARCH
Our monitoring trips are more than unforgettable experiences—they play a crucial role in advancing marine science. By participating, you’re directly supporting researchers who rely on valuable field data to improve their studies and conservation efforts.
We collaborate with Dr. Hiram Rosales Nanduca and Dr. Esther Maria Jimenez from the investigation group MMAPE (Megafauna Marina y Pesquerías) in La Paz, who have been studying cetaceans in Mexico for over 20 years. All data collected will be shared to aid ongoing studies.
Their primary goal is to understand cetacean behavior, ecology, and population dynamics—observing movements, feeding habits, family structures, and reproductive patterns. We gather data on a variety of cetaceans, including whales, dolphins, sperm whales, and beaked whales.
The data we collect is crucial for shaping effective conservation strategies and understanding how climate change and human activities impact marine ecosystems.
LA VENTANA : A MARINE BIODIVERSITY HAVEN
Located along the coast with deep ocean canyons just offshore, La Ventana is a paradise for ocean and wildlife lovers. Depending on the season, you might encounter blue whales, humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and over five species of dolphins. The area is also home to sea lions, turtles, vibrant coral reefs, fish-filled waters, and the largest migration of mobula rays on Earth, where thousands gather in mesmerizing schools.
More elusive visitors include sperm whales, orcas, fin whales, pilot whales, and even the rare dwarf sperm whale. With nature’s unpredictability, every day at sea brings a new surprise—and that’s what makes exploring these waters so special.
Once a small fishing village, La Ventana is now renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and the unique landscape where towering cacti meet the crystal-clear sea.
SOME OCEAN MEMORIES
