For our largest Gay Expedition Cruise yet, we’re taking over a ship that comes well-equipped…
Welcome aboard the National Geographic Venture, the sleek expedition ship that will carry us from colonial Loreto to whale lagoons, sea lion colonies, and UNESCO-protected reefs on our Baja California: Gay Cruise & Expedition.
And when we say taking over, we mean it. We’ve chartered the entire ship; all 50 cabins, for Out Adventures guests. She normally carries up to 100 guests, but we’re capping our sailing at 85 so there’s even more elbow room on deck when the whales show up. With over 40 staff and crew on board, that’s nearly one crew member for every two guests.
Built at the storied Nichols Brothers shipyard on Washington’s Whidbey Island, the Venture stretches 239 feet (73 m) across 4 decks, and like the whales she follows, she’s migratory, chasing the seasons from Alaska down to Baja. Her secret weapon: a shallow draft, which lets her slide into the DMs of hidden coves and narrow channels that bigger ships can only dream about.
The Real Stars of the Show: The Expedition Crew
As with any Out Adventure, the true headliners on this voyage are the people. Our Expedition Leader and a dedicated team of naturalists live, eat, and explore alongside us, joining us at meals, leading every outing, and turning “what was that?!” into a mini on-the-spot masterclass. There’s also a certified photo instructor to help capture that perfect breaching whale (or that perfect sunset selfie).
Curious how the Captain decides where to go next? Thanks to an open bridge policy, you’re welcome to pop up at (almost) any hour to learn a little navigation and grab a pair of provided binoculars to scan for whales and dolphins alongside the on-duty spotters.
Forward standing areas on the Bridge and tiered observation decks mean nobody’s stuck craning over someone’s shoulder. It’s the closest you’ll get to driving the boat, and honestly, we’d leave the steering to the pros.
Twice the Adventure, Every Day!
How are expedition cruises different than regular cruises? Simple answer: A LOT more excursions and exploration.
On most days, we’ll head out on two separate excursions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This means Zodiac rides in search of dolphins, kayaking through mangrove channels, paddleboarding in turquoise coves, snorkeling with sea turtles and sea lions, and guided hikes among surreal boojum trees and towering cardón cacti. Compared to most LGBTQ+ cruises, that’s double the adventure. The Captain and Expedition Leader shape each day around the weather and wildlife, which means the itinerary stays flexible and the surprises keep coming.
The ship comes fully loaded: a fleet of 8 Zodiacs, 20+ kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, plus snorkeling gear and wetsuits as needed. All you need to pack is your cutest swimsuits (and maybe a rash guard). Twin boarding platforms let the crew load two Zodiacs at once, so we’re off the ship quickly when the sea lions come calling.
The mudroom is mission control for every outing: it’s where you’ll stash your lifejacket and snorkel gear, and where walking sticks and towels are waiting for you, so your cabin stays sandy-flip-flop free.
And then there are the nerdy-cool toys. The ship carries an underwater ROV, a splash-cam, and an underwater video camera for peeking beneath the surface, a hydrophone for listening in on marine life, and even a video microscope for the tiniest sea creatures. When conditions line up, it’s like having a documentary crew on board, except you’re in the episode.
Public Spaces
The Lounge is the beating heart of the ship. Wraparound windows keep you connected to the scenery, and it’s where we’ll gather each evening for cocktail hour and the daily Recap, when the naturalists share photos and stories from the day’s adventures. It’s also where a talented queen will teach the dolphins a thing or two about making a splash. And doors lead straight out to the open bow, in case those dolphins decide to give our queen a run for her money.
Right next door, the bar pours a cocktail (or mocktail) of the day, often infused with regional flavors, plus locally brewed beers. Tucked into a corner of the Lounge, the cozy library has a photo kiosk where you can start editing your whale shots while the memories are fresh.
Up top, the expansive Sun Deck features an al fresco bar, comfy couches, and lounge chairs. It’s the spot for sunset wine, keeping watch for leaping mobula rays with a naturalist, and, weather permitting, a barbecue dinner or dance party under the stars. There’s also a 24-hour beverage station for coffee, tea, and cocoa at any hour.
The viewing platform at the ship’s bow is the prime spot for whale-and-dolphin watching. Just don’t get too carried away re-enacting that famous moment from Titanic or you might miss the pod of orcas keeping pace with us.
Need a souvenir? The Global Gallery stocks handmade pieces from local artisans, such as colorful Otomi embroidery, alongside books and practical expedition gear like sunhats.
Dining
Meals are served in a single seating with no assigned tables and a come-as-you-are dress code, which is exactly how we like it: mix, mingle, and swap stories with a new crew every night.
Oversized windows in the dining room ensure the scenery also has a seat at the table. Dishes are built around locally sourced ingredients and flavors inspired by the region, from fresh-caught fish to breakfast parfaits topped with local fruit. The best part? Standard beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are included, so go ahead and say yes to that second glass.
Cuisine
Every bite aboard National Geographic Venture is responsibly sourced, and you’ll often spot local and organic options on the menu too. Chefs get playful with unexpected pairings alongside beautifully done takes on the classics you already love. While we can’t tell you exactly what the menu will be, we can show you past dishes that have hit the spot!
Have any dietary restrictions? No worries. Just flag them when you book and our team will ensure you’re well taken care of.
Health & Wellness
Balance out the paddling (or the dancing) with the onboard wellness program. Greet the day with a sunrise stretch on the Sun Deck, then hit the Fitness Center, where treadmills, an elliptical, weights, and resistance bands come with floor-to-ceiling ocean views.
Afterward, book a treatment in the LEXspa, staffed by wellness specialists who tailor each session to what your body needs. After a day of hiking and snorkeling, a massage with a view of the Sea of Cortez might be the best souvenir you bring home.
Entertainment
This is where the Venture gets a very queer glow-up. Drag shows will bring the sparkle, our DJ will keep the energy high, and our ’80s to Now Disco Dance Party will have the whole ship throwing it back (and forward, and side-to-side). Add a grand Farewell night under the stars, and you’ve got nightlife no other Baja cruise can match.
The Cabins
All 50 cabins face outward, so everyone gets a view. Every cabin has two single beds that convert into a queen, plus a writing desk, nightstands, a full-length mirror, climate control, Wi-Fi, and a phone. Bathrooms are modern with a shower and botanically inspired shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and lotion.
Category 1 & 2
Located on the Main Deck and measuring approximately 136 sq. ft. / 12.6 sq. m (category 1) and 161 sq. ft. / 14.9 sq. m (category 2), these cozy cabins feature two portholes for a peek at the waterline. Flying solo? These are the only categories available for our standard single supplement pricing, while quantities last. Traveling with a crew of up to four guests? We have two sets of cabins with connecting internal doors.
Category 3 Cabins
Located on the Upper Deck and measuring approximately 151 sq. ft. / 14 sq. m, these cabins trade portholes for two large windows that fill the room with natural light.
Category 4 Balcony Cabins
Also on the Upper Deck and approximately 151 sq. ft. / 14 sq. m, these cabins feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a private balcony with two chairs and a small table. Morning coffee, whale watching, and zero pants required, while at sea ;). There are two sets of cabins in this category with connecting internal doors.
Category 5 Suites
The ship’s only suites are perched up on the Observation Deck (with prime access to the Sun Deck) and measure approximately 185 sq. ft. / 17 sq. m. Expect large viewing windows, a comfortable sitting area, an expanded bathroom, and a convertible sofa that sleeps a third guest, perfect if you’re travelling with your bestie (or your throuple). Suite guests also get complimentary laundry service and priority booking for spa treatments. Very VIP.
Good to know: The Observation Deck’s outdoor walkway runs past the category 5 windows (pictured above), so you may want to draw the curtains when you’re changing (unless you’re feeling like part of the scenery).
Deck Plan
Featured Amenities
- Standard beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits, plus a daily featured cocktail and mocktail – all included!
- 8 Zodiacs, 20+ kayaks, and standup paddleboards
- Snorkeling gear and wetsuits
- Underwater ROV, hydrophone, splash-cam, and video microscope
- A dedicated mudroom where you gear up before every outing and leave the mess behind when you’re done
- Binoculars on the open Bridge
- Starlink Wi-Fi with a basic messaging and email plan included
- 24-hour coffee, tea, and cocoa station
- Elevator access to all decks
- A dedicated naturalist team and certified photo instructor
Squeaky clean, too: the ship uses ACT CleanCoat, a light-activated, chemical-free coating that continuously breaks down viruses, bacteria, and allergens on surfaces, and saves over a million gallons of water a year in cleaning.
Where We’ll Meet: La Misión Loreto
Before we set sail, we’ll gather at La Misión, a stylish oceanfront hotel in the heart of Loreto. Its contemporary hacienda design channels the old mission charm of Baja’s first colonial capital, and it’s just a short stroll from the town square and the historic Our Lady of Loreto Mission. With a pool, spa, and a restaurant that reviewers rave about, it’s the perfect place to shake off your flight before meet and greet.
¡Buen Viaje!
Ready to have a whale of a time? Check out the full itinerary for our Baja California: Gay Cruise & Expedition and hit that “Book Trip” button, or Contact Us with any questions. We can’t wait to see you on deck!
