The People Who Bring the Lagoon to Life
Whale watching in San Ignacio Lagoon is already an unforgettable experience—but what truly makes it special is the people who bring it to life. Our team of naturalist guides isn’t just here to share knowledge; they bring passion, energy, and a deep love for the ocean that makes every outing an adventure. Each guide has their own expertise, their own stories, and their own way of making guests feel connected to the marine world.
Conversations After a Day on the Water
Every evening, after a day on the water, we gather at the bar to share what we love most—talking about marine life. It’s a time for guests to dive deeper, ask questions, and connect with the people who dedicate their lives to studying and protecting the ocean. Isabel, the queen of humpbacks, has spent years studying their movements. Eugenia, a surfer at heart, is captivated by mobulas and the rhythm of the waves. Beto is fascinated by sharks and coral reef ecosystems, while Yilmar is an expert on dolphins and an avid diver. Mauricio isn’t just a whale and diving guide—he’s also a bird lover, making birdwatching with him an unforgettable experience. Mine thrives in science and Gray whale research, while Paulina is the queen of the gentle giants, the whale sharks. And then there’s Dorjee, a passionate marine biologist, dive instructor, and lover of all things small and strange in the ocean.
Sharing Knowledge and Discoveries
Each of them brings a unique perspective to our excursions. Some days, we find ourselves captivated by stories of past migrations, tales of whale behaviors that have been observed over years. Other times, we share in the excitement of new discoveries—perhaps a calf just days old, its skin smooth and unmarked, learning to navigate alongside its mother. We might even witness rare behaviors, like a group of whales socializing, twirling together in a playful display of movement and sound.
More Than Just a Tour—A Learning Experience
With a team like this, every whale-watching trip is more than just sightseeing—it’s a journey into the wonders of the ocean, guided by people who live and breathe the sea. Their enthusiasm is contagious, their knowledge inspiring, and their energy makes each trip not just informative, but incredibly fun.
Inspiring Conservation and Connection
The impact of these guides extends far beyond the water. Many of our guests leave San Ignacio with more than just memories; they leave with a deeper understanding of conservation, of the importance of protecting these whales and the fragile ecosystem they depend on. Some return year after year, eager to see familiar faces—both human and whale. Others take what they’ve learned and carry it forward, becoming advocates for marine life and responsible ecotourism in their own communities.
A Passion That Spreads
At the heart of it all is the love for the ocean. Every guide here is driven by that same passion, that same unrelenting curiosity about the world beneath the waves. And when guests step off the boat at the end of the day, we hope they carry a piece of that passion with them, wherever they go.
By Scarlett Mayorga
