The Western Flyer Returns to the Gulf of California After 85 Years: A Historic Journey Connecting Science, Education, and Conservation in the “Aquarium of the World”
La Paz, BCS – In 1940, world-famous writer John Steinbeck and pioneering marine biologist Ed Ricketts embarked on an extraordinary journey through the Gulf of California aboard a fishing boat called the Western Flyer. Their six-week expedition, which documented the region’s rich marine life and the people who depended on it, became the subject of The Log from the Sea of Cortez—a book that introduced the Gulf’s incredible biodiversity to the world.
Now, 85 years later, the Western Flyer is returning to the Gulf of California, celebrating this historic anniversary with a journey that honors its past while advancing marine research, education, and conservation. Recently restored after decades of deterioration, the legendary vessel will set sail from Monterey, California, on March 16, 2025, and retrace its original route through Baja California and the Gulf of California. But this journey is about much more than history—it’s about the future.
More Than a Tribute—A Mission for Discovery
The Western Flyer’s return is not just a symbolic voyage. The Western Flyer Foundation is partnering with Mexican scientists, educators, and conservationists to conduct marine research, education, and community outreach throughout the expedition. The vessel will serve as a floating classroom and research platform, sparking curiosity and inspiring new generations to study and protect the marine environment.
“This is an opportunity to connect past and present—to honor the legacy of Steinbeck and Ricketts while also supporting the incredible work being done by Mexican scientists and conservationists to understand and protect the Gulf of California,” said Sherry Flumerfelt, Executive Director of the Western Flyer Foundation. “We look forward to working with local communities, students, and researchers to celebrate the Gulf’s rich biodiversity and its importance to people across Baja California and beyond.
Public Events in Baja California
Throughout the expedition, the Western Flyer Foundation will collaborate with local organizations to host public events in Baja California and Baja California Sur, including:
- Ensenada – March 16 – (in partnership with Museo Caracol)
- La Paz – April 13 [In collaboration with local NGOs, scientific organization and research centers)
- Santa Rosalía – April 22 (ITESME and Hagamos Más)
- Agua Verde – April 28 (Niparajá)
- Loreto – May 10 (Eco-Alianza)
- Cabo Pulmo – May 24 (Baja Coastal Institute, BCI)
Each stop will feature boat tours, presentations, and community gatherings where visitors can view the Western Flyer and learn about its history, the importance of marine science, and ongoing conservation efforts in the Gulf of California.
Follow the Western Flyer’s Journey
Join us as the Western Flyer makes history once again! Stay connected through:
- Real-time tracking: Follow the ship’s route at www.westernflyer.org/
baja2025 Stories, videos, and updates: - Email newsletter: westernflyer.org/
newsletter Facebook: @ thewesternflyer - Instagram: @
westernflyerfoundation - YouTube: Western Flyer Foundation Channel
