A Voyage Back to the Sea of Cortez
Attention history buffs, marine biology enthusiasts, and boat connoisseurs—mark your calendars for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! The newly restored Western Flyer will be visiting La Paz on Palm Sunday, April 13. For the first time in 85 years, the legendary Steinbeck-Ricketts ship is retracing its iconic 1940 voyage through the Sea of Cortez.
The Western Flyer will be docked along the La Paz Malecón in preparation for a 10-day expedition in the Sea of Cortez. This journey is organized by the Western Flyer Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering curiosity through marine research, education, and an interdisciplinary blend of science and art—drawing inspiration from John Steinbeck, Ed Ricketts, and their historic expedition.
According to the foundation’s website:
“The restored Western Flyer is being outfitted as a state-of-the-art marine research vessel. The vessel will serve as a versatile platform for a research program investigating marine ecosystem functions and interactions between human communities and their local marine ecosystems.”
This full-day event will feature music, art, and a variety of community activities for all ages. Visitors can explore interactive marine exhibits, enjoy educational workshops, and take guided tours of the ship from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Western Flyer Foundation is currently seeking local sponsors for the event. Businesses interested in donating food and beverages for volunteers and workshop facilitators are encouraged to contribute. Additionally, if anyone has accommodation options near the Malecón and is willing to host the ship’s captain and crew (4-6 people) between April 11 and 15, please reach out via email at na*****@gr***********.com.
For more details, visit www.westernflyer.org.