Commonly Asked Questions about Orcas in the Sea of Cortez

Orcas can be found in the waters around Isla Espiritu Santo (Holy Spirit Island) year-round, though their presence becomes more noticeable during the mobula ray aggregation season, from late March to July, and again from January to April when they are hunting. The best chances for sightings are often during these peak times, particularly from March to July when they interact with the massive schools of mobula rays, or in the early spring when they are feeding on sea lions.

Are there orcas in the Sea of Cortez?

Yes, orcas are present, though they are not resident. They are transient pods that move through the Gulf of California seasonally.

When is the best time to see orcas in the Sea of Cortez?

Sightings are unpredictable but more commonly reported in late spring and summer, when prey such as dolphins, sea lions, and large schools of fish are abundant

Where are orcas most often seen in the Sea of Cortez?

Orcas are often spotted around Isla Espiritu Santo, Isla Partida, Isla San José, Isla Carmen, and occasionally near the Midriff Islands.

How common are orca sightings?

Compared to dolphins and whales like humpbacks, orcas are rare in the Sea of Cortez. Sightings are considered very special events.

What do orcas eat in the Sea of Cortez?

Their diet includes dolphins, sea lions, rays, turtles, and sometimes whales. They are apex predators and opportunistic feeders.

Do orcas live permanently in the Sea of Cortez?

No, they are transient visitors. There are no confirmed resident pods like in the Pacific Northwest.

Are orcas dangerous to humans in the Sea of Cortez?

There are no recorded incidents of wild orcas harming humans in the region. Encounters with boats are usually curious and playful rather than aggressive.

Can I book a tour specifically to see orcas?

Not reliably. Tours in La Paz, Loreto, or Puerto Peñasco may encounter orcas, but sightings are by chance, unlike whale watching for humpbacks or gray whales.

How big are orcas found in the Sea of Cortez?

Adult males can reach 25–30 feet (7–9 m) and weigh up to 6 tons, while females are smaller at 20–25 feet (6–7 m).

Why are orca sightings so exciting in the Sea of Cortez?

Because they are rare, intelligent, and powerful predators, spotting them is often considered the highlight of a lifetime for divers, sailors, and eco-tourists.

Email

chartersbaja@gmail.com

Phones

(52) 624-128-5666 (Spanish, English, German)
(52) 612-152-9940 (English Only)

Location

The Baja Charters office is at our very own Captains Sunset Bar and Restaurant a part of the Marine Waterfront Hotel, located in Marina Palmira, directly on the water - Dock 5