What to Expect on a Sea of Cortez Liveaboard Expedition

Your First Liveaboard Expedition: What to Know

If you've never done a liveaboard sailing trip, the idea of spending several days on a boat might feel like a leap. Here's what a typical expedition aboard the Triplefin actually looks like — from daily rhythms to what to pack — so you can arrive ready to enjoy every moment.

A Typical Day on the Triplefin

Each day is different, shaped by weather, wildlife, and the group's energy, but a typical rhythm looks something like this: Wake with the sunrise, coffee on deck while Paul briefs the day's plan. A morning snorkel or dive at a pristine reef. Sail to the next anchorage while scanning for whales and dolphins — Paul will have binoculars and a hydrophone out. Solar-cooked lunch aboard. An afternoon activity: kayaking into a hidden cove, a canyon hike on a desert island, an underwater photography session, or citizen science data collection. Sundowners on deck while the stars emerge. Dinner, storytelling, and an early night rocked to sleep by gentle swells.

The Vessel

The Triplefin is a 49-foot Norm Cross trimaran with a 26-foot beam — remarkably stable and spacious for her length. Three private double cabins each have their own berth and storage. The main cabin has a galley, dining area, and two additional berths that convert to communal space during the day. Expansive deck areas provide space for yoga, photography, gear staging, and simply watching the Sea of Cortez go by. She's powered entirely by solar panels and a wind turbine, with lithium batteries, two electric watermakers (unlimited fresh water), a dive compressor for SCUBA, solar-heated showers, and a solar oven. When the wind cooperates, we sail. When it doesn't, the electric motor moves us silently.

What to Bring

Pack light in a soft duffel (no hard suitcases). Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat, lightweight long-sleeve shirts for sun protection, a light fleece or jacket for cool evenings (especially November through March), swimsuit, water shoes or sport sandals, and a headlamp. If you're a photographer, bring your camera gear in a waterproof bag — Paul will have tips on the best setups for underwater and wildlife photography. We provide all snorkeling equipment, kayaks, linens, and towels.

Who Is This For?

Our expeditions are designed for anyone who is curious about the natural world and comfortable in the water. You don't need to be a diver — most of what we do is snorkeling, and we're happy to teach beginners. You don't need to be a sailor — Paul and Jo handle the vessel. What you do need is a willingness to unplug, get sandy, and be amazed by what lives just below the surface. Groups of 2 to 6 guests keep things intimate and flexible. We've hosted families with teenagers, retired couples, university professors, documentary film crews, and solo travelers. The common thread is curiosity.

Getting There

Our four departure ports are all accessible from major airports. La Paz (LAP) has direct flights from several US and Mexican cities. Loreto (LTO) is served by Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles and seasonal connections. For San Carlos or Bahía Kino, fly into Hermosillo (HMO) or Guaymas. We can help coordinate airport transfers and pre/post-trip accommodations.

Ready to plan your expedition? Email Paul at paulhamiltontbg@gmail.com or WhatsApp +1 520-647-1434.