In 1940, driven by curiosity and a hunger for experience, John Steinbeck and biologist Ed Ricketts traveled to the Gulf of California on board the sardine boat the Western Flyer. The life they found hidden in each secluded inlet and bay entranced them, giving them a new understanding of the interconnectedness of all things—an insight that has inspired generations of biologists, writers, and ocean lovers, forever changing the face of marine science.
In April of 2025, please join us for the Western Flyer’s triumphant return to the Gulf of California on the 85th anniversary of its first groundbreaking expedition!
In 1940, driven by curiosity and a hunger for experience, John Steinbeck and biologist Ed Ricketts traveled to the Gulf of California on board the sardine boat the Western Flyer. The life they found hidden in each secluded inlet and bay entranced them, giving them a new understanding of the interconnectedness of all things—an insight that has inspired generations of biologists, writers, and ocean lovers, forever changing the face of marine science.
In April of 2025, please join us for the Western Flyer’s triumphant return to the Gulf of California on the 85th anniversary of its first groundbreaking expedition!
“Let us go...into the Sea of Cortez, realizing that we will become forever a part of it.”
The Fundraising Cruise
As a Friend of the Flyer, embark on an unforgettable, ten-night fundraising voyage aboard Uncruise Adventures’ Safari Voyager, shadowing the beautifully restored Western Flyer as it retraces the historic route of Steinbeck and Ricketts. With a copy of The Log from the Sea of Cortez (1951) in hand, you’ll explore the natural and human histories of the Gulf alongside literary, historical, and scientific experts.
Days filled with scientific observation and activities from snorkeling to kayaking to just relaxing on the beach will be followed by starlit nights filled with gourmet meals, fascinating lectures, and new friends.
Best of all, your participation in this vital fundraising cruise ensures the restored Western Flyer’s legacy continues to inspire future generations. Proceeds will help us bring underserved students to the ocean (many for the first time), support research from Monterey Bay to the Gulf of California, and preserve a cultural treasure with its unparalleled literary and scientific legacy.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support the Western Flyer’s mission—and enjoy an extraordinary adventure while doing it. Set sail and help make history come alive!
DATES: April 15-25, 2025
VESSEL: Uncruise Adventures Small Ship Safari Voyager and the Western Flyer. Learn more about the Safari Voyager.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CRUISE:
- Exploring original 1940 collecting sites with scientists and expert guides.
- Exclusive daily access to the Western Flyer.
- Presentations and workshops by experts including Dr. Susan Shillinglaw (Steinbeck scholar), Dr. William Gilly (marine biologist), John Muir Laws (leader in nature journaling), and our founder, John Gregg.
- Snorkeling, kayaking, stargazing, wildlife observation–and much more!
- Savoring gourmet meals and relaxing in comfort aboard the Safari Voyager.
- Evening gatherings to share stories and celebrate this historic return trip!
DESTINATION: Gulf of California (La Paz with planned stops at Punta Marcial, Santa Catalina, San Lucas Cove, Punta Trinidad, Bahia San Carlos, Bahia de los Angeles, Puerto Refugio, Isla Angel de la Guarda, Isla San Esteban, Santa Rosalia, Isla San Jose and Bahia Amortajada, Isla Espiritu Santo).
Itineraries and maps are guidelines. Variations in itinerary and order of days may occur to maximize your experience.
reservation and donation information
reservation & donation information
This exclusive trip is a fundraiser for the Western Flyer Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to science and education aboard the newly restored Western Flyer. Reservations require a one-time, Friend of the Flyer donation per cabin—$10,000 for double occupancy and $7,500 for single occupancy, in addition to Uncruise’s fees. Your generous contribution will support the Flyer’s historic return to the Gulf of California and ensure that this iconic vessel continues to inspire curiosity and wonder for generations to come.
To reserve your cabin:
1. Contact Aline Burchfield at Uncruise Adventures alineb@uncruise.com or (206) 737-5703 to check on cabin availability.
2. Reserve your cabin by making a tax-deductible donation to the Western Flyer Foundation. To make giving easier, you may pledge your donation and arrange payments over time – contact Sherry Flumerfelt at sherry@westernflyer.org or (831) 220-8047 for more information.
Donations can also be made by check and send to:
Western Flyer Foundation
10928 Clam Way
Moss Landing, CA 95039
3. Once you have made your donation, contact Aline at Uncruise to finalize your reservation.
Questions about Uncruise?
Contact Aline Burchfield at alineb@uncruise.com or (206) 737-5703.
Questions about the donation and the Western Flyer Foundation?
Contact Sherry Flumerfelt at sherry@westernflyer.org or (831) 220-8047.