In spring 2027, the Western Flyer will return to Mexico’s Gulf of California for a two-month research and education expedition, continuing a tradition of exploration that began with John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts in 1940.
Building on the success of our 2025 partnership with UnCruise Adventures, supporters of the Western Flyer Foundation are invited to join a special April 21–May 2, 2027 voyage (10 nights aboard the UnCruise vessel Safari Voyager), traveling with the Western Flyer as scientists and crew conduct marine research throughout the region.
Guests will experience the Gulf not simply as travelers, but as participants in an unfolding expedition—observing science in action and spending time with the team carrying forward the Western Flyer’s legacy of discovery.
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.