Countdown to the arrival of Western Flyer, May 9!

Join us in celebrating the return of the Western Flyer to the Sea of Cortez, commemorating the historic journey of John Steinbeck and Ed Rickets 85 years ago.

Eco-Alianza de Loreto, A.C., in coordination with the Ventura Sister City Association, the Western Flyer Foundation and Marina Puerto Escondido, Loreto, Baja California Sur, have planned a series of activities around this unique event. Designed to inspire and mobilize our community in the protection of the natural and cultural environment of Loreto, the activities offer a multitude of ways to engage with history and science.

Your participation and donation will help strengthen Eco-Alianza’s programs, making a real impact on the conservation of our ecosystems through environmental education, scientific research, and community engagement.

FRIDAY, MAY 09
BY RESERVATION
www.ecoalianzaloreto.org

BAY OF LORETO DAY CRUISE AND BOX LUNCH ABOARD THE WESTERN FLYER – Departure: 8:30 A.M.
Enjoy an exclusive tour aboard the historic Western Flyer, cruising the beautiful Bay of Loreto National Park. Explore the seascapes that inspired John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts while learning about the ship’s history, and its impact on scientific and economic exploration of Loreto. The experience includes a delicious box lunch to enjoy on board, surrounded by spectacular views and the rich biodiversity of the Sea of Cortez.

Event by reservation. Tickets available here

RECEPTION AND WELCOME DINNER AT THE MARINA IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO – 4:30 P.M. TO 8:30 P.M.

BY RESERVATION
Journey back in time through the traveling photo exhibition, participate in the Silent Auction, and enjoy an exquisite buffet dinner inspired by the flavors of the Sea of Cortez. Live music, as well as fascinating tales about this iconic ship’s legacy in marine exploration enhance the evening.

Event by reservation. Tickets available here

SATURDAY, MAY 10

RESEARCH/EDUCATION CRUISE WITH LOCAL STUDENTS*
9:00 A.M – 1:00 P.M.
Students from the Marcelo Rubio Ruiz Regional Center for Normal Education (CREN), along with 3 teachers and staff from Eco Alianza, will board the WF to make a tour with the aim of monitoring water quality, analyzing the presence of microplastics and observing megafauna and birds, recording their findings in a field diary.

*Event with advance invitation and limited space.
Funding kindly provided by Friends of Eco-Alianza.

SUNDAY, MAY 11

Private Event

MONDAY, MAY 12
WESTERN FLYER FOUNDATION’S DOCKSIDE EDUCATION PROGRAM*
9:00 A.M – 1:00 P.M.
Students between the ages of 15 and 18 from the local high schools, CEB 5/2 and COBACH 09, will visit the marina area and board the boat for a tour while the ship is docked, and learn about the history and importance of the ship for scientific research, and the impact it had for Loreto.
*Event with advance invitation and limited space.
Funding kindly provided by Friends of Eco-Alianza.
COMMUNITY EVENT: RETURN OF THE WESTERN FLYER.
5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Join the celebration at a community event open to the public; enjoy the Western Flyer photo exhibit and learn about Loreto’s history of marine exploration through booths and interactive activities dedicated to the youth of Loreto.

In the evening, enjoy the exquisite documentary “Journey to the Sea of Cortez” in Spanish, a film donated by Baja Productions, Johnny Friday photography.

Event open to the public.
Funding kindly provided by Friends of Eco-Alianza.

Contact: Nidia Ramirez, Events Co-chair, nidia.ramirez@ecoalianzaloreto.net