Snorkeling with Sea Lions

One of the things I was able to do while on my short cruise in the Sea of Cortez was to go snorkeling with sea lions. There is a small island, which is more of a large rock outcropping, were birds and sea lions live. The water beneath is filled with fish, otherwise why would the birds and sea lions be there. People are allowed to snorkel in the area, but they are not allowed to dive there. We were even required to wear a slightly inflated flotation vest to prevent us from diving. We were also warned that the sea lions are quite playful. They are known to like to gnaw on people, like a puppy might when playing. I got gnawed on at my wrist. Then either the same sea lion of another gnawed on my ankle and kept going right up to my thigh.

The sea lions are amazing to watch. They are so swift and fast. They are extremely hydrodynamic. They are cute and playful. Although the gnawing didn’t break the surface of my skin and didn’t hurt too much, I could have done without the gnawing.

These are not the best photos I have ever taken, but GoPros are only point and shoot. Still I though I would present some of the better ones.

Sea lion gnawing on someone’s elbow

Sea lion

Sea lion swims right in front of my face

Sea lion

Sea lions

Sea lion

Sea lion cuddling (?) with someone

Sea lion gnawing on someone’s fin

Sea lions

Sea lion

Sea lion

Sea lions

Sea lion

Sea lion

Sea lion