Western Flyer departs for the Gulf of California, retracing its path from 85 years ago.

Eighty-five years after it set sail for the Gulf of California, the Western Flyer once again departed on the same voyage on Sunday, March 16, retracing its journey made famous by author John Steinbeck and marine biologist Ed Ricketts.

On a windy afternoon, people descended on Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, waiting in lines of up to a half-hour to tour the historic fishing boat, while swing dancing to the tunes of the Moonglow Jazz Band, many dressed in 1940s attire.

As the tours wrapped up, the fully restored Western Flyer was given a send-off with a performance of sea shanties as it began its three-month journey. The ship will make stops along California and Baja, hosting educational tours and other events along the way.

Crew members on board said the first stop in Santa Barbara was expected to take about 30 hours, although they noted the windy conditions may slow down their schedule.

Follow along the Western Flyer’s journey at westernflyer.org/baja2025.