Our History
The Story of Pachico
In the not too distant past, encounters with pacific gray whales were not friendly, and often led to a sunken boat or ship. 1945 is when whaling was banned in Mexico, and it took a few decades for these leviathans to no longer feel threatened and decided to forgive the human kind. In 1972 Pachico Mayoral, a local fisherman in San Ignacio Lagoon had the first friendly encounter registered with a gray whale. Soon after he began sharing his experiences with others and eventually the world. Today Pachico’s direct descendants all play a crucial role in whale watching and eco tourism in the lagoon.
Pancho Mayoral
Greetings, my name is Pancho Mayoral, founder of Legacy Whale Tours and proud son of Pachico Mayoral, the legendary pioneer who made history as the first person ever to have a friendly encounter with a gray whale in Baja California Sur, Mexico. Born in 1972, I was raised amidst the beauty and wonder of the whales in the San Ignacio Lagoon, where my father’s groundbreaking connection with these gentle giants began a global movement in whale watching and marine conservation.
From a young age, I followed in his footsteps—learning to navigate the waters, fish, and guide visitors alongside my father’s deep respect for the ocean. In 1995, I completed a professional Guide Training Program, gaining expertise in eco-tourism, English communication, and the principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
With decades of “whale whispering” experience, I now lead whale-watching expeditions in both Baja California Sur and Channel Islands National Park in Southern California with Island Packers Cruises. I am also a proud member of Terra Marine Research and Education, a nonprofit dedicated to marine science and ocean conservation.
Continuing my father’s legacy, I am expanding our mission to offer extraordinary whale encounters around the world. In September 2025, we launched the Tahiti Whale Adventure, a journey to swim alongside majestic humpback whales in French Polynesia—with annual departures planned for 2026 and beyond.
Sharing these intimate, heart-opening experiences with whales is more than a profession—it’s my life’s passion and purpose. Join me to connect deeply with the ocean, honor nature, and be part of the legacy of Pachico and the whales of Baja.
🌺 Meet Amber Sciuto
Hi, I’m Amber Sciuto — Integrative Somatic Bodywork Release Therapist, Kambo Facilitator, retreat leader, spiritual guide, and lover of all things travel.
For over 27 years, I’ve journeyed to more than 40 countries, exploring the wisdom of ancient cultures and healing traditions around the world. From studying Kundalini Yoga in India and learning from spiritual teachers in Guatemala, to being initiated into Kambo medicine in the jungles of Peru, every adventure has deepened my understanding that travel is not just exploration — it’s transformation.
With 1,000+ hours of holistic training in massage therapy and experience as a certified EMT and former Owner and Director of Santa Barbara Bodyworks, I bring a grounded, compassionate understanding of the body’s innate capacity to heal. My approach blends holistic touch, soft-tissue manipulation, energy work, movement, breathwork, toning, and somatic release, offering a comprehensive path to vitality and embodiment.
Drawing from over a decade in destination event management, I curate sacred spaces that blend organizational precision with intuitive care. Whether in private sessions or immersive retreats, every detail is intentional, sacred, and safe—allowing you to fully surrender into your own transformation.
I believe life itself is a sacred adventure—a journey inviting us to awaken, evolve, and remember who we truly are.
I can’t wait to share the journey with you.
Book a Tour
Begin your journey by viewing our tour schedules