After a quick trip to Cuba in 1787, he was chosen by Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra to go to the Pacific Coast of Mexico and the naval base of San Blas, the headquarters for the exploration of the Pacific Northwest. He was a Frigate Lieutenant (Teniente de Fragata) at the time. Alongside went his brother-in-law, Francisco de Eliza, who would distinguish himself as Governor of Fort San Miguel on Vancouver Island's Nootka Sound.
After a short journey to Cuba in 1787, he was appointed by Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra to lead an expedition to the Pacific Coast of Mexico and the naval base at San Blas, which was the central location for exploring the Pacific Northwest. He was then a Lieutenant on board a frigate (Teniente de Fragata). His brother-in-law, Francisco de Eliza, accompanied him and would later become notable as Governor of Fort San Miguel on Vancouver Island's Nootka Sound.