November 2026 · Baja California Sur
2026 Magdalena Bay
Expedition
Every fall, in the Pacific just outside Magdalena Bay, the ocean comes alive in one of the most beautiful natural gatherings on the planet.
Massive schools of sardines are pushed towards the surface by predators, forming fluid, shimmering formations that move like a single living organism.
Striped marlin slice through the water with precision and speed, sea lions weave and play through the schools, dolphins and whales pass through on their migrations, pausing at the bait balls to feed, while seabirds plunge into the chaos in perfectly timed, graceful dives.
It is a moment where many species converge around the same event in harmony — a display of balance, timing, and electric energy that feels sacred.
"One of the most meaningful wildlife experiences of their lives."
This is why people sign up. This is why these trips sell out.
We put this trip together to offer the kind of deeply immersive experience with nature that I've had through my work with National Geographic and other conservation organizations. Our role isn't to act as tour guides, but to lead you into these moments with the same level of respect, presence, and awareness I bring when documenting them—allowing the experience to unfold naturally.
Custom dates and private excursions available.
The Phenomenon
What Are Bait Balls
A bait ball is one of the ocean's most mesmerizing natural events. When sardines sense the presence of larger animals, they gather tightly together and move as one unified shape. Thousands of fish turn, fold, and align in perfect timing, creating a glowing sphere that reflects light in waves of silver, gold, and blue.
What makes bait balls extraordinary is not conflict, but cooperation. Multiple species interact around the formation, each adding to the moment without disrupting the others. Marlin signal through subtle color changes, bonita line up and take turns, wahoo aim and fire through the center like a tank turret, and sea lions glide effortlessly through the mass—reading the moment, waiting their turn, then striking at full speed.
Occasionally a whale will come along and scoop up the entire baitball in a single mouthful. The result is a multi-species dance — a coordinated event driven entirely by nature's rhythm.
Some bait balls hold for long, beautiful stretches of time, with little predation. Others erupt into motion, flying through the water in a full-speed chase. Each one is unique. Each one is alive.
Most people only ever see this through a National Geographic documentary. Here, you observe it firsthand, floating in the beauty of a natural moment that few people will ever witness.
On Land & Sea
Wellness & Other Activities
A few light wellness practices are woven into the expedition — never scheduled, never required. They simply exist, available whenever someone feels called to slow down, reset, or reconnect.
Be Prepared
Participation
Requirements
We want everyone on this expedition to feel safe, comfortable, and fully able to enjoy their time on the water.
Swimming Ability
- Swim confidently in the ocean without assistance
- Comfortable snorkeling in open water
- Able to climb a boat ladder in moderate ocean movement
- Handle moderate waves and currents
If you can snorkel calmly and feel steady in the water, you'll do great. We will be on the boat or in the water with you the entire time.
Physical Readiness
This trip is not ideal for:
- Significant mobility challenges
- Serious back issues
- Medical conditions that limit balance or stamina
Trip Structure
- 3 days on the water — searching for bait balls and spending time with wildlife
- 2 days on land — hiking, sand dunes, mangroves, paddleboarding, or resting at camp
- Minimum age 15 years old for full participation
- Younger guests may join with restrictions; under 18 requires signed parental release
Join the Expedition
How to Join
Because space is extremely limited and we want to make sure this expedition is the right fit for every guest, all pricing and booking information is shared only after inquiry. This allows us to answer questions, discuss expectations, and ensure the experience matches what you're looking for.
Where You'll Stay
Mag Bay
Tent Camp
During the expedition, we stay at the remote Mag Bay Tent Camp, a simple and comfortable base set directly on the barrier island. The camp blends seamlessly into the landscape — dunes, ocean, and sky — creating a sense of calm and connection that balances the energy of long days on the water.
Each guest has their own private safari-style tent, complete with:
- Comfortable bed and fresh linens
- Shade and airflow
- Quiet nights with nothing but ocean and desert sounds
- Stargazing with no light pollution
- A private deck to rest, read, stretch, or simply unwind
- Attached showers and toilets throughout the site
The camp is intentionally low-impact and close to nature, offering a sense of stillness that many guests say becomes one of the most memorable parts of the expedition.
All meals included throughout the trip
before departure
Dinners
Limited Spots Available
Ready to join the
expedition?
Space is extremely limited. All pricing and booking details are shared after inquiry to ensure this is the right fit for you.
Inquire HereCustom dates & private excursions also available · contact us to discuss