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 mouthfull. 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.

WELLNESS & OTHER ACTIVITIES

Because camp life and the surrounding landscape naturally invite reflection and restoration, a few light wellness practices are woven into the expedition. These offerings are never scheduled and never required. They simply exist—available whenever someone feels called to slow down, reset, or reconnect.

Guests are welcome to join:

• Yoga — gentle, adaptable sessions on the sand, shaped by the day and the bodies present

• Stretching & Mobility — simple movements to stay loose, grounded, and comfortable during multi-day ocean activity

• Meditation & Breathwork — quiet moments to settle the nervous system and arrive fully, before or after time on the water

• Nature Walks & Dune Wandering — unstructured exploration of the island’s dunes, beaches, and shifting light

• Paddleboarding — alongside the island’s edge or through the calm of the mangroves

These practices are soft, supportive, and open to everyone. They’re designed to integrate naturally into camp life—offering space to tune into your body, connect with the group through shared stillness or movement, and deepen your relationship with the environment itself. Whether preparing for a day on the ocean or winding down as the light fades, these moments add balance, presence, and a quieter layer of connection to the expedition.

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

We want everyone on this expedition to feel safe, comfortable, and fully able to enjoy their time on the water. These guidelines help ensure a positive experience for the entire group.

Swimming Ability

You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but you should be:

• 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

Feel free to reach out if you’re unsure — we’re happy to help you determine suitability.

This is a five-day expedition with a balanced rhythm:

• Three days on the water searching for bait balls and spending time with wildlife

• Two days on land for hiking, sand dunes, mangroves, paddleboarding, or simply resting at camp.

We adjust the order of the days based on the weather and ocean conditions so you always get the best possible experience.

• The recommended minimum age for full participation is 15 years old.

• Younger guests can be accommodated with certain restrictions or modified activities, depending on conditions and their comfort level.

• Guests under 18 require a signed parental release form.

• Children who are too young for the in-water portion may still enjoy land days and boat-based wildlife observation

HOW TO JOIN THE EXPEDITION

This expedition is kept intentionally small and personal. Each boat carries a maximum of 6 guests, supported by two professional guides and an experienced boat driver, allowing us to move with the wildlife respectfully and safely.

We offer three ways to join the trip:

Join as an Adventurer

For guests who want to experience the sardine run fully — from the boat, in the water, and across the landscape — without a photography focus. This includes all expedition activities, access to our optional wellness offerings, and the full safari-style experience.

Join as a Photo Workshop Attendee

For guests who want creative support during the expedition, including guidance on reading wildlife behavior, light, movement, camera settings, and creating meaningful images inspired by National Geographic–style field assignments.

Private Boat Options

We also offer a limited number of private-boat expeditions for small groups or families who prefer a private experience with their own guides and full flexibility.

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS

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 between activities.

• Showers attached to the tent 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. It’s a place you feel safe to disconnect and fully immerse yourself into your surroundings.

Meals at Camp

All meals are included throughout the trip. You can expect:

• Warm breakfasts before boat departure

• Fresh camp-cooked dinners each night

• Boat lunches designed for long ocean days

• Fruit, snacks, and hydration are available throughout the day

• Options for vegan, vegetarian and any other allergies with notice in advance.

We work closely with Magdalena Bay Whales to ensure meals are nourishing, satisfying, and well-suited for active days on the water.