Each autumn, vast sardine shoals gather in Magdalena Bay, drawing an array of extraordinary predators. Enjoy exhilarating in-water encounters, expert-led exploration, and the comfort of a superb small ship.
From mid-October to December, the waters off Mexico’s Baja Peninsula come alive with extraordinary intensity. One of the world’s most impressive Sardine Runs unfolds in Magdalena Bay, attracting a dazzling cast of predators.
Striped marlin hunt in coordinated packs, slicing through shimmering bait balls at astonishing speeds. Humpback and Bryde’s whales lunge from below, sea lions spiral and twist with agility, and a frenzy of seabirds rain down from above, all drawn to the feast. This small ship adventure offers a rare chance to witness this synchronised oceanic drama, from both above deck and while snorkelling in the heart of the action.
We’re likely to spot green sea turtles basking near the surface and encounter elusive ocean sunfish (mola mola). In the quiet bays and sheltered coves, there may even be a chance to witness tender moments between humpback whale mothers and calves. The sheer diversity and volume of marine life make this one of the richest wildlife experiences in the Pacific.
Our floating base for this remarkable journey is Gallant Lady, a beautifully appointed expedition yacht accommodation just 12 guests. With Rachel Ashton as your dedicated tour leader, expert guidance is guaranteed throughout. Rachel has travelled to Baja California more than 50 times, accompanying many of Mark Carwardine’s popular whale watching expeditions.
Typical Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Travel to Mexico via Houston
Fly from the UK to Houston and stay overnight at an airport hotel.
-
Day 2:
Fly from Houston to San José del Cabo
On arrival, transfer to Cabo San Lucas on the southern tip of the peninsula. Spend the remainder of today at leisure.
Accommodation: Casa Bella, 1-night
-
Day 3:
Embark & set sail
Today we embark our vessel and set sail north along the coast of Baja California. Look out for green sea turtles, mola mola (giant sunfish), and possibly even humpback whales as we cruise towards Magdalena Bay.
Accommodation: Gallant Lady, 6-nights
-
Days 4-8
:
Magdalena Bay
Over the next five days, our focus is on snorkelling in the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean, in search of sardine bait balls teeming with life.
At the centre of the action are the striped marlin, slender, torpedo-shaped hunters that slash through schools of sardines at speeds of up to 50 km/h. With tall dorsal fins raised and vertical stripes flashing an iridescent blue, they put on an unforgettable show.
Adding to the thrill are the elusive Bryde’s whales. During the Sardine Run, they appear without warning - immense, sudden, and explosive, lunging through tightly packed bait balls with jaws agape. Their feeding strikes are dramatic and powerful, often leaving snorkellers in awe.
We’re also likely to encounter humpback whale, while mako and blue shark patrol the scene and rafts of sea lion dive and swirl through the action. East Pacific green turtle and Pacific loggerhead turtle are frequently spotted, while olive ridley and hawksbill turtles can also be seen in smaller numbers. Even mola mola, bizarre and otherworldly, make occasional appearances.
Overhead, pelican, frigatebird, and shearwater wheel and dive, mirroring the frenzy of activity beneath the waves.
After these thrilling encounters, we return to the comfort of our luxurious vessel to relax and recharge between our action-packed days on the ocean.
-
Day 9:
Disembark & fly back to the UK
This morning, enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport.
-
Day 10:
Arrive back in the UK
Please note: Exact itinerary will depend on your departure date and local conditions.
LUXURY VESSEL
