5-Day Magdalena Bay Madness

5-Day Magdalena Bay Madness - Bait Ball & Marlin Expedition (6 Nights)

(5-person expedition + crew) Season: November – December

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day expedition at Magdalena Bay, located on the Baja California Peninsula, for an immersive marine wildlife experience. This adventure offers you the chance to witness the extraordinary phenomenon of bait balls, where massive schools of small fish attract a variety of predators like marlin, dolphins, and sea lions. Your days will be filled with opportunities for snorkelling and free diving, all while being accompanied by an expert guide, a seasoned captain, and a well-equipped boat.

The Expedition Includes:

Your captain and guide will provide a comprehensive safety briefing before heading out on the water. This briefing will cover important information about the boat, safety protocols, equipment usage, and emergency procedures, ensuring that you’re fully prepared for the expedition. Your guide will also explain the marine wildlife you’re likely to encounter and the best practices for safe interaction, especially when snorkelling or free diving.

Private Boat, Captain, & Guide: Throughout the 5-day adventure, you will have access to a private boat designed for comfort and stability on the water. The boat will be captained by a seasoned, local captain who is familiar with the bay’s waters and conditions, ensuring smooth navigation and a safe journey. Alongside the captain, your guide will accompany you daily, offering their expertise in locating bait balls, marlin, and other marine life, as well as leading you on your snorkelling and free diving adventures. The guide’s knowledge of the local marine environment will enhance your understanding of the area’s wildlife.

8–9 Hours on the Water Each Day: Each day will begin with an early morning departure, where you will spend approximately 8–9 hours on the water. During this time, you’ll explore various spots around the bay, where you may encounter stunning bait balls attracting marlin, dolphins, sea lions, and even orcas. Your captain will ensure you’re safely anchored and positioned for optimal views and experiences.

Bait Ball Sightings: One of the expedition’s main highlights is the opportunity to witness bait balls in action. These swirling masses of small fish attract a frenzy of predators, including blue and black marlin, dolphins, sea lions, and more. Your guide will help you spot these natural wonders, offering insights into how the predators work together to feed.

Marine Life You Might Encounter:

Marlin (Blue & Black) –These apex predators are often seen hunting within the bait balls, offering dramatic, unforgettable encounters.
Dolphins (Bottlenose & Spinner) –Playful and curious, dolphins may join the feeding frenzy and often interact with boats.
Sea Lions –These energetic creatures often accompany bait balls, adding to the excitement and occasionally interacting with snorkelers.
Orcas (Killer Whales) –Though rarer, orcas may appear to hunt marlin or other fish, offering a rare opportunity for observation.
Manta Rays –Known for their graceful, soaring movements, manta rays are often seen gliding through the bay’s waters.
Sea Turtles (Green & Loggerhead) –These gentle creatures frequently swim near the surface, providing perfect photo opportunities.
Pelagic Fish (Tuna, Barracuda, Amberjack) –Large pelagic species like yellowfin tuna and barracuda may be seen hunting around the bait balls.
Cobia – This sleek, silver fish sometimes joins the action around the bait balls.
Sharks (Hammerhead, Blacktip, Mako) –While rarer, hammerhead sharks and blacktip reef sharks may be seen hunting in deeper waters.

Please note that while we aim to provide sightings of the animals listed on the tour, there is no guarantee of encountering them due to the unpredictable nature of marine life and ocean conditions. Factors such as weather, sea conditions, and animal behavior may affect specific species during the safari.

Meals & Refreshments:

Each day, you’ll enjoy meals, including packed lunches on the boat. Expect local food, fruits, and snacks to keep you fuelled throughout the day. Refreshments and drinks will be available throughout your time on the boat to keep you hydrated.

Safety & Comfort:

The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, a first aid kit, and all essential equipment for snorkelling and free diving. Your guide will ensure that all safety protocols are followed, especially while in the water, and will help you get the most out of your experience.

Departure/Return:

Departing from Puerto San Carlos boat ramp, the expedition will start with a safety briefing and equipment check on Day 1. After five days of thrilling marine exploration, you’ll return with unforgettable memories of this one-of-a-kind adventure.

This 5-day Madelena Bay Expedition offers the perfect combination of marlin hunting, bait ball action, and marine wildlife encounters. With a dedicated captain, an expert guide, and a private boat, you’ll be fully equipped to explore the incredible marine ecosystem of Baja California Sur safely and comfortably. Whether you’re an experienced free diver or a first-time snorkeler, this expedition is sure to be a thrilling, immersive adventure into one of the world’s most biodiverse ocean environments.

What’s Included:

6-nights accommodation: Hotel in Puerto San Carlos near to the boat ramp Single & Double/Couple rooms available.
Transfers: Pick up and drop off from your hotel in Puerto San Carlos to the boat ramp daily.
Boat transportation: 8-9 hours on the water each day on a comfortable and well-equipped boat for a thrilling and safe experience and as much travel as required to reach marlins within the time frame above.
Expert guide and local captain: Passionate experts who will track, guide, and position you for the ultimate marine encounters.
Meals on onboard: Fresh snacks, lunch and beverages. Please advise of any dietary requirements.
Safety: Fully trained crew to ensure your safety throughout the adventure.

What’s Not Included:

Flights
Insurance (Mandatory)
Personal equipment (e.g., cameras, personal snorkelling gear). We recommend bringing freediving fins and gear you are comfortable in. (Gear can also be rented, please let us know at time of booking)
Tips for guides and crew.
Transfer from Airport to Puerto San Carlos (can be organised at additional cost).

Price $2850.00 USD per Explorer

Price for 5-day (6-night) expedition per person $2850.00 USD

*Private expeditions can be booked on request please enquire for pricing*

Dates – Book Now

November 2025:
7th November – 13th November
15th November – 21st November

December 2025:
5th December – 11th December
15th December – 21st December

Location Details

The closest airports to Magdalena Bay, Baja California Sur (BCS), are:

La Paz International Airport

Distance to Magdalena Bay: Approximately 230 km (143 miles), about 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
Location: La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur.
Flights: La Paz Airport has both domestic flights (e.g., from Mexico City) and international flights (e.g., from the U.S.).
Description: La Paz is the most common gateway for travelers to Magdalena Bay, with a relatively easy drive to the bay.

1. La Paz International Airport (LAP) – About 2.5 to 3 hours from Magdalena Bay.
2. Puerto San Carlos Airport (PUP) – Right near Magdalena Bay, but with limited commercial flights (mainly for charters).
3. You can also fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) – Duration: About 4 to 5 hoursof driving, depending on road conditions and stops.