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Magdalena Bay Sardine Run

Magdalena Bay Sardine Run

Blue shark in Magdalena Bay, Mexico
Sealions in Magdalena Bay, Mexico
Striped marlin in Magdalena Bay, Mexico
White lighthouse on Bay Bahia, Magdalena Bay, Mexico

Diving Itinerary

Marvel at striped marlin hunting in their natural environment on this unique adventure.

During October to January, a magical event happens in the nutrient rich swirling blue waters off Magdalena Bay where striped marlin gather to hunt on the second-largest sardine run in the world. This thrilling underwater action is spectacular.

There's an excellent chance of also seeing California sea lions, dolphin, wahoo, pelicans, different species of gulls, boobie birds, frigate birds, shearwaters and even the awe-inspiring albatross.

Magdalena Bay is a gorgeous place to visit just for the pristine beauty, mangroves and giant sand dunes of the outer islands.

This is a cooperative ecotourism programme with local pangas and highly knowledgeable captains. Spend as much or as little time as you want on the water each day with striped marlin. Striped marlin encounters are best snorkelling/free diving, and this is the main focus of these itineraries. However, scuba diving is definitely on the agenda on this trip.

5 night itineraries begin with a 5-hour bus journey from Cabo to Magdalena Bay. Longer 7-night itineraries set sail from Cabo and follow the coastline around to Magdalena Bay.

Magdalena Bay is an absolute dream for snorkellers and divers. For the famous Sardine Run, visit between October and January to witness massive bait balls and the incredible feeding frenzy of striped marlins and sea lions - pure, exhilarating baitball action. January to March is prime time for encounters with humpbacks and grey whales migrating through the bay. While Magdalena Bay offers unforgettable dives year-round, timing your trip for these seasonal highlights makes it a thrilling adventure.

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  • Holiday type Liveaboard Itinerary
  • Recommended Dive Experience Mixed
  • When to Go Jan-Dec

Itinerary Highlights

  • See striped marlin hunt on vast schools of sardine
  • Unique marine spectacle in a remote location
  • Opportunities to see sea lion, dolphin, wahoo and numerous bird species

Upcoming departures

Upcoming departures for Magdalena Bay Sardine Run are listed below or view all departures on our Holiday Search where you can also sort/filter.

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