MAGDALENA BAY • FEBRUARY 24-28, 2025

Hola Amigos! Ever heard of Bahía Magdalena or Magdalena Bay? Located on the Pacific side of the Baja California peninsula, it’s one of the best places in the world for exhilarating up-close encounters with gray whales. Repeat, up-close encounters. Rather than witnessing 50' cetaceans breach, spy hop and tail slap hundreds of yards away or out on the horizon, guests can interact with inquisitive calves and approachable mothers right next to the boat! And for those touchy-feely types, petting (aka fondling) and kissing the whales is permitted (seriously)…bring some chapstick!

In addition to spending three days (up to 12 hours total) observing these aquatic marvels, the group will have the opportunity to explore the adjacent mangroves, roam the expansive stretches of sand dunes, and even do a little birding aka ‘twitching’. Best part – no tents, no compost toilets, no solar heated showers (those Ziploc bags placed on a rock in hopes they get warmed by the sun). Sounds silly, but until recently this was the only way people could experience the region. Instead, guests will be in cabañas (that’s Spanish for cabins) with comfy beds, real ensuite hot water showers, and toilets that flush. It’s sorta like Mexican glamping.

Still unsure? How about a night in La Paz on the Malecón (waterfront promenade) at the head and tail of the trip to eat, drink and discover the capital of Baja California Sur. And to really maximize the time in La Paz, snorkeling with whale sharks may be available. Four nights, five days, and large animal encounters on both the Pacific side and the Sea of Cortez side of the Baja California peninsula.

Vamos!

LA PAZ

With over 480 years of history, La Paz is rich with culture and diversity. The people of La Paz (“Pacenos”) set the city apart from many others. Helpful, caring, friendly folks who are quick to smile define what La Paz is all about. The Sea of Cortez extends along the Gulf of California from the Colorado River to Los Cabos. “Stunning, breathtaking, pristine” are all words that describe the natural beauty created by geographic contrasts and the immeasurable biodiversity that made Jacques Cousteau refer to this true sanctuary as “the world's aquarium.”

La Paz, or the "City of Peace," is the capital city of Baja California Sur and has a tranquil vibe that emanates from the sea and adjacent mountains. This isn’t Cabo. This isn’t Cancun. This is a quiet historical destination that is famous for its diving and snorkeling opportunities. The quaint city features a Malecón boardwalk lined with bronze sculptures, boutique restaurants, and a variety of small watering holes. There are no mega clubs such as Señor Frog's or Papas & Beer. Those that want epic nightlife and unforgettable hangovers should venture elsewhere.

Continent: North America • Country: Mexico • State: Baja California Sur • Municipality: La Paz • Year Founded: 1535 • Climate: Tropical desert • Population: 290,000 (2020) • Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN) • Elevation: 89' • Time: UTC-7 • Official Languages: Spanish • Industries: Eco-tourism, silver mining, agriculture, and fishing • Electricity: 120V (same as USA) • Nickname: Aquarium of the World (Cousteau)

MAGDALENA BAY

Known for the seasonal migration of gray whales, this destination is the furthest south gray whale nursery on Mexico's Baja California coast. There is an estimated 250-500 gray whales in this area at peak season. Magdalena Bay is a 3.5hr drive northwest of La Paz.

Continent: North America • Country: Mexico • State: Baja California Sur • Municipality: Comondú • Year Discovered: 1539 • Climate: Tropical desert • Local Towns: Adolfo López Mateos + San Carlos • Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN) • Elevation: Sea Level • Time: UTC-7 • Official Languages: Spanish • Industries: Eco-tourism and fishing • Electricity: 120V (same as USA) • Native Name: Bahía Magdalena

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

La Paz and Magdalena Bay have desert-like climate.  Unlike other areas of Mexico, La Paz and Magdalena Bay do not have distinct rainy and dry seasons; they have two seasons: summer and winter. The summer begins in May and starts to cool down in October. Winter begins in December and lasts until February.

La Paz February Averages - High Temp: 79°F • Low Temp: 54°F • Sea Water Temp: 69°F • Daylight Hours: 11.5 • Sunshine Hours: 10 • Rainy Days: 1 • Precipitation Totals: 0.2 in

Magdalena Bay February Averages - High Temp: 82°F • Low Temp: 49°F • Sea Water Temp: 66°F • Daylight Hours: 11.5 • Sunshine Hours: 11 • Rainy Days: 1 • Precipitation Totals: 0.2 in

SEVEN CROWN HOTEL MALECÓN • LA PAZ

Malecón in Spanish means stone wall or jetty. In La Paz it refers to the esplanade along the waterfront, and that is where the Seven Crown Hotel Malecón is located. It is a sleek and modern hotel, just steps to the beach and a short walk to the business district, shops, restaurants and bars. Plus, it’s only 25 minutes from the international airport. It offers 46 air-conditioned standard rooms, plus nine junior suites and three master suites, all with a sea view (some partial) and private balcony. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps guests connected, and satellite programming is available for entertainment. All rooms are equipped with private bathrooms which feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. 

Year Built: 2002 • Standard Rooms: 46 • Junior Suites: 9 • Master Suites: 3 • Dining: Quinto Piso (rooftop) • Bar: Yes (rooftop) • Breakfast: Included • WiFi: Included • Pool: No • Floors: 5 • Elevator: Yes

ACCOMMODATIONS

STANDARD KING OR DOUBLE ROOM
The standard room has one king-sized bed or two double beds and features partial views of La Paz Bay and the Sea of Cortez. All of the 250 sq. ft. rooms have balconies. Breakfast is included.

JUNIOR SUITE
The Junior Suite has one king-sized bed or two queen sized beds and features full views of La Paz Bay and the Sea of Cortez. All of the 345 sq. ft. suites have balconies. Breakfast is included.

MASTER SUITE
The Master Suite has one king-sized bed and features full views of La Paz Bay and the Sea of Cortez. All of the 345 sq. ft. suites have balconies. Breakfast is included.

CABAÑAS • MAGDALENA BAY

These hidden gems can’t be found on Expedia or Priceline. Located just five minutes walking distance from the whale watching dock, these fully renovated and owner-operated cabañas, are ideal for this type of adventure. Sleep in a tent on a beach or reside in permanent dwellings that feature comfortable beds, plush linens and complete bathrooms with hot showers. Not a tough decision.

Number of Cabanas: 10 • Dining: Aquendi Restaurant • Breakfast: Included • Lunch: Included • Dinner: Included • Beer: Included • WiFi: Yes • Pool: No • Fire Pit: Yes • Daily Housekeeping: Yes

GRAY WHALES

Gray whales have the longest known migration of any mammal. They travel 10,000-12,000 miles round-trip every year between their winter calving lagoons in the warm waters of Mexico and their summer feeding grounds in the cold Arctic seas. Due to their nearshore migration route, people (like the Seasick gang) can observe the whales along their journey.

Common Name: Gray Whale • Scientific Name: Eschrichtius Robustus (1861) • Type: Mammal • Global Population: 27,000 est • Average Size: 43'-46 • Maximum Size: 49' • Mass: 30,000-66,000 lbs • Lifespan: 55-70 years • Maximum Dive Depth: 500' • Maximum Dive Time: 30 min Diet: Omnivore • Group Name: Pod • Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC) • Nickname: California Gray Whale

WHALE SHARK SNORKEL

REQUIREMENTS: Ability to swim
COST: Varies by snorkel operator (<$100)

Each year between October and March, whale sharks gather in the Bay of La Paz to feed on the rich plankton. These gentle giants which can reach up to 40' and weigh an average of 10,000 lbs, use mouth filters to feed on the tiny plankton and small fish or eggs. Swimming with the largest fish in the world is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

* Each year the whale shark migration period slightly changes in La Paz so this opportunity will only be available after sightings have been confirmed the days prior to February 28, 2025.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

FLIGHTS + TRANSFERS

SAMPLE ITINERARY AS OF JULY 20, 2024

OPTION 1: TIJUANA - LA PAZ
DEPARTING: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 • RETURNING: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
ESTIMATED COST: $290

OPTION 2: LOS ANGELES - LA PAZ
DEPARTING: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 • RETURNING: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
ESTIMATED COST: $465

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

DEFINITIONS: “Company” is defined as Underwater Exposures, Inc. dba Seasick Productions, incorporated in terms of the laws of California, United States of America. "Company Affiliated Parties" is defined as the Company, its directors, members, partners, employees, agents, consultants, suppliers, and contractors. “Guest” is defined as any person or persons placing a booking (whether provisional or confirmed) with the Company and who contracts with the Company for any of the Services together with his/her spouse, dependents and companions. “Services” is defined as the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services provided by the Company and the procurement by the Company of the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services by any Third-Party Contractors.

GENERAL: Price based on double occupancy group rate. Single supplement, extensions, additional services, and all other items not listed in itinerary are not included. All prices subject to change without notice. A $1,000.00 deposit per person is required with each Guest reservation. Company reserves the right, without advance notice, to make changes or cancellations, in part or in whole, as circumstances dictate. Any deposit or payment made to Company or any representative of Company shows acceptance and acknowledgement of the terms and conditions as stated herein.

CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS: Any request by Guest to amend or change a booking once it has been confirmed, may be accommodated by Company subject to availability. If Company is able to assist, a reasonable administrative fee may be charged. Any such administrative fees shall be invoiced to the Guest and must be settled as per the standard terms applicable to the booking. If the invoice is not paid within such time, Company may construe such non-payment as an act of cancellation on the part of the Guest and the provisions of the cancellation clause shall apply. All reservations, confirmed bookings, and Company’s services are non-transferable.

CANCELLATIONS TO RESERVATIONS: Refund (less cancellation fee) may be issued if reservation is cancelled four months prior to departure date and if another Guest can fill the vacancy. All authorized refunds will be assessed a $1,000.00 cancellation fee. No refund or credit will be made for Services not utilized by Guest. No cancellations shall be accepted within 30 days of trip departure.

FORCE MAJEURE: “Force Majeure Event” is defined as any event which is beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to a national strike, act of war, armed conflict, insurrection, civil commotion, terrorism or the threat of terrorism; any act of God including but not limited to epidemic, pandemic, lightning, earthquake, flooding, fire, cyclone, hurricane, typhoon, tidal wave, storm, volcanic eruption and other unusual and extreme adverse weather or environmental conditions; any event which falls within any of these categories that is suffered by Third-Party Contractors of the Company, who are involved in the receipt or provision of the Services; and or any other cause or contingency beyond the control of the Company. The Company shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of its obligations to Guest due to any Force Majeure Event. If the Company is affected by a Force Majeure Event, it may in its sole and absolute discretion, amend or cancel any of the Services or the remainder thereof, or to make any alteration in route, accommodation, transportation or arrangement in the event of the Services or any part thereof being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable.

GUEST INSURANCE: If scuba diving is a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess a dive accident insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. If scuba diving is not a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess an international accident and medical evacuation insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. Information on dive accident insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org. In addition, Company recommends trip insurance in the event a Guest must cancel the trip. Information on trip insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org or the DiveAssure website: www.diveassure.com.

RESPONSIBILITY: Company acts only as agents for the Third-Party Contractors providing transportation, accommodations, diving and other Services. All tickets and vouchers issued constitute the sole contract between the Guest and Company. Company or its representatives shall not at any time be responsible in any way for loss, injury, or damage arising from any Force Majeure Event, act of government, theft, sickness, customs regulations, delay, cancellation error, or any cause beyond its control. Company or its representatives accepts no liability for the consequences of the personal activities of any Guest who is personally responsible for decisions concerning health, safety, fitness for diving and snorkeling, or any other circumstances beyond its control.