As a 16-year-old underwater photographer from Thailand, embarking on an eight-day adventure with Nautilus aboard the Gallant Lady was nothing short of a dream come true. The journey was more than just an escape from the classroom; it was an immersion into the mesmerizing underwater world of Magdalena Bay and its incredible sardine run.
My trip began with a grueling 28-hour flight from Thailand, but the moment I set foot on the Gallant Lady I knew it was worth every second. The boat itself was stable and comfortable, making it easy to settle in and prepare for the days aboard. Surprisingly, I didn’t experience any seasickness during the entire trip. The vessel was equipped with super-fast WiFi powered by Starlink technology, which allowed me to stay on top of my schoolwork, complete assignments, and even prepare for exams without missing a beat.
Our guides, Elise and Nikee, were exceptional—their expertise and enthusiasm added so much energy to every excursion. Nubia, our hostess, provided unparalleled service, and her chocolate cookies were nothing short of legendary. The local guides who piloted the pangas (small boats used to chase the action) were seasoned experts. Their skill in safely navigating us to sardine bait balls was remarkable, ensuring that every encounter felt thrilling yet safe.
The marine life encounters were beyond anything I could have imagined. We witnessed an array of species, including whales, bottlenose and common dolphins, tunas, sardines, marlins, mako sharks, millions of sea lions (hyperbole) and countless birds. On land, the stunning sand dunes and mangroves were teeming with life—we even spotted coyotes! Each day brought new surprises and unforgettable moments.
One of the highlights of my trip was capturing an image during the sardine run that I’m incredibly proud of. This photograph, featuring a marlin chasing a sardine, will be an achievement that I will forever remember. As a photographer, the opportunity to document such action was profoundly insane (please follow my instagram to see my photos of Magdalena Bay sardine run and my other adventures @punpun_tp_nc).
The trip wasn’t without its challenges. The constant pursuit of action meant long days that were physically demanding. Yet, the exhaustion melted away in the face of such awe-inspiring sights. Every dive, every encounter, every shot, every “GO GO GO”—it was all worth it, 300%.
I’m filled with gratitude for the entire Nautilus team and the incredible experience they crafted. The memories I made, the wildlife I encountered, and the photographs I captured will stay with me forever. For anyone considering an adventure like this, I can wholeheartedly say: take the leap. It’s an experience that will leave you inspired and connected to the wonders of the Magdalena Bay.
I will always be “ listo” for another trip.
– Pun Pun, aboard the Gallant Lady
