Gulf Coast Cranes & Coastal Wonders

Where the wild cranes roam…

This January, join Fernweh Guided Expeditions and naturalist/photographer Mike Endres for a winter birding and photography adventure like no other. We’re heading to the Gulf Coast — just north of Corpus Christi — where whooping cranes, one of North America’s rarest and tallest birds, return each winter.

If you joined us — or wished you had –for the Sandhill Crane migration in Colorado, this Gulf Coast experience offers a similarly awe-inspiring encounter with one of North America’s most iconic birds, this time with waves, wetlands, and warm coastal light.

We’ll explore by boat and by foot, camp on the beach under a wide-open Texas sky, and soak up the golden light that makes this coastline magical.

 

What to Expect:

• Two private boat charters (Saturday & Sunday) guided by local Aransas experts, with the best opportunities to photograph whooping cranes and coastal wildlife
• Beach camping with incredible sunsets and fireside meals
• Photography support from Mike Endres, from smartphone-friendly tips to advanced camera techniques
• Explorations of Goose Island State Park, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Port Aransas Nature Preserve, and Mustang Island
• A welcoming, nature-loving community — whether you’re a hardcore birder, a “bird nerd in training,” or just love the coast

 

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Tentative Agenda:

Friday —  Arrival & Sunset Adventure
Arrive in Rockport, set up camp, and enjoy a sunset wildlife outing to one of the area’s coastal gems.

Saturday — Sunrise on the Water + Exploration
We’ll kick off early with a private boat charter to view whooping cranes up close. The afternoon includes land-based exploration, photo lessons, and plenty of time to relax by the water.

Sunday — Final Boat Tour & Farewell
We’ll take to the water one more time to capture those final crane moments, then return to camp for closing reflections and departures.

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Pricing:

• Driver + Vehicle: $700
• Additional Passenger: $300

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What’s Included:

• Private boat charters (Saturday & Sunday) with professional guides
• Catered meals all weekend (Friday & Saturday dinners, plus light breakfasts/snacks)
• Beach camping access with group campfires and coastal sunsets
• Photography instruction and support from Mike Endres
• Fernweh trip leader guidance and logistics coordination
• Exploration of curated locations like Goose Island, Aransas NWR, and Mustang Island
• A chance to connect with like-minded explorers and nature lovers

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What’s Not Included:

• Transportation to/from Rockport, TX
• Personal camping gear (packing list provided)
• Camera gear rentals
• Snacks/beverages 
• Optional park entry fees

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Join Us!

Spots are limited. This is winter on the Gulf Coast, Fernweh-style: with intention, with community, and maybe with a camera in one hand and a hot coffee in the other.