Join us for the Project Green Leaf expedition, a unique filmmaking journey in the heart of Shark Bay, Western Australia. This exclusive expedition invites you to explore one of the world’s most stunning marine environments while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts. Over the course of six days, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel with ancient stromatolites, participate in a seagrass restoration project, and capture the vibrant marine life through your lens.

Guided by experienced leaders, this expedition is designed for adventurers and aspiring filmmakers alike. You’ll receive hands-on instruction in filmmaking, from script discussions to on-location shoots, ensuring you leave with not only unforgettable memories but also newfound skills. With a focus on conservation, science, and film, you’ll be part of a project that highlights the importance of preserving our oceans.

Accommodations are available at Bay Lodge, offering comfort and convenience right on the Denham foreshore. Enjoy shared meals and camaraderie with like-minded individuals, all passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re diving into the waters of Shark Bay or capturing the stunning landscapes from land, this expedition promises an enriching and impactful experience.

Reserve your spot on this groundbreaking journey and become part of a project that combines adventure, creativity, and conservation. Together, we’ll create a film that showcases the beauty and significance of Shark Bay’s marine ecosystem.

Day 1: Arrival in Denham (26/05/2025)

• Arrive in Denham, Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
• Settle into your accommodation at Bay Lodge.
• Evening gathering to discuss the expedition’s script, shot list, and roles.

Day 2: Boat Day 1

• Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea provided on the boat.
• Begin filming and exploring the marine life of Shark Bay.
• Capture stunning footage from the boat and engage in free diving sessions.

Day 3: Boat Day 2

• Continue filming and exploring different areas of Shark Bay.
• Focus on capturing diverse marine species and their habitats.
• Participate in discussions and workshops on filmmaking techniques.

Day 4: Snorkeling with Stromatolites

• Experience snorkeling with the ancient stromatolites.
• Capture unique underwater footage and learn about these fascinating formations.
• Enjoy a relaxing day while still contributing to the project’s goals.

Day 5: Boat Day 3

• Further exploration and filming of Shark Bay’s marine environment.
• Opportunity to focus on specific shots or scenes for the film.
• Collaborate with fellow participants to enhance the filmmaking process.

Day 6: Boat Day 4

• Final day on the boat to capture any remaining footage.
• Engage in free diving or snorkeling to maximize marine exploration.
• Wrap up filming activities with a focus on key conservation messages.

Day 7: Editing Day or Volunteering

• Choose between a day of editing the captured footage or volunteering/filming the seagrass restoration project in Monkey Mia.
• Gain insights into post-production techniques or contribute to conservation efforts.

Day 8: Departure (02/06/2025)

• Conclude the expedition with a final review of the film project.
• Depart from Denham, taking with you unforgettable memories and newfound filmmaking skills.

Note: The itinerary is weather-dependent. While Shark Bay’s vast area allows us flexibility to navigate around adverse conditions, the specific activities and locations may vary day-to-day to ensure safety and maximize the experience.

Trip Inclusions:

• Accommodation:

  • Stay at Bay Lodge, conveniently located on the Denham foreshore, within walking distance of local restaurants, supermarkets, and the jetty.

• Meals:

  • Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea provided on each boat day and during the snorkeling with stromatolites.

• Activities:

  • Four dedicated boat days for filming and exploration.
  • Snorkeling experience with ancient stromatolites.
  • Optional participation in the seagrass restoration project in Monkey Mia.
  • Hands-on filmmaking workshops and discussions.

• Equipment:

  • Snorkel gear available upon request.
  • Personal copy of the expedition script and shot list, including filming tips and tricks.

• Apparel:

  • Exclusive Return to the Ocean T-shirt for each participant.

• Transportation:

  • Pick-up and drop-off from Monkey Mia Airport if required

• Guidance and Support:

  • Led by experienced guides passionate about marine life and filmmaking.
  • Personalised instruction in the art of filmmaking, from script to screen.

Trip Exclusions:

• Flights:

  • Domestic and international flights to and from the expedition location.

• Meals:

  • Meals outside of those provided during boat and snorkeling days.

• Equipment:

  • Personal camera and filming equipment.

• Insurance:

  • Travel and health insurance coverage.

Meet Your Guide: Jake Mason

Jake Mason, the founder and expedition leader of Return to the Ocean, brings a wealth of experience and passion to every adventure. Having lived in Shark Bay for the past two years, Jake has worked extensively on the water with Shark Bay Eco Tours as both a photographer and guide. This experience has endowed him with an intimate knowledge of the area’s unique marine ecosystems and landscapes.

Jake’s expertise in filmmaking and environmental science, combined with his deep commitment to marine conservation, make him the ideal guide for this expedition. His personable nature and enthusiasm create a welcoming atmosphere, fostering camaraderie among like-minded adventurers. To further enhance the exploration of Shark Bay, the expedition will utilize Shark Bay Eco Tours vehicles and guides, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience.

Join Jake on this extraordinary journey, where his guidance will not only lead you through breathtaking landscapes but also empower you to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of our oceans.

Project “Green Leaf”: A Collaborative Filmmaking Expedition

Project “Green Leaf” is an ambitious and groundbreaking filmmaking expedition led by Return to the Ocean. This project focuses on the rich and dynamic ecosystems of Shark Bay, particularly the extensive seagrass meadows and the diverse array of marine life that interacts with them. Participants will have the unique opportunity to document species such as tiger sharks, dugongs, turtles, dolphins, manta rays, and more.

The expedition is not just about capturing stunning footage; it’s about creating a collaborative film that highlights the intricate relationships within this vibrant ecosystem. Each participant will play a vital role, choosing their preferred method of contribution—whether through underwater videography, topside photography, drone content, narration, sound design, or music. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone has a part to play and can take pride in the final product.

What sets Project “Green Leaf” apart is its pioneering nature. This isn’t just Return to the Ocean’s first filmmaking expedition; it could very well be an industry first. The areas we will explore are not regularly filmed, offering the potential to discover and document rarely seen interactions. The completed film will be submitted to film festivals worldwide and subsequently made available for free viewing on our website and YouTube, unless it garners broader attention.

Join us in this exciting venture, where your creativity and passion for conservation will contribute to a project that aims to inspire and educate audiences worldwide about the importance of preserving our marine environments.

Booking and Pricing Information:

• Pricing Options:

  • 7-night expedition at Bay Lodge (1 person): $2,990 AUD
  • 7-night expedition at Bay Lodge (2 or more people sharing a room): $2,490 AUD per person
  • 7-day expedition without accommodation: $2,190 AUD

• Deposit:

  • A deposit of $500 AUD per person is required to reserve your spot.
  • The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to the start of the expedition (26/04/2025).

• Inclusions:

  • Accommodation at Bay Lodge, meals during boat and snorkeling days, activities, snorkel gear, RTTO T-shirt, transportation from Monkey Mia Airport, guidance and support from experienced guides.

• Exclusions:

  • Domestic and international flights, meals outside of provided ones, personal camera equipment, travel and health insurance.

Terms and Conditions:

• Minimum Participants:

  • The expedition requires a minimum number of participants to proceed. If this number is not reached, all deposits will be fully refunded. This decision will be made one month before the expedition start date.

• Weather Dependency:

  • The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions to ensure safety and maximize the experience.

• Payment and Cancellation:

  • The deposit is non-refundable unless the expedition is canceled due to not reaching the minimum participant number.
  • The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before the expedition start date.
  • Cancellations made after the final payment are subject to partial refunds based on the timing of the cancellation.

• Insurance:

  • Participants are responsible for obtaining their own travel and health insurance.

• Liability:

  • Return to the Ocean is not liable for any personal injuries or losses incurred during the expedition. Participants are encouraged to follow safety guidelines and instructions provided by the guides.