This is probably my most intimate connection with a whale.

This year whale season had started badly for me, as all my plans got canceled a few days before schedule. I was kind of depressed, already thinking I would miss the entire season, an event I have been waiting for a year.

Fortunately, in an unexpected turn of events, I have met this friend Ben. He decided I would not miss the chance and he saved my whole season! I am now spending most of my days with him and a few friends at sea.

On our second day, we spotted two whales in the distance and headed their way. We killed the engine and to our surprise, they immediately came our way, swimming around the boat. This usually never happens.

I slowly entered the water just to find myself surrounded by these two curious and playful giants, one of which was definitely eager to get close to me.

I can't even begin to describe the feeling you get when such a majestic creature is looking straight at you, making direct eye contact (as you can see here). I can't help but wonder... what went through his mind at this moment?

At first, as was taking pictures like crazy, but got more and more lost in the moment and forgot about it. I just joined the dance and play with them for a while, before it was time for them to get back to the depths.

I got back on the boat, tears of joy in my eyes, overwhelmed with gratefulness.