Went on a whale sight seeing tour off the coast of Buserias, Mexico. Saw many whales as it was mating season. Normally three to four males were chasing one female in the distance and the guide in our small raft would not get too close so as to disturb these mighty creatures. As I was shooting pictures to my left suddenly one woman in the boat screamed "There's one right here"! I immediately spun around and just started pushing the button on my iPhone. I was fortunate to get seven pictures, this being the first one. Everyone was stunned and delighted to be sure. This is unedited as the sloping horizon can attest. But a sight of a life time. I hope this gives at least some appreciation of these magnificent mammals.

The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a species of baleen whale. One of the larger rorqual species, adults range in length from 12 -16 m (39-52 ft) and weigh about 36,000 kg (79,000 lb). The humpback has a distinctive body shape, with long pectoral fins and a knobbly head. It is known for breaching and other distinctive surface behaviors, making it popular with whale watchers. Males produce a complex song lasting 10 to 20 minutes, which they repeat for hours at a time. Its purpose is not clear, though it may have a role in mating.

Found in oceans and seas around the world, humpback whales typically migrate up to 25,000 km (16,000 mi) each year. Humpbacks feed in polar waters, and migrate to tropical or subtropical waters to breed and give birth when they fast and live off their fat reserves. Their diet consists mostly of krill and small fish. Humpbacks have a diverse repertoire of feeding methods, including the bubble net technique.