I just watched the film based on Melville^s book last night, In the Heart of the Ocean, and the imagery of massive whales passing by small wooden boats is still stuck in my mind. And then this one appears in the Image Approval file in the left column. Great timing. I do not recall reading in any of your other whale posts just how you are managing to capture these, whether in a large craft or small, but experiencing one surfacing next to me paddling an ocean kayak would be a life affirming event. You are lucky to be close enough to capture these, Paul, and we are lucky that you are a fellow Caedesian, willing to share.

-nik

Paul, It could be that the bad breath is because the whale doesn't brush its teeth (the whalebones) in time. Just kidding of course.
However, I've never seen a living whale up close so I can't judge whether Herman Melville is exaggerating or not.
What I do know for sure is that you have provided us with an impressive photograph again!

I like the image as it reminds me of my trip to Alaska and the sight of whales up close. you caught it just when it was breathing and the spray coming out. they are magnificent.