Video: This stunning video shows whales being 'hugged' by visitors to a Mexican lagoon
The footage of the female gray whales and her calves getting up close and personal with tourists was taken by British wildlife photographer Steve Trewhella during a family holiday earlier this month.
Steve was part of a group on a small 10ft boat in the San Ignacio lagoon when the 50ft mammal came right up alongside them looking to be stroked and petted. The lagoon has become famous as a whale nursery and sanctuary where the female species rear their calves away from deadly predators before returning to the ocean. And Steve, 52, of Wareham, Dorset, described it as a thrilling and unique experience.