National Geographic Sea Bird had an iconic day among the gray whales of Baja California. It started with a sunrise streaked with reds and oranges and a couple of California sea lions splashing around near the ship. We had a full day of whale watching, one that no one will ever forget. The whales did not seem bothered by our watchful eyes, and a few even approached the pangas with little fear. Everyone was ecstatic, and we returned to the ship with smiles spread ear to ear.