We awoke to a cloudy day today, with a gradual lightening of the grayness, as we made our way north through Hull Canal, a narrow, shallow, mangrove-lined passage that leads to the northern end of Magdalena Bay. The northern terminus of the canal is known as Boca de la Soledad and is the winter home to California gray whales, including cow-calf pairs. The mangrove thickets along the edges of the canal are punctuated with many bird species and interspersed with beautiful sand dunes that contrast nicely with the blue water and cloudy skies. Shore bound guests had a chance to explore some beaches and mangroves by foot or fat tire bike and everyone spent time with the gray whales. The day was rounded out with a gorgeous sunset and the musical melodies of the local band Los Coyotes de Magdalena who came aboard to entertain us.