Today, my partner and I set out on a whale-watching adventure from Long Beach with Harbor Breeze Cruises, an experience that quickly became equal parts breathtaking and humbling - and not just because of the whales. We started our day with a waterfront lunch at Gladstone’s Long Beach, soaking in the marina views while enjoying fresh seafood. The harbor was alive with activity and it felt like the perfect way to ease into what was meant to be a relaxing afternoon on the water.

What I didn’t account for, however, was the ocean reminding me of my own limits. I’ve been on boats before, but this was my first time whale watching, which, as I quickly learned, is an entirely different experience - especially when you forget to take Dramamine. The moment we left the calm harbor and hit open waters, the rolling swells introduced themselves without hesitation. My stomach immediately revolted. I wasn’t alone - almost everyone around me looked progressively worse, gripping the railings and focusing hard on the horizon, silently battling their own regret. One unfortunate teenager spent the entire trip violently throwing up into the trash can on our deck, which made for an unforgettable soundtrack to our expedition. But just when I thought my focus would have to remain on survival, the first sighting happened.