In the picture: a humpback whale cuts it off, showing a spectacular tail

Jodie Frediani, 74, from Santa Cruz, California, captured the interaction during a whale watching trip. Credit: Jody Frediani/CATERS NEWS

The unusual photos capture the moment a whale swooped up in frightening proximity to a boat full of whale watchers and greeted them with a thrilling wave of his story.

A four-year-old female humpback whale named Murph jumped in Monterey Bay, California.

tells her story in front of a boat full of people Photo: Jody Frediani/CATERS NEWS Two whales fed on anchovies before the show. Photo: Jody Frediani/CATERS NEWS

Jodi Frediani, 74, from Santa Cruz, California, was lucky enough to witness the moment and quickly grabbed her camera.

Spotting a small group of humpback whales feeding on anchovies, the two whales quickly passed alongside Ms. Frediani's boat.

Gorbach is known for his distinctive knobby head. Photo: Jody Frediani/CATERS NEWS

Murph then waved her tail in front of the audience.

The humpback is known for its distinctive head and unique tail, as seen in the photos.

Mammals visit Monterey Bay with late April to early December, and in winter they move to warmer waters off the coast of Mexico.