January 27, 2007
Our Bear Cares on the Columbia and Snake Rivers
This year we worked with the Union Gospel Mission in the Tri-Cities to provide educational assistance for the migrant workers’ children. We thought they would need backpacks and other basic school supplies. In June, we delivered a check for $2,500 to the mission so they would have time to purchase supplies before school started in the fall.
I received a call from Meg Riley at the mission in early September. The local Costco had donated school supplies for the migrant workers’ children and they were requesting direction on what to do with the money. Meg wondered if we were interested in buying coats for the children who didn’t have them. Because of the cold weather, unless children have coats they are not permitted to go to school. We thought Meg’s idea was a good one.
By the end of November Meg had purchased 28 coats and delivered them to the Longfellow school, where the majority of migrant children go. You will see the message from the school nurse below. In addition, Meg told me some of these children have never had any new clothes in their lives and most of the coats came with mittens, scarves or gloves, so they were even more delighted!
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Dear Cruise West –
On behalf of the Longfellow School staff, I thank you for your generous donation! You can’t imagine the looks on children’s faces – and parents’ too- when warm coats are made available to these little ones. Your generosity has overwhelmed us! May you all have a peaceful holiday season - thank you all again!
Susie Wells, School Nurse |
After purchasing the coats there was still some money left over, so Meg used it to buy Christmas presents for the party they give at the mission. Every child who comes to the party gets a present and with our help, every child did and they were also able to purchase some educational tools for use by children at the mission.
What a good use of Our Bear Cares contributions – and thank you to all the Columbia & Snake Rivers guests who participated.
Funds from onboard photo CD sales support Our Bear Cares Projects. Founded and managed by the employees of Cruise West, financially supported by the Company and by donations from our guests, the goal of the Our Bear Cares Program is to support local charities and organizations at every destination Cruise West visits. A team of employees at Cruise West works closely with each organization to ensure our support has a direct and positive impact . Groups are carefully selected and supported by the Our Bear Cares Committee. Support ranges from cash donations to clothing, school and medical supplies. Organizations we support are as diverse as a remote village in Costa Rica, an orphanage in Mexico, an educational program for children of migrant workers in the Pacific Northwest, whale research in Alaska and medical supplies for various islands in the South Pacific . The committee meets monthly and welcomes input from guests, employees and vendors. Contact us in writing at Our Bear Cares Committee, Cruise West, 2301 5th Avenue, Suite 401, Seattle, WA 98121
Posted by Gail Manahan on January 27, 2007
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January 25, 2007
Tribute to "Suzie the Oyster Lady"
 For the past six years our guests and crewmembers on Prince William Sound cruises have been informed, amazed and charmed by this "real Alaska pioneer". Suzie came aboard one evening of each cruise to share her stories about how to commercially farm oysters in 300 foot deep cold Alaskan water, and about how she and her husband, Dave, managed to live 60 miles from the nearest store, neighbor or telephone - year-round!. Everything about her life was different from that of our guest's lives, except for the passion she had for living that many of us shared. We were inspired to renew that passion in ourselves just by spending an hour in her presence. She lit up the room with her bright eyes and winning smile. She was a light; the affirmation of optimisim and certainty of purpose. I will never forget the first time I met Suzie, and as she left the Spirit of Glacier Bay to board the skiff back to her small houseboat, the guest standing next to me squeezed my arm and said, almost to himself, "That was really special. Thank you so much."
Suzie was certainly special, in so many ways. She lost her year long battle with cancer yesterday. We will always miss her, and we will never forget her.
As a tribute to Suzie, we are reposting this blog entry, originally submitted on March 23, 2006.
It was a crisp but sunny evening in July, 2001 when the “Spirit of Glacier Bay”, our smallest and our original overnight cruise vessel, carrying all 49 of our guests, sailed into Mueller Cove near the center of Prince William Sound. We were in the home stretch of a long and serenely beautiful summer day of watching humpback whales feed and rafts of sea otters happily frolic through their seemingly endless play and dining on shellfish. What a life! We were all feeling just about as calm, happy and privileged as they by this time and were getting ready to gather in the ship’s lounge for pre-dinner snacks, libations and a re-cap with each other and our Exploration Leader of what we had actually observed and experienced in this remote and pristine place today. We had no idea the surprise our Captain had in store for us.
 Mueller Cove is about 50 miles from anything that resembles civilization or modern conveniences: house, store, phone – not near anything but open water, secluded coves, glaciers, forest, mountains, whales, bears. Except, in this wild and seldom visited cove, there resides a true Alaska pioneer, making a life and a living on the edge of our world, and having a life she loves deeply in the midst of unimaginable beauty and extremes of weather only a bi-seasonal dweller switching between Minneapolis and South Florida might conjure. Here, on a small houseboat, with her husband and a teenage nephew summer helper; lives, loves and breathes, Suzie the Oyster Farmer. Twice a week now, all summer long ever since that special July night five years ago, the 78 guest "Spirit of Columbia” (since our “Spirit of Glacier Bay” retired three years ago) sails into Mueller Cove, drops anchor in these cold and deep waters, and Suzie comes out in her skiff to spend an evening onboard with our crew and guests. There are many hugs from familiar crew as Suzie makes her way to the front of the lounge and proceeds to win every heart and mind in the room for the next hour or so, sharing the stories of her life raising oysters commercially here and living year round in this solitary place. We soon realize, this is not a lecture – it is an evening we’re sharing in Suzie’s life. Questions start flowing and don’t stop for a good while. “Suzie, how can you tell a male from a female oyster?” someone asks. “Well, you see, sometimes it’s the same thing!” Suzie proceeds to explain why and nearly all in the room have learned something they never, ever, even thought about. “What do you do out here all winter?” Of course this question had to come from someone in our city folk flock. I’ll let you join us on the “Spirit of Columbia” in Prince William Sound to hear her answer for yourself and to spend an evening with us and Suzie.
When the evening came to an end and Suzie headed off in her skiff for her floating home a hundred yards from our anchorage, my fellow travelers were smiling to each other and to themselves – they had met “the real thing”, and they had all made a new friend, and collected a very special memory. We stayed at anchor here, keeping Suzie company the night, and slipped out of Mueller Cove at breakfast time, headed for another day of exploring Prince William Sound and these unspoiled reaches of The Great Land. But we were changed, and we knew we were.
Posted by Jeff Krida on January 25, 2007
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January 17, 2007
Letter from Carisa's Mom
As employees, we are thrilled when one of our family members is able to experience our cruises. Last fall, Carisa Carnes, our Reservations Manager was able to travel with her mother to Costa Rica. When Carisa's mom, Anita, learned that we were featuring our Costa Rica cruises, she sent me this letter. Thanks, Anita! We all love getting compliments and they are especially meaningful when they come from our mothers!
 I would like to thank Cruise West for my recent trip to Panama and Costa Rica. There were many highlights to my visit, but visiting the Embera village was the most exciting. It was quite amazing to realize that people can live quite simply and be so content with their surroundings. The people were obviously very proud and live their lives to the fullest without all the trimmings the rest of us seem to need or want. It makes you wonder have we really progressed or regressed in all that we have accomplished.
I truly miss rising in the morning and looking out at the jungle. The scenery was so lush and green it almost seemed surreal. The trip was a true learning experience, besides, of course, all the fun. Daniel, Steven, Eric and Rudy, the Exploration Leaders, were great educators about both Panama and Costa Rica. Their enthusiasm for the subjects they discussed was catching. I know much more about sharks, turtles, monkeys and the land masses in these two exotic places. The evening presentations were very professional. I felt like I was watching the Discovery Channel, since the information was so thorough.
Everyone on board was friendly and outgoing. Cappy, the ship’s captain interacted with the passengers and made us all feel like part of his ‘on board’ family. The staff was definitely one of the important factors of a wonderful week. Jonathon, the bartender had us try a variety of new local concoctions and had us all very relaxed before the dinner hour. The dinners were all varied and we had plenty of choices each evening. All were delicious and beautifully presented. The pastry chef, Juan, was outstanding and a great dancer. We found that out the night of the fiesta. Cappy picked up a live band in one of the villages and we partied for several hours one evening. It was fun and I learned to salsa with our zodiac driver, Oldemar.
The Panama Canal, the Botanical Garden, the Rehabilitation Center, Manual Antonio were all great destinations with each a different type of beauty and interest. During the snorkeling trip, I saw my first shark, Moray eel and puffer fishes. The island was something out of a dream. I spent about an hour watching cutter ants do their thing in Manual Antonio Park. They could definitely teach us something about living in harmony, working as a team and developing a determination beyond compare. We had a family of monkeys visit us one afternoon while we were lazily lying in our hammocks. They preened and performed antics for us for about a half hour. The nature hikes revealed Scarlet Macaws, a wide variety of other birds, a Jesus Christ lizard, crabs, bats, spiders, iguanas and two varieties of monkeys. We ended the afternoon sitting under a waterfall in the river. Paradise does not describe those experiences.
Once again, I cannot thank you enough for my time on your beautiful ship and for your wonderful hospitality.
Posted by Leigh Strinsky on January 17, 2007
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January 11, 2007
Exploring the Darien Jungle
Excerpts from the Adventure Journal- Day 6, Darien Jungle - Aboard the Pacific Explorer
 Today can start early, if you choose, or you can take this opportunity to catch up on your rest, as our crew keeps an eye out for wildlife. If we spy any wildlife, we will make an announcement, after 7 a.m. As we make our way toward the Darién, we hope to see whales, dolphins and marine birds. Some dolphins, including bottle-nose and pantropical spotted dolphin, sometimes rush to the bow and surf the pressure wave that the ship creates as we pass through the water. Over 14 percent of the land mass in Panama is under the protection of INRENARE (National Institute of Renewable Resources) aided by a strong non-government environmental organization, ANCON. The National Park of Darién (1.4 million acres), includes large portions of the province and continues into Colombia. The Gulf of San Miguel, east of the Pearl Islands, leads into the heart of Darién and several rivers coming from the mountain ranges in the central land mass of Panama feed this gulf. The Darién forest represents five ecological zones of tropical forest from the high elevations to lowlands, with a flora of about 10,000 known species of plants. Of the over 900 resident species of Panamanian land birds, the majority are found in the Darién. Listen for the roars of howler monkeys, the screeches of parrots and look for black mangrove hawks soaring above. Today we will visit a small Emberá village situated on the southwest coast of the Darién. Here you can bargain with friendly vendors for their exquisite carvings, basketry and other traditional items. The Emberá will perform native dancing with traditional music. Bring your camera and binoculars for a spectacular cultural experience. The indigenous people, the Emberá and Wounaan, have until recently lived traditionally along the rivers in small groupings of thatched huts on stilts. The interiors of the huts, dark with use and smoke from cooking fires, hide astonishing treasures. The women will shyly show the baskets they make, tightly woven, exquisitely shaped and adorned with traditional patterns. Tagua, a palm nut sometimes called vegetable ivory for its resemblance to polished horn material, is used by the Embera to carve animal figures. They sell these for $5 to $30 depending on the quality of the carving. These people, gentle and friendly, live off subsistence farming, fishing and hunting, very often with bow and arrows.
Posted by Leigh Strinsky on January 11, 2007
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January 08, 2007
Exploring Caletas Beach
Please enjoy the Adventure Log from Day 3, on Caletas Beach and Rio Agujitas aboard the Pacific Explorer.
 Just seventy-five miles north of the Panamanian border, Osa Peninsula juts out more than 50 kilometers (30 mi) into the Pacific. Even by local standards, the south is considered a wild region that includes the largest, most inaccessible national park and the most pristine tropical rainforest.
Our naturalists will take you up Rio Agujitas either in our kayaks or zodiacs. It is an excellent opportunity to search for birds and other wildlife along the riverside banks. A nocturnal bird, the Boat-billed Heron, perch above the water and at times hide in the branches of the trees along the shoreline. Green iguanas can also be found feeding on the leaves high in the treetops.
Wear your swimsuit in case we have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the river.
Drake is rich in both 16th century history and natural history. Sir Francis Drake himself supposedly visited the bay in 1579. Drake was the first Englishman to sail around the world.
Later we will reposition just outside of Corcovado National Park, a 100,000-acre sanctuary of biological diversity dominates the Osa Peninsula in southeast Costa Rica. This area’s thirteen habitats are characterized by an abundance of endangered wildlife, including all four species of monkeys and six species of wild cats found in the country. Giant trees draped with vines and lianas and supported by massive buttress roots tower over the forest floor.
The Northern sub-species of the Squirrel monkey is endemic to Costa Rica, and are the only species of monkey without a prehensile tail. They are now protected but are still endangered due to habitat destruction and poaching for the pet trade.
Later, our guides will offer a variety of hikes to explore the history, plant life and any birds and wildlife we might be lucky enough to see. The Osa Peninsula is extremely hot and humid. The terrain in the park includes beaches of soft sand, swamps and mangroves, and tropical forest. Though you may spend some of your time on the beach, close-toed shoes are recommended, as is light clothing, including shorts. Photographic opportunities will be everywhere so be sure to bring your camera and your binoculars.
Posted by Leigh Strinsky on January 08, 2007
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January 05, 2007
Manual Antonio National Park
Day 2- Manual Antonio Park aboard the Pacific Explorer on our Between Two Seas cruise.
 This is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and is sure to be a highlight of your cruise. Manuel Antonio consists of three magnificent white sand beaches that are backed by a jungle sheltering hundreds of fascinating plant species. The park area is relatively small, but it is a place blessed with a great abundance of wildlife.
This morning our onboard naturalists offer guided tours of the Manuel Antonio National Park. This will be an “up close” glimpse of Costa Rica’s jungles and hopefully some of its wildlife! On any of these walks you may return to the station at your own at any time.
As you walk these well maintained trails, keep your eyes open for iguanas and lizards on the forest floor. Keep an eye on your packs because at times the white-faced capuchin monkeys are quite bold here.
After lunch, you may spend the day as you choose. Manuel Antonio offers well maintained trails where you can explore the jungle on your own. You may wish to see the small shopping area outside of the park. If you choose to do this, be sure to get a ticket to the entrance of the park. The gate closes at 3:30 pm. Be sure to be back inside the park before closing! Depending on the tide, the trail may be partly underwater!
The white sand beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, the water is great for a dip, or enjoy the comfort of the ship!
Today’s Itinerary
6:00-7:30am Sunrise Breakfast
7:00 to Breakfast is served
8:30 am in the dining room
All the morning walks will be easy to moderate terrain and will cover the same area, each about 2.5 hours long.
7:45 am Nature Observation walk
8:00 am Nature Observation walk
10:00am Optional Rainmaker tour departs from the stern
12:00 pm Lunch is served onboard
1:30 pm Zodiacs return to beach
This afternoon, feel free to return to explore the park on your own, relax on the beach, swim in the gentle waves along the shore or walk to the small town outside the park.
4:00 pm Park Closes/All Aboard
5:30 pm Social hour:
Each day our bartenders will tempt you with a featured cocktail and hors d’œuvres from our galley.
6:30 pm Daily Recap and briefing
Each night our naturalists will lead a review of the day and an overview for tomorrow.
7:00 pm Dinner is served
8:30 pm Evening Presentation
Join Erick in the Toucan Lobby for our route talk and overview of our journey.
Posted by Leigh Strinsky on January 05, 2007
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January 04, 2007
Armchair Cruise Through Costa Rica and Panama
 The weather here in Seattle has been miserable for several months. Short days with non-stop rain and wind. Of course the rain leads to our beautiful green forests, but that doesn't console me when I'm bundled up trying to stay dry on my journey from my front door to the car. It's this time of year that I find myself dreaming about our warm weather cruises. I imagine a lazy day on the beach with a warm wind blowing and my feet digging a hole deep enough in the sand to find the cool spot just below the surface. Pure Heaven!
In that spirit, I thought it would be fun to chronicle the journey of the Pacific Explorer for the next 10 days. I'll be posting excerpts from their voyage log and sharing interesting information and photos from this region.
Today, January 4th, marks the first trip in 2007 for our ship, the Pacific Explorer. This small-ship sails exclusively in Central America, between Colon, Panama and the port city of Los Suenos, Costa Rica. Her current cruise route is called Between Two Seas. This journey is one of our most active adventures. Each day, our guests have the opportunity to hike through the jungle in search of howler monkeys, snorkel or kayak, view exotic birds or even take an optional zip-line tour through the jungle.
Most guests flew into San José today, but several arrived early and have been in a lovely hotel in the downtown area. I've spent time in San José and really enjoyed visiting the Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica (The National Theatre of Costa Rica) and the National Museum. I also found time to explore the many coffee shops in the area. Just sitting on a bench and watching the daily activities was fascinating. I always recommend that guests arrive to enjoy a day exploring this wondeful city.
At 4pm today, our guests will arrive at the ship, which is currently docked in Los Suenos, Costa Rica. Once onboard, they will be greeted by the Captain and crew during a Welcome Aboard cocktail party. They'll get settled into their cabins, get acquainted with the ship and relax before an exciting day tomorrow in Manuel Antonio Park.
More to follow...
Posted by Leigh Strinsky on January 04, 2007
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