Cruise West is a family company. Not simply family owned, but with a family commitment that is shared by every member of the team.

Several years ago, when we were searching for a way to communicate the distinct difference of our small-ship voyages, a Cruise West employee offered a photograph of a bear that had been taken from the deck of one of our ships. When placed alongside a photo from the distant decks of a massive ocean liner, the difference was clear and compelling. The Our Bear/Their Bear ad was born.

Over the years, the photographs of bears have changed as new explorers discovered new sightings, but the difference between "our bear" and "their bear" remains unchanged. When you cruise with Our Bear, you'll see and experience more.

Now when you come aboard for your Alaska voyage and a friendly crew member extends a hand and says, "Welcome to the Bear," you'll know what he or she is talking about.