Albino Spirit Bear on a downed log in green forest.
Orca coming up to breathe and blowing through its blowhole in Chatham Strait, Southeast Alaska.
Adult harbor seals hauled out and resting on a semi-submerged log in punchbowl inside Misty Fiords National Monument just outside of Ketchikan, Southeast Alaska.
Native American Totems and Clan Houses in Ketchikan, Alaska, set against bright green forest and blue sky.
Three women stand-up paddleboarding with a National Geographic expedition ship in the background, on a sunny day.
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North America Canada Cruise

Great Bear Rainforest Cruise: The Land of the Spirit Bear

Sail into the narrow, winding fjords of northern British Columbia and enter the domain of the rare Spirit Bear on this 11-day small ship cruise through Canada and Alaska. The Spirit Bear, also known as a Kermode bear, is a variant of the North American black bear and can only be found in the pristine wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest. The forest is roughly the size of Ireland and one of National Geographic’s “Places of a Lifetime.” It stretches 250 miles across the central and northern coast of British Columbia and encompasses a quarter of the world’s coastal temperate rainforest. Hike along its salmon-rich streams, enter forests of towering cedars and see the protected region’s abundant wildlife.

Choose the 14-day Exploring Alaska, Great Bear Rainforest and the San Juan Islands Cruise Itinerary to take kayaks and Zodiacs deep into verdant fjords and wildlife-rich shores in search of bears, golden eagles, river otters and more. Journey into the most pristine forests in the region, inaccessible by road and managed by First Nations people. Immerse yourself in First Nations culture at Alert Bay’s Big House, where the Kwakwaka’wakw people share their traditional art, music and regional knowledge. Cruise the eastern coast of Princess Royal Island in search of the elusive spirit bear, a rare but thrilling sighting. Hike the San Juan Islands, and cruise nearby waters in British Columbia where orcas gather annually to hunt within the isles’ inlets and bays. Explore at water level in Tracy Arm for an up-close view of calving glaciers, towering forests and harbor seals afloat on iridescent icebergs

Travel aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Venture, with National Geographic photographers and photo instructors on board to share tips and years of expertise. The Nat Geo Venture is an ideal basecamp due to her upscale amenities and thoughtful design. Appreciate the onboard expedition technology, including a hydrophone, splash-cam, underwater video camera and video microscope. Also on board is a cultural interpreter who will share the legends and lore of their people, and the lands explored throughout the itinerary.

Set off on excursions to kayak deep into verdant fjords and along wildlife-rich shores; cruise by Zodiac in protected waters in search of grizzly, black and Kermode bears; experience the silence while standing among towering, monumental cedars; witness the surprisingly colorful undersea through video shot by the undersea specialist; and soak in rustic hot spring pools—conditions and wildlife permitting. Discover the region’s abundant wildlife, including mountain goats, cougars, grizzly bears, coastal grey wolves, killer whales, sea lions, sea otters and more. These amazing nature and wildlife opportunities qualify this itinerary for our handpicked selection of Alaska family cruises.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Canada cruises, Canada adventure travel, Alaska trips and Alaska small ship cruises.



Itinerary

Voyage to Great Bear Rainforest Itinerary

The Voyage to Great Bear Rainforest cruise begins in Ketchikan, Alaska, and ends in Prince Rupert, Canada, with a charter flight to Seattle, Washington. Sail into the narrow, winding fjords and pristine wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest with daily off-ship activities to search for abundant coastal wildlife and learn the history of First Nations people.

route map of small ship cruise lindblad great bear rainforest cruise
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Day 1
Embark Ketchikan, Alaska

Arrive in Ketchikan, the southernmost city in Alaska, spread at the base of forested slopes on Revillagigedo Island, in the early afternoon. Its many monikers, from “salmon capital of the world” to “rain capital of Alaska,” capture the spirit of this city, famous for colorful buildings and abundant fishing boats and canneries. Embark the ship in time for cocktails and an introduction of the vessel staff and crew.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Wake up in Prince Rupert, a scenic harbor town on British Columbia’s rugged northwest coast. Get immersed in First Nations history at the Museum of Northern British Columbia, built in the style of a coastal longhouse. Breathe in the scent of cedar beams and peruse an impressive collection of ornate carvings, weavings, ceremonial objects, and regalia. Visit the North Pacific Cannery Museum, a collection of cannery buildings located in a pristine wilderness surroundings that highlight BC’s economic, cultural and natural development over the last century.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Lowe Inlet Provincial Marine Park & Zodiac Cruising

Seek out pods of killer whales and foraging bears as you sail north through the narrow Grenville Channel between Pitt Island and the mainland, a dramatic navigational experience. Not only does the channel narrow to less than a quarter of a mile across, but a slight bend in the passage makes the waterway seem to disappear into the hills ahead and behind the ship. Here, you’ll explore the salmon run at Verney Falls in Lowe Inlet Provincial Marine Park by Zodiacs.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 4 - 7
Exploring the Great Bear Rainforest & Rugged Coastline of British Columbia

Over the course of the next four days, you will cruise far into the fjords and deep valleys that carve into the Coast Range, looking for black and grizzly bears. You will cruise the eastern coast of Princess Royal Island in search of the elusive spirit bear. It is believed that between 10 to 20 percent of bears in this region are born with the recessive gene that causes the white fur; fewer than 400 are estimated to exist.

British Columbia has one of the highest proportions of protected land of any jurisdiction in the world. Almost 15 percent of the land is protected, with a wide range of provincial parks, national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alongside your veteran expedition team, go ashore and explore several remote locations where few people venture. Discover hidden gems by Zodiac and kayak, navigating the tidal narrows that lead to the backs of bays while scanning for bears along the rocky shoreline and meadows such as Gilttoyees Inlet.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 8 - 9
Johnstone Strait & Southern British Columbia

Navigate the scenic Johnstone Strait, a dramatic waterway cutting through mountains and islands rich with marine wildlife. Explore the myriad islets and rocky coasts, keeping an eye out for harbor seals, diverse seabirds, and birds of prey. Discover British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, a mecca for kayakers and small yachts. Anchor in calm, sheltered waters to kayak in isolated bays that beckon for exploration. On land, hike through meadows and forest ecosystems.

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 10
San Juan Islands, Washington

Discover the wild charm of the San Juan Islands, a captivating archipelago in northern Washington State. Paddle hidden coves by kayak, keeping an eye out for friendly harbor seals. Navigate dramatic shorelines aboard Zodiacs. Hike along rugged coastal trails where bald eagles soar overhead, while expert naturalists provide insight on the fascinating ecology and cultural history of this distinctive northwest wilderness.

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 11
Disembark Seattle, Washington

Disembark in Seattle and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Prince Rupert to Seattle ($1,140 in 2025 or $1,200 in 2026); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Great Bear Rainforest Cruise begins in Ketchikan, Alaska (KTN), and ends in Seattle, Washington (SEA). Please note the Ketchikan airport is located on a small island a ferry ride away from the main town. In order to join the provided group transfer and Ketchikan city tour, plan flights to arrive to Ketchikan by 11:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Otherwise, you may plan flights and independently transfer to the dock or the hospitality suite at the Cape Fox Lodge for a vessel embarkation at 5:00pm on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Seattle after 2:00pm on Day 11. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 11 of the outlined itinerary; departure times may vary depending on group flights. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

The charter flight between Prince Rupert, Canada and Seattle, Washington is not included in the cruise price, but is arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book this flight for you on the scheduled charter flight for your particular departure. There is a strict luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage in addition to one carry on and one personal item on the flight from Prince Rupert to Seattle. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. See Exclusions for sample airfare rates, subject to change.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include wildlife viewing, photography, onboard wellness treatments and massages, off-vessel hiking, kayaking and inflatable boat/skiff excursions.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Exploring Alaska, Great Bear Rainforest and the San Juan Islands Itinerary

Embark on a 14-day journey through some of the Pacific Northwest’s most pristine wilderness, from Alaska’s dramatic fjords to the ancient forests of the Great Bear Rainforest. This comprehensive expedition combines the best of three iconic regions: Southeast Alaska’s wildlife-rich waters, British Columbia’s protected coastal wilderness and Washington’s enchanting San Juan Islands.

route map of small ship cruise exploring Alaska, Great Bear Rainforest and the San Juan Islands
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Day 1
Embark Juneau, Alaska

Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, in the early afternoon and embark the ship in time for cocktails and an introduction of the vessel staff and crew.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a cruise in a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 3 - 4
Exploring Southeast Alaska

Spend two days exploring the wild gems of southeast Alaska, in the northern part of the Alexander Archipelago. With nature as your guide, you will cruise Chatham Strait in search of orca and humpback whales and experience wild Alaska up close on Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards and hikes.

A Forest Service Special Use Permit for Tongass National Forest enables guests to hike and kayak in these wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Wake up in Prince Rupert, a scenic harbor town on British Columbia’s rugged northwest coast. Get immersed in First Nations history at the Museum of Northern British Columbia, built in the style of a coastal longhouse. Breathe in the scent of cedar beams and peruse an impressive collection of ornate carvings, weavings, ceremonial objects and regalia. Visit the North Pacific Cannery Museum, a collection of cannery buildings located in pristine wilderness surroundings that highlight British Columbia’s economic, cultural and natural development over the last century.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Lowe Inlet Marine Provincial Park & Zodiac Cruising

Seek out pods of killer whales and foraging bears as you sail north through the narrow Grenville Channel between Pitt Island and the mainland, a dramatic navigational experience. Not only does the channel narrow to less than a quarter of a mile across, but a slight bend in the passage makes the waterway seem to disappear into the hills ahead and behind the ship. Here, you’ll explore the salmon run at Verney Falls in Lowe Inlet Marine Provincial Park by Zodiacs.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 7 - 10
Exploring Great Bear Rainforest and Rugged Coastline of British Columbia

Over the course of the next four days, you will cruise far into the fjords and deep valleys that carve into the Coast Range looking for black and grizzly bears. You will cruise the eastern coast of Princess Royal Island in search of the elusive spirit bear. It is believed that between 10 to 20 percent of bears in this region are born with the recessive gene that causes the white fur; fewer than 400 are estimated to exist.

British Columbia has one of the highest proportions of protected land of any jurisdiction in the world. Almost 15 percent of the land is protected, with a wide range of provincial parks, national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alongside your veteran expedition team, go ashore and explore several remote locations where few people venture. Discover hidden gems by Zodiac and kayak, navigating the tidal narrows that lead to the backs of bays while scanning for bears along the rocky shoreline and meadows such as Gilttoyees Inlet.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Alert Bay and Johnstone Strait, British Columbia

Visit the Big House in the First Nations village of Alert Bay, Canada and gain insight from the
Kwakwaka’wakw people who will share their art, music and regional knowledge. Sail through
Johnstone Strait, a waterway cut through a magnificently wild and scenic area of mountains
and islands. These ocean waters are also home to extraordinary marine mammals and bird watching.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Southern British Columbia

Discover British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, a mecca for kayakers and small yachts. Anchor in
calm, sheltered waters to kayak in isolated bays that beckon for exploration. On land, hike through meadows and forest ecosystems.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
San Juan Islands, Washington

Discover the wild charm of the San Juan Islands, a captivating archipelago in northern Washington State. Paddle hidden coves by kayak, keeping an eye out for friendly harbor seals. Navigate dramatic shorelines aboard Zodiacs. Hike along rugged coastal trails where bald eagles soar overhead, while expert naturalists provide insight on the fascinating ecology and cultural history of this distinctive northwest wilderness.

Accommodations

National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 14
Disembark Seattle, Washington

Disembark in Seattle and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

Exploring Alaska, Great Bear Rainforest and the San Juan Islands Cruise begins in Juneau, Alaska (JNU), and ends in Seattle, Washington (SEA). Plan flights to depart Seattle after 12:00pm on Day 14. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 14  after 10:30am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include wildlife viewing, photography, onboard wellness treatments and massages, off-vessel hiking, kayaking and inflatable boat/skiff excursions.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Sep 15 - Sep 25, 2025
National Geographic Venture • 11 days
From $5961USD
Per Person
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Sep 20 - Oct 03, 2026
National Geographic Venture • 14 days
From $10441USD
Per Person
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Sep 26 - Oct 09, 2027
National Geographic Venture • 14 days
From $10440USD
Per Person
Read More
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Venture

The 100-guest National Geographic Venture is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built expedition vessel made for exploring coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels while sailing with the luxury of supreme comfort.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires December 31st, 2025
Kids Save $500 On Nat Geo Cruises Worldwide

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2025 or 2026 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires December 31st, 2025
Groups Save 5% On Select 2025 Nat Geo Cruises Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Expert Review

Ship Reviews from our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Mary Montalbano • August 1st, 2023
Expert Aboard: Venture & National Geographic Quest Reviews

Learn from two AdventureSmith experts about identical sister ships Nat Geo Venture and Quest. Tips on choosing your cabin, what the food is like and why choose to sail aboard.

Testimonial

Hear It From Others Who Have Explored With Us Before

"Immersion in Nature"

No-where do you find immersion in nature like this...Beautiful weather. Excellent guidance and instructive presentations. Good food. Nice accommodations.

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Extend Your Trip

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The 9-day Inside Passage Sojourn aboard the 49-guest Baranof Dream combines easy wilderness cruising and glacier viewing with visits to Alaska's unique towns and Native villages. Cruise between Ketchikan and Sitka with a focus on Alaska's nature, history and First Nations culture.

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This premier Denali National Park base camp, in view of Denali, is located near Wonder Lake at the end of the 92-mile Denali Park Road and offers expert guided explorations and unique hikes.

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Sea Wolf Southeast Alaska Adventure

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Great Bear Rainforest Cruise: The Land of the Spirit Bear

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