One-on-one with our Galapagos Islands science expert
We recently sat down with Dr. Ellen Prager, well-known marine scientist and author, to talk about what’s special and new in the Galapagos Islands.
Q. What makes the Galapagos such a special place to visit?
A. The Galapagos Islands are unique in so many ways: from endemic species to the magnificent landscapes, this remote archipelago offers an experience like nowhere else. In the Galapagos you can swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, and sharks and then be amazed as the world’s second smallest penguin torpedoes by underwater. On land, giant tortoises roam the sides of volcanoes, while blue-footed boobies and waved albatross court their mates with mesmerizing dances. Large orangey-yellow land iguanas dine on spiked cactus pads as the world’s only marine iguana dives into the sea to feed on algae. But it is not just the unusual species that is so special here, it is also the unspoiled volcanic land and fact that because the animals are so well protected, they are unafraid. In the Galapagos long lenses are rarely required, as visitors can get up close and personal with the wildlife.
Q. How does Celebrity ensure guests get the best experience possible?
A. Celebrity works hard to ensure that the Galapagos experience is the best it can be. From dining to sleeping, Celebrity offers adventure in luxury. The rules of the Galapagos National Park are strictly adhered to and the very best naturalists are hired and given additional training to go above and beyond what guests might expect. We are constantly adding new science, improving activities, and looking for ways to exceed what is already a fantastic experience. We also have very high safety standards and Celebrity Xpedition® has repeatedly won awards for its environmental stewardship program.
Q. The building of Celebrity FloraSM is exciting — what will be new and unique for Celebrity in the Galapagos when she starts sailing?
A. Celebrity’s new Galapagos ship, Celebrity Flora, will begin sailing in May 2019. The ship is being built specifically for the Galapagos so that guests will have an unmatched experience in the islands. From sumptuous accommodations and leisure areas to the stern launching platform for excursion zodiacs this ship will provide excellence all around. We are building a Discovery Cove and Lab area to foster interaction with our naturalists aboard and create an engaging learning environment. Celebrity is also adding innovative technology to reduce the ship’s environmental footprint. We cannot wait for Celebrity Flora to arrive and begin sailing. It will truly be a new era for luxury adventure in the Galapagos.
Take a Virtual Tour of Celebrity Flora
We can give you glimpse into Celebrity Flora right now.
Take a tour here.
Special Galapagos Savings just for Captain's Club Members
This offer has just been updated to include Celebrity FloraSM. Save on Celebrity Xpedition® sailings from Sept. 1, 2018, through December 31, 2020; Celebrity Xperience® and Celebrity Xploration® sailings from Sept. 1, 2018, through May 25, 2019; and new Celebrity FloraSM sailings from May 26, 2019, through December 31, 2020. For Classic members and above.
Savings per Staterroom
- Ocean View - $500
- Suite - $1,000*
View Cruises
* Loyalty Discount Offer (“Offer”) applies to new bookings made June 18, 2018 – August 18, 2018 (“Offer Period”) for select Galapagos sailings departing 9/1/18 – 12/31/20 (“Offer Cruise”). Offer open to Captain’s Club members in the Classic, Select, Elite, Elite Plus and Zenith tier levels booking ocean view and higher staterooms. Savings amount is in USD, per stateroom, and varies by stateroom category; $500 for ocean view; $1,000 for suites. Valid membership number must be provided at time of booking
To redeem offer, book online here, contact your travel agent, or call Celebrity Cruises at 1877-202-4344. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, non-transferable, and not combinable with any other offer. No refunds or credits for unused options. Offer applies to new, individual bookings and group bookings named and deposited during the Offer Period; excludes charters and contracted groups. Refer to Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity reserves the right to cancel the Offer at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, and change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice.