United States
South America: Galapagos Northern Loop Cruise - 2024
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Xpedition itineraries include Southern and Northern Loop sailings around the Galapagos Islands. Visit the black-sand beaches of Egas Point, spot blue-footed boobies on San Cristobal, hike on hardened black lava on Santiago Island and mingle with flamingos and sea turtles at Las Bachas. No matter which Celebrity Xpedition itinerary you choose, you'll be amazed by the unique flora and fauna you'll encounter along the way.
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Digital Costco Shop Card
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Sailing Itinerary
Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.
Day 1
Port of Call Baltra Island
Departure 3:00p.m.
Overview
Baltra, also referred to as South Seymour Island, is one of the smaller islands of the Galapagos, with an area of roughly 8 square miles. The island lies in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, about 600 miles west of Ecuador. The significance of Baltra rests in the fact that it is the main entry point into the Galapagos Islands. The main airport of the archipelago is located on Baltra (a second smaller one is in San Cristobal). Before Volcanic faulting occurred, Baltra was part of Santa Cruz, making it the newest of the islands. Due to its small size, there are no visitor accommodations in Baltra. Though the island is dry and the vegetation desolate, a large number of birds-frigatebirds and boobies- can be seen at the harbor. Land iguanas, marine iguanas and marine turtles can also be observed. After your arrival at Baltra, take the time to visit Bachas Beach, where you will be introduced to the wonders of the Galapagos. Also, don’t miss the chance to take a panga ride through Black Turtle Cove and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mangroves.
Day 1
Port of Call Turtle/Black Turtle Cove
Arrival 4:00p.m.
Departure 6:00p.m.
Overview
Black Turtle Cove is a mangrove swamp on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. An impressive Galapagos marine site. Consists of a deep maze of tranquil seawater, surrounded by three different species of mangroves. The area servesas feeding grounds.
Day 2
Port of Call Rabida Island
Arrival 7:00a.m.
Departure 11:00a.m.
Overview
Located just south of Santiago Island, Rabida, also known as Jervis Island, is a small island just over 2 km in width and 400 meters above sea level at its highest point. It is one of the most volcanically varied islands in the Galapagos. This small island geologically consists of eroded hills and lava emitted from spatter cones that have resulted in the island's striking colors. The reddish beach and steep volcanic slopes give this island a distinctive look. Rabida is home to a variety of exotic animals. Marine Iguanas, ancestors of the controversial land iguanas, are a common site on the beaches of Rabida. Noisy Sea Lions are often seen resting in the shade of the caves nearby. The saltwater lagoon of Rabida is the feeding place for Flamingos, Bahama pintail ducks and Common Stilts; and the nesting site for Brown Pelicans. This island may be the only place where visitors have the opportunity to observe brown pelicans nesting up close. When on the island, visitors can take a short trail inland in search of Galapagos wildlife. Finches, doves, yellow warblers and mockingbirds are just a few of bird species one can expect to encounter while exploring Rabida. Vegetation on the island consists mainly of opuntia cactus, palo santo trees and scrubby bushes. Once finished with land exploration, visitors to Rabida can indulge in the beauty of the surrounding waters. The marooned beach offers grand swimming and snorkeling opportunities with an almost guaranteed chance to witness sharks and manta rays in the sparkling waters.
Day 2
Port of Call Puerto Egas
Arrival 3:00p.m.
Departure 6:00p.m.
Overview
A visit to Puerto Egas begins with a wet landing on the dark sand beaches of James Bay. The visit begins with a walk along the rocky coast giving visitors the opportunity to view some of the Galapagos Island's best tide pools. Sponges, snails, hermit crabs, barnacles and fish including the endemic four-eyed blenny can be seen. The walk also presents visitors with a variety of shore birds, marine iguanas, sally light foot crabs and sea lions. There are two interesting excursions normally visited from Puerto Egas. The first is a short walk from the landing site brings visitors to the site of one of the Galapagos' first entrepreneur endeavors. For decades salt was extracted from a local salt crater. The industry was abandoned in the 1950's leaving behind a variety of rusted old machines and parts of buildings. The trail follows the path once used by wagon trains to the crater cone. The second excursion begins just a short distance beyond the tide pools is the fur seal grotto. Fur Seals and Sea Lions can be seen swimming in the rocky lava ringed pools. This may be the only opportunity visitors have to see and swim with fur seals. Fur seals were once hunted to near extinction for their coats. The Galapagos Fur Seal is the smallest of the Fur Seals found in the Southern Hemisphere, now compare in numbers with the sea lions. During the day they hide from the hot equatorial sun in shelves or caves of the rocky lava cliffs. At night they feed on squid and fish avoiding the sharks, which are their natural predator. The crystal clear water, volcanic bridges, fur seals and sea lions make this a magnificent place for swimming and snorkeling.
Day 3
Port of Call Tagus Cove
Arrival 7:00a.m.
Departure 11:00a.m.
Overview
Tagus Cove is situated directly east of Fernandina on the west coast of Isla Isabela. It is a beautifully well protected cove sheltered by the shoulders of two volcanic craters and has been used as an anchorage for over 300 years. This was a favourite site of pirates and early whalers, who left their ship names and historical graffiti carved on the high cliff. You can go ashore and visit a saltwater lagoon and the lava fields of Darwin Volcano. You will also have magnificent views over the ocean. Go along the cliffs with a launch and see the exclusive Galapagos penguins, the flightless cormorants and many other sea birds.
Day 3
Port of Call Punta Espinoza
Arrival 2:00p.m.
Departure 6:00p.m.
Overview
Punta Espinosa is a narrow stretch of land where some of the most unique Galapagos species can be seen: marine iguanas conglomerate here in larger groups than in any other island. Following the trail inland, two different types of lava flows can be seen and compared.
Day 4
Port of Call Urvina Bay
Arrival 7:00a.m.
Departure 10:30a.m.
Overview
Noteworthy because it is an area that was elevated from sea level in 1950's during the eruption of the Alcedo volcano. A part of the shoreline was raised more than 4 meters, and now the visitor can walk on what was once the sea floor, and see the dried corals and remains of a variety of mollusks and other sea organisms that were stranded by sudden uplift. Urvina Bay is located on the western coast of Isabela at the foot of Alcedo Volcano. On the trail going inland it is possible to see colorful land iguanas and even Galapagos Tortoises. Along the coast there are huge marine iguanas, pelicans and flightless cormorants and at times even penguins.
Day 4
Port of Call Punta Vicente Roca
Arrival 2:30p.m.
Departure 5:30p.m.
Overview
In the north of Isabela there is a small promontory known as Punta Vicente Roca, on the southwestern edge of Volcano Ecuador. The point presides over a pair of jewel-like coves. The coves lie on either side of the eroded remains of a volcanic ash cone, which make up the point. The sheltered bay is a popular anchorage for boats and visitors may have a look around in dinghies. The surrounding cliffs are actually the interior walls of a fallen volcano and there is a partly flooded cave. The area is also very good for scuba diving. Its abundant ocean life is the product of cool, nutrient-rich waters up welling off the volcano's steep submarine slopes. On the other side of the point is a secluded cove, accessible from the sea only through water-filled subterranean passages. Sea lions travel through these passageways and gather on the protected beaches of the hidden waters. Large numbers of blue-footed and masked boobies inhabit the point and the sheer cliffs, and flightless cormorants can be seen along the shoreline.
Day 5
Port of Call Bartolome
Arrival 7:00a.m.
Departure 11:30a.m.
Overview
Bartolome, the star island of the Galapagos, is located to the east of Santiago Island facing Sullivan Bay. It is the most photographed island in the chain due to its 350 ft. summit and its magnificent view, which creates a tropical landscape panorama. The moonlike landscape is riddled with different formations of volcanic rock including lava flows and lava tubes. Bartolome is an island full of exploration and adventure. After a 60-meter hike, visitors can take in the Pinnacle Rock, one of the best-known landmarks in the archipelago. Remains of volcanic ash particles have created with time this large formation, which rises 70 meters above a nearby cove. Near the base of the statuesque pinnacle rock you can see a large variety of multi-colored fish, sea lions, and indigenous Galapagos penguins, which can be seen while snorkeling or swimming in the surrounding waters of Bartolome. This little animal has the northernmost range of any other species of penguins. This penguin is prevalent to this area as there are around 2500 pairs. Another one of the many amazing animals that may be encountered on this island is the Great Blue Heron. Foliage behind the beach consists of the red and white mangrove, saltbush, morning glory and the prickly pear cactuses. Between the months of January and March visitors may catch a glimpse of different species of sea turtles as they lay their eggs on the beach. Visitors to Bartolome may take a walk through mangroves where mating sea turtles and white tipped sharks are commonplace.
Day 5
Port of Call Las Bachas
Arrival 2:30p.m.
Departure 5:00p.m.
Overview
Located to the west of Black Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz Island, its sand is made of decomposed coral, which makes it white and soft. These islands are favorite nesting for sea turtles.
Day 5
Port of Call Daphne Islands
Arrival 6:00p.m.
Departure 7:00p.m.
Overview
One of the central islands, Daphne lays north of Santa Cruz and west of Baltra. There are actually two islands Daphne Major and Daphne Minor. Daphne Major is the younger of the two and the one that is visited. Though its location is easily in reach for most cruises, it is a select few that are able to visit this special place. The national park service restricts visitors allowed to visit Daphne. Visits are only allowed under special written permit by the National Park. Many boats do cruise by close enough to view the many birds and sea lions that live on Daphne. It is also a popular dive site for local dive operators from Santa Cruz.
Day 6
Port of Call Prince Phillip's Steps
Arrival 7:00a.m.
Departure 11:45a.m.
Overview
Located on Genovesa Island, this dry landing leads to a steep set of natural stairs that are the only access to the high cliffs surrounding Darwin Bay. The rocky trail winds its way through several colonies of nesting sea birds to a wooded area of lush green lava morning glories, stark palo santo trees, and the occasional green-and-yellow lava cactus. Among the vegetation, red-footed boobies and some species of Darwin finches can be seen. Eventually, the trail leads to a flat, rocky area formed by lava flows. Here, the air is filled with small black-and-white storm petrels, which nest in cracks of the hardened lava. Look for the elusive, well-camouflaged short-eared owl, which, in the absence of hawks, feeds during the day. Genovesa is also a popular destination for scuba diving.
Day 6
Port of Call Darwin Bay
Arrival 2:30p.m.
Departure 6:00p.m.
Overview
Located on Genovesa Island this bay is actually the caldera of an extinct, partially eroded volcano, with the surrounding cliffs forming the inner portion of the rim. Filled with birds and their activity. Along the trail are pairs of Swallow-tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gulls of the world, and Red-footed boobies, with their contrasting red feet and blue bills. Visits to Darwin Bay usually also include a swim and snorkeling for a short time off the coral beach.
Day 7
Port of Call Puerto Ayora
Arrival 8:00a.m.
Departure 6:00p.m.
Overview
The largest settlement area, offering the most services in the Galapagos, Puerto Ayora is a port town situated along Academy Bay on Isla Santa Cruz. Most yachts offering cruises of the Galapagos hail from Puerto Ayora. Also home to the National Park Services and the Charles Darwin Research Station, it is the hub of tourism in the islands. Puerto Ayora is far from the bustling cities on the mainland. The bay is full of sailboats, sea birds fill the air and marine iguanas line the shore. Though a thriving center of commerce people enjoy a laid back island attitude. Most travelers to the Galapagos will include a visit to Puerto Ayora during their trip. Most cruises include a visit to the Darwin Station and arrange free time to explore the town and shop for souvenirs. This may be the only opportunity to souvenir shop in the islands. Stores carry everything from t-shirts to jewelry, post cards, books, beach ware and ceramic items. The grocery store offers the opportunity to stock up on any forgotten items, snacks, beverages, or other items you might desire on board. If you are in need of additional money, the Banco del Pacifico offers cash advances on Master Card. They also offer a Cirrus ATM machine, though it does not always work. Puerto Ayora offers options for visitors who prefer to sleep ashore or extend their stay in the islands. There are a variety of tours available allowing visitors to design their own Galapagos experience including day-trips to a number of the islands, dive trips, kayaking, highland tours, hiking, mountain biking and horseback rides.
Day 8
Port of Call Baltra Island
Arrival 8:00a.m.
Overview
Baltra, also referred to as South Seymour Island, is one of the smaller islands of the Galapagos, with an area of roughly 8 square miles. The island lies in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, about 600 miles west of Ecuador. The significance of Baltra rests in the fact that it is the main entry point into the Galapagos Islands. The main airport of the archipelago is located on Baltra (a second smaller one is in San Cristobal). Before Volcanic faulting occurred, Baltra was part of Santa Cruz, making it the newest of the islands. Due to its small size, there are no visitor accommodations in Baltra. Though the island is dry and the vegetation desolate, a large number of birds-frigatebirds and boobies- can be seen at the harbor. Land iguanas, marine iguanas and marine turtles can also be observed. After your arrival at Baltra, take the time to visit Bachas Beach, where you will be introduced to the wonders of the Galapagos. Also, don’t miss the chance to take a panga ride through Black Turtle Cove and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mangroves.
Onboard the Celebrity Xpedition
Celebrity Xpedition
Costco Member Reviews
Year Built: 2001
Year Refurbished: 2009
Double Occupancy Capacity: 92
Cruise aboard Celebrity Xpedition® and you'll experience a sense of intimacy that can only be achieved aboard a smaller ship. Embrace the timelessness of the Galapagos Islands - a land that time has seemingly forgotten.
Onboard Activities
Activities & Services (included in cruise)
Whirlpool
- Card Room
- Beauty Salon
- Sauna/Steam Room
- Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
- Bars/Lounges
- Library
- Business Center
- Concierge Desk
- Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
- Infirmary/Medical Center
- Safe Deposit Boxes
Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)
Spa
- Full-Service Spa
Costco Travel makes every effort to verify the accuracy of all information provided. Additional fees for amenities or services may be charged by the cruise line. Amenities or services may be discontinued or revised by the cruise line without notice. Staterooms designated as wheelchair-accessible do not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Costco Travel is not responsible for inaccuracies or provider modifications.
Dining
Darwin's
Main Dining
Darwin's Restaurant: Located on the Marina Deck, Darwin's Restaurant is where you'll discover culinary wonders that are sure to dazzle the palate as well as please the eye. Crisp white linen, fine crystal and exemplary service make dining amongst the islands as special and memorable as the islands themselves.
Blue Finch Bar
Casual Dining
Beagle Grill: Named after the ship that first brought young Mr. Darwin to these rugged shores, the Beagle Grill is where you can enjoy casual fare in an equally casual, relaxed setting. The Beagle Grill offers a delightful view that ensures your meal will not only be delectable, but memorable as well.
Discovery Lounge: The Discovery Lounge offers an ideal venue to familiarize yourself with the wonders of the Galapagos. Get prepped on the creatures you'll encounter with our naturalist-led nightly lectures or simply relax over a drink at the picturesque bar.
Times, costs and other specifics are outside the control of Costco Travel. All information is at the sole discretion of the cruise line and is subject to change without notice. Dining time and table size preferences are submitted to the cruise line on a first-come, first-served request basis and are confirmed aboard ship. Questions, concerns and/or special needs regarding dining arrangements must be addressed with the maitre d' hotel aboard ship. Every effort is made to accommodate travelers' preferences; however, Costco Travel cannot guarantee dining arrangements. In specialty restaurants, space is limited and reservations are recommended. A cover charge and dress code may apply.
Staterooms
Enjoy a view of the sea with spacious staterooms that feature a sofa and a flat screen TV.
Premium Ocean View Stateroom (Category: XP)
Premium Ocean View Stateroom (Category: XP)
Category: XP
Each ocean view stateroom on board Celebrity includes the following world-class amenities that all contribute to your modern experience.
- Plush 100% cotton bathrobes and towels
- Four pillows in every stateroom
- Premium custom blended bath products
- Celebrity shopping bag
- Expansive view of the ocean
- Celebrity's eXhale®bedding featuring the Cashmere Mattress
- King-sized mattress (bed as large or larger than average standard international king-size bed)
- Some staterooms may have a trundle bed
- Plentiful storage space in your bathroom and wardrobe
- Interactive television system
- Individual safe
- Dual-voltage 110/220V AC
- Mini-fridge*
- Hair dryer
- Twice daily housekeeping service
- Our signature friendly personalized service with a guest ratio of nearly 2:1
- Laundry service*
- Complimentary beach towel service
- Fresh ice delivered to stateroom upon request
- Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a variety of restaurants
- 24-hour service**
Guarantee - Oceanview (Category: Y)
Guarantee - Oceanview (Category: Y)
Category: Y
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Suites feature a private balcony, complimentary sparkling wine, use of snorkel equipment and wetsuits, and much more.
Junior Suite with Veranda (Category: XJ)
Junior Suite with Veranda (Category: XJ)
Category: XJ
Amenities
- Champagne / sparkling wine set-up
- Stock mini-bar with favorite soft drinks and beers
- Locally sourced turndown chocolates
- Locally sourced and organic bath amenities
- Premium bathrobes
- Premium linens, terry, slipper
- Pillow menu offering
- Complimentary premium backpack
- Sunglasses and reading glasses for use while onboard
- Marine binoculars
- Complimentary rain ponchos
- Open Deck Amenities: Sunscreen, aloe vera cooling gel, and lip balm
- Double bed (cannot be separated or moved)
- Spacious bedroom with private veranda
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with veranda
- Sitting area with convertible full-size sofa bed
- Personal Suite Attendant
- Unpacking assistance
- In-suite room service
- Full in-suite dinner service
- Complimentary laundry service twice per cruise*
- Delivery of afternoon in-suite daily delectable
- Makeup and turndown services
Xpedition Suite with Veranda (Category: XS)
Xpedition Suite with Veranda (Category: XS)
Category: XS
Amenities
- Champagne / sparkling wine set-up
- Stock mini-bar with favorite soft drinks and beers
- Locally sourced turndown chocolates
- Locally sourced and organic bath amenities
- Premium bathrobes
- Premium linens, terry, slipper
- Pillow menu offering
- Complimentary backpack
- Sunglasses and reading glasses for use while onboard
- Marine binoculars
- Complimentary rain ponchos
- Open Deck Amenities: Sunscreen, aloe vera cooling gel, and lip balm
- Complimentary laundry service twice per cruise*
- Spacious bedroom with private veranda
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with veranda
- Sitting area with convertible full-size sofa bed (except 602)
- Personal Suite Attendant
- Unpacking assistance
- In-suite room service
- Full in-suite dinner service
- Complimentary laundry service twice per cruise*
- Delivery of afternoon in-suite daily delectable
- Makeup and turndown services
Penthouse Suite with Veranda (Category: PS)
Penthouse Suite with Veranda (Category: PS)
Category: PS
Amenities
- Robes with optional personalization
- Complimentary premium refillable water bottle
- Daily delivery in-suite delectable
- Customized mini-bar offering
- Champagne / sparkling wine upon arrival
- Complimentary backpack
- Complimentary rain poncho
- Stationery
- Use of high-end marine binoculars
- Ecuadorian chocolates
- Use of sunglasses and readings glasses
- Local high-end, eco-friendly, organic bath amenities cooling gel, lip balm, sunscreen
- Largest, most luxurious suite in the Galápagos Islands
- Outward-facing spacious spa tub and shower
- King-sized bed
- Additional half bathroom
- Wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows
- Spa tub with floor-to-ceiling window
- Separate shower
- Spacious private veranda
- Full Suite automation
- In suite filtered water refilling station
- Premium linens and pillow menu
- Extensive offering of live and on demand TV programming and movies
- Personal Suite Attendant
- Laundry service twice per sailing*
- 24-hour in suite room service
- Full in-suite dinner service
- Laundry service twice per sailing
- Makeup and turndown services
Royal Suite (Category: XR)
Royal Suite (Category: XR)
Category: XR
Amenities
- Robes with optional personalization
- Complimentary premium refillable water bottle
- Daily delivery in-suite delectable
- Customized mini-bar offering
- Champagne / sparkling wine upon arrival
- Complimentary backpack
- Complimentary rain poncho
- Stationery
- Use of high-end marine binoculars
- Ecuadorian chocolates
- Use of sunglasses and readings glasses
- Local high-end, eco-friendly, organic bath amenities cooling gel, lip balm, sunscreen
- Outward-facing spacious spa tub and shower
- King-sized bed
- Spa tub with floor-to-ceiling window
- Separate shower
- Spacious private veranda
- Full Suite automation
- In-suite filtered water refilling station
- Premium linens and pillow menu
- Extensive offering of live and on demand TV programming and movies
- Personal Suite Attendant
- Laundry service twice per sailing*
- 24-hour in suite room service
- Full in-suite dinner service
- Laundry service twice per sailing
- Makeup and turndown services
Guarantee - Suite (Category: W)
Guarantee - Suite (Category: W)
Category: W
This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.
Deck Plan
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Quadruple occupancy |
 | Convertible sofa bed |
 | Triple occupancy |
 | Upper berth |
Ship Facts
- Ship Name: Celebrity Xpedition
- Year Built: 2001
- Year Refurbished: 2009
- Year Entered Present Fleet: 2004
- Ship Class: Expedition Series
- Maximum Capacity: 98
- Number of Passenger Decks: 4
- Number of Crew: 64
- Officers' Nationality: Ecuadorean
- Ocean-View without Balcony: 38
- Tonnage (GRT): 2,842
- Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 92
- Country of Registry: Ecuador
- Total Staterooms: 46
- Suites with Balcony: 8
- Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International
Costco Travel makes every effort to verify the accuracy of all information provided. Additional fees for amenities or services may be charged by
the hotel, resort or cruise line. Amenities or services may be discontinued or revised by the provider without notice. Hotels, resorts, ships or accommodations
designated as wheelchair-accessible do not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Costco Travel is not responsible for inaccuracies or provider modifications.
Available Dates & Prices
Terms & Conditions
*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.
†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.
Ship's registry: Ecuador
Package ID: CELXPESAM20240106
Digital Costco Shop Card
This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.ca.
Ship Rating
An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.
A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.
A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.
A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.
Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.
Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.
