STEP BY STEP SUMMARY OF
10-NIGHT CELEBRITY XPEDITIONSM, GALAPAGOS PACKAGE
Galapagos Xpedition Guide*
DAY 1 FRIDAY ARRIVAL INTO QUITO AIRPORT, ECUADOR
Note: Elevation 9,500 ft
• Clear immigration
• Collect bags from carousel, $1US Cash for luggage cart
• Go through Customs, x-ray bags
• Enter arrival area, uniformed Celebrity staff with Celebrity Xpedition sign waiting with
directions for motorcoach transfer
• Provide names to the meet and greet staff and board the air conditioned motorcoach
• Accepted currency: US Dollar
• 15-20 minute drive to hotel from airport
• Celebrity XpeditionSM staff speak English and are very knowledgeable
Hotel Information
• JW Marriott
• Executive Club available to Suite guests by invitation
• 235 rooms and 17 suites
• Business center open 6am-11pm, Internet access 20 cents per minute
• Gym facilities, free access 24 hours per day with key
• 2 outdoor pools (1 cold water and 1 heated) and Jacuzzi
Hotel Arrival
• Check in including complimentary beverage and hot towels
• Bags delivered directly to hotel room from motorcoach
• Rooms have satellite TV, safes, large bathrooms with separate shower and bath tubs
• Hospitality desk in hotel includes Celebrity XpeditionSM staff
Note: There are no meals included on arrival date as most flights arrive late evening.
DAY 2 SATURDAY QUITO, ECUADOR
• 6-8am full complimentary buffet breakfast (fruits, omelettes, cereal, fresh juices, breads,
hot food)
• 9am – 5pm City Tour of Quito on motorcoach. Lunch included
• Complimentary bottled water available on motorcoach
• Drive through town and stop at Mirador for view of city
• 1.5 hours in “Old Town/Colonial City” to visit plaza, church, cathedral
• Visit Statue of Virgin on top of the city and shopping
• 1 hour drive to San Antonio for lunch at the Crater Restaurant
• Beautiful view of the valley at the restaurant which is exclusively reserved for Celebrity
XpeditionSM group
• Lunch includes soft drink and juices, appetizer, soup, main course and dessert
• Visit the Middle of the World Park including the Equatorial Line, and museum for 1 hour,
shopping opportunities
• Return to hotel
• 6:30pm departure by motor coach to welcome dinner at the world renowned
“Theatrum Restaurant”
DAY 3 SUNDAY FLIGHT TO BALTRA & EMBARKATION (AM)
• Starting at 5am full complimentary buffet breakfast (fruits, omelettes, cereal, fresh
juices, breads, hot food)
• Leave bags outside hotel room at 5am for pick up and delivery to your stateroom on the
ship
• Transfer to airport at 7:15am
• Permitted 1 carry on bag per person 14lb max. weight and 1 checked bag max. 44lbs.
• Proceed through security
• Flight to Baltra Galapagos, with a fuel stop in Guayaquil
• Arrive in Baltra airport
• Proceed to clearance into the Galapagos National Park including documentation and
mandatory inspection of carry-on bags
• 5-10 minute motorcoach ride to dock to board Celebrity Xpedition zodiacs
• Take zodiac to ship
• Board Celebrity Xpedition, welcomed with a glass of champagne and cold towels, meet
hotel director, quick check-in at guest relations
• Escorted to stateroom by room attendant with explanation of facilities
• 1pm lunch is served in Darwin’s Restaurant
• 2pm Talk with Cruise Director
• General Emergency and Life Boat Drill
DAY 3 SUNDAY PM VISIT (DAY 1 OF CRUISE)
NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND
NORTH SEYMOUR has been named after Lord Hugh Seymour and is located at the central area of the
Archipelago, just north of Baltra. It has been formed through a series of uplifts of submarine lavas deposited
as a flat plateau along underwater fissures. These sporadic uplifts took more than a million years to bring the
island to its present level. The major attraction here is the colony of Frigate birds, the largest in the
Galapagos. Most are Magnificent Frigate birds (Magnificent having purplish nape feathers and the Great
Frigate birds having greenish). The full trail is about 2 kilometers long and passes very close to the colony.
There may be a possibility to see the males with their red throat pouches fully extended, in order to attract
females. The females do most of the mate choosing and use the male’s inflated gular pouch as a way to
judge gene superiority among the many males ready to mate. Also along the path, there are breeding pairs of
Blue-footed Boobies. You might have the chance to see their remarkable courtship display, comical and
delightful at the same time, a slow, mirrored booby pas de deux. There are always Iguanas and sea lions
present to observe and photograph.
High Intensity Activity - Dry Landing at North Seymour Island
Two-kilometer (Approximately 1 mile) walk on an uneven path with small boulders along the path. Through
the inland trail we have the possibility to observe frigate birds and possibly Land Iguanas. We will eventually
arrive at a beach area where Galapagos Sea Lions, Blue Footed Boobies, and Marine Iguanas can be
observed. Due to the rocky nature of this trail it is suggested to use good footwear and possibly a walking
stick.
Low - Medium Intensity Activity – Zodiac Ride & Dry Landing at North Seymour Island
Zodiac ride along the coastline searching for Galapagos Fur Seals, Lava Herons, and Swallow Tailed Gulls.
The Geology of this region is quite impressive due to the limestone that is trapped between two layers of
basalt lava, this area is exposed allowing us to observe these formations. We will make a dry landing that has
approximately 100 meters of small boulder terrain (one kilometer total hike). We anticipate Blue Footed
Boobies, Galapagos Sea Lions, Marine Iguanas, and Frigate birds.
Captain’s Welcome on Board Cocktail Party in the evening
DAY 4 MONDAY AM VISIT (DAY 2 OF CRUISE)
KICKERS ROCK & SAN CRISTOBAL - PUERTO BAQUERIZO MORENO
KICKER ROCK and SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND: In the morning, at approximately 7:00 AM we will have the
opportunity to see Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido in Spanish, or Sleeping Lion). This island is found off the
northwest shore of San Cristobal Island and it is a massive, angular rocky block, the Galapagos version of
Gibraltar. Its size alone is impressive, but even more interesting is the cliff that splits the rock into a narrow
passage. We will bring our Zodiacs down and we will circumnavigate the island for picture taking. After this
visit we will sail on board the Xpedition for the island of San Cristobal, arriving at approximately 9:00 AM. San
Cristobal is the fifth largest and the easternmost island in the Galápagos Archipelago and one of the four
islands that Charles Darwin visited aboard the HMS Beagle. PUERTO BAQUERIZO MORENO is a city
somewhat sleepier than Puerto Ayora which we will visit on Saturday. The town is stretched out along a small
harbor. On one side of the harbor is a military base, and on the other side is the dock where we will
disembark off the Zodiacs. The streets are cobbled and there is a pleasant waterfront park with benches and
nice plantings extending along the main street –Charles Darwin Avenue. In the town, we will have the chance
to visit the INTERPRETATION CENTER, which is financed by the government of Spain and offers a journey
through the history of the islands from the context of man, nature, and conservation. We will learn about the
characteristics of the natural area that you have started visiting and understand the natural processes that
have made the Galapagos such a unique place in the world.
DAY 4 MONDAY AM VISIT (DAY 2 OF CRUISE)
KICKERS ROCK & SAN CRISTOBAL - PUERTO BAQUERIZO MORENO (continued)
Early Circumnavigation around Kicker Rock - Zodiac Ride Only
This interesting formation is what we refer to as a Tuff structure. Tuff is formed when the ejecta and ash from
a volcanic explosion mix with water vapor and the resulting formation has a cement like finish. As we visit this
island we may find Galapagos Sea Lions, Frigate Birds and inter-tidal zone life. If you desire a “wake–up–call”
for this activity you may call the reception desk (400 on your stateroom telephone).
Dry Landing at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Disembarkation by groups at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a visit to the Interpretation Center (Human History
Museum) followed by a short walk on the main street of Puerto Baquerizo.
DAY 4 MONDAY PM VISIT (DAY 2 OF CRUISE)
ESPANOLA ISLAND
ESPAÑOLA ISLAND: Is the southernmost island and a favorite of many visitors. It is approximately 4 million
years old and by far our oldest island here in the archipelago. SUAREZ POINT is where we will land this
afternoon, which is found on the northwest tip of the island. This visit has a high concentration of wildlife. We
should have the opportunity to observe Sea lions, Galapagos Hawks, Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies
and a red variation of the Marine Iguana. These strange creatures are found only on this island and are often
massed on top of rocks for great group photos. The trail is approximately 3 kilometers long with medium sized
boulders the entire trail. The High Intensity trail leads to the very edge of the dramatic southern cliffs, where
an impressive blow hole is visible below and water gushes up to 16 Meters / 50 feet into the air, similar to a
geyser.
High Intensity Activity - Dry landing at Española Island
Point Suarez hike, approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) over rough terrain (medium-large boulders found
along the entire path). With this activity we have an opportunity of sighting Marine Iguanas, Galapagos
Hawks, Sea lions, and Mocking birds to name a few. As we hike to a cliff area we will find a picturesque view
with a blowhole along the coastline. Good shoes for this activity please.
Medium Intensity Activity - Dry landing at Española Island
Immediately following the landing we will proceed inland passing two sea lion haul out areas. This hike will not
continue to the above mentioned cliff area. Good shoes for this activity please as we do have medium to large
sized boulders along the entire path. (1.5 kilometer round trip / less then a mile).
Low Intensity Activity – Zodiac ride with an optional landing
Zodiac ride along the beautiful coastline of Española Island. Excellent opportunity to observe many types of
shore/sea birds, including Audubon Shearwaters, Nazca Boobies, and various species of Storm Petrels.
Following our zodiac ride of approximately 20 Min. we have the chance to make a dry landing to walk
approximately 300 feet into a small beach area. The before mentioned area has an abundance of coastal
species including Española Marine Iguanas, Mocking Birds, and Galapagos Sea Lions
DAY 5 TUESDAY ALL DAY VISIT (DAY 3 OF CRUISE)
FLOREANA ISLAND
FLOREANA ISLAND is the sixth-largest island in the archipelago and one of the four Islands that Charles
Darwin visited, aboard the HMS Beagle. Darwin was not impressed at the time by the viceroy of Galapagos
residing here in Floreana. The Viceroy claimed that he could look at a tortoise and derive its island of origin
from the shape of its carapace; later this observance proved useful in Darwin’s thought process and writings.
In 1832 Ecuador annexed the Islands and established the first Human settlement here. It soon turned into a
penal colony as many political and other prisoners were sent here. This island was the first capital of the
Galapagos during the 19th century.
In the 1930's Floreana became a setting for intrigue and mystery. A German dentist and his mistress, a young
family (the Wittmer family who still live on the island) and a self proclaimed Baroness with three men came to
settle in the island. Shortly after the baroness and her lovers arrived chaos began. They terrorized the other
inhabitants while planning to build a luxury hotel. Eventually the Baroness, her two lovers and the dentist all
turned up missing or dead. There has been much investigation searching for what really happened on
Floreana, but there have never been any hard answers for this reason Floreana is referred to as the “Island of
Mystery”. The landing site in the afternoon was supposedly used by the baroness to spot ships that would
come to visit these “eccentric” residents of Floreana.
Medium Intensity – Cormorant Point – Wet Landing
We will make a wet landing on a beach that has a large amount of Olivine crystals that were part of the
volcanic history of the site. Continuing into the interior we find two plant species that are only found at this
particular site, eventually arriving to a very large brackish pond. Flamingos, Stilts, and White Cheeked Pintail
Ducks are commonly sited here due to the amount of food present in the pond. We continue on the trail,
crossing an isthmus arriving to a fine white sand beach which has a high coralline content. At the coralline
beach it is usually easy to spot small rays, turtles, and sharks from the seaside area. Sandals with straps are
sufficient for this hike of 2 kilometers (just over a mile) also you may land without shoes if you choose. Please
take your snorkel equipment as we have a chance to snorkel from the beach area
Advanced Snorkeling Activity – “Champion Island”
After a 25 minute (approx.) Zodiac ride we will arrive at Champion, a small satellite island of Floreana. This
island is one of the very few that holds a Floreana Mocking bird population. Floreana Mocking birds were
present on Floreana during Charles Darwin’s’ visit in 1835 however they promptly left the island when cats
were introduced in the eighteen hundreds, and are only found on the satellite islands. This island has rocky
slopes going to depths of 100 ft (30 meters Approx.). We will enter the water from the Zodiac at a depth of 40
– 50 ft (12 – 15 meters) eventually ending at a shallow bay where many sea lions can be found. Apart from
the playful sea-lions we may encounter Spotted Eagle rays, small sharks, Pacific Barracuda, and Pacific
Green sea turtles
High Intensity Snorkel – “Mystery Bay”
This site is very close to our afternoon visitor site at the “Baroness Lookout”. We will be arriving into a channel
leading into a small bay. We enter into the water from the Zodiac at a depth of approximately 5 Meters (15
Feet). In this channel there is the opportunity to site Marbled Sting Rays, Galapagos Sea Lions, Pacific Green
Sea Turtles, and very rarely Galapagos Penguins which have a small population on Floreana Island.
Depending on local conditions we may snorkel up to one hour with maximum depths reaching 10 Meters (33
Feet).
Low Intensity Zodiac Ride – Wet Landing – “Baroness Lookout”
Light Zodiac ride through a mangrove area possibly observing Pacific Green sea turtles, Spotted Eagle and
Golden rays, Great Egrets, and Lava Herons. The small islands that we navigate around are formed of
“Pillow” lava, lava flows that are produced underwater making an interesting formation. We will proceed to
make a wet landing at a beach which requires water shoes or sandals for the disembarkation. This area was
used in the 1920’s as a lookout for arriving ships. From the beach area we will climb a steep switchback trail
that is approximately 300 ft (90 meters) in length ending at steps and a viewing platform.
DAY 6 WEDNESDAY AM VISIT (DAY 4 OF CRUISE)
BACHAS BEACH, SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Bachas Beach is a beautiful beach located on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. The name “Las
Bachas” comes from the poor English pronunciation by the local population during the 1950’s.
The residents could not pronounce the word “barges” which described WWII barges that had broken their
moorings and ran aground on this beach.
The remains of the barges on the beach served as a reminder of their confusion and hence the site was
named in this way. Bachas has a fine coralline sand beach with two lagoons located close to the landing area.
These lagoons occasionally have Greater Flamingos feeding in the shallows. Along with the flamingos there is
a chance to spot other shore waders including Pintail Ducks and Black Necked Stilts.
Please tread lightly on this beach for this is one of the largest nesting areas in Galapagos of the Pacific Green
Sea Turtle. Turtles will nest in this area throughout the year, most activity happening mainly from February to
May.
During the season the turtles lay an average of 100 eggs, with incubation that takes 55 to 60 days. Turtle
nests are identified, as indentations on the high part of the back beach, so please be careful not to walk on
them.
Flamingo Search - Wet Landing Low Intensity
This is a short hike along a beach area, which has a very small amount of rocky terrain for which sandals are
sufficient footwear. We will visit two different brackish ponds found at opposite ends of the beach. These
brackish ponds occasionally have Greater Flamingos, Black Necked Stilts, White Cheeked Pintail Ducks, and
other shore waders. Upon our return to the landing area we have an opportunity to swim from the beach, this
beach being a good “practice-your-snorkeling” site (training). Please stay close to your Naturalist guide during
this activity for there are Pacific Green Sea Turtle nests found directly behind the beach area.
Beach Activity - Wet Landing Low Intensity
We will proceed to make a wet landing at Bachas Beach for a chance to relax on the beach. Guests are
allowed to walk on the immediate beach area within site of the Naturalists. Please be aware that there are
Pacific Green Sea Turtle nests present on the back beach area, for this reason the back beach is out of
bounds. This beach is also a good “practice-your-snorkeling” site (training) where we may find various types
of tropical fish such as Yellow Tailed Surgeon Fish, Parrot Fish, and the small Galapagos Damsel Fish.
DAY 6 WEDNESDAY PM VISIT (DAY 4 OF CRUISE)
BARTOLOME ISLAND
BARTOLOME ISLAND: A recent, volcanically active island, Bartolome is located in the central archipelago
and built through submarine fissures. With its characteristic moon-like landscape and volcanic cones, this is a
very good introduction to the Geology of the Galapagos Islands. The site that we will visit today has a
moderately strenuous hike to the top of a volcanic cone (374 feet / 113 Meters in height), which makes up
most of the island. The view from the top is perhaps the most famous in all the Galapagos with an opportunity
to view up to 28 islands in the distance if the visibility allows. The twin beaches of Bartolome and a pinnacle
rock formation are found below. On the return and at the end of the hike, there will be a wet landing and time
for swimming and snorkeling from the beach. We offer the additional option of a Zodiac ride, then a landing at
Bartolome beach for swimming and snorkeling. There is a possibility to find Galapagos Penguins swimming
here at Bartolome where there is a population of approximately 50 individuals. They are the only penguins in
the world that are found north of the Equator, very small and fast in the water (up to 40 KPH / 22 MPH
swimming speed) but are usually tolerant of humans, so you can often get very close.
DAY 6 WEDNESDAY PM VISIT (DAY 4 OF CRUISE)
BARTOLOME ISLAND (continued)
“To The Top” Activity – High Intensity - Dry / Wet Landing at Bartolome Island
We will hike on a trail to the top of the hill at a height of 374 feet / 113 Meters. The trail is approximately 1.5
kilometers (slightly less then a mile) long with 358 wooden steps. Along the trail we have two “viewing”
platforms where we may rest on the way to the top. After returning to the Zodiac we will proceed to land (wet
landing) at Bartolome Beach for snorkeling and swimming.
Isthmus Hike – Medium Intensity - Wet Landing at Bartolome Island
After a wet landing at Bartolome Beach we will proceed to cross the Isthmus that separates the two main
beaches found on Bartolome. We will search for Galapagos Hawks, Sea Turtles and different shore birds.
When the tide is high we may find close to this beach White Tipped Reef Sharks coming into the shallows to
feed on small crustaceans that are upturned with the wave action. Sandals are acceptable for the walk to
cross the isthmus (an approximately 10 minute hike) and a hike up a short sand dune that has a 45-degree
inclination.
After returning to the landing beach we will proceed to snorkel and swim.
Coastal Exploration – Low Intensity - Wet Landing at Bartolome Island
We will continue with a Zodiac-ride along the coast searching for penguins and enjoying the geological
formations. The volcanic cones that we will see have been exposed by erosion, allowing us to see a central
solidified lava flow. Along with the cinder cones we can also find small lava tunnels that have flowed into the
ocean. Those who choose to swim or snorkel please take your gear for an optional one-hour snorkel activity.
DAY 7 THURSDAY AM VISIT (DAY 5 OF CRUISE)
ISABELA ISLAND
ISABELA ISLAND: This morning, we will visit Isabela Island, by far the largest island in the Galapagos
Archipelago, with 4550 km2. It is composed of five volcanoes that over the years have coalesced into one
island. All of these volcanoes are considered still active with the last volcanic eruption happening in May
2008.. There are five different subspecies of giant tortoises spread upon their slopes; almost all of the
wonderful and mysterious photos you have seen of the giant tortoises in the wild were probably taken here.
The tallest summit of this Archipelago is Volcano Wolf, located at the North of the island, with a height of
5,599 feet (approximately 1707 Meters). The western coast of Isabela is also historically important as being
part of the itinerary of the HMS Beagle.
URBINA BAY: A beautiful, small bay that was uplifted prior to a volcanic eruption in 1954. The coastal area
was uplifted 12 – 15 feet along a shore line of over a mile. The violent action happened so quickly that it
trapped crustaceans, echinoderms, mollusks, and fish species inland. We may have our first chance to find
giant land tortoises (Galapagos). This area is also directly affected by the Cromwell Upwelling Current. The
Cromwell is a deep water current traveling along the equatorial line from the western Pacific eventually
coming in contact with the Galapagos Archipelago. This nutrient rich, cold water comes to the surface with
water temperatures occasionally reaching the mid 50’s (10 – 13 Degrees Celsius).
Zodiac Ride – Urbina Bay
Close to our anchorage in Urbina Bay we find the Marielas Islands, three very small islands that have a
healthy population of Galapagos Penguins. We will proceed in the Zodiacs usually getting quite close to the
penguins.
Low Intensity - Scenic Cruising along Isabela and Fernandina Islands
As we continue navigation from Elizabeth Bay to Fernandina we will search for whales and dolphins. Our
Captain or Cruise Director will make an announcement if there are any sightings to give our guests a chance
to observe these incredible creatures. Naturalists will be present on the outer decks to assist you in your
search.
DAY 7 THURSDAY PM VISIT (DAY 5 OF CRUISE)
FERNANDINA ISLAND
FERNANDINA ISLAND is the youngest and most western of all the islands. It is also one of the most
volcanically active, the latest eruption having occurred in May of 2005. In 1968, the floor of the caldera sank
990 feet within a two-week period (a geologic instant) showing this island to be one of the most spectacular in
terms of geology. As Darwin wrote, it is “covered with immense deluges of black naked lava...”
PUNTA ESPINOZA is located on the northeast corner of the island. It has risen and lowered several times
during the past decades prior to volcanic eruptions. The trail inland will take you through a recent lava flow
landscape with small trees of mangroves growing close to the coast. The primary attractions here are the
several sea lion colonies, one of the largest colonies of marine iguanas found in the Galapagos, and at the tip
of the peninsula a nesting area of flightless cormorants.
High Intensity Activity- Espinoza Point - Dry Landing Fernandina Island
We will make a dry landing on an uneven but flat trail of approximately 1½ kilometers (less then 1 mile). The
landing area may be a concrete dock or exposed slippery lava rocks depending on the wave action and tide
level. Use a walking stick if necessary. Aa and Pahoe-hoe lava flows are found here along with the incredible
volcanic scenery. As we walk towards the point we can find one of the largest Marine Iguana “colonies” here
in the archipelago. Scattered among the Marine Iguanas we may also come across Galapagos Flightless
Cormorants nesting along the coastline.
Low Intensity Activity- Zodiac Ride – Open Ocean / Optional Dry Landing
A Zodiac ride entering into the channel between Isabela and Fernandina Islands. As we head out into the
open ocean we may have the opportunity to find seabird activity with Shearwaters, Phalaropes and Storm
Petrels There is also a possibility of dolphins as we start into the deeper water. After the Zodiac ride we will
offer an optional landing, for a half an hour of animal observation. Take a walking stick if you decide to make
the optional landing.
DAY 8 FRIDAY AM VISIT (DAY 6 OF CRUISE)
SANTIAGO ISLAND & EGAS PORT
SANTIAGO ISLAND This Island, also called James and San Salvador, is the fourth largest island found in the
Archipelago. In the 1930´s a group of people attempted to colonize this island, the Conway’s a married
couple, wrote a book about their experiences entitled “The Enchanted Islands” published in 1947.
PUERTO EGAS: The most popular walk at James Bay is to explore Puerto Egas. Puerto Egas has the
remnants of a salt mining operation that existed up until the 1960’s. Our wet landing is on a black-sand beach.
The trail, about 2 kilometers long, starts by crossing the dry interior and returning by a beautiful coastal area.
We might have the opportunity to observe Oystercatchers, Marine Iguanas, Sandpipers, Galapagos Hawks,
Sally “light foot” Crabs, Galapagos Sea Lions and Galapagos Fur Seals. Returning to the landing site, there
will be time for swimming and snorkeling from the beach. This wet landing may have small rocks present;
guests may consider using sandals or water shoes for the landing.
High Intensity Activity - Wet landing at James Bay - Santiago Island
Along 50% of the trail we will have a coastal walk. There is a possibility to find shore birds and inter-tidal
species in the tidal pools. At the end of the coastal walk we come upon lava tunnels that have collapsed
allowing us to view crystalline pools and a resting area for Galapagos Fur Seals. We will continue inland
along a very flat compacted ash trail returning to the landing beach. This hike will be followed by swimming
and snorkelling from the beach. Total distance of 2 kilometres (1.4 miles)
Low Intensity Activity - Wet landing James Bay - Santiago Island
The activity has a short Zodiac ride of 30-40 Minutes followed by a wet landing at Port Egas At the beach we
have a very small and easy walk on the beach to search for Galapagos Sea Lions and various shore bird
species. If you choose, this activity will be followed by swimming and snorkelling from the beach area.
DAY 8 FRIDAY PM VISIT (DAY 6 OF CRUISE)
DRAGON HILL, SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
CERRO DRAGON: “Dragon Hill” is found on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island and was recently
opened for tourism in 1993. The site takes its name from the population of Land Iguanas (Conolophus
subcristatus) living in this area. These iguanas were at the brink of extinction due to the attacks of feral dogs,
domestic animals released by early settlers that directly preyed upon the Iguanas. In 1975 the Darwin Station
and the Galapagos National Park Service started a conservation program for Land Iguanas including
“Breeding in Captivity” and repatriations to their natural habitats. The site offers a beautiful view of the
landscape from the top of the hill and two small brackish lagoons where occasionally flamingos and other
shore birds obtain their food. On part of the trail that we will walk today, we will cross a beautiful “white forest”,
composed principally of Palo Santo (Incense) trees and the endemic Galapagos cotton plant.
Inland Hike - High intensity - Dry / Wet* Landing at Dragon Hill – Santa Cruz Island
A 2.3 Kilometer (1.5 miles Approx.) hike inland to search for Land Iguanas, Darwin Finches, and arid zone
vegetation. You will pass a small brackish pond that occasionally has flamingos and other waders. One third
of the trail has small boulders to walk on, so please bring good shoes. Upon returning to the beach you will
have an opportunity to swim and snorkel.
Beach and Swim - Low Intensity Activity Dry / Wet* landing at Dragon Hill
The zodiacs will transport you for a landing at Dragon Hill. We will stay at this small beach to swim or snorkel.
If you choose, your Naturalist can take you on a short hike (10 – 15 Minutes) behind the beach area to a small
pond which occasionally has Flamingos, Black Necked Stilts, and White cheeked Pintail Ducks.
DAY 9 SATURDAY ALL DAY VISIT (DAY 7 OF CRUISE)
PUERTO AYORA, SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND and PUERTO AYORA *: This morning, we will visit Santa Cruz, the second-largest
island in the Galapagos and a hub for tourists. We will anchor at Puerto Ayora (the largest town in the
Galapagos) where the Charles Darwin Research Station and the National Park Service offices are located. In
1959, the Ecuadorian government declared all the islands, except areas already colonized, as a national park
(the centenary year of Darwin’s publication “The Origin of Species”). In the same year, the Charles Darwin
Foundation was founded with a primary objective of ensuring the conservation of the unique Galapagos
ecosystems and to promote the scientific studies necessary to fulfill its conservation functions. In the Darwin
station, you can visit the tortoise conservation building where you can see displays on tortoise exploitation,
conservation, and ecology. The captive breeding programs for the tortoises started in 1962 and since this time
many tortoises have been repatriated to their original islands. Maybe at the station you will be lucky and you
will meet “Lonesome George”, the last member of the Pinta Island race. Puerto Ayora is a sleepy, slow
moving town, a pleasant place to wander with clean public areas, nice plantings of mangrove trees and
flowers, numerous gift shops, a bank, and Internet service facilities.
Charles Darwin Research Station - High Intensity Activity - Dry Landing at Puerto Ayora
Short bus-ride through the small town of Port Ayora, arriving at the entrance of the Charles Darwin Research
Station. At the Station we will learn about the conservation techniques used here in the Galapagos and also
see the Giant Tortoise rearing program.
There is an optional walk through town for shopping after the visit (1 Kilometer total arriving at the
disembarkation dock). If you choose to return directly to the main dock after the Station-visit you may take a
taxi to the dock (your Naturalist can organize this). The distance is approximately 1.5 kilometers at the
Scientific Station (which can be hot depending on weather conditions), for this reason this activity is
considered High Intensity.
DAY 9 SATURDAY ALL DAY VISIT (DAY 7 OF CRUISE)
PUERTO AYORA, SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (continued)
“Highlands” Medium Intensity Activity-Dry Landing at Puerto Ayora
We will take a Bus ride to the highlands of Santa Cruz to find and observe giant tortoises in the wild. The Busride is 30 min. to a “farm” where we will hike 1-1.5 Kilometers (Less then a mile). Be aware that if there is
cloud cover present in the “Highlands” there is a possibility of mud and moisture so please bring a rain
pullover and good shoes. We will also observe the entrance of a lava tunnel formation before returning to
town. Upon our return to Puerto Ayora there is time to shop or walk around before returning to the ship.
ONBOARD FAREWELL EVENING ACTIVITIES
• Elaborate buffet dinner under the stars
• Farewell festivities including cocktail party
DAY 10 SUNDAY AM DEBARKATION & FLIGHT TO QUITO
• Breakfast in dining room on board ship begins at 7am
• Settle Onboard Account at Guest Relations Desk
• Zodiac ride to Baltra, departures begin at 9am
• Motorcoach to Airport from dock
• Suitcases delivered directly from ship to plane
• Proceed through security and into VIP lounge
• Complimentary beverages
• Boarding passes distributed at the airport
• Board flight (fuel stop in Guayaquil).
• Bags are collected by Celebrity staff at the airport and delivered to the hotel.
• Transfer to motorcoach and to hotel.
DAY 10 SUNDAY PM QUITO
• Greeted in hotel lobby by Celebrity Xpedition and JW Marriott staff
• Beverage and hotel room keys provided to guests
• Optional afternoon Shopping Tour to outdoor crafts market (time permitting)
• Farewell Dinner at JW Marriott 7:00pm with set menu
DAY 11 MONDAY TRANSFER TO AIRPORT AND FLIGHT HOME
• Full complimentary buffet breakfast begins at 5am (fruits, omelettes, cereal, fresh juices, breads, hot food,
etc)
• Transfer from hotel to Quito Airport. Departure time based on individual flight schedules
• Pay airport departure tax in cash
• Proceed through Immigration
Stateroom Amenities
• Complimentary bottled water in staterooms
• Complimentary room service
• Hair Dryer
• Use of bathrobes and binoculars
• Shampoo, Conditioner, Cotton Swabs, Cotton Balls, Lotion
• Refrigerator
• Flat screen TV with DVD player
• Access to DVD movie library
• Safe
• Beach Towels
On Board Facts
• No smoking on ship except on designated areas on the outer decks
• 6-7 naturalist guides (approximately 12-16 guests per naturalist)
• 5 zodiacs
• Two landings/visits per day, High/Medium/Low intensity tour options daily
• Always greeted with cold towels, glass of fresh juice and snack after tours on back deck
• Walking sticks available for guests at no extra charge used mainly for tours
• Staterooms serviced 3 times daily
• Wet suits and snorkeling equipment provided at no extra charge
Footnote:
*The step by step summary of the 10-Night Galapagos Xpedition Package is intended solely for promotional
purposes. The departure times, tours, itinerary, onboard activities and hotel details listed are subject to
change without prior notice. Wait times are estimated and subject to change. The summary is a guideline and
is only intended to be distributed to Celebrity Sales Managers and their travel partner accounts. This is not
intended to be distributed to guests. Celebrity XpeditionTM is owned and operated by Islas Galapagos Turismo
y Vapores, C.A., an Ecuadorian company. For more information see the terms and conditions at
celebrityxpeditions.com. Itinerary subject to change without notice. ©2010 Celebrity Cruises. Ship’s Registry:
Ecuador.