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South America: Galapagos Northern Loop Cruise - 2025
Celebrity Cruises
In the Galapagos, modern explorers come eye to eye with ancient tortoises, comical birds and other amazing beasts — plus landscapes as fantastical as the animals — for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. For seven glorious days, you'll follow in the footsteps of Darwin, viewing this realm through the eyes of certified naturalists, in small groups of travelers who share your interests.
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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 3:00pm
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 4:00pm
Departure 6:00pm
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 Sullivan Bay
Arrival 7:30am
Departure 10:30am
Overview
On the east side of Santiago island sits yet another body of water, Sullivan Bay, famous for its conelike volcano and various types of lava rock which have been studied by many for years. The glazed black lava rock of this eastern bay has been so well preserved, at times it may seem as if the lava is still in a molten state.
Day 2
Port of Call Bartolome
Arrival 2:00pm
Departure 4:30pm
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 3
Port of Call Urvina Bay
Arrival 8:00am
Departure 11:00am
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 3
Port of Call Tagus Cove
Arrival 3:00pm
Departure 5:00pm
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 4
Port of Call Punta Espinoza
Arrival 7:30am
Departure 11:30am
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 Punta Vicente Roca
Arrival 3:30pm
Departure 6:00pm
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 Puerto Egas
Arrival 7:30am
Departure 11:00am
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 5
Port of Call Playa Espumilla
Arrival 3:00pm
Departure 6:00pm
Overview
Espumilla Beach is one of the most idyllic places of the Galapagos Islands, located on the north coast of Santiago Island, in James Bay. It was a center of salt exploitation during the 50's. This beautiful silver is an excellent place to swim and perform surface diving. In the surroundings of Playa Espumilla you can observe extraordinary lava formations.
Day 6
Port of Call Puerto Ayora
Arrival 8:00am
Departure 6:00pm
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 7
Port of Call Prince Phillip's Steps
Arrival 7:30am
Departure 11:45am
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 7
Port of Call Darwin Bay
Arrival 2:30pm
Departure 6:00pm
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 8
Port of Call North Seymour Island
Arrival 6:00am
Departure 7:00am
Overview
North Seymour Island, also referred to as Seymour, is a small island to the North of Baltra. This island was formed years ago as a result of the uplift of a submarine lava formation. Because of the circumstances under which the island took shape, North Seymour consists of mostly flat, low lying terrain. The vegetation on North Seymour, like many of the other lava formed islands of the Subtropic, is mainly low and bushy. North Seymour’s signature feature is its enormous colony of Darwin’s magnificent frigate birds. In fact the population of frigates is larger here than anywhere else in the Galapagos chain. The frigates can be found nesting mostly on the southwest side of the island due to the prime nesting conditions. Many other birds can be encountered on North Seymour such as the Blue Footed Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, pelicans, and Red-billed Tropic birds. Visitors to the island might also catch a glimpse of the amazing Galapagos snake. North Seymour’s coast is a bit more tumultuous than that of some of the other islands in the Galapagos. Despite this fact, many playful sea lions can be found sprawled on the beach along with marine iguanas, one of the most controversial of the Galapagos’ amazing creatures.
Day 8
Port of Call Baltra Island
Arrival 8:00am
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 Xploration
Celebrity Xploration
Costco Member Reviews
Year Built: 2007
Year Refurbished: 2016
Double Occupancy Capacity: 16
Aboard Celebrity Xploration®, you'll experience the Galapagos on a vacation like no other. Sixteen guests will be indulged with seamlessly intuitive service and every creature comfort possible. This intimate ship is perfect for family get-togethers, getaways with friends, and small groups who want to explore together.
Onboard Activities
Activities & Services (included in cruise)
Sun Deck
- Card Room
- Educational Programs
- Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
- Bars/Lounges
- Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
- Safe Deposit Boxes
Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)
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
Dining Room
Main Dining
Dining Room: The Xploration Dining Room 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.
Al Fresco
Casual Dining
Al Fresco: Open during the day and night. Al Fresco is a great place to recount the day's activities and relax with friends. In addition, lunch, and on special occasions dinner, is served here.
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.
Elite Ocean View (Category: XE)
Elite Ocean View (Category: XE)
Category: XE
Luxury lives here. Enjoy two convertible beds and exceptional ocean views.
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.
Staterooms feature a spacious balcony.
Junior Suite with Veranda (Category: XJ)
Junior Suite with Veranda (Category: XJ)
Category: XJ
Soak in sunsets on the equator from your private veranda in these elevated accommodations.
Deck Plan
| Symbol | Description |
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Ship Facts
- Ship Name: Celebrity Xploration
- Year Built: 2007
- Year Refurbished: 2016
- Year Entered Present Fleet: 2017
- Ship Class: Expedition Series
- Maximum Capacity: 16
- Number of Passenger Decks: 3
- Number of Crew: 10
- Ocean-View without Balcony: 4
- Tonnage (GRT): 3,195
- Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 16
- Country of Registry: Ecuador
- Total Staterooms: 8
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: CELXPLSAM20250111
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.com.
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.
