Celebrity Xpedition Galápagos Cruise

La Pinta

- 3:2 guest-to-crew ratio means exemplary service; - Glass-bottomed boat, amazing for children, non-swimmers; - Larger boat offers more facilities, yet preserves exclusive feel; - Complimentary 24/7 medical officer, wifi, fitness centre. Following a major reconstruction and refit in 2007, motor yacht La Pinta has became one of the most sought-after cruising vessels in the Galápagos. What sets her apart is her size: at over 209 feet long she is able to accommodate some of the largest and most prestigious cabins available in the Galápagos. Service on board is exceptional, with a crew of 27 to attend to your every need including 4 bilingual naturalists and a medical officer. Uniquely, La Pinta carries her own glass-bottomed boat, giving an unforgettable window onto the marine world, particularly for non-swimmers. A Sophisticated Adventure La Pinta is the perfect luxury base from which to enjoy your Galápagos adventure. Modern in design, with light-filled cabins and communal areas, La Pinta boast features that are simply not available on other vessels in the area. Complimentary satellite wifi is available on board, as are telephones with direct international dialling. Air conditioning is fitted throughout, of course, and additional thoughtful features like multi-channel sound systems for your personal music evidence the careful design of the yacht and its features. As one of the larger vessels in the region, La Pinta is only ever crewed by top-ranking naval officers with many years of experience in the local waters. The dedicated ship’s medical officer is on call 24/7 to provide complimentary consultations, and La Pinta’s entire crew are dedicated to your safety and enjoyment. Relax and Learn in Style La Pinta's guests enjoy a large, well-appointed lounge with enormous panoramic windows that give unparalleled views of the Galápagos islands. Similar large windows can be found in many of the communal areas on board. Each evening the lounge becomes the focus for the nightly briefings from our expert naturalists, giving you all the information you could want about the wildlife in this extraordinary region. There is a well-equipped fitness room which can boast one of the best views from a treadmill or exercise bike you will ever see! Other amenities include a hot tub, ample outdoor relaxation areas and a delightful boutique for a little retail therapy. More Space for Families or Groups La Pinta’s generous cabins give you room to relax and unwind in your own oasis of calm. Every cabin features amazing floor-to-ceiling windows, keeping you connected with the ocean and the islands as you sail. The decor is fresh and modern, with clean lines and elegant fittings. For families or groups travelling together, La Pinta offers some of the most flexible accommodation around the islands - 4 of her cabins can be interconnected for your convenience. Her 20 Luxury Double/Twin and 4 Luxury Plus Triple cabins all have beds that can be joined or separated to meet your exact needs. Service and Cuisine La Pinta’s guest-to-crew ratio of 3:2 means your every need can be catered for. The food service on board is a highlight of your experience. Our cordon bleu trained Gastronomy Director ensures a wonderful menu to suit every taste, with international cuisine as well as Ecuadorian specialities. Our galley team are able to cater for any dietary requirements including vegetarians, lactose-free, gluten-free, and any food allergies. Just let us know in advance. Our comments We love the sense of space and the extra amenities the size of La Pinta offers. Don’t underestimate the delights of waking up in a cabin with full-height windows and a view of the ocean and the islands. Extra touches like wifi onboard, a dedicated medical officer and the wonderful glass-bottomed boat make La Pinta that little bit more special. The fantastic staff to guest ratio and wonderful cuisine just gild the lily that is La Pinta in our book.

Silver Galapagos

\- “Big ship” facilities with great itineraries \- All-inclusive, nothing to pay onboard \- All-suite accommodation \- Dedicated butler service There’s no doubting that a small yacht can have its charm, but when it comes to facilities, features and space you can’t beat a full-size ship. The Silver Galápagos is a luxury 100-passenger expedition vessel that has been fully designed to meet the needs of Galápagos touring. Her owners have made every effort to make her more than just your floating accommodation, but also an integral part of your Galápagos islands experience. **New heights in luxury** Silver Galápagos’ operators have a renowned reputation in the market as being the leading provider of luxury cruises around the world. In Silver Galápagos they continue this “best of the best” tradition, offering their guests one of the most luxurious ways to experience the Galápagos. Silver Galápagos provides stunning all-suite accommodation across her 5 decks. With 75 crew for only 100 passengers, you are assured of the highest levels of attention and service. Indeed, every suite has butler service, and staying onboard is akin to visiting the best 5\* hotels. The sumptuous suites are beautifully decorated with beige, cream and blue accents and an emphasis on light and space. All suites enjoy sea and Galápagos island views through panoramic windows, with Veranda and Silver suites benefitting from glass sliding doors opening on to private balconies. Your suite has independent climate control, plenty of storage space, marbled en suite bathrooms, flat screen televisions, minibar, and unlimited wifi. Top-end suites offer extras including complimentary sparkling wines and personal espresso machines. To put it simply, there is no finer way to enjoy all that the Galápagos has to offer. **Unrivalled space** Thanks to her size at 290 ft long and 50 ft wide there is plenty of space. With only 100 guests onboard it’s always easy to find a quiet corner. With all this space also comes plenty of facilities. As befits a mini cruise liner, Silver Galápagos is equipped with a charming library, a spa offering treatments for men and women, a beauty salon, a fitness center with world-class equipment and stunning sea views, an outdoor jacuzzi, and even a romantic art deco-style piano bar where pre-dinner cocktails are served. Your ticket is fully all-inclusive - so there’s nothing extra to pay for anything on board. When it comes to dining, you have two choices. First is the al fresco Grill. During the evening, hot lava stones are brought to your table for you to cook your own meal exactly how you wish, choosing from a range of authentic local ingredients and produce. By day, the grill becomes an open rotisserie and gourmet salad bar, perfect for lunch. The Silver Restaurant offers a more formal, yet still relaxed experience, with a wide range of international and Ecuadorian specialties on offer. Our favorite is the Galápagos Lobster à la Galapaguera, although a close second has to be the filet mignon with truffles. Both restaurants offer open-seated dining, meaning you can eat whenever you wish, and with whomever you want. This fits perfectly with the Galápagos vibe and makes it a delight to mingle with your like-minded fellow guests. **The Islands - star of the show** Despite the remarkable luxury offered by Galápagos Silver, she still pales in comparison to the wonder of the Galápagos Islands. With a choice of 2 seven-day itineraries and 7 National Park-approved naturalist guides, you will enjoy stunning encounters with unique wildlife and endangered habitats. Excursions include snorkeling (the ship has a dedicated snorkeling deck with all equipment), paddling sea kayaks, taking panga rides, and hikes and tours of a great range of visitor sites. The operators pride themselves not only on the luxury of their ship but also how they showcase the best of the islands to their guests. The itineraries have been carefully designed to give you a fantastic flavor of the islands, and neither is “better” than the other. Call one of our friendly Galápagos experts today to discuss which might suit you better, and we can help you make an informed choice. **Our thoughts** Silver Galápagos is a beautiful ship. With her wonderful all-suite accommodation, we can’t recommend her more highly. Thoughtful touches are everywhere, from having your own butler to the open-seat dining arrangements to the wonderful spa treatments and great cocktails - all of which are included in your fare! With 1 crew member for every 1.3 passengers, you will enjoy the highest crew ratio in the Galápagos fleet, and it shows. Call us today, as places on this favorite ship are always selling out - often many months in advance.

Silver Origin

- Highest crew-to-guest ratio in Galápagos - Unique hybrid on board spaces - All-suite accommodation with verandas - Excellent wildlife itineraries Silver Origin has redefined luxury Galápagos adventure travel. Welcome to Ultra-luxury! Designed and built specifically for Galápagos, this remarkable 330ft long expedition ship brings the ultimate Galápagos experience to a maximum of only 100 guests, looked after by 90 crew. Spectacular suites Silver Origin features suite-only accommodation throughout. As well as huge picture windows, you'll have your own private veranda from where you can soak up the sights and sounds of the Galápagos and its wildlife. Every suite comes with a butler service - and with 24 hour room service and in-suite dining options, your every need will be completely catered for. When you're spending your day discovering the unique wildlife and habitats of the Galápagos you will need a good night's sleep. That's why every Silver Origin suite also has a pillow menu for ultimate comfort. Of course your accommodation is fully climate controlled, with a beautiful en suite bathroom, luxurious linens and toiletries, and complimentary expedition gear to help you get the most from the islands. Unique communal spaces With plenty of space available, there are a host of different communal areas for you to enjoy. Basecamp is a fantastic "knowledge lounge" and the perfect place to gather before embarking on your zodiac trip to the next landing site. Featuring a wealth of reference material and an interactive wall, it's the ideal way to learn more about what you are about to see. The Explorer lounge offers both indoor and outdoor relaxed seating. A carefully curated library and floor-to-ceiling windows make this an ideal place to watch the Galápagos go by while you enjoy a cocktail. In the evenings, a live pianist will entertain you. Silver Origin has a beautiful observation lounge in the forward part of ship, above the bridge, offering unparalleled views in luxurious comfort, while sun worshippers can stretch out on the sun deck, which has both open and shaded areas, as well as a whirlpool. Truly all-inclusive Dining options on board are extensive, authentic, and delicious. There are a choice of two full-service restaurants, and chefs will prepare the most delicious Ecuadorian and international dishes to suit all palates. All dietary requirements can be catered for. Of course, if you prefer to dine in your suite, your butler will arrange this for you. Everything is included in your fare, including a large range of wines, spirits, cocktails and more. You can enjoy drinks in the Explorer Lounge, on the sundeck, in the Observation lounge, or on your private veranda, all delivered with exquisite service. Amazing animal encounters Silver Origin boasts the highest number of zodiacs and guides per guest in the Galápagos fleet. This means that you won't be waiting long at the stern marina for your ride to shore, and you will explore the archipelago in small, intimate groups. With a choice of two 7-day itineraries, featuring the best visitor sites in the islands, you'll enjoy a remarkable introduction to the wonderful creatures that inhabit these unique islands. Our comment Silversea have done it again. Silver Origin simply redefines luxury adventure travel. Her suites are simply stunning, and having a butler to take care of your every need is a wonderful indulgence. With amazing communal spaces and a team of superb chefs, your evening's on board will be delightful. You can enjoy intimate exploration with your naturalist guide and then come back to "big ship" luxuries - a perfect mix! Contact one of our Galápagos experts today for helping in choosing the perfect itinerary.

Flora

- Brand new, launched August 2019, purpose-built, state-of-the-art - All-suite accommodation - unrivalled luxury - The highest standards of food and service - Choice of Inner or Outer Loop Itineraries Celebrity Flora has not only rewritten the book on Galápagos luxury, but she's torn it up and thrown it over the side! This stunning, purpose-built Galápagos cruise ship is the most luxurious and high-tech large yacht in the Galápagos fleet. Featuring all-suite accommodation, Celebrity Flora brings Galápagos luxury right up to date and also gives a glimpse of the future. Stunning accommodation, with the “wow” factor Every cabin on Celebrity Flora is a suite, and all feature a personal suite attendant, private balcony, mini-bar, in-room filtered water system, 24-hour in-suite service, full in-suite dining service... there's too much to list here! Every room features a state-of-the-art room automation system that brings full control of every amenity to your fingertips. Thoughtful extra touches include binoculars in your suite, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, aloe vera soother, and more. There's even a pillow menu, ensuring a perfect sleep. For the ultimate Galápagos adventure, why not upgrade to a Premium or Royal Suite? For a trip-of-a-lifetime, the Penthouse Suite occupies the entire width of the ship, offering an unbroken view out across the stern from its remarkable floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony. Other upgrade suites include "infinity balconies" - where with the touch of a button you can open your panoramic window and convert your room into a breathtaking opening onto the Galápagos. Stunning spaces to eat, relax, and unwind Social areas on Celebrity Flora are no less indulgent than her suites. The Discovery Lounge and Bar is the perfect place to relax with a pre-dinner drink. It's also where you will gather with your like-minded passengers to watch briefings from the highly-experienced onboard naturalists who will bring the Galápagos to life for you. Dining is a stand-out experience. As well as in-suite private dining you can join fellow guests in the Seaside restaurant. Here you will enjoy mouthwatering international and local specialties made with the freshest local produce, while enjoying unrivalled views thanks to the restaurant's panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside spaces are no less indulgent. Why not head up to the observation deck and enjoy a cocktail at the outside bar? Or choose from a shady or full-sun position in the outdoor lounge? For guests looking for some tranquillity, the Observatory houses a library with floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable armchairs. Exploring the Galápagos Despite her outstanding luxury, Celebrity Flora recognises that the Galápagos Islands are the real stars of the show. Designed specifically for the islands, Flora has been fitted with state-of-the-art equipment that minimises her impact on the ecosystems, while letting you get closer than ever before. For example, she has been equipped with a Dynamic Positioning System that allows her to remain stationary without the need to drop anchors that can damage the sea bed. The dedicated Marina at the stern of the ship makes boarding her fleet of zodiacs (known in Galápagos as "pangas") quick, safe and comfortable, allowing you to spend more time in and around the islands. Guests are always accompanied by a professional Galápagos naturalist guide, with a maximum of 16 guests per guide. This ensures an intimate and in-depth experience of the islands and their wildlife for everyone. Excursions include island landings, panga rides, snorkeling and swimming, both from the ship and the shore, and much, much more. You can even enjoy an astronomical tour of the equatorial sky from the ship's unique Star Gazing platform. You have a choice of two Galápagos itineraries with Celebrity Flora - the Inner Loop and the Outer Loop. Both offer excellent experiences of the Galápagos but have their unique flavors. If you are unsure as to which would suit your needs better, please contact one of our Galápagos travel advisors today to learn more about each of them. Our Comments What can we say, other than "wow"! The Flora does re-write the book on luxury and service in Galápagos. We love her high-tech environmental systems, so crucial in protecting the delicate habitats of Galápagos. But we also love her stunning suites, fabulous service, and beautiful itineraries. It's rare you get the chance to sail on a brand new, purpose-built super-luxury Galápagos ship... so if you can, you should secure your booking right away. Oh, and if it's a special occasion cruise, do try and get either a Royal Suite or the Penthouse - they are simply remarkable.