Ask Dave

Going to the Galapagos Islands was on my bucket list and my daughter, Danielle and I had the best trip together in March 2022.  It was a 10 out of 10. I was really impressed on how efficiently things were handled from start to finish – from checking in at the luxurious hotel in Quito, to COVID testing processes that were seamless (which are no longer required!), to the transfers and flights to and from Baltra. A very competent and engaging group of Galapagos National Park certified naturalists greeted us, fitted us with snorkeling gear and briefed us on our 7-day voyage. These locals are extremely proud of their home and loved sharing their knowledge but demanded you treat this area with respect.

All Suite Luxury Mega Yacht

The Celebrity Flora, holding around 100 passengers is your floating eco luxury mega yacht – perfect for maneuvering around these pristine waters.  The perfect way they got you on and off the tenders was quite amazing.

The lectures were really quite fabulous, but as you can imagine, there weren’t any big productions or “cruise ship” normal style entertainment– which was fine.  We were all there for the adventure.  To take full advantage of this trip you should be in fairly decent shape as snorkeling really is the highlight – whether swimming in currents (at times) with the friendly sea lions and the occasional sharks.  The easier swims near the shore featured massive schools of tropical fish. We did the kayaking, multiple hikes and saw plenty of blue-footed boobies….and red-footed ones too!

There were a few aboard that were less active, but they were happy with the sights and just the visual beauty above the ocean. The shoreline zodiac safaris were lovely. There is an abundance of sea and bird life (and on our itinerary there were penguins) and the fact that while a popular destination it’s remote and not ruined by The Celebrity ships in the Galapagos are inclusive, gratuities, beverages and shore excursions are all taken care of.  The stateroom was modern and spacious with a large scenic bathroom.  The farewell dinner had the best lobster I think I have ever tasted – so order two!

Let Celebrity Take Care of You!

I’d highly recommend this luxurious, adventurous land and see combo.  The ship runs year round, along with other Celebrity Galapagos ships. Pick the season that works for you, and book early as demand is high.  There are times of the year that have warmer, clearer water.  It’s not for the average cruiser.  As Nike says, “Just Do It!’.  It is so worth it.

Exclusive Deals for Travel Planners

‍If you organize the bookings for even as few as 2 other rooms besides yours, you will save significantly on your host room on most Celebrity cruises.  Whether you are leading for friends and/or family, or are part of any common interest, membership or hobby group, we’ll be hard to beat. Please contact us by email at grouptravel@cruiseplus.ca or by calling us and asking for our group department.

Have a look at past and future writings at Ask Dave along with travel tips that also should help you with your vacation planning.

No matter if you’re ready to explore now or are just in the dreaming stage, be sure and sign up for our weekly emails and/or join us on Facebook Page or Instagram.

Should you be interested in talking with me personally, please ask our receptionist to set up a time. I am happy to help with travel you are considering.  I’m not managing bookings but I will guide you in picking the right trip.

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Cheers for now,

Dave Frinton, Founder