In 2014, Celebrity Cruises launched reforestation with Galápagos National Park. 10 years later, the project had planted more than 85,000 plants and restored 60 acres

A decade of conservation work in the Galápagos has turned into a major milestone for Celebrity Cruises and the Galápagos National Park. Since 2014, the partnership has focused on restoring natural habitats and supporting the islands' fragile ecosystems. More than 85,000 endemic plants have now been planted through the initiative. Guests have also helped restore more than 60 acres of habitat during their Galápagos expeditions, as per a report by PR Newswire.

Celebrity Cruises' conservation work in the Galápagos has reached an important 10-year milestone. The cruise company has partnered with the Galápagos National Park since 2014, working to restore natural habitats and support the region's unique ecosystems.

What began as the Scalesia reforestation project is now known as the "Rewilding Galápagos" initiative. The effort gives travelers visiting the islands an opportunity to take part in conservation while experiencing the destination.

How did the reforestation project begin?

The partnership between Celebrity Cruises and the Galápagos National Park began in 2014 with a focus on reforestation. Over the following decade, the project grew into an ongoing effort to restore habitats and help protect endangered wildlife throughout the region.

Celebrity Cruises says it is the only tour operator partnering with the Galápagos National Park on such a project. So far, more than 85,000 endemic plant species have been planted.

To mark the 10-year milestone, representatives and park rangers from the Galápagos National Park joined naturalists and guests aboard Celebrity Flora for a special Scalesia tree planting event, as per a report by PR Newswire.

The conservation work is also supported by the Celebrity Cruises Galápagos Fund, which was established in 2005 to support local conservation through ecosystem restoration and community projects.

What has the project achieved?

Over the past decade, guests have helped restore more than 60 acres of land, supporting biodiverse habitats that are home to iconic plant and animal species.

The newly renovated Hernán Carrión Nursery, sponsored by Celebrity Cruises, plays a role in the effort by growing the native plants used for reforestation across the Galápagos.

The company's conservation work is part of its wider SEA the Future mission, which focuses on sustaining the planet, energizing communities and accelerating innovation.

Celebrity Cruises president Laura Hodges Bethge said the company recognizes the responsibility that comes with bringing travelers to fragile natural destinations.

"We have the privilege of connecting our guests with some of the most pristine destinations on our planet and understand that we need to play a role in maintaining the health of these delicate ecosystems," says Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. "In the Galapagos Islands, we are very proud of our long-standing partnership and will continue to work closely to support education and conservation projects that promote the preservation of this natural marvel for future generations."

How do guests take part?

The conservation effort is built into Celebrity Flora's Galápagos expeditions. Guests visit the reforestation area alongside Galápagos Park Rangers and naturalist guides, where they can plant seedlings themselves.

Celebrity Flora is a 100-passenger mega-yacht designed specifically for sailing in the Galápagos. Its itineraries include 7-night, 10-night, 11-night and 16-night all-inclusive expeditions.

The trips are led by Galápagos National Park expert naturalists, giving guests the chance to explore the volcanic archipelago while experiencing its wildlife and landscapes.

Activities include snorkeling with sea lions, kayaking with sea turtles, coastal explorations along volcanic cliffs, guided visits with giant tortoises and glamping under the stars aboard the ship.

The reforestation work adds another dimension to those experiences. Rather than simply visiting the Galápagos, travelers can contribute directly to an effort that has spent a decade restoring native habitats.

With more than 85,000 endemic plants planted and more than 60 acres restored over the past decade, Celebrity Cruises says its partnership with the Galápagos National Park remains focused on protecting the islands for future generations.

FAQs

When did the partnership begin?
In 2014.

How many plants have been planted?
More than 85,000 endemic plants.