Eclipse

The M.V. Eclipse has been awarded the Smart Voyager green seal of approval by the Rainforest Alliance. Most Galapagos cruises of a similar size carry 80 to 100 passengers. The Eclipse, however, hosts a maximum of 48 guests in 27 spacious, air-conditioned cabins, all with outside views. Every cabin boasts either picture windows or large portholes, providing a view of the surrounding waters. All the ship's twin beds can be converted to king-size beds upon request. The M.V. Eclipse boasts features such as a library, a boutique, a lounge and an infirmary with a doctor on board at all times.

While the M.V. Eclipse has an elegant indoor dining area, when weather conditions permit guests can take advantage of the al fresco dining area at the stern of the vessel for lunch - and occasionally for breakfast and dinner. Lunching on deck allows guests to enjoy the sunshine and sea breezes - and the view - while cruising from one island to the next. Few vessels in this category offer the opportunity for outdoor dining, accommodating all guests in one sitting.

One of the most popular areas on board the M.V. Eclipse is the observation / sun deck, ideal for stargazing, whale watching, or simply lazing in the jacuzzi.

Onboard the friendly crew attends to every need in an efficient and attentive manner. The vessel has an unusually high crew-to-passenger ratio: 31 crew for 48 passengers, plus four naturalist guides.

Taking children to the Galapagos Islands is an immensely rewarding experience. For this reason the M.V. Eclipse runs special family departures during the months of March, April, July, August and December. Specialist guides are assigned to educate and entertain children throughout the day, while adults enjoy the cruise at their own pace, knowing that their charges are in safe hands and making their own fascinating discoveries about the history of evolution and the natural wonders of the islands.

A fleet of inflatable pangas - rubber boats that are quick to launch, stable and able to land almost anywhere - make even the smallest islands accessible on twice daily shore excursions led by expert naturalist guides. Snorkelling equipment and kayaks are available for those with the urge to explore on their own.