NEED TO KNOW

• The Eclipse is unique in offering the generous accommodation of a larger vessel, while preserving the atmosphere and exclusivity of a smaller yacht
• She is, without question, one of the finest expedition ships operating in the islands 
• In addition to an elegant indoor dining room, there is an al fresco dining area located on the weather deck
  
• Exercise machines are available on the sun deck
• The vessel has a Jacuzzi on its observation deck
• Other facilities include a well-equipped lounge for relaxation and for the nightly briefings on the day's discoveries and the following day's activities, a well-stocked library, an observation deck for stargazing and whale watching, indoor and outdoor bars, a boutique, complimentary snorkel equipment and wet suits, and an on-board physician
• Taking children to the Galápagos Islands is an immensely rewarding experience and, for this reason, the Eclipse has developed selected family departures
  

THE HOTEL
MV Eclipse allows discerning travellers to experience one of the world's greatest natural treasures in the comfort of a vessel with generous accommodation, ample deck space and al fresco dining - but with the atmosphere and exclusivity of a smaller yacht.

The vessel's layout compromises on cabin numbers, instead putting the emphasis on providing passengers with unrivalled cabin space and ample social areas.  Accordingly, she accommodates up to 48 passengers in staterooms with sea views. Fully air-conditioned, all have either a queen or twin bed arrangement and well-appointed bathrooms. The ship's twin beds can be converted to king size beds upon request.

Opportunities to explore are many and varied, taking in the best visitor sites in the islands. There are opportunities to hike, swim, snorkel, kayak, bird-watch and take great close-up photographs of the flora and fauna. The Eclipse anchors off-shore at two visitor sites per day. Passengers are divided into groups of a maximum of twelve people, each with its own English-speaking, naturalist guide.

On the islands, guided excursions follow marked trails, walking at a leisurely pace and spending three to four hours at each site - plenty of time to explore the abundant wildlife. Meanwhile the snorkelling schedule allows four immersions or so during the cruise. Most of the snorkelling activities take place before or after island excursions, so that you will not miss the hikes.

Family Departures
The Eclipse operates selected family departures.  Professional guides are certified by the Galápagos National Park and experienced in guiding children. Activities may include educational guided walks, beach games, on-board activities (dance classes, costume parties, handicrafts, drawing competitions etc.), and separate briefings for children, as well as 'Kids Menus' at mealtimes. All this leaves parents free to enjoy the shore excursions at their own pace, in the knowledge that children are in safe hands - and making their own discoveries about the history, evolution and wonders of the islands. The comfort, safety and quality of the Eclipse, combined with its commitment to the needs of children, offer an unforgettable experience that can be shared by the whole family.

Smart Voyager Programme
The Eclipse was certified by the Rainforest Alliance 'Smart Voyager' programme in November 2007 and is dedicated to protecting the fragile ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands. Environmentally friendly practices on board the Eclipse include special filters in engines in order to reduce/eliminate the need to change oil & lubricants, a black and grey water treatment plant, an on board desalination plant, special equipment for the adequate treatment of organic waste, biodegradable cleansing materials, chemicals, guest shampoos and soaps, and complimentary water bottles & refill stations throughout the vessel. Additionally a modest portion of the sale of every cruise ticket is donated to a variety of worthy causes in Galápagos and more than 60% of Eclipse's employees are permanent or temporary residents of Galápagos.

The Galapagos Eclipse accommodates up to 48 passengers in Staterooms on the Main Deck, or Superior and Deluxe Staterooms on the Boat Deck, all with sea views. The cabins are fully air-conditioned, with king or twin bed arrangement, safes and well-appointed bathrooms. She also has extensive deck areas which allow for privileged al fresco dining, an observation deck, library, Jacuzzi and has snorkelling equipment and wet suits available.