The four deluxe cabins are on the Boat Deck, have desk, fully stocked mini bar and even a bathtub. Cabins 19 & 20 can be set up as triples with a double and a full single bed. They are approximately 210sq feet.

The eight superior cabins are on the Boat Deck. These have one picture window so are very light an airy.

The 12 standard cabins are on the Main Deck. These are basically the same size as the superiors but have two or three portholes instead of picture windows.

Both superior and standard cabins are +/- 170sq feet.
The two single cabins are also on the Main Deck, each with one porthole. These are 110sq feet.

Equipment on board
Sea kayaks: glass bottomed for use only at certain snorkel sites.

Snorkel equipment: included in the cruise rate, as is use of wetsuit.

For further information you can also visit the boats’ own website at www.eclipse.com.ec

Pura’s opinion
Eclipse is arguably the most luxurious way to experience the Galapagos.

Fantastic cabins renovated in 2008, lots of space, great crew and guides and only 48 passengers.

Delicious food is a feature with buffet at all meals and a barbeque on deck every Tuesday.

They have sea kayaks, wet suits and snorkel gear on board, all of which are included for your use.

They also have star-gazing, whale watching and even, wait for it, towel folding lessons.

With single, double and triple cabins the Eclipse can accommodate all sorts of travel parties in suitable rooms without charging huge single supplements.

There are around 20 family departures per year which means that there may be children on board, usually over 10 years old.

If there are enough children then one of the guides gets allocated to them throughout as well as the program of special activities.

If there are only a couple of children then they come on the adult land excursions though the program of on board events is still run for them.

There is a doctor on board.

Star rating
This is a deluxe class motor cruiser.

Accommodation
All have private bathroom with hot shower and are fully air-conditioned.

All are outside with lower beds. All can be configured as twin or kingsize double. All have wardrobes.

The eight superior cabins are on the Boat Deck. These have one picture window so are very light an airy.

The 12 standard cabins are on the Main Deck. These are basically the same size as the superiors but have two or three portholes instead of picture windows.

Both superior and standard cabins are +/- 170sq feet.
The two single cabins are also on the Main Deck, each with one porthole. These are 110sq feet.

There is a well-equipped lounge for relaxation and for the nightly briefings and occasional live music.

There is a really quite elegant indoor dining room and an al fresco dining area on the Weather Deck. There is also a well-stocked library for quiet study and reading.

One of the most popular areas on board the Eclipse is the observation/sun deck, ideal for stargazing, whale watching, relaxing in the jacuzzi or on the comfortable sun loungers.

Noise
You should be aware that on any boat you will have some noise from generators and from the engine when travelling. Given the substantial construction and size of Eclipse this is not generally at all intrusive.

Stability
Being a larger ship she is really quite stable in the water. In addition, the boat follows a route which is relatively protected from the prevailing winds (coming from the south west).

However, there is bound to be some movement and this will be most noticeable July – October and in the more exposed waters of the southern tip of Isabela.

Responsible travel
Eclipse has been Smart Voyager certified since 2007 which is to say that it has passed and maintains rigorous environmental and sustainability protocols.

It is the Smart Voyager programme with is endorsed by the Galapagos Conservation Trust to be a useful means of checking your boat’s sustainability credentials.

Who is it for?
The boat is very comfortable but not flash.

It is a good choice for couples. Solo travellers have the option of a single cabin without paying the earth for the pleasure.

Families are well catered for both in terms of the special depatures with dedicated guides and activities but also with triple cabins available to share.

Useful Links

As you already know, Pura Aventura is dedicated to safe and responsible travel. The links below provide useful content and more information about Ecuador. Please call us of any special requirements on 01273 676 712.

Country Information

FCO

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office provides useful travel advices on Ecuador.

BBC News

BBC News provides useful information about Ecuador. Read more about it.

Official Government website

Find out more about Ecuador, by visiting its official governement website.

Prepare your holiday

Health

Before you go on your holiday to Ecuador, please ensure you have the correct vaccinations. Check out the NHS website for advices and visit your GP or a travel clinic.

Weather

To know the forecast in Ecuador, visit wunderground.

Pura’s Amazon shop

Find out our own Ecuador selection in Amazon.co.uk for a wide range of travel essentials, such as books, gadgets, clothing, etc. in preparation for your upcoming holiday.

Train ticket

If you are leaving from the UK, and want to be easy in your mind before you leave, book your train ticket or airport hotel now.

Flight deals

Find the best flight deals for your holiday to Ecuador with Kayak, Expedia, Vayama and Opodo.