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the galapagos islands outstanding expeditions, unique experiences

the galapagos islands · the islands was given in 1978, when UNESCO declared them a World Heritage Site. Each island forms a unique ecosystem, a series of specialized relationships

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the galapagos islandsoutstanding expeditions, unique experiences

Passion for Nature Situated 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos archipelago consists of 19 islands and more than 40 islets, created six million

years ago when they emerged from the Pacific in a flurry of volcanic activity. Perhaps our first association with the word “Galapagos” is the name “Darwin” – and for good reason. He sailed into the Galapagos Islands in 1835 on board

the Beagle and was amazed by the extraordinary life he found on the islands. It has been more than 450 years since their discovery, yet the islands remain

largely intact thanks to the conservation efforts of the Galapagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station. A further boost to the protection of

the islands was given in 1978, when UNESCO declared them a World Heritage Site. Each island forms a unique ecosystem, a series of specialized relationships that have adapted to the volcanic and isolated nature of the islands. As a result, the

Galapagos Islands are home to a wide variety of endemic species. The waters around the Galapagos, which are the lifeblood of the archipelago, are also legally

protected within the Galapagos Marine Reserve, making the islands one of the best places on the planet for scuba diving. The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the highest levels of endemism anywhere on the planet (species found nowhere else on earth). About 80% of the

land birds, 97% of the reptiles and land mammals, and more than 30% of the plants are endemic. Around 20% of the 2,900 marine species in Galapagos are

found nowhere else on Earth. This makes the archipelago a magnet for wildlife and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Favorites include the giant

Galapagos tortoise, marine iguana, flightless cormorant, and the Galapagos penguin - the only penguin species to be found in the northern hemisphere. There is simply nowhere like the Galapagos, and the barren landscapes of these remote islands have not lost any of their haunting beauty since Darwin’s days. This is

one of the last wildernesses on Earth, where you can merrily swim with turtles, watch a blue-footed booby feed its young and bob around in the water with penguins.

This archipelago offers a unique interaction with nature, and their name is synonymous with survival and the celebration of the diversity of species on Earth.

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The Galapagos Islands

Spacious indoor and outdoor areas, with more outdoor space than any other boat of its size.

Al fresco dining with an average of 15 meals served outdoors while cruising.

Family cruises that include special activities, programs and materials for children, as well as a child coordinator.

The only ship this size that has two single cabins available, and therefore no single supplement.

Small groups with a maximum of 12 guests per naturalist guide, compared to 16 guests per guide on other boats.

A well-equipped infirmary with an on-board M.D. who provides services free of charge.

Why M/V Eclipse?

The M/V Eclipse is an upscale

expedition vessel that offers

unparalleled levels of comfort and

service. She is the perfect size for an

expedition-style adventure and the

choice for travelers who prefer the

intimate atmosphere and attentive

service of a smaller boutique vessel

to a larger cruise ship.

Social AreasIn addition to the chic indoor dining room, the Eclipse features an al fresco dining area, where guests can

savor a scrumptious meal with the islands’ stunning scenery as a backdrop. The lounge provides a relaxed

atmosphere for the nightly briefings and lectures on board, and the library is a quiet place to catch up on

some reading. One of the most popular areas is the sun deck, ideal for wildlife viewing, soaking in the Jacuzzi

or relaxing in the comfortable sun loungers.

AccommodationOur 26 spacious staterooms

accommodate up to 48 passengers –

just half the number usually found on

a ship this size. This means that

passengers can enjoy the generous

accommodation of a larger vessel,

while preserving the atmosphere and

exclusivity of a smaller yacht. The

M/V Eclipse offers accommodation

in five cabin categories, all stylishly

decorated and equipped with private

facilities, air conditioning, and

ocean-view windows or portholes.

Two Deluxe Staterooms have an

extra bed for triple occupancy and

two Staterooms on each cabin deck

have interconnecting doors to

accommodate families.

* Cabin areas are approximate measurements

Length: 210 ft / 64 m

Draft: 11 ft / 3.2 m

Gross Tonnage: 1610

Cruising Speed: 11 knots

Life Jackets: In each cabin

Lifeboats: 6

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

4 Deluxe Staterooms on the Boat Deck

8 Superior Staterooms with picture windowson the Boat Deck

5 Standard Staterooms with portholes onthe Main Deck

7 Staterooms with portholes on the Main Deck

2 Single Staterooms with portholeson the Main Deck

CABIN LAYOUT:

Main Deck

Weather Deck

Boat Deck

Sun Deck

Main Deck

Weather Deck

Boat Deck

Sun Deck

Lateral View

DECK PLAN

17-20 / Deluxe Stateroom

21-28 / Superior Stateroom

9+11-15 / Standard Stateroom

3-8 +10 / Stateroom

1-2 / Single Stateroom

Inter-connected Cabins

Social Areas

Restricted Areas

Lounge

Boutique

Reception

Bar

Bar

Kitchen

MD

Dining RoomAl frescoDining

Area

2022242628

1921232527

17

18

Library

Jacuzzi Bridge

14 12 10 8 6 4 2

CruiseDirector

11 9 7 5 3 115

210 sq. ft.CABIN 18

170 sq. ft.CABIN 27

170 sq. ft.CABIN 11

170 sq. ft.CABIN 6

110 sq. ft.CABIN 1

Unrivalled ItinerariesAll our itineraries operate from Saturday to Saturday, and they are designed to showcase the

very best of the Galapagos Islands.

Our Española route includes jaw-dropping Galapagos scenery at Moreno Point on Isabela

Island, as well as Española Island, home to the unique waved albatross and other

breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. This route can also be taken as a 5 night cruise, from

Saturday to Thursday, which includes one full day in the western region of the islands.

Our 7 night Genovesa itinerary takes in the northern region of the archipelago, with visits to

Isabela and Fernandina Islands, renowned for their unique wildlife and exceptional

snorkeling. Genovesa Island is home to some of the most extraordinary birdlife you will ever

see, and the view from the top of Bartolomé Island is emblematic of the Galapagos.

albany

rábida(Jervis)

santiago(San Salvador o James)

bartolomé

DragonHill Bachas

Beach

PuntaBaquerizo

Darwin Bay

Sullivan Bay

JamesBay

BanksBay

UrbinaBay

Bolivar C

han

nel

Puerto Egas

PuntaAlbemarle

PuntaFlores

Vicente RocaPoint

TagusCove

Espinoza Point

Prince Philip’s Steps

D1

D2

D8

D2

D6

D7

D6

D3

D4

D5

isabela(Albemarle)

pinta(Abingdon)

santa cruz(Indefatigable)

baltra(South Seymour)

los 4hermanos(Crossman)

mosqueranorth seymour

plazas

santa fé(Barrington)

española(Hood)

santa maría(Floreana o Charles)

pinzón(Duncan)

san cristobal(Chatham)

fernandina(Narborough)

marchena(Bindloe)

genovesa(Tower)

Cabo Ibbetson

Playa Negra

Punta Calle

Punta Espejo

Kicker Rock

Punta Bassa

CerroBrujo

Charles DarwinResearch Station

El Chato

Suarez Point

watson

caldwell

enderby

gardner

champion

Punta Ayora

Cormorant Point

Fondeadero

Devil’sCrown

Punta Sur

Pitt Point

Agua DulceBay

Rosa BlancaBay

HobbsBay

Gardner Bay

Post Office Bay

WreckBay

PuertoBaquerizo

Moreno

PuertoAyora

AcademyBay

Elizabeth Bay

CartagoBay

DavisBay

RocaRedonda

Moreno Point

Caleta Webb

Punta Essex

CaboDouglas

EcuadorVolcano

WolfVolcano1646 m

DarwinVolcano1280 m

AlcedoVolcano1097 m

Sierra NegraVolcano1490 mCerro Azul

Volcano1689 m

La CumbreVolcano1463 m

PuertoVillamil

darwin(Culpepper)

wolf(Wenman)

1º 30’

tortuga(Brattle)

Cabo Rose

BlackTurtleCove

The Galapagos IslandsECUADORGalapagos

Islands

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PACIFIC OCEAN

ItineraryMap

KEY

Airport

Town

Provincial Capital

Road

Visitor Site

JOURNEY BEGINS

Navigation route

with Española I.

DAY 1

Saturday

AM

PM

DAY 2

Sunday

AM

PM

DAY 3

Monday

AM

PM

DAY 4

Tuesday

DAY 5

Wednesday

AM

PM

DAY 6

Thursday

AMPM

DAY 7

Friday

AM

PM

DAY 8

Saturday

AM

Arrive at Baltra IslandOnce you arrive at Baltra airport, you will clear immigration, be met by your guide, and escorted to the harbor. A motorized dinghy, or “dinghy”, will then transfer you to the M/V Eclipse, where you will be welcomed by the Captain and crew.

North Seymour Is.North Seymour is a perfect introduction to the Galapagos Islands. Although the island is characterized by arid vegetation, fauna abounds and you will soon find yourself surrounded by sea lions, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, frigatebirds and more. Difficulty level: Moderate.

South Plaza Is.South Plaza Island is home to a large opuntia cactus forest, land iguanas and one of the largest sea lion colonies in the central region of the archipelago. You will also see Nazca boobies, swallow-tailed gulls and other kinds of sea birds, as well as different types of finches. Difficulty level: Moderate.

Santa Fé Is.During the hike you will encounter some of Santa Fé’s endemic species, including the Galapagos hawk, the Galapagos snake, various finches and the Galapagos mockingbird. Playful sea lions usually join swimmers and kayakers during beach time. Difficulty level: Moderate.

San Cristobal Is. - Pitt PointPitt Point is located on the eastern tip of San Cristobal Island. You will hike up to a plateau where the view and landscape are so spectacular it is definitely worth the effort. The power hike is followed by kayaking, snorkeling or a dinghy ride. Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult.

San Cristobal Is. - Cerro BrujoIn addition to magnificent scenery, there is wonderful swimming and a dinghy ride at this visitor site. Cerro Brujo’s spectacular beach is home to a large colony of sea lions, and it is the first place in the archipelago that Charles Darwin visited. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

Isabela Is. – Elizabeth BayElizabeth Bay is one of the furthest points of the Galapagos that we will visit on our cruise. We will enter a sheltered cove that is only accessible by dinghy – a wonderful mangrove ecosystem that is a refuge for sea turtles, rays and herons. Difficulty level: Easy.

Isabela Is. – Moreno PointMoreno Point, which is southwest of Elizabeth Bay, is famous for its large population of sea birds. You’ll be able to get close to them on a dinghy ride along the cliffs of the island, or on a hike through lava rock that leads to tide pools and mangroves teeming with life. You will also have time for snorkeling. Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult.

Santa Cruz Is. - Puerto Ayora & HighlandsOn your visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station you will gain insight into the extensive efforts underway to preserve the Galapagos Islands. You will also encounter the famous Galapagos tortoises that are the islands’ namesake. After the visit, we will drive to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz to search for giant tortoises in their natural surroundings. In the afternoon you will have free time for shopping and mingling with the locals, or you can simply relax on board the Eclipse. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.**For those on our 5-night itinerary, this will be your departure day. In the morning you will visit the highlands of Santa Cruz to see giant tortoises in the wild, followed by a transfer to Baltra airport for your flight back to the mainland.

Española Is. – Gardner BayGardner Bay offers the chance to enjoy a pristine white sandy beach. In addition to being a nesting site for sea turtles, it is home to one of the most important colonies of sea lions in the archipelago. Activities include swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Difficulty level: Easy.

Española Is. – Suarez PointSuarez Point is home to large populations of Nazca & blue-footed boobies, as well as the beautiful waved albatross (seasonally). The 10,000 to 12,000 pairs of albatrosses on Española represent the vast majority of this species on the planet. They perform one of the most spectacular courtship rituals of the animal world. Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult.

Mosquera Islet & Departure This tiny islet is home to a huge population of sea lions, as well as many shorebirds. Keep your eyes peeled, as there are occasional reports of dolphins and orca around Mosquera. Difficulty level: Easy.

You will then be transferred to Baltra airport for your flight back to the mainland.

AM

PM

Floreana Is. – Post Office Bay & Baroness’ Viewing Point Post Office Bay is home to a unique “post office” inspired by 18th century pirates and buccaneers who used a wooden barrel as an unofficial mailbox. The Baroness’ Viewing Point is the ideal place to take in the unique scenery that defines Floreana, and to learn about the history of the island’s early settlers. Difficulty level: Easy.

Floreana Is. – Champion Islet & Cormorant PointAfter snorkeling at Champion Islet, you will visit Cormorant Point, where there is a beautiful lagoon that is home to flamingos, stilts and pintail ducks. An excellent site for bird-watching. Difficulty level: Easy.

7 Night Cruise with Española Island

D1

D7

D5

D5

D6

D8

D2

D3

D4

D4

albany

rábida(Jervis)

santiago(San Salvador o James)

bartolomé

DragonHill Bachas

Beach

PuntaBaquerizo

Darwin Bay

Sullivan Bay

JamesBay

BanksBay

UrbinaBay

Bolivar C

han

nel

Puerto Egas

PuntaAlbemarle

PuntaFlores

Vicente RocaPoint

TagusCove

Espinoza Point

Prince Philip’s Steps

isabela(Albemarle)

pinta(Abingdon)

santa cruz(Indefatigable)

baltra(South Seymour)

los 4hermanos(Crossman)

mosquera

north seymour

plazas

santa fé(Barrington)

española(Hood)

santa maría(Floreana o Charles)

pinzón(Duncan)

san cristobal(Chatham)

fernandina(Narborough)

marchena(Bindloe)

genovesa(Tower)

Cabo Ibbetson

Playa Negra

Punta Calle

Punta Espejo

Kicker Rock

Punta Bassa

CerroBrujo

Charles DarwinResearch Station

El Chato

Suarez Pointwatson

caldwell

enderby

gardner

champion

Punta Ayora

Cormorant Point

Fondeadero

Devil’sCrown

Punta Sur

Pitt Point

Agua DulceBay

Rosa BlancaBay

HobbsBay

Gardner Bay

Post Office Bay

WreckBay

PuertoBaquerizo

Moreno

PuertoAyora

AcademyBay

Elizabeth Bay

CartagoBay

DavisBay

RocaRedonda

Moreno Point

Caleta Webb

Punta Essex

CaboDouglas

EcuadorVolcano

WolfVolcano1646 m

DarwinVolcano1280 m

AlcedoVolcano1097 m

Sierra NegraVolcano1490 mCerro Azul

Volcano1689 m

La CumbreVolcano1463 m

PuertoVillamil

darwin(Culpepper)

wolf(Wenman)

1º 30’

tortuga(Brattle)

Cabo Rose

BlackTurtleCove

The Galapagos IslandsECUADORGalapagos

Islands

Equator 0º

PACIFIC OCEAN

ItineraryMap

KEY

Airport

Town

Provincial Capital

Road

Visitor Site

JOURNEY BEGINS

Navigation routewith Genovesa I.

DAY 1

Saturday

AM

PM

DAY 2

Sunday

AM

PM

DAY 3

Monday

AM

PM

DAY 4

Tuesday

DAY 5

Wednesday

AMPM

DAY 6

Thursday

AM

PM

DAY 7

Friday

AM

PM

DAY 8

Saturday

AM

Arrive at Baltra IslandOnce you arrive at Baltra airport, you will clear immigration, be met by your guide, and escorted to the harbor. A motorized dinghy, or “panga”, will then transfer you to the M/V Eclipse, where you will be welcomed by the Captain and crew.

Santa Cruz Is. - Black Turtle CoveBlack Turtle Cove is a complex maze of tranquil salt-water inlets, surrounded by three different species of mangrove. Its waters are a nursery site for sea turtles, rays and sharks as well as a nesting site for sea birds. This site is only accessible by dinghy. Difficulty level: Easy.

Rábida Is.Rábida is a small island with red volcanic rocks surrounding a beautiful red sand beach, where there is a colony of sea lions and a pelican nesting site. The trail leads to a salt water lagoon where shore birds can be seen. Activities include snorkeling, swimming, kayaking or dinghy ride. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

Santiago Is. - James BayThe trail leads to tidal pools that are home to a variety of invertebrate organisms, including sea urchins, octopus and starfish. You will also see marine iguanas, finches and possibly the Galapagos hawk, as well as the less common Galapagos fur sea lion. After the walk, you will have time to swim or snorkel from the beach. Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate.

Isabela Is. – Tagus CoveTagus Cove was historically used as an anchoring place for pirates and buccaneers. The trail up from the cove goes through an area of vegetation, leading to a spectacular view of Darwin Volcano Lake. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking and dinghy ride. Difficulty level: Easy to Difficult (While the dinghy ride is easy, the hike up to the lake can be strenuous).

Fernandina Is. – Espinoza PointFernandina Island is one of the most pristine and dynamic ecosystems in the entire world. La Cumbre Volcano, which last erupted in April 2009, dominates the landscape. Espinoza Point is home to unique Galapagos species such as the Galapagos penguin, flightless cormorant, Galapagos snake and huge marine iguanas. Difficulty level: Moderate.

Santa Cruz Is. - Puerto Ayora & HighlandsOn your visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station you will gain insight into the extensive efforts underway to preserve the Galapagos Islands. You will also encounter the famous Galapagos tortoises that are the islands’ namesake. After the visit we will drive to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz to search for giant tortoises in their natural surroundings. In the afternoon you will have free time for shopping and mingling with the locals, or you can simply relax on board. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

Genovesa Is. – Prince Phillip’s StepsPrince Phillip’s Steps, is a steep path with stairs carved into the rock, which leads to a plateau full of bird life amongst a palo santo forest. You will see Nazca boobies, Galapagos doves, mockingbirds and petrels. With some luck, you may spot a short-eared lava owl. Difficulty level: Moderate.

Genovesa Is. – Darwin BayDarwin Bay’s soft, coralline white sand is only the beginning of a spectacular excursion. The trail takes you into lush mangroves where red-footed boobies nest. Other locals include sea lions, swallow-tailed gulls and frigatebirds. Kayaking or snorkeling are a must here, since sharks, colorful reef fish, rays and sea turtles are often seen. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

Bartolomé Is.Bartolomé, one of the most iconic sites in the Galapagos, is a small island with two very different visitor sites: on the beautiful beach you can hang out with sea lions and snorkel, while the hike up to the peak offers jaw-dropping scenery. Difficulty Level: Moderate. Walk up 375 low-grade stairs to the top at a slow to moderate pace.

Santa Cruz Is. – Dragon HillAs the name implies, Dragon Hill is known for its healthy population of land iguanas. Other locals include common stilts, pintail ducks and occasionally flamingos. A short walk up the hill leads you to a land iguana nesting site, with breathtaking views of the bay. You will have the chance to go snorkeling after the walk. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

Santa Cruz Is. – Bachas BeachLas Bachas Beach is located in the north of Santa Cruz Island. Its soft, white sand is derived from decomposed coral, making it a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Behind the beach there is a small brackish lagoon, where it is possible to observe flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilts and whimbrels. Difficulty level: Easy.

You will then be transferred to Baltra airport for your flight back to the mainland.

AM

PM

Isabela Is. – Urbina BayLocated in the west of Isabela, at the foot of Alcedo volcano. This site is famous for its large land iguanas, and keep your eyes peeled for Galapagos tortoises, flightless cormorants and penguins. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

Isabela Is. – Vicente Roca PointVicente Roca Point is a wonderful snorkeling site, where you can usually see turtles as well as all kinds of fish. For those who don’t snorkel, a dinghy ride will give you the opportunity to study some of the Galapagos spectacular geography. Nazca boobies, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants and penguins are often seen in the area. Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.

7 Night Cruise with Genovesa Island

Family DeparturesTaking children to the Galapagos Islands is an immensely rewarding experience. For this reason, we have

developed selected family departures that combine discovery and entertainment for the whole family.

On scheduled family departures, a Child Coordinator is assigned to educate and entertain your children, while

you enjoy the cruise at your own pace, in the knowledge that your children are in safe hands, making their own

discoveries about the history of evolution and the unique species of the islands. There are no fixed programs,

and each family departure is operated according to the children’s preferences and group dynamics.