www.galapagostourist.org

[Rancul]

I’m posting this lengthy trip report on the Eclipse because there is not a lot of info on this particular ship and I hope this info assists another traveler in his/her planning.

My husband and I did 7-days on the Eclipse in December '06 and our requirements were air-conditioning (it gets hot!), good food and free snorkel equipment and wet suit. On the recommendation of a friend, we booked through Nautica Galapagos in Quito who suggested either the Lammer Law or Eclipse. Lammer Law was our first choice but it was booked solid this entire year. After the rough seas, I’m glad we took the larger boat.

4 days v. 7 days: My husband and I are very outdoorsy people who volunteer at the local state park but I’ll admit that by day 5 – every volcanic island was starting to look alike. If nature isn’t your thing, you should consider a shorter cruise or stay on Santa Cruz (I recommend the Royal Palm hotel) and take day trips out to other islands which most hotels (like Royal Palm) can coordinate. You pretty much see the same wildlife on the same volcanic rock at every landing. Amazing and wondrous but not a lot of variety.

Size: The Eclipse had 24 cabins for a total of 48 people. The ship was larger than most but not as big as the Legend or Celebrity. If seasickness is a concern, you should really consider a larger vessel. I have never had a problem with motion sickness but there were two legs of this cruise where the boat really rocked and rolled. Thankfully, Dramamine tablets were provided in a large crystal vase at the front desk. The two legs were Rabida Island to Fernandina Island (98 miles) and Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island (105 miles) – the latter was rough! It was comparable to what we experienced as we entered Drake Passage (roughest seas in the world) enroute to Antarctica. A doctor had office hours from 8am-6pm and you could drop in at no cost to be treated for seasickness or whatever other bug you may have picked up in your travels to the Galapagos.

Cabins: We booked just a regular cabin and found it to be quite spacious with more than enough closet space. Bathroom was small but shower and toilet functioned well. Beds were comfortable. No bunk beds but we ended up with two twins. And, it had air-conditioning! The nights were warm and muggy so we were thankful to not rely on an open porthole for ventilation. The Eclipse goes in for a major refreshening the entire month of September so it looks well maintained.

Activities: The Eclipse was large enough so a variety of activities could be offered - for instance, one afternoon we had the option of walking on the beach with a guide, deep water snorkeling or taking a panga (dingy) ride around the islands. Prior to dinner, we would meet in the lounge to review our day, view photos taken by one of the guides and learn about the next day’s activities. Because we were split into small groups of 12 people per guide, we never felt like part of a crowd. The guides all made an extra effort to learn our interests and to make sure we had a good time. We were the only two avid bird watchers but the guides always took us aside to point out birds.

Food: All food was served buffet style. Breakfast was always served inside while lunch and dinner were typically out on the veranda. Food was a good mix between South American cuisine and American. If you felt seasick, the chef even had a “special plate” of white rice, plain chicken and something else to help settle your stomach. After every afternoon activity, snacks and a special drink of the day was served. Tea/coffee/hot chocolate station with Oreos and crackers was available and stocked 24hrs.

People: Our cruise was really full and a few extra kids pushed the total beyond normal capacity. (If you don't like kids, avoid the summer months). We had a lot of interesting people from two single 85+ year old ladies traveling alone to two large family groups. Except for the families, everyone seemed to make appoint of sitting with different people for every meal. Common topics of conversation seem to be around travel- “where are you going next…” and “where have you been...”

Thoughts on smaller boats: All our guides had worked on other boats, including Parranda, Lammer Law and Alta. They said these were all top class but shared two observations regarding smaller vessels. (1) The group "votes" on activities and majority wins. If you want to try deep water snorkeling and you're with people who don't like water, you're out of luck. (2) The guides also said it was quite common for one or two couples to end up on the same cruise as a large family or family reunion who typically will dominate the cruise. I’m sure this isn’t true of every cruise but I think it would stink to spend all this money on your dream vacation and end up the outcast.

How we booked: The Nautica Galapagos agent we dealt with left the company prior to our trip but there was no gap in service. We were happy their English communication skills, level of service and felt we got a good deal. Even during high season, we paid significantly less than listed rate. Nautica Galapagos coordinated all our hotel transfers in Quito, reservations at the Marriott and a package night at the BelleVista Cloud Forest Lodge.
Hope this helps.
Happy and safe travels!

[taua]

Thanks much for your report on the Eclipse. It's very helpful.
I am in the process of booking a cruise (probably 6 day/5night) in March.
You mentioned you got a good deal through Nautica.
Do you mind posting how much the cruise cost per person? I was quoted $3,080 for 6 days/5nights. I don't know if this is a reasonable price or not.
Thanks.