January 18, 2000

NEW BEGINNING for MINI-CRUISE SHIP

ECLIPSE

The 210' cruise ship ECLIPSE recently began operating in the Galapagos Island Cruise business.  The vessel conversion was designed by DeJong & Lebet, Inc., Naval Architects, Jacksonville , Florida .  DeJong & Lebet, Inc. has engineered several vessel conversions in the past 10-15 years.  The vessel is operated by Quasar Nautica Expeditions in Quito , Ecuador.

The ECLIPSE was originally constructed as the ferry vessel AEGEAN SEA for service in the Mediterranean by a Spanish shipyard in 1982.  The current Owners bought the vessel in 1997, and began the conversion process.  The original vessel was laid out as an 800-passenger day ferry.  The vessel's passenger lounges were completely stripped.  The second level was extended, and a third enclosed level was created on a formerly open deck.  The existing swimming pool was refurbished.

The result was a very modern, nicely furnished overnight cruise ship with (27) comfortable staterooms, and a capacity of (48) passengers and (28) crew.  The staterooms are located on the Main Deck and Third Deck, including four suites on the Third Deck.  All of the staterooms are furnished by Marine Accommodations.  All interior spaces were fitted with new modern air conditioning and ventilation systems, including fresh air replacement capability.

Other interior accommodations include refurbished crew staterooms forward on the Main Deck, separate passenger dining room and lounge on the Second Deck, and a library area.  A new large size stair tower was added for increase safety.

The vessel is powered by the original Deutz engines, 1175 HP each.  The existing Deutz generators were re-used.  A new emergency generator was added.

Other new installations include a water-maker, interior communications systems, modernized pilothouse equipment, sprinkler system upgrade, as wall as many other safety system upgrades to current standards.

Principle characteristics of the vessel are as follows:

Length (overall):                        210'  (63.9 m)

Beam (moulded):                        41'  (12.5 m)

Depth:                                      14.1'   (4.3 m)

Draft:                                        10.5'   (3.2 m)