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connoisseur’s choice
Travel & Resorts The next morning we were transported to the harbour to board the vessel we would live on for the next week. The Eclipse is one of the premiere vessels offering travelers an opportunity to visit the various islands open to the public. With a total of 24 comfortable and roomy staterooms, the vessel easily accommodates up to 48 passengers, who are well served by a very hospitable crew. Dining, buffet style, alternates between the outside stern deck and the interior dining room. The chef is quite proud of his cuisine and even offers Ecuadorian cooking lessons for those who wish to take part. Tourist travel among the islands is controlled. Each vessel carries naturalist guides licensed by and reporting to the government. The itineraries of the various vessels are also controlled so as to limit the number anchoring in any one harbour at any particular time. And of course the areas open to walking are well marked and it is prohibited to leave the marked trails or to be on your own without a guide. The basic concept is to limit the encroachment of tourism on the islands. Since the park was established, the government has been actively trying to return the islands to a pristine form. Previously, all manner of people had found their way to these very isolated islands. There were pirates, sailors, escaped prisoners and a few settlers who left behind evidence of their passing—not the least of which was escaped live stock such as goats and pigs and vermin. These efforts are likely unnoticed by the current visitors as they would appear to be most effective. While cruising amongst the islands, the basic agenda each day is an early breakfast followed by boarding a panga for an excursion to a gorgeous island landing with your guide. Each destination can boast excellent snorkelling or kayaking or swimming, and always a guided walk to view endless wildlife.
14 Good Life Connoisseur | Summer 2010
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