Wildlife

If you direct your line of sight away from the land and towards the sea, the characteristic, upward leap of the humpback whale can be seen as it comes up for air.
Meanwhile, the gentle, forward gliding of the blue whale drifts along the surface of the ocean. If the time is right, extra-lucky guests on board Scenic Eclipse just might catch the instantly-recognizable black and white pattern of the Orca. 

Also, you might catch a glimpse of the large, earless elephant seals, as they gather on the rocks, congregating in unison. If you do happen to spot a slightly leaner, more athletic creature, that’ll be the leopard seal. Leopard seals have distinctive long, muscular bodies, large heads and short whiskers.

The beautiful and distinctive Arctic reindeer (or Caribou) are sadly decreasing in numbers thanks to climate change, but you may still be able to spot one or two in their luscious white coats against the snow.

Possibly the most iconic of the Arctic's wildlife, you may be lucky enough to spot an ever-elusive polar bear. Beautiful and breath-taking in appearance, polar bears can be seen all year round in the Arctic. From swimming in the warmer months, to strolling along against the backdrop of the Northern Lights in the colder months, you’ll have the chance to witness the incredible polar bear 365 days a year.

The World Heritage-listed city of Quito will charm you before you are ensconced in luxury at the exquisite Mashpi Lodge - your base while you explore the cloud forest and rainforest surrounding this reserve. From more than 30 species of hummingbirds, who call Masphi Forest home, to the rarest of orchids and cheeky capuchin monkeys, you will have the chance to see these and more in their natural habitat. 

Our cruise exploration of the mighty Galápagos Islands will give you plenty of opportunities to see incredible species such as blue-footed boobies, sea lions, lava lizards, flamingos, herons, rays, albatross and even the endangered Galápagos giant tortoise.