Eclipse Yachts First 505 Express Cruiser Nears Completion
Set to be among the fastest outboard-powered express cruisers on the market, the Eclipse 505 and 605 are coming soon!
Last month, HMY Yachts and Two Oceans Marine announced exciting news for cruising yacht enthusiasts around the world. The two companies are gearing up for the Newport International Boat Show in Rhode Island on September 12-15th 2024, where they'll be unveiling their latest cruising masterpiece, the ECLIPSE 505 Express Cruiser, as she makes her official U.S. debut. With the inaugural Eclipse 505 set to make an initial grand debut in Cape Town, South Africa, in around 90 days, the anticipation is palpable, edging closer to making the dreams of bringing this boat to life a tangible reality. Following the 505, the forthcoming Eclipse 605 has been touted as the world’s new fastest outboard-powered express cruiser, with four 600hp Mercury V12 Verado engines.
Above: An Eclipse 505 yacht. Image via Two Oceans Marine/HMY Yachts.
Design Elements
Last year, at the 2023 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, HMY displayed a life-size mockup of the ECLIPSE 505, revealing how the boat will incorporate unique design elements, including sliding doors and a fold-down side platform. Fast forward to April 2024, and Two Ocean's Marine's specialized manufacturing facility for the ECLIPSE 505 in Cape Town, production is humming along at full tilt. In just a few short months, the facility has undergone remarkable change. What were once vacant halls are now abuzz with activity, with a dedicated workforce spanning every essential department, from electrical to precision machining to woodworking.
Build Process
As with any vessel, the process of crafting each boat is a journey in itself. Beginning with the inception of each ECLIPSE 505 in its hull mold and concluding with delivery to the eager captain awaiting their cutting-edge, new vessel. It's a vision that is soon to come full circle.
Both the ECLIPSE 505 and the forthcoming 605 models feature specialized stringer grid molds, forming the core structure of each boat in a single process, which involves laying it up in white gelcoat and infusing it with resin. Crafting a mold exclusively for the stringer system is unusual due to its complexity and the time it requires. However, this approach, as demonstrated, offers superior consistency in construction and enhanced stiffness of the hull when compared to traditional methods like milling foam and manually laminating numerous pieces into the hull one by one.
The 505 model comes equipped with a revolutionary outboard power system and the patented Michael Peters SVVT hull, achieving remarkable speed and stability. Its two-stateroom layout and flush deck entertaining spaces provide luxury typically associated with larger yachts.
Hull Number 1
Above: Eclipse 505 Hull #1. Image via HMY Yachts.
The ECLIPSE 505’S first hull was recently tested with a preliminary coat to ensure it reflected light perfectly. Once completed, it received a final coat showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship. The color for Hull #001 is “Whisper Green Metallic” Awlgrip. The project's production manager expressed excitement over the flawless alignment of the hull and deck joints, considering it the best he’s seen in his career.
Brand Background
Back in late 2022, Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing and HMY Yacht Sales initially announced they were joining forces to introduce the ECLIPSE line of express cruising models, with HMY serving as the brand's exclusive broker. The ECLIPSE 505 and 605 models, each with distinct features, aim to provide fast luxury cruising experiences on the water.
For those seeking even greater luxury and performance, the ECLIPSE 505 SHADOW edition is set to raise the bar further. With enhancements including additional horsepower, innovative interior design by Silver Arrows Design, and advanced connectivity features, the SHADOW edition will embody the pinnacle of on-the-water luxury.
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