The sun was shining, and the anticipation was palpable at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS). All eyes were on the newly-launched ECLIPSE 505 Shadow, a luxury express cruiser yacht that recently arrived from Cape Town, South Africa. Designed to combine high-end performance with sleek, minimalist aesthetics, the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow made a statement at the show and set a new standard for what a modern-day cruiser can achieve.
ECLIPSE Yachts hosted a walkthrough of the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow led by two prominent voices in the boating world: Jeff Moser, Editor-in-Chief of Passagemaker Magazine, and Pim Van Hemmen, Executive Editor of Power & Motoryacht Soundings. Their genuine enthusiasm for the 505 Shadow was unmistakable as they explored the yacht’s thoughtful design, impressive craftsmanship, and high-performance capabilities.
One of the standout quotes from Jeff Moser encapsulated the essence of the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow:
“It’s nicely finished, it’s got all the Thermador appliances, everything’s high-end.” Indeed, the yacht’s interior reflects an attention to detail reminiscent of a luxury penthouse. High-quality materials and cutting-edge design converge to create an inviting yet sophisticated space. Van Hemmen was quick to echo these sentiments, comparing the yacht to a high-end luxury sports car—a vessel that not only looks sleek but also exudes a sense of power and elegance.
Luxury Meets Minimalism
The ECLIPSE 505 Shadow interior is a masterclass in minimalism without sacrificing the luxury elements that yacht owners crave. Stepping aboard, one is immediately greeted by a blend of black walnut wood finishes, carbon fiber accents, and meticulously crafted details. This harmonious mix of materials creates a warm yet modern atmosphere, allowing the space to feel inviting without being overly ornate. The minimalist design ethos is also evident in the layout. Despite its abundance of high-end features, the yacht never feels cluttered. As Van Hemmen put it, “Even though so many features are packed in; it doesn’t feel crowded.” This clever use of space is a testament to ECLIPSE’s design philosophy—delivering functionality without sacrificing comfort.
Key Features of the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow
At the heart of the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow appeal is its combination of luxury, performance, and practicality. Here’s a closer look at what makes this yacht stand out:
- Power Moon Roof: One of the most striking features is the expansive power moon roof. With a simple push of a button, the roof opens to allow natural light and fresh air to flood the interior, creating an open, airy feel that’s perfect for warm-weather cruising.
- Spacious Layout: The 505 Shadow comes equipped with two beautifully appointed staterooms and two full bathrooms. The generous sleeping quarters ensure that guests can unwind in comfort after a day on the water.
- High-Performance Engines: The ECLIPSE 505 Shadow is powered by Triple 600-Horsepower Mercury Engines, offering exhilarating speed and responsive handling. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or exploring offshore waters, the yacht delivers a thrilling ride.
- Carbon Fiber Accents:The use of carbon fiber is not only an aesthetic choice but also, a functional one. The lightweight material enhances performance while giving the yacht a modern, sporty look. The carbon fiber seats and touches throughout the cabin underscore the yacht’s luxurious yet minimalist vibe.
- Alpi Italian Walnut Interior:The interior is dominated by rich Alpi Italian Walnut wood, adding a touch of elegance and warmth. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the cabinetry to the flooring, giving the yacht an upscale residential feel.
Designed for Safety and Comfort
While the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow design is undeniably stylish, it’s also built with safety in mind. Van Hemmen highlighted this aspect during the walkthrough, noting how secure the yacht feels when moving around on deck. “In some boats you feel like you have to let go; here you really feel safe going up forward,” he remarked. This sense of security allows owners and guests to enjoy the yacht to its fullest, whether they’re navigating calm coastal waters or venturing into more challenging seas.
The Future of ECLIPSE Yachts
The debut of the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow is just the beginning for the brand. In addition to this showstopper, ECLIPSE has plans to expand its lineup with the introduction of the smaller 395 and 455 models next year. And for those who were captivated by the 505 Shadow at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), there’s even more to look forward to—the larger ECLIPSE 605 is set to make its debut at next year’s show.
ECLIPSE Yachts is making significant strides in the industry, with 14 more units scheduled to arrive from Cape Town in the coming year. The company’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in their choice of premium materials and high-end finishes but also in their focus on performance, safety, and innovation.
A New Standard in Luxury Yachting
The response to the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) has been overwhelmingly positive. Attendees were not only impressed by the yacht’s sleek lines and luxurious finishes but also by its ability to stand out from the rest. The 505 Shadow manages to strike a balance that few yachts can achieve—offering all the amenities one would expect from a high-end cruiser while maintaining a sporty, agile feel on the water.
Jeff Moser summarized it best with his comparison to a luxury sports car. The ECLIPSE 505 Shadow is for those who seek more than just a vessel—it’s for those who crave an experience, where every detail has been meticulously considered to enhance the journey. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset cruise with friends or embarking on a longer adventure, the 505 Shadow is built to deliver both thrills and relaxation.
What’s Next?
As we look ahead to 2025, the ECLIPSE Yachts brand is poised to make even bigger waves in the boating industry. With the upcoming launch of the 605 model and additional units arriving from Cape Town, ECLIPSE Yachts is committed to redefining the luxury express cruiser yachting experience. For those who missed the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow debut at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), stay tuned for more exciting developments as the brand continues to expand its impressive lineup.
For more information about ECLIPSE Yachts and the 505 Shadow, please visit www.ECLIPSE-yachts.com or contact HMY Yacht Sales at (561) 448-8500.
Video Link: Check out the full walkthrough of the ECLIPSE 505 Shadow with Jeff Moser and Pim Van Hemmen here.