For what its worth, I agree. It does sound odd.
Who manufactures it? I googled eclipse, chinook and "hot tub" but couldn't find a manufacturer.
Phil
Eclispe is the shell color (it is also a 110v portable spa by Dreammaker), Chinook is the model. The only info I could find was it is a Spa and sauna dealer in Ottawa. Not much help.
Chinook Spas & Saunas
2050 Scott Street
Ottawa, ON
K1Z 6T1
This is probably just a dealer that coincidently has a similliar name to your model.
Shell discoloration can be caused by an empty tub sitting outside, uncovered in the sun. Low end manufactuers have been known to do this, and a dealer could also be responsible and, of course if it is used, then the previous owner.
Perhaps some chemicals, or cleaner was left in the tub well and not completely drained and left to sit and pool in the seating area?
If this tub was sold to you as new, I 'd wouldn't accept it.
Good luck and let us know how this plays out.