Azamara taps Lowell for 2026 solar eclipse cruises

Published on Sep 23, 2025, 7:51 pm CDT

5 min read

Azamara Cruises will team with Lowell Observatory to elevate three solar eclipse cruises in August 2026, pairing prime ocean vantage points with expert programming and safe viewing. The line says guests can expect lectures, stargazing sessions, interactive demonstrations, and live narration during the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. The voyages span the Mediterranean, Ireland's Atlantic approaches, and the North Atlantic between Iceland and Greenland, aligning with the path of totality and strong partial coverage across Europe.

Key Points

Why it matters: Science programming at sea turns a rare event into a deeper learning experience.
Travel impact: Three itineraries position ships for optimal eclipse viewing and crowd-free skies.
What's next: Bookings are open, and competitive astronomy cruise options are adding pressure on space.
Eclipse day is August 12, 2026, with totality over Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.
Programming includes astronomer-led talks, guided viewing, and certified eclipse glasses.

Snapshot

Azamara will deploy three ships with Lowell Observatory support around the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse. Azamara Onward operates an 11-night Greece, Turkey, and Italy voyage departing August 2 from Athens. Azamara Quest runs a 12-night Ireland Intensive, embarking August 7 from Dublin. Azamara Journey sails an 18-night Iceland, Greenland, and Quebec itinerary, departing August 8 from Reykjavik. Lowell's astronomers will lead pre-eclipse briefings, stargazing on clear nights, and live narration during the event, with certified viewing glasses provided for safe observation. The plan mirrors growing interest in astronomy cruise programming as lines compete to secure clear horizons and expert hosts.

Background

The August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse will trace a path of totality over the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain, with a broad partial eclipse visible across much of Europe and parts of North America and Africa. At sea, ships can maneuver for clearer skies and steadier horizons, which is why cruise lines often time itineraries to eclipse tracks. Azamara has leaned into science-forward enrichment to complement its Destination Immersion focus, adding context to itineraries known for late nights and overnights. The Lowell partnership builds on that strategy and follows a wider trend, as other premium lines pack ships for limited-capacity eclipse opportunities. For comparison coverage, see Experts join Holland America's 2026 solar eclipse cruises.

Latest Developments

Three itineraries align with eclipse viewing windows

Azamara Onward's 11-night voyage departs August 2, 2026, from Athens with calls in Greece, Turkey, and Italy, positioning in the Mediterranean for eclipse viewing. Azamara Quest's 12-night Ireland Intensive leaves Dublin on August 7, aiming for Atlantic waters off Ireland's west coast during peak coverage. Azamara Journey's 18-night sailing departs Reykjavik on August 8, transiting Iceland and Greenland before continuing toward Quebec, with positioning planned in the North Atlantic near the path of totality. These placements reflect where the eclipse will be most pronounced, and where ships can adjust for cloud cover on short notice.

Lowell Observatory brings science to the rail

Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory has a long tradition of eclipse research and public education. Onboard astronomers will deliver talks that explain eclipse mechanics, lead stargazing on suitable nights, and provide real-time narration as darkness falls. Guests receive certified viewing glasses and guidance on safe observation, which matters during partial phases. The collaboration aims to turn a one-off spectacle into a multi-day learning arc, with pre- and post-eclipse programming that helps travelers connect the phenomenon to destinations on the itinerary. Azamara's broader product evolution also continues, including new 2026 perks covered in Azamara Suite Enhancements Add Ultimate Perks for 2026.

Competitive landscape and booking signals

Eclipse sailings have become a hot niche, with several lines chasing the same sky. Holland America has named shipboard experts for August 2026, and boutique operators are already selling the longer August 2, 2027 eclipse in the Mediterranean, as in Atlas opens 2027 solar eclipse expedition. For 2026, lead times are shrinking as cabins near prime viewing zones sell first. Expect premium pricing for balconies and forward public spaces on eclipse day, plus high demand for small-group excursions and late-night programming on the surrounding dates.

Analysis

This partnership connects Azamara's small-ship positioning with a credible science brand, which should resonate with travelers who value learning as much as leisure. Ship maneuverability is a practical advantage, since captains can chase clearer sky windows if local forecasts shift. The itinerary mix spreads risk across three regions with different cloud and sea state profiles, which may improve overall guest outcomes on eclipse day. The Ireland Intensive and North Atlantic segments appeal to skywatchers who want big partials or a shot at totality near Iceland and Greenland, while the Mediterranean itinerary balances strong partial coverage with warm-weather cruising and marquee ports. The programming matters as much as the route. Many travelers remember the 2024 North America eclipse for context shared by experts, not just the moment of totality. Delivering that depth onboard should differentiate Azamara in a crowded, one-day event market, and it aligns neatly with the brand's Destination Immersion promise.

Final Thoughts

If you are eying a 2026 astronomy voyage, the Azamara and Lowell Observatory tie-up adds meaningful value, especially for travelers who want guided learning and flexible ship positioning on eclipse day. Inventory for balcony cabins and forward lounges will compress earliest, so plan sooner rather than later, and consider weather profiles when choosing among the three routes. Whether you favor the Mediterranean, Ireland's Atlantic corridor, or the North Atlantic arc, this is a well-constructed option for a solar eclipse cruise.