As the demand for solar eclipse travel continues to grow, Princess Cruises has announced an exciting new itinerary aboard its Sun Princess to offer guests a prime viewing of the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse. This celestial event, set to occur in August 2026, will be a stunning highlight on a cruise already packed with rich Mediterranean destinations, combining exploration with a rare astronomical spectacle.
For travellers seeking a unique way to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon, Princess Cruises has restructured the Sun Princess voyage, now scheduled to depart from Barcelona on August 8, 2026. Guests aboard this luxurious ship will experience two minutes and 18 seconds of totality as the eclipse unfolds, with the vessel strategically positioned off the coast of southern Spain.
Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess itinerary offers a variety of Mediterranean sailings, ranging from seven to 21 days, ensuring there's a perfect cruise for every type of traveller. The 2026 solar eclipse voyages aboard Sun Princess feature six distinct itineraries, each combining scenic Mediterranean port stops with the unforgettable opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse.
Among the highlights of these new itineraries is the 21-day roundtrip voyage departing from Rome on July 25, 2026. This cruise offers an in-depth exploration of Mediterranean gems, including Naples, Crete, Mykonos, and Florence/Pisa, along with the unique experience of viewing the solar eclipse on August 12.
For guests with limited time, the 7-day voyage from Barcelona to Rome departs on August 8, 2026, with stops in Gibraltar, Cartagena, and Florence/Pisa, allowing passengers to experience the solar eclipse without sacrificing any iconic Mediterranean ports.
John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, expressed the line’s enthusiasm for expanding their solar eclipse offerings: “Sun Princess truly lives up to its name, offering an out-of-this-world experience with a front-row seat for a total eclipse of the sun. Following the incredible response to our solar eclipse voyages last year, we’re thrilled to have both Sky Princess and Sun Princess providing guests with the unique opportunity to experience one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles.”
To make the eclipse viewing even more memorable, Sun Princess passengers will gather on the top decks with specially designed safety glasses for viewing the eclipse. Alongside this, Princess Cruises has lined up a series of eclipse-themed activities, including lectures from astronomy experts, themed food and drinks, solar trivia sessions, and nighttime stargazing. Guests can even set up their own telescopes on deck and participate in fun eclipse-themed apparel challenges, making the event as festive as it is awe-inspiring.
In addition to the Sun Princess, Sky Princess will also be offering a 14-day solar eclipse itinerary departing from Southampton on August 8, 2026. This cruise promises an equally spectacular solar eclipse experience, with stops in Cherbourg, Bilbao, and Lisbon. Guests aboard Sky Princess will similarly be treated to expert lectures, solar system-themed events, and unique eclipse-viewing opportunities.
With such a growing interest in solar eclipse travel, the demand for these 2026 sailings is expected to be high. Both Sun Princess and Sky Princess offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to witness the solar eclipse from the water, combining luxury cruising with the natural wonder of a total eclipse. Whether you prefer a short voyage through key Mediterranean ports or a more extensive journey, Princess Cruises has created a range of itineraries to suit all travel styles.
Bookings are now open for these 2026 Total Solar Eclipse cruises. For those interested in securing their spot aboard Sun Princess or Sky Princess, the time to act is now—experience the magic of the Mediterranean and the awe of a solar eclipse in one unforgettable journey.
As the popularity of solar eclipse travel rises, Princess Cruises offers an exclusive way to experience this natural wonder while exploring some of the Mediterranean’s most cherished destinations. Whether aboard Sun Princess or Sky Princess, guests are invited to witness the celestial beauty of the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in style and comfort.
For more details or to book your solar eclipse voyage, reach out to S.W. Black Travel, where our experienced consultants are ready to help you plan the perfect cruise holiday. We specialise in creating unforgettable experiences—get in touch with a travel adviser and embark on your journey to see the sun like never before.