Princess Cruises 2026 solar eclipse voyages just got even more exciting with the unveiling of a 14-day Mediterranean and Adriatic cruise aboard the Enchanted Princess. This marks the third eclipse-themed cruise announced by the cruise line for the August 12, 2026 celestial event, joining the Sky Princess and Sun Princess sailings already open for booking.
New Itinerary from Rome Blends Science and Sightseeing
The newly announced voyage departs roundtrip from Civitavecchia (Rome) on August 4, 2026, and sails through some of Southern Europe’s most stunning coastal cities. Designed for astronomy enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, the cruise will provide prime positioning to witness two minutes and 18 seconds of total solar eclipse on August 12 off the coast of Eastern Spain.
This curated cruise combines destination-rich ports with onboard programming tied to the solar event. Guests will enjoy lectures by astronomy experts, eclipse-themed snacks and beverages, and even stargazing sessions from the upper decks. Special solar filter glasses will be provided, and guests are encouraged to bring their own telescopes and wear festive eclipse attire.
Highlights of the Enchanted Princess 2026 Solar Eclipse Cruise
| Port | Experience |
|---|---|
| Rome (Civitavecchia) | Explore ancient ruins or start the adventure in Italy’s capital |
| Naples | Visit Capri, Pompeii, or relax along the Amalfi Coast |
| Kotor, Montenegro | Sail into a fjord-like bay with medieval charm |
| Dubrovnik, Croatia | Walk along city walls with panoramic Adriatic views |
| Corfu, Greece | Blend beach escapes with historical sightseeing |
| Messina & Palermo, Sicily | Tour Mount Etna or enjoy local Sicilian cuisine and architecture |
| Gibraltar | Stand atop the Rock with views across to Africa |
| Alicante, Spain | Stroll boulevards and historic buildings by the sea |
| Barcelona, Spain | Marvel at Gaudí’s iconic architecture and vibrant markets |
Celestial Event at Sea: Total Solar Eclipse on August 12
The focal point of this journey is undoubtedly the moment when the moon passes in front of the sun. With the Enchanted Princess positioned along the eclipse path, guests will enjoy a front-row view to a rare astronomical occurrence. Onboard activities will include:
- Expert-led eclipse lectures
- Solar trivia and games
- Themed cocktails and treats
- Viewing glasses and telescope-friendly spaces on deck
- Stargazing and night-sky exploration
Princess Cruises previously held a successful eclipse-viewing voyage in 2019 aboard the Sapphire Princess, where guests witnessed an annular eclipse over the Straits of Malacca. That voyage set a precedent for what’s expected to be a similarly unforgettable experience in 2026.
Growing Interest Sparks Expansion of Eclipse Voyages
Joining the Enchanted Princess in 2026 are two other eclipse-dedicated cruises:
- Sky Princess: Departs August 8, 2026, from Southampton
- Sun Princess: Features 7-, 14-, and 21-day itineraries from Barcelona and Athens
With limited availability on the Sky and Sun Princess voyages, the addition of the Enchanted Princess offers a much-needed opportunity for more travelers to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime event while exploring the Mediterranean and Adriatic.
Terry Thornton, Chief Commercial Officer of Princess Cruises, emphasized the importance of expanding access to these experiences and combining “travel and wonder” into one seamless package.
Planning for the Journey: Booking and Preparation
The Enchanted Princess voyage is open for reservations, and those interested are encouraged to book early due to anticipated high demand. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, guests can look forward to luxury accommodations, award-winning cuisine, and immersive cultural excursions at each port.
Key things to prepare for:
- Reserve early to secure prime staterooms
- Pack eclipse viewing gear such as telescopes and themed apparel
- Brush up on astronomy to get the most from the lectures and stargazing events
- Plan your shore excursions ahead of time to maximize each port visit
With the countdown to August 2026 now underway, Princess Cruises is offering more than just a vacation—it’s crafting a rare cosmic adventure at sea that blends scientific wonder with Mediterranean enchantment.
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Photo Credit: Princess Cruises
