Europe Mediterranean Cruise

Total Solar Eclipse in the Mediterranean

Experience the extraordinary on either of these 9-day cruises along Mediterranean shores. Seek out a rare phenomenon: the total solar eclipse. On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will begin over Palma de Mallorca, Spain at 7:38pm, reach totality at 8:31pm, and end as the sun disappears over the horizon at 8:49pm.

On the Total Solar Eclipse in the Mediterranean cruise, operating round-trip from Nice, France, learn from special guest eclipse chasers Joe Rao (a meteorologist) and Serge Brunier (a science journalist, author and photographer). Enjoy an included excursion in every port of call. Dive into sparkling turquoise waters and explore pretty villages, historic cities, cobblestone streets, steep peaks and sublime beaches. Soak in Barcelona’s artistic treasures and museums. Weather permitting, position off the coast of the main Balearic Island, in the best place to observe the solar eclipse. With luck, observe the 19th total eclipse of the 21st century, during which the moon will obscure the sun and reveal the solar corona. Then return back to Nice, famous for its interminable riviera.

On the Solar Eclipse at Sea cruise, sail from Barcelona, Spain to Nice, France. Arrive in Palma de Mallorca on the day of the eclipse and tour the city before returning to the ship for the evening’s eclipse. Go on to explore islands shaped by successive waves of civilizations—Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Spaniards, Arabs, Byzantines, the French and Italians. Explore quaint old cities, fishing ports, flamboyant churches, limestone cliffs and prehistoric towers. Along the way, sample local cuisine and wines. These PONANT voyages in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys uniquely include transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture.

Cruise the azure waters of the Mediterranean on this once-in-a-lifetime expedition aboard 184-guest Le Dumont D’Urville or 264-guest Le Boreal. Be joined on board by an experienced team of naturalist guides, anthropologists, ornithologists and marine mammal specialists. Travel in style aboard these luxury French expedition ships that offer refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides on board.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other small ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean vacations, or specialty solar eclipse cruises.