Despite it being more than a year away, planning ahead and booking soon might be the only way to get on some of these cruises!

An eclipse is a life-changing event.

Why is Eclipse Cruising the Hottest Cruise Right Now?

For a long time, solar eclipse cruises were something only done by small, boutique cruise lines or charters at exceedingly high prices. However, the 2017 eclipse that went across the USA sparked a real interest in eclipses for many Americans. In 2024, a few lines offered an eclipse cruise, which we were a part of, and they were a smash hit. Now a growing list of cruise lines are unveiling total solar eclipse cruises for August 2027.

The rising popularity of eclipse cruises means that lines, such as Princess, are selling out of the itineraries for 2026, and cabins on 2027 sailings are moving just as fast. In the past, we observed an increase in cost the closer eclipse cruises got to the departure date, so if you are interested in doing one, you’ll want to get a deposit in as soon as you can.

Important!

The safest way to secure the best price is to book now but with a REFUNDABLE deposit. Typically, cruise prices will increase over time, sometimes significantly. In the rare event the fare goes down, having a refundable deposit makes it much easier to reprice to the lower cost.

The 2017 eclipse that started the craze.

What Cruises are Available?

Here are some of the announced total solar eclipse sailings for July 2027. Since this is the hottest type of cruise right now, we expect more to be coming. 

Regent Seven Seas has a 2027 solar eclipse cruise. For an exquisite time, Regent is one of the best in small luxury cruising. If you’d like to learn more about the Regent experience, check out our look at it.

Virgin Voyage’s Eleven-night sailing out of Barcelona will be a fantastic time, as they are making sure to be out at sea for the Eclipse proper, as well as going along to Portugal and Morocco.

Cunard is offering a solar eclipse cruise on the Queen Victoria with a ton of stops at beautiful European ports. Departing from England, you will get a wide variety of places including France, Portugal, and Spain.

For something truly unique, Viking River Cruises is offering a Solar Eclipse cruise on the Nile in Egypt. Experiencing ancient Egypt and a cosmically powerful event all in one trip. But don’t get your hopes up as they are currently sold out. But you can still hope spaces open up.

How Do I Get in on the Hottest Cruise Right Now?

If you want to learn more about what sailing a solar eclipse cruise is like, and why it’s one of the hottest cruises right now, check out our blog post of our experience on Princess Cruises off Mexico’s coast. 

While we expect other lines might join in on the eclipse craze, these are available now. They are all selling out quickly. So, if you are even thinking about this, consider reaching out to us to help get pricing and put down a refundable deposit to lock in your cruise now! 

The post What is the Hottest Cruise for 2027? appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

This was a change that both guests and travel agents were pushing for, ourselves included. The original schedule frustrated so many travelers that they began choosing other cruise lines over Virgin. Obviously, it seems, the company took notice of the comments (read polite, if angry, urging) and made the necessary changes to the schedule.

Why Do So Many People Care?

Scheduling the eclipse day in a port may not immediately be a clear fumble, but it really is the cruise line equivalent of washing red clothes with white towels. Eclipses are amazingly beautiful astronomical events that occur with some regularity, but where they occur shifts quite broadly around the world. If you travel thousands of miles to another part of the globe, specifically to see an eclipse, only to have the weather be cloudy… well, that’s a bit frustrating. Hence, the eclipse cruise.

By viewing the eclipse from sea (if possible), you greatly reduce the chance of it being cloudy because the ship can move. The path of totality, where the complete solar eclipse is experienced, can be more than 100 miles wide. That gives lots of room for a ship to sail away from a band of clouds.

The experience of seeing an eclipse is something that cannot be adequately described with anything less than a novella. However, the land-based eclipse crowds and traffic jams are as irritating as the eclipse is magical. Why, then, would a cruise line schedule a port day for the eclipse? Nobody knows.

Second Time

The most frustrating part of this whole thing is that it’s an unforced error (apologies for my use of baseball terms to all our non-baseball fan readers).

Virgin Voyages already had two other itineraries on their schedule for the 2026 eclipse. Those cruises also had port days during the eclipse and, just like with the 2027 eclipse cruise, many of us had to push them to change the plans. In other words, we’d been through this already.

Fortunately, the plans for the Virgin Voyages eclipse cruises changed and they are now at sea for the eclipse.

If you are interested in sailing on the 2027 eclipse cruise, reach out to us for information. Space is limited, as it has been very popular, but we may be able to book you. Many 2026 solar eclipse cruises for the much shorter eclipse are already sold out.

By the way, in 2024 we were at sea off the coast of Mexico on the Emerald Princess. It was fantastic.

The post Virgin Voyages 2027 Eclipse Cruise: New Update appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

An eclipse is a life-changing event.

Why is this the Hottest Cruise Right Now?

For a long time, solar eclipse cruises were something only done by small, boutique cruise lines or charters at exceedingly high prices. However, the 2017 eclipse that went across the USA sparked a real interest in people. Then, a few lines did an eclipse cruise for 2024, which we were a part of, and it was a smash hit. Now many cruise lines are unveiling total solar eclipse cruises for August 2026.

Seeing the growing popularity of eclipse cruises, they’ve become the hottest cruises on the market, with several lines, such as Princess, already selling out. These are cruises are likely to increase in cost the closer they get to sailing, so if you are interested in doing one, you’ll want to get a deposit in as soon as you can. 

Important!

The best way to secure the best price is to book now but with a REFUNDABLE deposit. For those most part, prices will increase significantly. In the rare event the fare goes down, having a refundable deposit make it easier to reprice to the lower cost.

The 2017 eclipse that started the craze.

What Cruises are Available?

Here are some of the announced total solar eclipse sailings for August 2026. Since this is the hottest type of cruise right now, we expect more to be coming. 

Azamara Eclipse cruises. Azamara, known for longer experiential port callings and smaller ship luxury, has three sailings. 

Virgin Voyages has two 2026 solar eclipse cruises. One sails for 12-nights from Barcelona to Rome and the other sails 15 nights roundtrip from England with visits to Scotland and Iceland.  

Cunard will have three solar eclipse sailings, and we have special pricing on two of them. We have arranged special group pricing on two Cunard eclipse sailings. These groups allow us to hold prices even if the standard price goes up. 

Finally, two of the smaller cruise lines, Atlas Ocean Voyages and Windstar Iceland have sailings. They are a boutique and luxurious experience small ship experiences. 

As we said before, Princess Cruises, who we sailed with for the April 2024 eclipse and helped cement solar eclipse cruises as the hottest cruises right now. On August 12, 2026, Sky Princess will sail directly into the “path of totality” on a  special 14-night Total Solar Eclipse Cruise which also visits France, Spain and Portugal. The cruise departs Southampton August 8, 2026. It is currently sold out but you may be able to snag a wait-list spot.

How Do I Get in on the Hottest Cruise Right Now?

If you want to learn more about what sailing a solar eclipse cruise is like, and why it’s one of the hottest cruises right now, check out our blog post of our experience on Princess Cruises off Mexico’s coast. 

While we expect other lines might join in on the eclipse craze, these are available now. They are all selling out quickly. So, if you are even thinking about this, consider reaching out to us to help get pricing and put down a refundable deposit to lock in your cruise now! 

The post What is the Hottest Cruise Right Now? appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

The Queen Anne in Liverpool

We Love Cunard’s Queen Mary 2

There is something very special and classic about crossing the Atlantic on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2.  The Queen Mary 2 is the world’s only operating ocean liner, designed to cross the Atlantic in all sorts of weather. In fact, she is known for outpacing pretty much all the other ships in bad weather.

We sail the Queen Mary 2 about once a year as it is a much more delightful way to cross the pond than flying—and the price is sometimes similar or less! This means seven nights of entertainment, food, beverages, history, culture, and relaxation versus strapping yourself in a metal tube.

Here are some of the things we love about sailing transatlantic on the Queen Mary 2.

No jet lag! Each night they change the clocks backward or forward by one hour as appropriate, so the time change is extremely gentle and you are well rested when arrive.

The ship is full of history; most of the walls are covered with murals that describe the history of both the Cunard line and Queen Mary 2. For example, there is a display discussing Cunard’s role in rescuing survivors of the Titanic. In fact, the Carpathia was one of the first ships to arrive and save Titanic survivors.

Will You Be Bored?

Some people worry about becoming bored on a transatlantic crossing. We have a list of 101 Things to Do. There are nightly shows, games, a gym, pools, a casino, an incredible library, classes, and much more. Warning: the scavenger hunt can be quite challenging.

Honestly, there is so much to do, we sometimes complain about doing too much!

In-room entertainment. You will have no lack of films and TV shows in your cabin.  There is live news depending on the signal strength available at the time.

We love the lectures on board. There are usually several speakers on board with different expertise. Some lecturers we’ve heard onboard include the designer of Queen Mary 2, who was incredibly fascinating. We heard a retired British customs agent who had surprisingly interesting stories about various criminal attempts. Often there is someone speaking about the entertainment industry. The lectures are usually recorded and can be viewed later in your cabin.

Formal Gala nights are worth the effort with great entertainment, but if is not your thing, you don’t have to participate. Cunard arranges for many part of the ship available for those who don’t dress up.

Consider the fun of dressing up for a masquerade or the Red and Gold ball. And there’s no sitting fee for posing for formal portaits. We suggest dressing up a bit. While there will be tuxes, men will not be out of place with a jacket and collared shirt, tie optional.

Dining on the Queen Mary 2

Your meal options begin with the main dining room unless you are in a Princess or Queens grill suite, in which case you have a separate restaurant. You can choose early or late seating and will have the same table and waitstaff each night. We like this as the waitstaff will get to know you and your preferences. However, you do have the option to change this at any time.

At the Carpathian lounge or cafe you can get specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos. There is often a light breakfast or snacks such as small sandwiches and desserts. It’s a lovely place for a quick meal. Often games like trivia are often played in the Carpathian lounge although they are played in other venues as well.

There is the aforementioned lounge or cafe for snacks, and the buffet where there is a separate station where you can get hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza and such.

In addition to all this Cunard cruises will have several specialty dining options.  There is typically an up charge for the specialty dining.

The kennels on the Queen Mary 2 usually sell out before the human cabins

Bring Your Dog or Cat!

The Queen Mary 2 is the only passenger ship with a kennel. The kennel is famous among frequent travelers. We know people who take the Queen Mary 2 back and forth between the States and Europe at least once every year and they bring their pets with them. There is a highly regarded kennel staff and a great area where owners play with dogs. Even people without pets onboard like to go watch. The pets are extremely well cared for and the owners are allowed to go play at various times with them in a nice open-air area. The kennels are so popular that slots almost always fill up before the human cabins. If you want to travel abroad and you can’t bear the thought of leaving your dog at home and you don’t want them cooped up in an airplane, the Queen Mary 2 is what you want.

Practicalities

Cunard has recently upgraded their wi-fi to Starlink. There are two levels of service for Wi-Fi, basic and premium.

Laundry–Cunard has free self-service laundrettes around the ship. Free detergent is available. Of course, you can always pay for laundry and pressing services.

Special Pricing for Cunard Eclipse Cruises

Because we love both Cunard and Solar Eclipses, we have arranged for special group pricing on two Cunard cruises for the August 2026 solar eclipse. You can read about it here. And you can find information and book here.

News about Cruise Pricing

The post Sailing in Style with Cunard appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Our view of the total solar eclipse in 2023

How Do I See the Next Total Solar Eclipse?

Mark your calendars for August 12th, 2026, because the next major solar eclipse is on its way. Given the phenomenal success of this year’s eclipse cruises, many cruise lines are already preparing for this celestial event. To help you plan at the best possible prices, Far Far Away Travels is offering exclusive group pricing. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to witness the eclipse from the best vantage point while enjoying significant savings. Secure your spot today and embark on an unforgettable journey! To read all the details, pricing, and to make reservations visit out special webpage. 

Nichole on the Emerald Princess watching the eclipse

The best viewing places for the next total solar eclipse in August 2026 will be off the coasts of Spain and Iceland. Cunard we’ll have 3 eclipse cruises, and we have group space on two of them.  

Photographing the total solar eclipse can be best done with some specific skills, but make sure you get started by learning how to do stunning photos when you travel.

A big eclipse family party.

Chasing the Eclipse

Our passion for eclipses ignited after witnessing the breathtaking 2018 eclipse across the US. We journeyed to Kentucky for a front-row seat, and it was nothing short of spectacular. So, when we discovered another eclipse was set for April 2024, with the prime viewing spot off the coast of Mexico, and Princess Cruises offering two perfectly positioned ships, we didn’t hesitate. We booked immediately and rallied 22 friends and family members to join us. It was an unforgettable experience. Now we really want to see the next total solar eclipse. Remember, there is no controlling the weather, so viewing is not guaranteed. However, your odds are much better on a ship that can sail to a better location if needed. And besides, you will still have a wonderful cruise experience. 

Space is not guaranteed so we encourage you to book soon with a refundable deposit. 

The post Next Total Solar Eclipse: Don’t Miss It! appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

The U.S. will have another total solar eclipse April 8, 2024. The total solar eclipse is one of the three remaining worldwide this decade, and the last one visible from North America until 2044, so now is the time to plan a solar eclipse trip. 

Recently the New York Times listed a trip to see the eclipse as the #1 travel destination this year.

If you are staying in the U.S. for a solar eclipse trip, here are some tips. 

Plan your solar eclipse trip now,!

Tip 1: Decide Early Where You Will Go For Your Solar Eclipse Trip

States in the path-of-totality are Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.  Mexico has great viewing sites too. Path-of-totality means that the moon will completely block the sun. The shoulder areas outside of it will have a partial eclipse. 

Tip 2: Rent a Hotel Room NOW

Book for the night before and the night after.  We booked a hotel room in March for the 2017 eclipse at a normal room rate. But by the time the eclipse was nearing, the rates were running four times higher! The hotel even called us to see if they could resell our room. 

Also, plan to stay the night after the eclipse. In 2017, the traffic was brutal as millions of people tried to leave prime viewing areas immediately after it ended. Traffic will be worse leaving than coming in because people will arrive over several days, but they all want to leave when it’s over.

Tip 3: Stay Safe

As it gets closer, there will be lots of cheap “protective” glasses for sale. Do your homework and get good ones now. To stay safe, follow the advice on NASA’s website.

Tip 5: Clouds During Your Solar Eclipse Trip 

There is no guarantee that clouds will not ruin it.  If you can’t arrange to be on a ship or in the desert, plan to be mobile. Otherwise, when choosing a viewing location, check the historical weather patterns there. 

We had originally planned to experience the last eclipse in Carbondale but changed our minds to Kentucky. We were lucky, since Carbondale got clouded over and Hopkinsville didn’t. For 2024 we thought about Toledo but there is an 80% chance of clouds. 

For your solar eclipse trip, consider Mexico, with a 10% chance of clouds. 

Tip 6: Consider a Special Cruise 

There are people who follow eclipses all around the world who take charter cruises and trips. Most of these are already fully booked.

So, for our next eclipse adventure, we are taking a cruise! And we get two fantastic experiences in one as it includes a full transit of the Panama Canal.

Our family is taking a 2024 solar eclipse cruise on the Emerald Princess. The captain will watch the weather patterns to try to make sure we have the best chance of experiencing the eclipse.   

The voyage departs Los Angeles on April 5, 2024, sailing to Ft. Lauderdale. It includes the Mexican Riviera, goes through the Panama Canal, and ends in Florida.

Guests will gather on the top decks and be given special glasses they can wear to safely view the eclipse as astronomy and space exploration enthusiast Fred Cink helps guide their viewing experience. Guests will also enjoy specially themed drinks and bites during the coveted event. 

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

Every week we share our favorite travel secrets and tips. You can view them all here.

The post Plan Now for Solar Eclipse April 2024 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

The U.S. will have another total solar eclipse April 8, 2024. The total solar eclipse is one of the three remaining worldwide this decade, and the last one visible from North America until 2044, so now is the time to plan a solar eclipse trip. 

If you are staying in the U.S. for a solar eclipse trip, here are some tips. 

Plan your solar eclipse trip now, while prices are low!

Tip 1: Pick a Spot Early for Your Solar Eclipse Trip

States in the path-of-totality are Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.  Mexico has great viewing sites too. Path-of-totality means that the moon will completely block the sun. The shoulder areas outside of it will have a partial eclipse. 

Tip 2: Rent a Hotel Room Soon

Book for the night before and the night after.  We rented in March for the August eclipse at a normal rate. But by the time the eclipse was nearing, the rates were running four times higher! The hotel even called us to see if they could resell our room. 

Also, plan to stay the night after the eclipse. In 2017 the traffic was brutal as millions of people tried to leave prime viewing areas immediately after it ended.

Tip 3: Stay Safe

As it gets closer, there will be lots of cheap “protective” glasses for sale. Do your homework and get good ones now. To stay safe, follow the advice on NASA’s website.

Tip 5: Clouds During Your Solar Eclipse Trip 

There is no guarantee that clouds will not ruin it.  If you can’t arrange to be on a ship or in the desert, plan to be mobile. Otherwise, when choosing a viewing location, check the historical weather patterns there. 

We had originally planned to experience the last eclipse in Carbondale but changed our minds to Kentucky. We were lucky, since Carbondale got clouded over and Hopkinsville didn’t. For 2024 we thought about Toledo but there is an 80% chance of clouds. 

For your solar eclipse trip, consider Mexico, with a 10% chance of clouds. 

Tip 6: Consider a Special Cruise 

There are people who follow eclipses all around the world who take charter cruises and trips. Most of these are already fully booked.

So, for our next eclipse adventure, we are taking a cruise! And we get two fantastic experiences in one as it includes a full transit of the Panama Canal.

Our family is taking a 2024 solar eclipse cruise on the Emerald Princess. The captain will watch the weather patterns to try to make sure we have the best chance of experiencing the eclipse.   

The voyage departs Los Angeles on April 5, 2024, sailing to Ft. Lauderdale. It includes the Mexican Riviera, through the Panama Canal and across the western Caribbean. The ship will catch the total solar eclipse on April 8 between Cabo San Lucas and Huatulco, Mexico. The itinerary also includes stops in San Juan del Sur Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Cartagena, Grand Cayman and Ft. Lauderdale.  

Guests will gather on the top decks and be given special glasses they can wear to safely view the eclipse as astronomy and space exploration enthusiast Fred Cink helps guide their viewing experience. Guests will also enjoy specially themed drinks and bites during the coveted event. 

“This rare occurrence in the cosmos is sure to wow millions but only the smallest fraction will ever experience this phenomenon via the ocean aboard an amazing cruise ship,” said John Padgett, president of Princess. “Princess thrives on ensuring our guests have authentic experiences that become once-in-a-lifetime moments.”  

This cruise is sure to sell out so if you want to go, we encourage you to put a refundable deposit down soon.  

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

Every week we share our favorite travel secrets and tips. You can view them all here.

The post Solar Eclipse 2024 Trip Tips appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.