Azamara Announces Exclusive Partnership with Lowell Observatory

Azamara Cruises has announced an exclusive partnership with the renowned Lowell Observatory, a historic research institution known for groundbreaking astronomical discoveries and public education, to enrich three extraordinary solar eclipse cruises in 2026.

These cruises will provide guests with front-row seats to a celestial event that can only be fully experienced at sea, combining Azamara’s commitment to immersive, culturally rich journeys with Lowell Observatory’s astronomical expertise. Guests will have the rare chance to witness solar eclipses from optimal ocean vantage points, far from light pollution and cloud interference. 

“Partnering with Lowell Observatory allows us to elevate this rare phenomenon into something even more meaningful for our guests,” Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises, said in a statement. “Their astronomers really bring the eclipse to life through stories, guidance, and hands-on experiences that deepen understanding while creating moments of awe. It’s a natural extension of our Destination Immersion philosophy—offering not just a view of the world, but a richer connection to it.”

Lowell Observatory will provide experiential programming during the sailing, which will include lectures, stargazing sessions, interactive demonstrations, and live eclipse narration, along with special viewing glasses designed for safe observation. Lowell’s astronomers will not only guide the viewing itself but also bring context and storytelling to the spectacle and create a transformative experience.

“For more than 130 years Lowell Observatory has helped people discover the universe, and our partnership with Azamara Cruises gives us a new way to share this experience — under the stars at sea.” Amanda S. Bosh, Ph.D and executive director of Lowell Observatory, said in a statement. “Lowell scientists have a long tradition of eclipse research, and we’re excited to bring that history and passion to Azamara guests. From understanding how eclipses work, to standing together in the shadow of the moon, we look forward to sharing these truly memorable moments.”

The 2026 Eclipse Cruise Itinerary Highlights:

On August 12, 2026, guests aboard Azamara’s solar eclipse cruises will witness the phenomenon from extraordinary vantage points at sea, with each ship positioned in a different region.

Azamara Onward (11-Night Solar Eclipse Cruise: Greece, Turkey & Italy): Departing August 2, 2026, from Athens, Greece, this 11-night sailing explores Santorini, Mykonos, and Sicily. Guests will witness the solar eclipse from the Mediterranean Sea, where the open horizon and minimal light pollution create an unparalleled celestial view.
Azamara Quest (12-Night Solar Eclipse Cruise: Ireland Intensive): Embarking August 7, 2026, from Dublin, this itinerary showcases Ireland’s dramatic coastline, from windswept cliffs to historic castles. Guests will experience the eclipse from the Atlantic Ocean off Ireland’s western coast, where the ever-changing sky and rugged seascape make for an unforgettable view.
Azamara Journey (18-Night Solar Eclipse Cruise: Iceland, Greenland & Quebec): Setting sail August 8, 2026, from Reykjavik, this journey ventures into the Arctic’s beauty with stops in Greenland and Canada. Guests will take in the eclipse while the ship sails between Greenland and the Canadian Arctic, surrounded by glaciers and remote landscapes.

This collaboration with Lowell Observatory marks a new chapter in experiential cruising, merging scientific discovery with Azamara’s Destination Immersion.

Explora Journeys Introduces “An Invitation To Discover” Offer

Paul Gauguin Reveals Guest Lineup for Thanksgiving Sailing

Oceania Cruises Unveils 2027-2028 Voyages

AmaWaterways Expands European Orderbook with Eight New Ships

Source link