On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will begin over Palma de Mallorca, Spain, at 7:38 p.m., reach totality at 8:31 p.m., and end as the sun disappears over the horizon at 8:49 p.m. This voyage aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville offers you the chance to witness the extraordinarily rare setting of the sun just moments after totality, followed by an exploration of the natural beauty and cultural history of the islands of the western Mediterranean.
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A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean – with Smithsonian Journeys
9 Days aboard Le Dumont-d’Urville. From AUD $13,460pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details
Overview
Itinerary Highlights
- Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.
- The August 12, 2026, Total Solar Eclipse in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
- An opportunity to explore five Mediterranean islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba.
- The massive Citadel in Calvi, Corsica.
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Barcelona
- Day 2: Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands
- Day 3: Mahon, Balearic Islands
- Day 4: Alghero, Sardinia
- Day 5: L'Île-Rousse, Corsica
- Day 6: Portoferraio, Elba
- Day 7: Porto Ercole
- Day 8: Portofino
- Day 9: Nice
Ship Information
For more information on the Le Dumont-d'Urville please view the ship page.
View Le Dumont-d'UrvilleTravelling with Eclipse
Peace of Mind
- Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
- 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
- We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
- No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
- Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
- Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
- We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
- Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
- Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
- Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
- Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.
Day 1: Barcelona
Located on the seashore between the mountains of Montjuïc and Tibidabo, Barcelona offers its many visitors a perfect blend of tradition and modernism. Truly an open-air museum, the “prodigious town” reveals an astonishing range of artistic treasures and museums, combining Roman ruins, medieval districts and a number of avant-garde elements from the 20th Century. Over the years, it has been marked by some of the greatest artists, such as Picasso, Miró or Gaudí, most of whose work has been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Take the time to stroll along the Ramblas and enjoy the gentle, typically Mediterranean lifestyle of the capital of Catalonia.
Dinner included.
Day 2: Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Palma de Mallorca will reveal its many treasures: idyllic coves, majestic limestone cliffs that plunge into the clear sapphire- and turquoise-coloured waters of the Mediterranean, and vast plains planted with almond trees, olive trees and vineyards. When your ship calls at the capital of the Balearic Islands, take a walk to discover its emblematic monuments, such as its famous cathedral, and amble through its old streets. Here, like a painting, the island’s historical heritage forms a backdrop to the lively and warm cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Mediterranean.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 3: Mahon, Balearic Islands
You will be welcomed by the colourful houses of Mahon, its narrow streets and pretty squares that appear as you stroll around this richly contrasting city. Mahon reveals its different neighbourhoods, alternating between monuments, villas and white buildings. Discover the Santa Maria church, a building of neo-gothic inspiration, rebuilt in the 18th Century. It is worth a visit to see its monumental organ with more than 3,000 pipes and four keyboards. Around the Carmen church you will find a local market, full of stands selling avarcas, typical Menorcan sandals originally made by peasants. Let yourself fall under the spell of this Mediterranean treasure.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 4: Alghero, Sardinia
Located on the north-west coast of Sardinia, Alghero offers you traces of Sardinian culture combined with vestiges from a Catalan past. Here, many inhabitants speak the Algherese dialect, a variant of Catalan, as well as Catalan itself. A walk along the well-preserved medieval ramparts will give you a panoramic view of the town. The streets in the historical centre bear witness to its rich past, from Santa Maria Cathedral to numerous palaces dating from different eras.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 5: L'Île-Rousse, Corsica
Overlooking a wide crystalline bay to the north of Corsica, the port of Ile-Rousse offers the charm of an historical town in the heart of spectacular natural surroundings. You will be able to admire the white facades of the famous Paoli square, the busy hub of the old town centre, where restaurants lay out their terraces in the shade of plane trees. Make sure you take a look at the statue of Pasquale Paoli, known as “Babbu”, father of Corsica. Amateurs of fine sandy beaches will find fulfilment at Napoleon beach, located near the centre, or the calmer Caruchettu beach. There are a plethora of hiking paths from which to choose.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 6: Portoferraio, Elba
In the elbow of a creek on the northern coastline of Elba Island, a small corner of paradise awaits in the form of Portoferraio. As you approach its coastlines, you will make out the powerful and majestic contours of its Medici fortresses. Napoleon Bonaparte spent many of his 300 days in exile here. The Palazzina dei Mulini, his first imperial residence, whose gardens offer outstanding views of the sea, is a must-see. Historical treasures are followed by another kind of treasure, namely white sand beaches, and equally tempting local specialities including gurguglione and rice with cuttlefish ink.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 7: Porto Ercole
With its landscapes of undulating hills covered in lush meadows, narrow streets with colourful houses, and picturesque paths shaded by pines... Porto Ercole is a concentration of all of Tuscany’s beauty. And what would it be without a fascinating, mystery-filled history? Overlooked by its 16th century fortress, this small village is renowned for having witnessed the final days of the famous painter Caravaggio, said to be buried there. On the Monte Argentario peninsula, you might have the chance to meet the fishermen of the Orbetello Lagoon, classed as a natural reserve, who perpetuate traditional fishing methods, or meet local wine, olive oil and cheese producers. For our sportier guests, the surrounding wild and pristine nature will provide the opportunity for a hike along the island’s heights to enjoy breathtaking views.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 8: Portofino
Close to the Cinque Terre, Portofino is the jewel of the Ligurian Riviera. This "small village that stretches like a half moon around a silent basin", described by Guy de Maupassant, is today a pretty, lively little port that has managed to preserve the authenticity of its maritime traditions, which have been recognised since Ancient times. Built in the hollow of a small natural cove sheltered by the pine forest, the village is at the heart of a protected maritime reserve. The shimmering colours of its house fronts and the exceptional location of this village have inspired many authors and artists. You will also see the Portofino lighthouse, immaculate in its green setting. Perched on the Punta del Capo, it watches over the peninsula and its postcard setting.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 9: Nice
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
On the morning of disembarkation, you will transfer from the ship to the airport in Nice.
Breakfast included.
Next Departure Date: 11 Aug 2026
| Dates | Cabin | From | Special Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Aug 2026 - 19 Aug 2026 | AUD$13460pp | ||
| Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3 | AUD$13460pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Stateroom Deck 4 | AUD$14910pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Stateroom Deck 5 | AUD$15650pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Stateroom Deck 6 | AUD$16510pp | Contact us | |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 4 | AUD$22900pp | Contact us | |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 6 | AUD$22900pp | Contact us | |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 5 | AUD$22900pp | Contact us | |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 3 | AUD$22900pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Suite Deck 5 | AUD$30880pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Suite Deck 6 | AUD$32480pp | Contact us | |
| Privilege Suite Deck 6 | AUD$34080pp | Contact us | |
| Privilege Suite Deck 5 | AUD$34080pp | Contact us | |
| Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6 | AUD$37410pp | Contact us | |
| Owner's Suite Deck 5 | AUD$39300pp | Contact us |
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Cabin Details
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic slidging bay window
Prestige Suite Deck 5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
Two bathrooms with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
Prestige Suite Deck 6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
Two bathrooms with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
Privilege Suite Deck 5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Butler service
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
Privilege Suite Deck 6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with sofa convetible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm), armchair, and second TV
A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub
A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table
2 panoramic sliding bay windows
Owner's Suite Deck 5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Private return transfer
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed (160 x 190 cm), and second TV
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A bathroom with shower, Balneo bathtub and smart mirror
A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer
Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar
A private 40 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, and outdoor lounge area with sofa and armchair
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
Specifications
- Passengers: 184
- Length: 430 ft
- Cruising Speed: 12.5 knots
- Ice Class: 1C
- Decks: 5
- Crew: 112
- Gross Tonnage: 9976 UMS
- Power: 6400 KW
What’s included?
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Barcelona to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 8-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Dumont-d’Urville, with all the amenities for which the ships are famous
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Nice at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
What’s not included?
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
- Program is subject to change without notice
Price Assurance
At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.
Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.
Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.
Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!