Following the success and rapid sell-out of its first 2026 eclipse cruise in Iceland, Windstar Cruises has announced a second cruise for this astronomical event in August 2026, this time aboard its 148-passenger sailing yacht, the Wind Spirit. Departing from Rome on August 6, 2026, the Wind Spirit will offer a seven-night itinerary with stops in Bastia and Calvi, Corsica; Alghero, Sardinia; Mahón, Menorca; and two full days of sailing.
On August 12, the yacht will be strategically positioned north of Mallorca, Spain, ensuring a prime view of the eclipse (weather permitting). From this location, the total eclipse will occur at 8:30 pm, when the sun will be just a few degrees above the western horizon. This phenomenon, which rarely occurs at sunset, makes a boat at sea the ideal place to enjoy it without any visual obstructions.
The event will be celebrated with a special party on deck, where passengers will receive eclipse glasses for safe viewing. The voyage will conclude in Barcelona on August 13.
The path of totality will cross Spain and Portugal, lasting a maximum of two minutes and 18 seconds. Its position at sea will allow for an uninterrupted view of this astronomical event.
“Eclipse cruises are very popular because the ships can position themselves to get the best views,” explained Jess Peterson, director of destination experiences and itinerary planning at Windstar.
“Our first cruise for the 2026 eclipse in Iceland sold out quickly. We reviewed our routes and discovered that the Wind Spirit was close to the path of totality, so we decided to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Before the eclipse, passengers will visit four stunning ports on three Mediterranean islands:
- Bastia, Corsica – A vibrant port with historic neighborhoods, 18th-century buildings, a central market, a medieval citadel and the Jardin Romieu gardens.
- Calvi, Corsica – Nestled in a bay, this is a top-tier holiday destination with fortified walls and a grand medieval citadel overlooking the harbor and beaches. Visitors can soak up the sun, explore Corsican vineyards, discover the countryside, or wander its historic streets, including the house where Christopher Columbus is said to have been born.
- Alghero, Sardinia – Known as the “little Barcelona”, this walled city combines lively shops and restaurants with picturesque beaches and the famous Neptune's Grotto, a spectacular sea cave.
- Mahón, Menorca – Famous for its natural harbor (one of the longest and deepest in the world) and its white sandy beaches. Here, passengers can explore historic churches and palaces, archaeological sites of Menorca's Talayotic culture, and the Sant Patrici farm, famous for its artisanal cheese.
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