About the Journey 

Witness the “Eclipse of the Century,” with the longest totality in more than 100 years, from an unmatched vantage point aboard the majestic Sea Cloud II. Cruise from Athens, Greece, to Valletta, Malta, observing this celestial event from the open waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Away from land-based obstructions and light pollution, and along the line of maximum totality, look to the sky as the sea becomes silent and daylight dims for an astonishing six minutes and six seconds. 

Before and after the main event, enjoy an itinerary rich in cultural and historic treasures, a robust educational program, and unique natural wonders. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Delos, Crete, Malta, Agrigento, and Syracuse, and explore world-class museum collections, sun-drenched piazzas, and bustling outdoor markets, with opportunities to indulge in regional cuisines and swim in turquoise waters. With the refined and intimate shipboard experience of one of the most luxurious sailing vessels afloat, this will truly be a voyage for the ages.

For those looking to explore more of this remarkable region, a pre-trip extension in Athens and a post-trip extension in Malta will also be available. 

Please note: Ideal weather conditions and cloud conditions for viewing the eclipse can change and are not guaranteed. Princeton travelers will be joined on this program by those from Colorado College, Harvard, and Yale.

Accommodation

Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens, Greece
Hotel Grande Bretagne, located in Syntagma Square in the heart of Athens, is one of the city’s finest and most sought-after five-star hotels. Since 1874, this multi-awarded landmark has offered breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and Lycabettus Hill, and has hosted royalty, heads of state, musicians, and Hollywood stars. The 320 guest rooms blend old-world elegance with modern facilities. Amenities include an outdoor pool, spa with indoor pool, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

Sea Cloud II
The iconic Sea Cloud II is perhaps the most luxurious three-masted sailing yacht on the seas today, boasting classic maritime style, refined finishes, and inspired service. Like Marjorie Merriweather Post’s legendary Sea Cloud, she combines the seafaring elegance of a bygone era with the highest modern standards of luxury. In the grand tradition of the world’s finest sailing vessels, guests can experience this marvelous ship under sail as the skilled crew hand sets over 30,000 square feet of canvas.

The Sea Cloud II offers an intimate setting with just 47 beautifully appointed cabins, gracious common areas, world-class service, and five-star dining. Four spacious outdoor decks and al fresco dining on the Lido Deck provide ample space for relaxation. Indoors, enjoy inviting spaces such as the sizable lounge and dining room, as well as a library, gym, and spa featuring a sauna and massage therapy.

Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

• July 26–27 | Depart U.S. / Arrive Athens, Greece
  Take an overnight flight to Athens, Greece. Upon arrival, transfer to the deluxe Hotel Grande Bretagne, ideally situated in the historic Plaka district with spectacular views of the Parthenon from its rooftop garden. Rest and recover from your travels, then gather this evening for a welcome orientation and reception. 
  Hotel Grande Bretagne (R)
• July 28 | Athens
  Begin the day with either a guided visit to the National Archaeological Museum, housing the world’s richest collection of Greek antiquities, or to the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art, dedicated to the minimalist marble figures that inspired modern artists like Picasso and Brancusi. After a festive lunch featuring traditional Greek fare, transfer to Piraeus to embark Sea Cloud II. Gather on deck to toast the journey ahead as you depart for the Cycladic Islands. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• July 29 | Delos 
  Step ashore on Delos, an uninhabited island steeped in myth and famed as the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Walk among marble columns, ancient theaters, and vibrant mosaics in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Terrace of the Lions, and House of the Dolphins with its exquisite floor mosaics. After returning to the ship for lunch, spend a relaxing afternoon at sea with opportunities for a lecture, sailing demonstration, or swimming in the Aegean’s crystalline waters. Enjoy a Captain’s Welcome Dinner this evening. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• July 30 | Milos
  Milos, a volcanic island with a dramatic coastline, is known for its role in art history as the discovery site of the Venus de Milo, now in the Louvre. Visit the spot where this iconic statue was found, and the ancient theater overlooking the sea where the island’s once-thriving Hellenistic civilization performed classical dramas. See traditional windmills and visit the picturesque main town. Conditions permitting, enjoy a scenic sail along the surreal landscapes of Papafragas or Sarakiniko, where wind and sea have sculpted chalk-white rock formations into lunar-like coves. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• July 31 | Crete
  This morning, arrive at the picturesque port town of Chania, where UNESCO protected Minoan palaces meet Venetian elegance. Stroll through the Old Town’s cobblestone lanes, visit the Venetian harbor and lighthouse, and browse local shops or the bustling covered market. For those interested, a visit to the Archaeological Museum offers insight into Crete’s deep past. Return to Sea Cloud II for lunch on board and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at sea and the continuation of the lecture program. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• August 1 | At Sea
  Relax into the rhythm of life aboard Sea Cloud II with a full day at sea. On the eve of the total solar eclipse, hear from faculty experts in preparation for tomorrow’s astronomical event. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• August 2 | Eclipse Day
  Today, Sea Cloud II positions herself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: a total solar eclipse viewed from the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 12 nautical miles off the African coast. Witness the moon completely cover the sun for an awe-inspiring six minutes and six seconds amid a surreal daytime darkness. This breathtaking event will be contextualized by expert commentary. Tonight, toast your shared experience and celebrate an unforgettable natural wonder.
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• August 3 | At Sea
  A full day at sea allows for continued enrichment through lectures and time to enjoy the ship’s classic ambience and on-board amenities, including on-deck lounges for sunbathing, shaded nooks for reading, and inviting spaces for spa treatments, yoga, games, or evening cocktails under the stars.
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• August 4 | Gozo, Malta
  Step into prehistory on Gozo, Malta’s serene and verdant sister island. Visit Ġgantija, one of the world’s oldest megalithic temple complexes, predating the pyramids of Egypt. These colossal stone structures—built between 3600 and 3200 BCE—are a testament to early ritual life. Then explore the fortified hilltop Citadel in Victoria, where layers of Phoenician, Roman, and medieval history unfold, to enjoy sweeping views and a taste of Gozo’s unique blend of cultures. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• Thursday, August 5 | Agrigento, Sicily
  Enjoy a guided tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most extensive and best-preserved archaeological parks of classical antiquity. Built by Greek settlers in the 6th century BCE, the site includes the majestic Temple of Concordia, a near-perfect Doric temple rivaling the Parthenon. Walk through olive groves and ruins that capture the power and artistry of Magna Graecia. Reboard for an afternoon sail along Sicily’s southern coast. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• Friday, August 6 | Syracuse
  Spend the day exploring Syracuse, once a powerful city-state, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the Archaeological Park with its 5th-century BCE Greek theater and Roman amphitheater, then head to Ortygia for a guided walk through the lively open-air market and historic streets to the Piazza del Duomo and cathedral built atop a 5th-century BC temple. If you like, enjoy the option to lunch ashore and a free afternoon in town. Tonight, celebrate this incredible journey at the captain’s farewell reception and dinner as the ship cruises to Malta. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
• Saturday, August 7 | Valletta, Malta
  Following breakfast, disembark Sea Cloud II in Valletta, Malta. Transfer for to the airport or begin the post-voyage extension of Valletta, Malta’s captivating capital. 
  Sea Cloud II (B)

Please note: Itinerary is subject to change.

Pricing

• Category 1 (Cabin Deck, 150 sq ft, upper & lower beds, 2 portholes, shower): $16,990 per person sharing; $30,590 single occupancy
• Category 2 (Cabin Deck, 204 sq ft, twins or queen, 2 portholes, shower): $18,990 per person sharing; $34,190 single occupancy
• Category 3 (Cabin Deck, 215 sq ft, twins or queen, 2 portholes, shower): $19,990 per person sharing; $35,990 single occupancy
• Category 4 (Cabin Deck, 226 sq ft, queen, 3 portholes, shower): $20,990 per person sharing; $37,790 single occupancy
• Category 5 (Promenade Deck, 215 sq ft, queen, panorama windows, shower): $22,490 per person sharing
• Category 6 (Promenade Deck, 247 sq ft, twins or queen, panorama windows, tub/shower): $23,990 per person sharing
• Category 7 (Lido Deck, 290 sq ft, king, panorama windows, bathtub & shower): $26,990 per person sharing

Inclusions

Program rates include: All accommodations, meals, and excursions as specified in the itinerary, including one hotel night and ten nights aboard  Sea Cloud II • Full program of briefings, lectures, and presentations • Shared airport transfers on group arrival and departure dates • Baggage handling • Gratuities to porters, waitstaff, guides, and drivers • Gratuities to shipboard personnel • Port charges • Entrance fees • Welcome and farewell wine receptions • House wine, beer, and soft drinks with group lunches and dinners • Water on motorcoaches • Complete packet of pre-departure information • Professional tour manager throughout the program

Program rates do not include: U.S. domestic and international airfare • Passport/visa expenses • Medical expenses and immunizations • Private airport transfers or airport transfers outside of group arrival and departure dates • Travel and trip cancellation insurance • Excursions that deviate from the scheduled tour options • Airline baggage charges • Meals not specified in the itinerary; dishes and beverages not part of the included meals; liquor or soft drinks except as noted • Laundry or dry cleaning • Telephone and fax charges • Room service • Other items of a personal nature

What to Expect

This is a moderately strenuous program, at times physically demanding and busy, with considerable walking at some sites. Daily activities can involve up to two miles of walking, often on uneven surfaces; elevators may not be available, and stairs may not have handrails. Optional excursions can include rigorous activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking in open, exposed areas. August in this region can be very hot, dry, and sunny, with high temperatures usually in the mid- to high 80s. High temperatures in the 90s and low 100s are always a possibility. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and other precautions to limit UV and heat exposure are essential. The ship does not have an elevator, so you will need to navigate stairs, possibly while on choppy seas. Participants should be fit and in active good health. Limited medical facilities are available on board the Sea Cloud II.

Optional Extensions

Pre-Trip Extension in Athens, Greece
July 24–27
Designed for first-time visitors to Athens and returnees alike. Spend two nights at the Hotel Grand Bretagne, located on Syntagma Square, steps from the Plaka district. Enjoy ample time in the cool mornings to explore the ancient Agora and the Acropolis, then visit the world-renowned Acropolis Museum and Cycladic Museum, both air conditioned, later in the day. The extension also allows for ample time to explore the lively Plaka at leisure and enjoy the extraordinary amenities of the five-star hotel before the main program begins.
Pre-Trip Extension Rates: $2,250 per person sharing; $700 single supplement

Post-Trip Extension in Valletta, Malta
August 7–9
Enjoy a two-night post-trip extension in Valletta, Malta’s captivating capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the 16th century Knights of St. John, Valletta showcases Baroque architecture and Mediterranean history, surrounded by ancient temples and underground sanctuaries that reveal millennia of tradition. Balance visits to ancient sites that pre-date the Egyptian pyramids with captivating modern architecture and leisurely strolls through cobblestone squares. Stay at the Phoenicia Malta, a 5-star Leading Hotel of the World set on seven acres, with an infinity pool overlooking the Grand Harbor.
Post-Trip Extension Rates: $2,490 per person sharing; $900 single supplement

Reservations

Please view the tour terms and conditions, then register online or contact the Princeton Journeys team at journeys@princeton.edu / 609.258.8686 with questions.