About the Journey 

Experience the total solar eclipse of July 22, 2028, from one of the most advantageous viewing platforms available: the privately chartered Island Sky, cruising in the remote waters south of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. Positioned directly on the path of totality, enjoy approximately five minutes of total eclipse with unobstructed horizons, open viewing decks, and the flexibility to optimize viewing conditions while avoiding the crowds and logistical challenges of land-based sites.

The eclipse is the centerpiece of an extraordinary expedition through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating island regions. From the tranquil “Secret Gilis” and traditional villages of Sumba to the volcanic landscapes of Flores, Solor, and Adonara, the voyage reveals a rich tapestry of cultures, wildlife, and natural beauty. Explore UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park, snorkel vibrant reefs, discover crater lakes and remote beaches, and venture ashore by Zodiac to places inaccessible to larger vessels. At night, enjoy stargazing opportunities from the deck of the Island Sky.

Supported by a team of experienced naturalists, this voyage offers an immersive exploration of Indonesia’s remarkable archipelago, creating a memorable convergence of eclipse viewing, cultural discovery, and island adventure. For those looking to spend more time in Bali, an optional post-program extension will be offered.

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 Harvard and Carleton College.

Accommodation

Hyatt Regency Bali Bali, Indonesia
A beachfront property built on nine hectares of lush tropical gardens, the Hyatt Regency Bali is conveniently located near Bali’s main tourist attractions and the International Airport. The 373 rooms feature contemporary design with hints of Balinese and Japanese elements and balconies overlooking the lush gardens. This relaxed hotel features three pools, two restaurants, a piano lounge, and an expansive wellness center with 10 spa villas, a fitness center, sauna and steam, yoga, an adults-only pool and plunge pools.

Island Sky
With an intimate ambiance, the 59-cabin, all-suite Island Sky is ideal for exploring remote coastlines. The ship features the latest safety, navigation and communications equipment along with roll stabilizers to minimize the ship’s motion for comfortable cruising. All cabins feature ocean views, en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers, sitting areas, generous storage, safes, minibars, individually controlled heat and air-conditioning, flat-screen televisions, and dressing tables. Ship amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, two restaurants, two lounges with bar service, a library, expansive observation decks, spa, laundry service, and an elevator to all passenger cabin decks. With a crew-to passenger ratio of more than 1:2, advanced navigation and communications, roll stabilizers, and Zodiac landing craft, the ship is well suited for expedition cruising.  

Itinerary

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

• Sunday, July 16 – Monday, July 17, 2028 | Depart U.S.
  Depart the United States on independent overnight flights to Indonesia crossing the International Date Line enroute.
• Tuesday, July 18, 2028 | Bali, Indonesia
  Arrive in Bali, Indonesia’s fabled “Island of the Gods,” and transfer to the 5-star Hyatt Regency Bali for a one-night stay. Set along Sanur’s beachfront amid tropical gardens, the hotel offers a gracious introduction to the island. This evening, gather for a welcome reception and dinner with fellow travelers and program staff. 
  Hyatt Regency Bali (R, D)
• Wednesday, July 19, 2028 | Bali / Embark Island Sky
  Travel inland for an introduction to Bali’s artistic heritage and rural beauty. Visit artisan villages known for classical painting and traditional weaving, then continue to Sidemen Valley, one of Bali’s most beautiful rice-growing regions, for a guided walk among terraced fields, village paths, and volcanic views. This afternoon, embark the Island Sky, settle into your cabin, and gather on deck as the ship sets sail. 
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Thursday, July 20, 2028 | Southwest Lombok & the Secret Gilis
  Arrive off the quieter southwest coast of Lombok and go ashore by Zodiac for an introduction to Sasal coastal culture, known for weaving traditions, pearl farming, and rural landscapes. After lunch, explore the nearby “Secret Gilis,” where clear waters, quiet beaches, and coral reefs offer opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, or beach time. This evening, sail toward the eclipse site as the astronomy program begins on board. 
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Friday, July 21, 2028 | At Sea / Eclipse Approach
  Spend a purposeful day at sea as Island Sky approaches the remote eclipse-viewing position. Enjoy expert lecturers to prepare you for totality, with guidance on eclipse science, safe viewing, photography, and what to watch for as the light changes. By evening, the ship reaches the path of totality in the remote waters south of Indonesia. After dinner, gather on deck for pre-eclipse stargazing beneath dark tropical skies.
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Saturday, July 22, 2028 | Eclipse Day
  Today is the defining moment of the expedition: The total solar eclipse of July 22, 2028. From the ship’s open decks, experience approximately five minutes of totality, with unobstructed horizons and freedom from land-based crowds. As the Moon covers the Sun, the corona appears and the surrounding sea and sky are transformed in a rare moment of daytime darkness. Afterward, celebrate on board with time for reflection, photography sharing, and an expert-led eclipse recap.
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Sunday, July 23, 2028 | Sumba Island
  Arrive off Sumba, one of Indonesia’s most culturally distinctive islands. Using the ship’s expedition capabilities, go ashore where conditions allow a locally guided visit to learn about high-roofed clan houses, megalithic tombs, ikat textiles, and enduring ancestral customs. Return to the ship for an evening lecture and stargazing. 
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Monday, July 24, 2028 | Flores Island
  Come ashore on Flores, an island of volcanic landscapes, coastal communities, lively markets, and layered cultural traditions. Guests may choose a longer overland excursion to Kelimutu National Park, where three famed crater lakes are known for their striking colors and dramatic highland setting. A second option remains closer to Ende for a less strenuous exploration of local markets, ikat weaving, coastal village life, and sites connected to the years Sukarno, Indonesia’s independence leader and first president, spent in exile. This evening, continue west toward Komodo National Park. 
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Tuesday, July 25, 2028 | Komodo National Park
  Spend the day in the extraordinary island wilderness of UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park. Join ranger-led walks in search of Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards, while learning about the park’s wildlife, rugged ecosystems, and conservation efforts. Later, the ship repositions within the park for snorkelling, swimming, or Zodiac cruising at reef sites and shorelines to experience coral gardens, pristine beaches and dramatic views of the park’s volcanic hills.
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Wednesday, July 26, 2028 | Satonda Island & Moyo Island
  Zodiac ashore this morning at Satonda Island, an extinct volcanic cone, and walk to its saltwater crater lake just inland from the beach. This afternoon, continue to Moyo Island for forest trails, waterfalls, secluded beaches, and swimming or snorkeling, conditions permitting. This evening, gather for the Captain’s farewell reception and dinner, celebrating a voyage that paired a total solar eclipse with Indonesia’s remote island beauty. 
  Island Sky (B, L, D)
• Thursday, July 27, 2028 | Benoa, Bali
  Arrive back in Benoa this morning and disembark after breakfast with transfers to Bali International Airport or continue on the post-trip Bali extension. 
  (B)

Please note: Itinerary is subject to change.

Pricing

• Category 1 (Standard Suite Forward, Magellan Deck cabins 250 and 252, 226 sq ft, portholes): $13,990 per person sharing
• Category 2 (Standard Suite, Magellan Deck cabins 254-262, 226 sq ft, portholes): $14,990 per person sharing; $24,590 single occupancy
• Category 3 (Superior Suite, Columbus Deck cabins 329-348, 217–264 sq ft, picture window): $16,990 per person sharing; $25,490 single occupancy
• Category 4 (Premium Suite, Marco Polo Deck cabins 416-428, 226 sq ft, sliding glass door): $18,490 per person sharing
• Category 5 (Corner Suite, Marco Polo Deck cabins 414 and 415, 237 sq ft, sliding glass door): $19,990 per person sharing
• Category 6 (Deluxe Balcony Suite, Erikson Deck cabins 505-512, 225 sq ft, 43 sq ft balcony): $21,990 per person sharing
• Category 7 (Owner’s Balcony Suite, Explorer Deck cabins 601-606, 237 sq ft, 86 sq ft balcony): $22,490 per person sharing
• Category 8 (Island Suite, Explorer Deck cabin 602, 344 sq ft, 100 sq ft balcony): $24,490 per person sharing

Inclusions

Program rates include: One hotel night in Bali, Indonesia and eight nights aboard Island Sky • Meals and excursions as specified in the itinerary, including nine breakfasts, eight lunches and nine dinners • Comprehensive program of briefings, lectures and presentations • Shared airport transfers on group arrival and departure dates • Baggage handling • Gratuities to porters, wait staff, 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 and aboard the ship • Eclipse viewing glasses • Team of expert naturalists and tour managers 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; alcoholic beverages or soft drinks except as noted • Laundry or dry cleaning • Telephone, Internet and email charges • Room service • Other items of a personal nature

What to Expect

July is the middle of the dry season in Indonesia, bringing warm, sunny days (high temperatures average in the mid to upper 80s) and lower humidity, with infrequent rain showers. We consider this to be a moderately strenuous program, at times physically demanding and busy, with considerable walking at some destinations. Daily activities can involve up to two miles of walking, unaided, over varied terrain (e.g., uneven beaches, steep and sandy or muddy trails, dirt streets and paths in small villages), possibly in direct sun, high heat, humidity and rainy or dusty conditions. You may be required to remove your shoes while visiting temples and other sites. You will need to climb into and out of Zodiacs for most excursions (there will be crew members on hand to assist). Please note that some locations may involve wet landings. There will be several opportunities to swim and snorkel in the ocean. All participants who plan to swim or snorkel should be comfortable swimming unassisted in open water. No prior snorkeling experience is necessary. Participants must be physically fit, active and in good health. Emergency medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended due to the remote areas that you will be visiting.

Please note that weather and cloud conditions for viewing the eclipse can change and are not guaranteed.

Is This Trip Right for Me?

Every destination and every Princeton Journeys travel program is unique. Refer to the information below to help you decide if this is the right journey for you:

• Climate: While July offers some of the mildest temperatures of the year in Indonesia, the climate is tropical and daytime temperatures will be hot and humid.
• Walking: To participate safely in this tour, you should be able to comfortably walk at least two miles per day, unaided, over varied terrain, including uneven beaches and steep, sandy, muddy, or occasionally slippery trails. There is no strenuous hiking.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: This program offers several optional opportunities to swim and snorkel, subject to weather and local conditions. You will also have the chance to simply relax on the beach.
• Zodiacs: The Island Sky is equipped with Zodiacs to allow for exploration of more remote areas in Indonesia. Most excursions will require you to climb into and out of Zodiacs, with crew members on hand to assist. Some excursions will involve wet landings, requiring you to step from the Zodiac into shallow water.
• Transportation: The benefit of cruising is that once you board the Island Sky, you only need to unpack once. The ship will often cruise overnight, allowing you to wake up in your next destination. During daytime cruising, you will have the chance to enjoy the ship amenities and the trip’s lecture series. Sea and weather conditions can occasionally impact the cruising schedule.
• Food: Most meals on this program will be served on board the Island Sky. Menus are typically European continental fare, with hints and flavors of the local cuisine, and international specialties.
• Eclipse Viewing: As with any eclipse, weather and cloud conditions can change, and clear viewing cannot be guaranteed.
• Temples & Religious Sites: At some temples and religious sites, you may be required to cover your shoulders and knees, wear a sarong or sash, or remove your shoes.
• Accommodation: The Island Sky is a casual, comfortable expedition ship with an intimate size. There is a doctor on board.
• Group Size: This program is co-sponsored with Harvard and Carleton College, with a maximum of 92 guests among all organizations. All participants will be invited to hear lectures from each organization’s study leader.
• Extension: The post-tour Bali extension is operated by Criterion Travel and will not be staffed by a Princeton study leader or host.

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.