fred olsen cruises to the azores

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Azores Cruises

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Cruise around the Azores

Embark on an incredible journey on our small ship cruises to the Azores, allowing touring the islands more accessible than ever before. Cruise to the Azores and Madeira from Southampton, Liverpool and even Rosyth. Experience the unique blend of Portuguese and Azorean cultures while enjoying the comfort of your cruise ship, and discover the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and beyond.[ReadMoreDesk][ReadMoreMob]

Explore Historic Islands

The remote archipelago of the Azores offers a host of exceptionally diverse, emerald-green islands with volcanic scenery, beautiful lakes and majestic mountains. Once a stopping point for transatlantic flying boats, these islands are rich in history too. The Azores contains two of Portugal’s 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites: the vineyards of Pico and the old town of Angra do Heroismo. The islands have embraced their role as a world-class example of sustainable tourism, and the local government has helped create a network of natural parks and marine reserves to safeguard the unspoiled environment. Once docked at the Azores cruise port, explore the landscapes wonderland of bubbling mud pots, bewildering geology and historic towns. The region is a haven for whale watching, sailing, diving, surfing and hiking – discover its treasures on horseback, bikes or hiking trails.

Discover more about island Life 

Azores cruises reveal marvellous, unspoilt volcanic treasures Horta and Praia de Vitória. Ponta Delgada, located on São Miguel Island, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day touches with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, bustling markets, a marina and waterside cafés, all in the shadow of the extinct Sete Cidades Volcano.

Azores Countries

Cruises to Azores

Natural Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira • T2408

• Marvel at the wonders of beautiful Portuguese islands
• Explore volcanic sites in the Azores
•  Go in search of whales with ORCA on Bolette

Volcanic Islands & Hidden Gems of Portugal • T2416

• Discover the Sete Cidades crater lakes from Ponta Delgada
• Search for dolphins and whales from Bolette' s decks with ORCA
• Embrace Portuguese traditions and savour local cuisines
• 2 offers available

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Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2417

• Discover more of Portugal's maritime history in Lisbon
• Admire the blue hydrangeas in full bloom in the Azores
• Spot sperm whales and other marine life with ORCA representatives
• 3 offers available

Portugal's Islands in Search of the Meteor Shower • L2424

• This cruise is planned to coincide with the Perseid Meteor Shower
• Spot shooting stars from the decks of Balmoral in the  Azores
• Spend time with an astronomer who will offer an insight to this event
• 1 offer available

Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2420

• Uncover the verdant volcanic vistas of the Azores and Madeira
• Relax in hot springs, taste Port wine and ride Lisbon's iconic trams
• Spot a variety of marine life from  Borealis  with wildlife charity ORCA

Spain, Portugal & the Spectacular Bird Migration • T2420

• See the large number of birds migrating across the Strait of Gibraltar
• Encounter the Barbary Apes on the Rock of Gibraltar
• Delve into maritime history in Spain and Portugal

Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2422

• Explore Portugal's maritime history and floral gardens
• Join ORCA conservationists on Borealis ' decks to spot marine life
• Visit the levada walking trails in Madeira

Natural Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira • T2425

• Visit the world's largest Gothic cathedral in Seville on a tour from Cádiz
• Spot marine life from the decks of Bolette with ORCA conservationists
• Enjoy time in the gardens and levada trails in Madeira

Easter Escape to Portugal's Unspoilt Islands • L2505

• Spot a variety of marine life from Balmoral with wildlife charity ORCA
• Explore the botanical gardens on Madeira with a local orchid expert
• Discover the legend of Sete Cidades crater lakes on Sao Miguel Island

Volcanic Vistas of the Azores & Madeira • S2518

• Experience the volcanic wonders of the Azorean Islands
• Immerse yourself in Portuguese traditions such as thermal bathing
• Discover flower cultivation and pineapple growing in Madeira

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Cheap Azores Fred. Olsen Cruises

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13 Night Cruise to the British Isles & Western Europe

• You like classic but renovated median-sized cruise ships
• You seek a good variety of restaurants, bars, activities and entertainment
• You appreciate destination-focussed observation spaces
• You prefer newer and larger cruise ships with more to do onboard
• You are looking for more elaborate activity and entertainment offerings
• You want even more included without the need to pay for extras

14 Night Cruise to the British Isles & Western Europe

28 night cruise to the western caribbean, 15 night cruise to the british isles & western europe.

• You want a cruise on a unique ship to interesting ports of call
• You enjoy a classic cruise ambiance and dislike bigger ships
• You're keen to socialize with like-minded adult passengers
• You don't like smaller ships; Balmoral's passengers sure do
• You don't want to pay onboard expenses using pounds
• You prefer the intimate style of Fred. Olsen's small ships

Explore Azores

Call us free on  0800 023 1273

Mobiles / international call 0203 371 7641, cruising the azores & portugal.

Cruising around the Azores from £1,644pp

Embark on an amazing journey onboard Fred. Olsen's smaller ships to the Azores, making island exploration easier than ever. Set sail from Southampton, Dover, Liverpool, or even Rosyth, and immerse yourself in the captivating fusion of Portuguese and Azorean cultures while relishing the comforts of your cruise ship. You'll also have the chance to uncover the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and beyond.

Discover the Charm of Historic Islands

The remote Azores archipelago boasts a diverse collection of emerald-green islands with breathtaking volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains. These islands, once a crucial stopover for transatlantic flying boats, are steeped in history. Notably, the Azores proudly house two of Portugal's 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites: the vineyards of Pico and the old town of Angra do Heroismo. Embracing their role as a shining example of sustainable tourism, the local government has established a network of natural parks and marine reserves to protect their unspoiled environment. Upon reaching the Azores cruise port, you can explore a wonderland of bubbling mud pots, intriguing geology, and historic towns. The region is a haven for activities like whale watching, sailing, diving, surfing, and hiking. You can discover its treasures on horseback, bicycles, or scenic hiking trails.

Get Acquainted with Island Life

Azores cruises introduce you to the unspoiled volcanic gems of Horta and Praia de Vitória. Ponta Delgada, nestled on São Miguel Island, offers a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern-day conveniences, with its charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, lively markets, marina, and waterfront cafes, all beneath the shadow of the dormant Sete Cidades Volcano.

What's included in your cruise?

• Comfortable cabins and suites all equipped with climate control, interactive smart TV, hairdryer, desk, phone, fridge (which can be stocked as a mini-bar) and tea and coffee making facilities
• Tempting cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five course à la carte dinners, casual breakfasts and lunches, buffets, afternoon tea with sandwiches and cakes and late-night snacks
• Self-service tea and coffee in selected venues
• All evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, live music and dancing
• Use of leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and Fitness Centre
• A wide choice of on board activities, talks and demonstrations throughout the day
• All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
• Luggage porterage between your cabin and the drop-off/ pick-up point

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Fred. Olsen – Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores and Madeira – 2023

Azores, Portugal ©Norberto Diver Azores Turismo

São Miguel Island Azores ©Arch.TdP

Azores, Portugal - São Jorge

Sails from Southampton

From on board  Bolette , and during time spent exploring ashore, encounter the wildlife and natural wonders of a string of Portuguese islands, including a duo of scenic gems in the hard-to-reach Azores archipelago. See Terceira’s glorious coastline from the water, then perhaps – during your visit to Praia da Vitoria – tour to the south of the island where the UNESCO-listed historic city of Angra do Heroísmo is yours to explore, or take in the views from atop the Monte Brasil volcano. Unforgettable sights and experiences await on São Miguel; revel in the colourful lakes and vast craters of Sete Cidades Volcano, and see nature in action at the Furnas Valley, where natural hot springs fill the air with steam and the lingering scent of sulphur.

You’ve opportunities to go in search of resident whales and dolphins that live and breed in the waters surrounding these islands too. Upon departure from São Miguel, scenic cruising by Santa Maria island at sunset will provide a memorable final glimpse of the Azores’ natural beauty, before it’s on to Madeira. At Portugal’s ‘Garden Island’, see the mighty Cabo Girao sea cliff from your ship’s decks, then head ashore at Funchal – the island’s capital. You could spend your day wandering the levada walking trails, to absorb the vibrant colours and sweet scents of the wild flowers; or explore botanical gardens and orchid farms with a local expert, to learn about the flora in more detail. What’s more, the highlights of this cruise aren’t restricted to island delights; a call at Leixoes is your chance to tour to Oporto – a city famed for its port wine and seafood, while there’s also a visit to the Spanish mainland and La Coruna, to delve into rich maritime history and see monuments such as Torre de Hercules.

Click to view Ship Information of the Bolette

Sunday 13 August 2023

Cruise itinerary, departure from southampton, united kingdom.

Board the ship mid-afternoon before you set sail.

Monday 14 August 2023

Cruising at sea, tuesday 15 august 2023, wednesday 16 august 2023, thursday 17 august 2023, praia da vitoria, portugal.

Pretty Praia da Vitoria, the former capital of the Azores, is a town steeped in history. Originally heavily fortified, Praia has a fascinating historic quarter, and a stunning natural harbour that’s overlooked by the impressive 16th century Fort of Santa Catarina.Translated as the Beach of the Victory, Praia da Vitoria is a popular destination thanks to a bustling, modern harbour, vibrant town centre and gorgeous sandy beaches.The pick of which is the uncrowded Praia Grande, which is a safe, dark sand beach with barely any waves.Praia’s centre has a pleasant pedestrian zone with many attractive shops and some notable historic buildings that deserve a glance. The most notable monuments include the imposing bell towers of 15th century Igreja Matriz de Santa Cruz and the stunning Town Hall in the main square.

Friday 18 August 2023

Ponta delgada, portugal &  cruising by santa maria, azores.

Ponta Delgada, the main town on the island of São Miguel, is the capital of the Azores archipelago of Portugal. The town’s cosmopolitan atmosphere belies its 500 year history, and the surrounding island boasts beautiful lakes, mountains, sandy beaches and the stunning crater lakes of the extinct Sete Cidades volcano. A fine collection of buildings, narrow cobbled streets and squares, are a firm reminder that this was once a key staging post between Europe and the Americas. Intermingled are cool parks, enchanting squares, a modern marina, restaurants and waterside cafés. Its lakeside, whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs look out to enchanting mountain plains.The striking, three-arched city gates, Portas da Cidade – which once stood in the harbour and now reside in Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square, were dedicated to the Portuguese navigator who discovered the Azores. The Gothic Church of St. Sebastian and The Convent and Chapel of Our Lady of Hope, which is home to a revered image of Christ, are both worth uncovering. The Carlos Machado Museum offers diverse artefacts of Azorean culture, while Igreja Matriz Church, with its splendid clock tower, is one of many beautifully ornate towers to be found.The ‘Green Island’ also offers canoeing and other sports activities on lakes located in the craters of its dormant volcanoes. The island’s beauty can also be enjoyed by horse riding or cycling.

Saturday 19 August 2023

Sunday 20 august 2023, cruise by cabo girão, &  funchal, madeira, portugal.

Towering 580 metres above sea level, making it one of the world’s highest sea cliffs, Madeira’s mighty Cabo Girão is a magnificent sight. While Cabo Girão is a popular attraction for visitors to Madeira, who journey here to take in the Atlantic Ocean views from its famous SkyWalk, not many get to see the cliff from the ocean.On your Fred. Olsen cruise by Cabo Girão, you’ll get to revel in its imposing stature from a rarely-experience perspective, as your smaller ship sails the waters surrounding Portugal’s ‘garden island’.

Funchal, the capital of Portugal’s Madeiran archipelago, has a timeless old-world charm. Enhanced by a subtropical climate that fills this ‘floating garden’ with the year-round colours and perfumes of flowers and fruit, Funchal was a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill. His praise of the city has ensured British visitors always receive a warm welcome from locals. Backed by rolling hills, the town is famous for its harbour, the 17th century São Tiago Fortress (now the Contemporary Art Museum) and world renowned Madeiran wine cellars. Funchal’s parks and gardens are a delight, and a hike through the Laurel Forest nearby is highly recommended. The ancient Funchal Cathedral mixes Gothic and Romanesque architecture, and is noted for its impressive carved wooden ceiling.

Monday 21 August 2023

Tuesday 22 august 2023, leixões (for oporto), portugal.

A short journey from Leixões takes you into the heart of Oporto, with its fortress-like Cathedral and the Baroque Church of Clérigos. Head to the historic Ribeira District, where the narrow, cobbled lanes wind their way down to the Douro River. Don’t forget to visit one of the many wine cellars for a taste of the tipple named after the city, Port. On the ground floor of the Museu Romantico is the Port Wine Institute, where port is served with great ceremony. Oporto sits deep in the gorge of the River Douro and on the riverside – dominated by the two-level Luis I bridge – it’s possible to look up at the narrow old town streets climbing out of the valley. Pastel-fronted houses with red-tiled roofs line the streets, mixed with neo-classical buildings and wonderful baroque churches. Dominating the centre of the city is the fortress-like Cathedral, which is worth visiting for the views alone.

Wednesday 23 August 2023

La coruña, spain & cruising the tower of hercules lighthouse, spain.

The city of La Coruña is the capital of the province and a busy seaport situated in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. Most famous for its Roman lighthouse, the diverse architectural styles of La Coruña make the city an absolute delight for sightseeing.La Coruña boasts an impressive seafront promenade, beautiful beaches and a host of attractions such as the Domus Museum, the Casa del Hombre and Torre De Hercules – said to be the only Roman lighthouse in existence – which offers sweeping coastal views from the top of its 60 metre high tower. The Paseo Marítimo, a lovely 13km walkway and bike path, runs from the port, around the peninsula, and along the ocean beaches.The compact Ciudad Vieja – La Coruña’s old quarter – is a must-visit area.

One of the oldest active Roman lighthouses in the world, and arguably one of the most architecturally impressive too, the Tower of Hercules – located between the Orzán cove and the Gulf of Ártabro – is a sight to behold as you sail into, and depart from, the historic Spanish city of La Coruña.While the light cast by the tower is visible from 32 miles out to sea, from on board your smaller ship you’ll enjoy a much closer view of this Roman gem, which originally dates from 2nd century CE and was restored to the glory it is today by order of King Charles IV of Spain in 1788.

Thursday 24 August 2023

Friday 25 august 2023, arrival at southampton, united kingdom.

After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.

Bolette Ship Information

While she’s one of the largest ships, by overall size, in the Fred. Olsen fleet, Bolette has capacity for less than 1,400 guests – keeping within the smaller ship ethos therefore, you’ll find that you’re not overcrowded on board.

Furthermore you’ll have plenty of space in which to indulge yourself in the stylish dining venues, enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple and fantastic entertainment at the one of the eleven stylish, spacious and comfortable bars and lounges, providing plenty of choice and variety.

There’s an undoubted sense of occasion to dining in Bolette’s main restaurant, a grand two-tiered venue featuring classical, elegant décor and a variety of seating options and table sizes, perfect for both intimate and large group dining.

You’ll find that there’s plenty to keep you entertained during the day on board Bolette, whether you prefer to while away the hours relaxing or engaging your body and mind. The ship’s facilities include two swimming pools, two jacuzzis and an impressive spa with a Thermal Spa, Aroma Room, Hydro Pool, two saunas and nine treatment rooms, while there are tennis and basketball courts and a Culinary Theatre

You’ll have days and nights to remember on board Bolette.

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Set sail for shooting stars and stunning islands

Fred. Olsen’s summertime cruise to the unique Azores islands is timed so that you can watch the Perseids meteor shower in perfect conditions — and with an expert at hand

“The exhalations whizzing in the air,” declares an dazzled Brutus in Shakespeare’s play The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, “give so much light that I may read by them.”

Brutus is describing meteor showers — thrilling celestial events wherein a storm of shooting stars appear en masse in the night sky. And, later this year, you can watch the Perseids, one of the best annual displays, from an optimal vantage point by cruising to Portugal’s far-flung Azores islands with Fred. Olsen aboard its ship, Balmoral.

Poetry in motion

Meteor showers occur when the Earth’s orbit crosses that of a comet, and we encounter many meteorites as a result. These become extremely hot upon entering Earth’s atmosphere, As they enter Earth’s atmosphere, these cause a spree of electricity-like streaks, all appearing to emanate from the same location, to rapidly whizz across our skies before disappearing as they burn up. 

It’s a magical, moving thing to watch. Come the evening of 12 August, when the Perseid Meteor Shower should be at its peak, Balmoral will be sailing the remote Atlantic waters of the Azores archipelago — a place of minimal light pollution, which means perfect viewing conditions. A fellow from the Royal Astronomical Society will be on board the ship.  

Alone in the Atlantic

Observing the Perseids is one of Fred. Olsen’s Signature Experiences on this voyage, with others awaiting on land in the oh-so-spectacular Azores. An autonomous archipelago, 950 miles west of its parent land, Portugal, and nowhere near anywhere else, these nine islands formed millions of years ago from a volcanic rift. They’re a place of black-sand beaches and glinting green mountain slopes; of cute fishing villages, terraced vineyards, big blue hydrangeas and bubbling mud pots. They’re a place that repeatedly takes your breath away.

You’ll have the opportunity to discover the culture and nature of three of the islands: Terceira, where great explorers like Vasco da Gama once stopped while navigating the Atlantic; Faial, whose main, painting-lined marina is only accessible to small ships like Balmoral; and São Miguel, the main island with its colourful, cobblestone capital Ponta Delgada.

Natural wonders and wildlife

Numerous shore tours are available. You might explore the caves and lake along Algar do Carvão, a lava tube which descends almost 100 metres underground. You could cycle around the Sete Cidades lagoon, a twin lake in the crater of a dormant volcano, learning about the local folklore this forest-hugged cauldron inspires, or explore its scenic crater by Jeep. Or you can join experts from the wildlife charity ORCA and search for whales and dolphins from the ship’s deck. The Azores ranks among the world’s hotspots for cetacean sightings, with migrating humpback, minke, blue and sei whales all regularly encountered.

Explore Lisbon and Porto

Having sailed directly to the Azores from Rosyth, just north of Edinburgh in Scotland, Balmoral will leave via an inspection of the uninhabited islet Vila Franca do Campo, a nature reserve known for its slender sea stack, bird life and enclosed, perfectly circular crater lake. Then comes two stops in mainland Portugal, beginning with the capital. Accessed via the Tagus River estuary past a huge figure inspired by Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue, intoxicating Lisbon is full of ornately tiled lanes and bakeries selling pastel de nata custard tarts.

Before returning to Rosyth, the last stop is Leixões for visits to Portugal’s seductive second city. Porto’s many temptations include a fortress-like cathedral, longstanding port cellars and a library that inspired Harry Potter.

Balance relaxation with activity

Typifying Fred. Olsen’s fleet of ships that are smaller in size than most ocean-going cruise vessels, Balmoral promises a spacious, friendly and elegant experience enhanced by unusually personalised service; above all, this is a ship on which it’s easy to relax, aided by a beautiful spa — its floor-to-ceiling windows providing dreamy views during treatments — swimming pools, broad decks, seven bars and stylish dining venues serving everything from Asian fusion (for a small supplement), to afternoon tea.

That said, there’s plenty to do whenever you fancy. You could try your hand at deck games like quoits and shuffleboard, or play bridge in the card room. Guest comedians and singers will perform, bookended by the Captain’s Welcome and Farewell parties. Informative talks by guest lecturers provide a tantalising flavour of each Portuguese destination ahead of your visit, and guided, on-deck stargazing means it’s not only that thrilling meteor shower you can admire after dark.

Find out more

Fred. Olsen’s ‘Portugal's Islands in Search of the Meteor Shower’ departs from Rosyth on August 7, 2024 for 15 nights, and costs from £2,099pp for two sharing, including meals and entertainment.

To find out more or book, visit the Fred. Olsen website . 

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Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveils 2025 voyages on Balmoral ship

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled 4 new voyages scheduled for 2025, featuring destinations such as Costa Rica, the Dominicana, and Norway.

MS Balmoral ship will embark from Southampton UK on these Transatlantic+Caribbean itineraries, carefully curated to offer tourists memorable experiences in remarkable locations.

One of these voyages is a 45-night Grand Voyage exploring the Caribbean and Central America, providing opportunities to discover tropical islands, indulge in local delicacies like Colombian coffee and Jamaican jerk chicken, and engage in activities such as snorkeling in Tortola BVI and spotting endemic wildlife in Costa Rica.

For those seeking the elusive Northern Lights, the "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise departing on January 18 promises a 15-night journey to witness this natural wonder, guided by the expertise of the Go Stargazing team, and includes the maritime tradition of crossing the Arctic Circle.

Another enticing option is the "Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands" cruise departing on February 2, offering guests a chance to explore volcanic landscapes, savor local treats such as pasteis de nata, and wander through the botanical gardens of Madeira.

Lastly, the "Springtime Norwegian Fjords" cruise will take guests on a 9-night journey down Sognefjord, one of Norway's most stunning fjords, providing opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking through lush forests.

Guests booking these cruises by April 30 can enjoy special offers, including up to GBP 300 of onboard credit or complimentary door-to-door transfers for up to 200 UK mainland miles on selected sailings.

The 4 cruises include:

Balmoral's 15-night "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise, departing from Southampton on January 18, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 2,099 per person.

Balmoral's 13-night "Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands" cruise, departing from Southampton on February 2, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 1,699 per person.

Balmoral's 45-night "Tropical Islands and Verdant Rainforests of the Caribbean and Central America" cruise, departing from Southampton on February 15, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 4,999 per person.

Balmoral's 9-night "Springtime Norwegian Fjords" cruise, departing from Southampton on April 1, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 1,199 per person.

Fred. Olsen Reveals Grand Voyage and New 2025 Cruises on Balmoral

• April 8, 2024

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveiled four new cruises setting sail in 2025, including its 45-night Grand Voyage, according to a press release.

The Balmoral’s Grand Voyage explores the Caribbean and Central America offering the chance to discover islands and rainforests, spot endemic wildlife such as sloths and capuchin monkeys in Costa Rica and more.

For travelers wanting to explore northern Norway, the “In Search of the Northern Lights” itinerary departs on January 18 and takes guests to seek out the Aurora Borealis and experience crossing the Arctic Circle.

The “Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands” voyage, departing on February 2, offers the chance to explore volcanic landscapes, sample local produce and wander through the botanical gardens in Madeira.The fourth itinerary is the “Springtime Norwegian Fjords”, which sails down Sognefjord, one of Norway’s longest and deepest fjords.

Martin Lister, head of itinerary product development at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “These four new itineraries have been carefully hand-crafted by our team of Journey Planners. The springtime cruise in Norway has been timed to showcase the very best of the fjords and mountain scenery, while North Norway will give guests the ideal opportunity to witness the Northern Lights – with 2025 being one of the best years to observe the natural phenomenon.

“Guests will also be able to embrace the local way of life in each of the destinations they are visiting and seek out native wildlife.

“Whether guests are sailing for the first or tenth time, there really is a huge variety of cruises to suit everyone’s desires.”

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Total solar eclipse 2024: why hermit crabs and a ufo will be the first to see it.

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Starbuck Island, Southern Line Islands, Kiribati

It’s being hailed as the “Great North American Eclipse”—the longest since 1806, the best since 2017 and the last until 2033 in Alaska and 2044 in Montana and the Dakotas.

But it’s not exclusively an American eclipse. In fact, creatures (and possibly aliens) in the southern hemisphere will be the first to see it, and the last will be 1,338 passengers on a British cruise ship.

It may cross 43.8 million people on the North American continent on April 8, but the narrow path of totality (115 miles wide, on average) is far longer than the 4,000 miles (6,500 kilometers) of land it happens to cross.

Here’s the truth about the total solar eclipse on April 8—and why it affects the South Pacific to the North Atlantic, not just North America.

The entire path of totality on April 8, 2024

Path Of Totality: The Whole Story

On April 8, the path of totality—the moon's shadow—will be about 9,191 miles (14,790 kilometers) long and up to 122 miles (197 kilometers) wide as it surges across Earth’s surface at an average of about 1,500 miles per hour, which is about Mach 2.

However, not even half of that path will occur over land. Most solar eclipses occur mainly over the sea—as this one does: the southwestern Pacific and the north Atlantic oceans.

Starbuck Island, Southern Line Islands, Kiribati.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, pacific eclipse: where the eclipse begins.

This eclipse begins in the southern hemisphere. The moon’s central shadow will first touch Earth at sunrise in the Pacific Ocean at 16:39 UTC (12:39 p.m. EDT), about 400 miles south of the equator, where totality will last two minutes and six seconds. If a ship is around, its passengers will see a “golden corona” rising from the waters. This will happen at a point between Starbuck Island in the Line Islands, Kiribati to the north (which will get a 96.8% partial solar eclipse) and Penrhyn Atoll—part of the Cook Islands—to the south (98.5%).

Starbuck Island And The UFO

Starbuck Island is a coral atoll in the Central and Southern Line Islands, 336 miles south of the equator. Valentine Starbuck, captain of a whaling ship, discovered it in 1823. Apart from hermit crabs, it's uninhabited, though one TikTok user has noticed a weird object on the beach at its extreme western point with a puzzling straight streak behind it. Could it be a UFO ? It’s still there today, according to Google Earth—although since it’s not flying, it’s more of a “UO.”

After striking the planet in the Pacific Ocean, the moon’s shadow will then surge across an empty ocean for about 4,000 miles (6,500 kilometers) of ocean to North America, covering Mexico’s remote Islas Socorro—a shield volcano and a haven for marine life and an iconic spot for intrepid divers—on the way.

Passengers on the MS Bolette, a 62,735 GT cruise ship owned and operated by Fred. Olsen Cruise ... [+] Lines, will be the last to witness the "Great North American Eclipse." (Photo by Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

Atlantic Eclipse: Where The Eclipse Ends

Exactly three hours, 16 minutes and 45 seconds later, the moon’s central shadow will depart Earth at 19:55 UTC (3:55 p.m. EDT) at sunset in the Atlantic Ocean north of the Azores.

There will be humans there to see it this time—and they won’t be from North America. Departing April 6 from Southampton in the U.K. will be the Bolette, a 1,338-capacity cruise ship operated by Fred Olsen Cruises that will be headed for a view of a “golden corona” as a totally eclipsed sun sets just as the moon’s shadow leaves the planet. Whether the horizon is clear enough for a view remains to be seen, but this is where the “Great North America Eclipse” will last be glimpsed.

For the latest on all aspects of April 8’s total solar eclipse in North America, check my main feed for new articles each day.

Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

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