Holland America Line is expanding its cruise program for its 2024 solar eclipse cruises.
The opportunity to see the eclipse from sea will now also involve expert astronomists onboard. A series of lectures, demonstrations and tips will enrich the experience for guests.
University of California San Diego Professor Adam Burgasser will step onto Koningsdam as the resident astronomy expert. Mr Burgasser is the leading investigatar at the university’s ‘Cool Star Lab’.
The cruise in question leaves from San Diego on its 22-day sailing on April 5, 2024. Guests will view the eclipse from the coast of Mexico. Following this, the cruise will traverse to Hawaii for a few ports and then to Vancouver BC.
Bill Prince, vice president of entertainment for Holland America Line said the solar eclipse cruises are a once-in-a-lifetime event.
“We’re positioning our ships in the perfect location for guests to see the eclipse.
“For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so being able to receive the guidance of a renowned physicist like Dr. Burgasser is an exciting opportunity for our guests. We’re known for creating immersive programming, and this will be an unforgettable live event.”
Mr Burgasser said: “This first total solar eclipse in North America in seven years is something astronomers — amateur and professional — are all excited to observe, and there’s no better or unique place to observe it than at sea off the coast of Mexico.
“I look forward to joining Holland America Line guests aboard Koningsdam to witness this phenomenon and help them better understand the science and history behind it.”
You can book or explore the itinerary here.
Guest presenter and astronomer Jim McParland has been announced as the expert onboard for HAL’s other solar eclipse cruise.
Zaandam will depart on March 30 for a 14-day day roundtrip from San Diego. The ship will be in Mazatlan, Mexico, on the day of the eclipse.
