Azores to Barcelona: A Special Solar Eclipse Voyage

Description

Sail storied waters where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, a crossroads shaped over centuries by shifting empires, maritime trade and cultural exchange. Discover the Azores’ otherworldly beauty, where volcanic landscapes rise stark against the sea; wander Morocco’s vibrant medinas, alive with color and tradition; and explore Spain’s enduring fortresses that echo with history. In August 2027, enjoy the rare opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse at sea, from aboard the open deck of National Geographic Orion—an unforgettable moment that culminates this once-in-a-lifetime voyage.

Trip Name

Azores to Barcelona: A Special Solar Eclipse Voyage

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 103 metres Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins) Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014 With just 53 cabins, National Geographic Orion offers an intimate and refined platform for exploring some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich regions—from the Pacific Islands and Asia to Antarctica and the Mediterranean. Purpose-built for expedition travel, she boasts an ice-class hull for navigating polar waters and exceptional manoeuvrability that enables access to secluded bays, narrow inlets and winding rivers—places far beyond the reach of larger cruise ships. Life aboard Orion is designed to immerse guests in the natural world, with panoramic deck spaces, a whirlpool hot tub, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Her public areas include two relaxed dining venues, a lounge with bar, an observation library, fitness centre and spa, as well as the OM System Photo Gear Locker to support photography at all levels. Open-Bridge access allows guests to connect with the ship’s officers and learn about navigation first-hand. Whether sailing through polar pack ice or anchoring off a tropical atoll, Orion delivers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal / Embark Ship

Arrive in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores. Transfer from the airport to the city, and spend the day at leisure, wandering the cobblestone streets and soaking in the island’s unique blend of Portuguese and Atlantic culture. Later this afternoon, embark National Geographic Orion. Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 - Day 2 Ponta Delgada

Venture into the lush Furnas Valley and enjoy a traditional Azorean specialty for lunch: cozido, a hearty stew of meats and vegetables slow-cooked underground by volcanic steam. Weather permitting, set out with local spotters on a catamaran in search of cetaceans. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 - Days 3-5 At Sea

Spend time relaxing at sea as the ship sails toward Morocco. Join the officers on the Bridge to learn about navigating the western coast of Africa, attend an engaging talk with one of the naturalists or take advantage of the ship’s amenities, such as a rejuvenating spa treatment with the wellness specialist. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 - Days 6-7 Tangier, Morocco

This morning, arrive at the Strait of Gibraltar, the only natural waterway between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean. As we sail this legendary passage, a total solar eclipse unfolds overhead—an awe-inspiring spectacle that will blanket the seascape in otherworldly hues. Navigate to the path of totality to take in this rare celestial event from the best possible position (conditions permitting). Later, explore Tangier, which lies just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain and has long been a gateway between Africa and Europe—a true cultural crossroads. Stroll the winding streets of its medina. Then ascend to the city’s legendary kasbah or visit the American Legation Museum, a symbol of centuries-old diplomacy, and the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located outside the country. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Day 8 Málaga, Spain

Málaga is one of Spain’s oldest cities—a vibrant coastal hub where layers of ancient history blend with contemporary culture. Explore the Alcazaba, a remarkably well-preserved Moorish fortress overlooking the sea, and climb to the Castillo de Gibralfaro, the 14th-century stronghold that once guarded both the Alcazaba and the city below. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - Day 9 Motril

Visit the hillside village of Frigiliana, renowned for its whitewashed houses and Moorish old quarter, where winding lanes are decorated with vibrant ceramic mosaics. Continue to the Caves of Nerja, a subterranean network stretching for nearly three miles, home to vast chambers, soaring stalactites and some of the world’s oldest known cave paintings. The day caps off in Grenada, with a special private visit to the famed Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 13th-century hilltop fortress exemplifies the artistic, scientific and architectural achievements of the Moors. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - Day 10 Cartagena

Uncover Cartagena’s remarkable history, from its Roman foundations to its role as a Mediterranean stronghold. Stand before the magnificent Roman Theatre, admire the remains of the Augustus Temple and see the imposing city walls—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, set out on a tapas tour of the city, weaving your way through narrow lanes and bustling terraces as you taste local delicacies like caldero del mar menor, a traditional fisherman’s rice dish. If time allows, we’ll also visit the night market, held in the summer along the harbor or in the central squares. Here, street musicians, pop-up performers and a relaxed local crowd bring a festival feel to the evening. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 - Day 11 Valencia

Begin your exploration of Valencia with a visit to its majestic cathedral, home to the revered Holy Chalice—believed by many to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. Savor an authentic paella, the city’s signature dish, before exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex where science, culture and architecture converge. Later, wander the winding streets of the old quarter, browse the bustling Mercado Central or take in world-class art at the Palau de les Arts. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 - Day 12 Columbretes Islands

The ship anchors near the city of Castellón on mainland Spain. From here, enjoy water activities in the Columbretes Islands, an archipelago 30 miles off the coast. The islands are a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities to observe endemic species such as Andouin's gull, Eleonora's falcon and Scopoli's shearwater.Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 - Day 13 Barcelona / Disembark Ship

Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport for flights home. Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Experience a solar eclipse over the Strait of Gibraltar, witnessing the moment of totality unfold between two continents (conditions permitting)
Travel aboard the intimate National Geographic Orion, with open decks and spacious observation areas that immerse you in your surroundings
Enjoy a special private visit to the legendary Alhambra, exploring its ornate palaces, tranquil courtyards and exquisite gardens that embody the splendor of Moorish Spain
Trace Spain’s rich history from the Moorish fortresses of Malaga to Valencia’s futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural complex that symbolizes Spain’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity
On São Miguel, savor cozido—a traditional Azorean stew cooked underground by volcanic heat—then set out on a catamaran to seek out cetaceans (weather permitting)