Atlas Ocean Voyages, a leading yacht expedition cruise line, is enhancing its Cultural Expeditions’ Atlas Focus Lab programming with the introduction of new Stargazing and Astronomy Workshops on select 2024 and 2025 expeditions. These workshops will offer guests an enriching experience of the cosmos, engaging them in discussions with fellow explorers while providing opportunities to view the galaxy through advanced telescopes on deck. Renowned astronomers Jonathan H. Ward and Charles Barclay will lead these workshops, sharing their expertise on topics ranging from the birth of the universe to the latest astronomical discoveries, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the sky above.
In addition to these workshops, Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced two special voyages specifically designed to witness the total solar eclipse scheduled for August 12, 2026. The World Navigator will be positioned in the Arctic region off Patreksfjordur, Iceland, and the World Traveller will be stationed in the Mediterranean off Palma de Mallorca, Spain, ensuring optimal viewing locations in the path of totality. These itineraries have been meticulously crafted to provide the best vantage points for observing this awe-inspiring celestial event.
The Stargazing and Astronomy Workshops will feature on three expeditions in 2024 aboard the World Navigator. Guests can embark on a 12-night journey from Leith (Edinburgh) to Trondheim, departing on June 10, 2025, led by Astronomer Charles Barclay on the World Voyager. Further Stargazing and Astronomy Workshop expeditions to Northern Europe in 2025 will be announced soon. These enriching experiences are expected to be highly sought after and are anticipated to sell out quickly.
Atlas Ocean Voyages is committed to elevating the onboard experience for its guests, and the inclusion of these stargazing opportunities exemplifies this dedication. The company welcomes Jonathan Ward and Charles Barclay as expedition guides to the galaxy, further enriching the onboard journey with their expertise and passion for astronomy. Jonathan H. Ward, an accomplished astronomer and author of space history books, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to these workshops. His most recent book, “Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars,” was written in collaboration with astronaut Eileen Collins and explores the journey of women in space. His previous work, “Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew,” was adapted for a feature film and earned recognition for its insightful narrative. As a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador since 2012, Ward has dedicated himself to promoting space-related topics and has been recognized as a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. He is also actively involved in the Greensboro (North Carolina) Astronomy Club.
Charles Barclay, a former Vice President of the Royal Astronomical Society, has dedicated his career to advancing astronomy education and outreach. He served as director of the Blackett Observatory in Wiltshire for 25 years and continues to be at the forefront of astronomical education and outreach in the UK. His contributions have earned him the 2023 Service Award from the Royal Astronomical Society for his outstanding dedication to astronomy education. He lectures on various astrophysics topics internationally and contributes to popular astronomy magazines, sharing his passion for the cosmos with a wider audience.
The 2026 solar eclipse voyages are anticipated to be highly sought-after experiences, attracting travelers eager to witness this celestial spectacle. Atlas Ocean Voyages is excited to offer these unique opportunities, allowing guests to delve into the wonders of the universe with the guidance of expert astronomers. The special lectures, advanced telescopes on deck, and engaging conversations about the cosmos will provide a truly memorable experience for all participants.
