You can have it all on Sky & Telescope's specially chartered 2028 eclipse cruise along Australia's famous Kimberley coast: 5+ minutes of totality, breathtaking natural wonders, sightseeing in Sydney, and stargazing under the Southern Hemisphere's amazing night sky.

NEW TOUR OFFER — SURE TO SELL OUT!

When dawn breaks over Australia on July 22, 2028, it’ll be the beginning of a special day “Down Under.” By mid-morning the Sun, Moon, and Earth will align to create a total solar eclipse. The path of totality crosses much of this island continent, starting with the Kimberley region along the northern coast, then zipping over the Outback well north of Alice Springs, and finally diving directly across Sydney.

Sky & Telescope’s travel team has been working since 2023 to secure the best possible arrangements for viewing this long-awaited celestial event, and after two years of planning we’re proud to announce that a very special eclipse adventure awaits you there. We’ve secured the exclusive charter rights to Heritage Adventurer, a 160-passenger expedition ship that offers a premium cruise experience combined with richly rewarding introductions to the region’s marine life, geology, and indigenous culture.

Heritage Adventurer along Australia’s Kimberley coast
Spanning more than 150,000 square miles, Western Australia’s wild and remote coastline is a treasure trove of towering, fractured iron-tinged red cliffs, torrential waterfalls, azure waters, hidden coves and caves, and secluded white sand beaches. There you’ll find magnificent reefs and rare and endangered wildlife with indigenous customs and connections to an ancient land, and rich history.
Michael Tropiano / Heritage Expeditions

The Kimberley region is best explored by expedition vessel, and our chartered ship, Heritage Adventurer, will allow an up-close and intimate exploration and immersion of this rugged wilderness. Even better, the ship will place our group near the eclipse’s centerline so we can savor 5m 10s of totality — the maximum possible. And the ship’s 14 Zodiac craft will allow photographers and others to witness the event from a sandy alcove along the shoreline.

And of course, because the eclipse occurs at new Moon, our remote location at latitudes near 15° south will provide ample opportunity to explore the celestial treasures of the southern sky — the Southern Cross, Carina Nebula, Omega Centauri, the Milky Way’s richest star clouds, and so much more.

Read on to learn how you can join this unforgettable eclipse adventure “Down Under.” Click below to get the full details:

Reserve your spot today! Register by completing this form.

HIGHLIGHTS OF S&T's AUSTRALIA Eclipse Cruise 2028

Fantastic Eclipse, Great Weather Prospects
Australia is curiously favored with five total solar eclipses between 2023 and 2038. However, on July 22, 2028, the Moon will completely cover the Sun for up to 5m 10s, a luxuriously extended totality that ranks among the dozen longest-duration total solar eclipses in the 21st century. The 143-mile-wide path makes a long run across Australia, ultimately plunging all of Sydney in darkness. As the plot above by meteorologist Jay Anderson shows, the interior of Australia and especially its northwestern coast statistically have a nearly 100% chance of clear skies on eclipse day — and a yellow asterisk marks the planned position of our ship on eclipse day.

Heritage Adventurer
Often called the “Grande Dame of Expedition Cruising,” Heritage Adventurer is a true expedition vessel. Extensively retrofit in 2022, it now boasts 237-square-foot cabins on four decks — stylish, sophisticated accommodations that are considerably more spacious than you’ll typically find on cruise ships. Once aboard, you’ll enjoy visiting the captain and crew in the bridge and dining on gourmet fare from leading chefs. Watch your adventure unfold from numerous spectacular indoor and outdoor viewing locations, aided by a team of world-renowned naturalists, botanists, historians and of course a Sky & Telescope expert. The ship’s fleet of 14 Zodiacs will carry you to breathtakingly close approaches to the Kimberley’s many natural wonders — and provide shore access both for the eclipse and for stargazing.

Sydney Harbour panorama
Few cities can match the spectacular skyline of Sydney, Australia. Its iconic Opera House is recognized the world over.
vaiem4 / dreamstime.com

Sydney
The idyllic lifestyle, friendly locals, and drop-dead natural beauty of this approachable metropolis and its attractions explain why Sydney tops so many travelers’ wish lists. The famed harbor is home to the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can explore the harbor, get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Opera House, and climb the bridge — with time to spare for people-watching at a waterfront café.

Catamarans at sunset in Darwin
A flotilla of catamarans bask in sunset’s glow in Darwin, Australia.
VanderWolf Images / dreamstime.com

Darwin
Australia’s “northern gateway” is famous for its glittering harbor, balmy nights, colorful characters, and crocodiles. You’ll also find rich Aboriginal cultures here, evident through the vibrant art that fills the city’s galleries, museums and streetscapes. Darwin’s tropical location can make it quite hot and rainy during southern summer, but we’ll be visiting in mid-winter, with dry, pleasant temperatures. The city’s proximity to Asia means you’ll also find strong Asian influences, especially in the energetic food scene and buzzing night markets.


ACCOMMODATIONS

Four Seasons Sydney (★★★★★ 3 nights)
Location doesn’t get any better than this! The Four Seasons sits in the heart of Circular Quay and puts the iconic Sydney Harbour at your doorstep and the historic The Rocks just steps away. You’ll be perfectly positioned to explore nearby shopping, outdoor adventures and a vibrant social scene. This iconic property offers luxury accommodation, with refreshing hues in its guest rooms. When you reach Sydney on the morning of July 14th after a long and tiring trans-Pacific flight, your room will be ready for you — we’ve arranged for early check in for those arriving that day. (Upgrade to a harbour-view room, as shown, for an additional charge.)
Hilton Darwin (★★★★★ 1 night)
Centrally located in the heart of this colorful city, the Hilton Darwin offers spectacular views of the Esplanade, harbor, and downtown from its spacious guest rooms. Guests rave its comfortable and spacious rooms, high cleanliness standards, and meticulous housekeeping. PepperBerry, the hotel’s multi-award-winning restaurant, showcases modern Australian cuisine combined with bush spices.
Rydges Hotel Sydney Airport (★★★★ 1 night)
This upscale airport accommodation is located at the international terminal and only 200 steps from the check-in counters. Yet the 318 clean, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms provide unexpected tranquility thanks to superior soundproofing. After an overnight stay, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready for your trans-Pacific flight home. (And airline aficionados will appreciate views overlooking the airport’s runways!)

Australia 2028 cruise map
Our 11-day, 10-night cruise aboard the Heritage Explorer will allow you to experience some of the most dramatic scenery that Australia has to offer.

ITINERARY FOR S&T’s Australia Eclipse Cruise 2028

DateItinerary at a GlanceAccommodationMeals
Wednesday, July 12Depart for Sydney(overnight flight; lose 1 day)Meals aloft
Friday, July 14Arrive in SydneyFour Seasons SydneyReception
Saturday, July 15SydneyFour Seasons SydneyB, L, D
Sunday, July 16Sydney to DarwinHilton DarwinB, D
Monday, July 17Begin cruise (afternoon)Heritage AdventurerB, D
Tuesday, July 18King George RiverHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Wednesday, July 19Vanittart BayHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Thursday, July 20Ashmore ReefHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Friday, July 21Swift BayHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Saturday, July 22Total solar eclipse!Heritage AdventurerB, L, D
Sunday, July 23Bigge Island, Careening BayHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Monday, July 24Hunter RiverHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Tuesday, July 25Collier BayHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Wednesday, July 26Lacepede IslandsHeritage AdventurerB, L, D
Thursday, July 27Cruise ends; Broome to SydneyRydges Hotel Sydney AirportB
Friday, July 28Depart Sydney for homeB

Day 0  (Wednesday, July 12) — Departure
Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Sydney. You’ll cross the International Dateline and “lose” July 13th, landing in Sydney on the morning of July 14th. (meals aloft)

Day 1  (Friday, July 14) — Arrival in Sydney
Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to the Four Seasons hotel, where you’ll have early check-in privileges. (Harbour-view upgrade available!) Then savor some free time to relax or to explore the surrounding Circular Quay area — a popular neighborhood with walkways, pedestrian malls, parks, and restaurants. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of central Sydney and the Royal Botanic Gardens, culminating with a welcome reception at historic Sydney Observatory.  Four Seasons Sydney (cocktail reception)

Historic Sydney Observatory
Historic Sydney Observatory, with Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background
James Horan / Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences

Day 2  (Saturday, July 15) — Sydney
Today offers a chance to really explore this amazing city of 5½ million. Sydney is the capital of New South Wales, and evidence suggests that Aboriginal Australians inhabited this region at least 30,000 years ago. Our group’s explorations will include a guided city tour including the iconic Sydney Opera House, followed by an evening Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.   Four Seasons Sydney  (B, l, D)

Day 3  (Sunday, July 16) — Sydney to Darwin
After an early breakfast and check-out, you’ll transfer to Sydney’s domestic airport for a flight to Darwin. After arrival there, our group will transfer to our centrally located downtown hotel. In the afternoon, we’ll take a tour of this colorful city, followed by an outdoor dinner. Hilton Darwin  (B, D)

Day 4  (Monday, July 17) — Cruise Begins (Darwin)
You’ll have some free time in the morning to explore Darwin’s popular waterfront and markets on your own. In mid-afternoon, we’ll transfer to the ship, where the captain and expedition team will be waiting to greet you. After getting to your spacious cabin, you’ll have time before dinner to settle in and familiarize yourself with the ship. We’ll also gather to meet the expedition team and review our voyage plans. Then we’ll sail away on what promises to be an unforgettable eclipse adventure. Heritage Adventurer  (B, D)

Day 5  (Tuesday, July 18) — King George River
Our approach to King George River gorge is not to be missed, because its towering 2-billion-year-old sandstone cliffs dwarf our vessel. (We will have Zodiac inflatable exploration boats at our disposal during the voyage.) As your Zodiac navigates this scenic stretch of water and cruises deeper into the gorge, you’ll see the ever-changing eroded rock faces and marvel at the untouched beauty of this iconic waterway. When you reach the end of the gorge, nothing will prepare you for the grand spectacle of the King George River plummeting 250 feet in a single drop over the edge of towering ancient red sandstone cliffs into tidal waters.  Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Twin falls on King George River
When your Zodiac boat reaches the end of the King George River gorge, nothing will prepare you for the grand scale spectacle of the Kimberley’s highest single-drop falls. Here the King George River plummets 250 feet over the edge of towering ancient red sandstone cliffs into tidal waters. The twin falls, known as male and female Rainbow Serpents or Wunkurr by the Balanggarra people, are fed by wet season rains and rightly hold a special place in indigenous lore.
Steve Bradley / Heritage Expeditions

Day 6  (Wednesday, July 19) — Vansittart Bay
Beautiful islands, pristine white beaches lapped by turquoise waters, and secluded coves abound in Vansittart Bay, which is also the location of a historical World War II site and incredible ancient Aboriginal rock art. This striking, naturally protected bay is framed by scattered jagged sandstone monoliths and the final resting place of the preserved skeleton of a Douglas DC-3 aircraft that crash-landed onto the salt pan after running out of fuel. On Jar Island, you’ll see ancient Aboriginal Gwion Gwion rock art set among fascinating caves and formations and estimated to be up to 40,000 years old. Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Birdwatchng on Ashmore Reef
Ashmore Reef is Australia’s most remote marine park. Because it’s home to 100,000 nesting sea birds, the reef has been designated an important bird area (IBA).
Cathy Finch / Heritage Expeditions

Day 7  (Thursday, July 20) — Ashmore Reef
Closer to Indonesia than mainland Australia, Ashmore Reef is Australia’s most remote marine park. Its three tropical islands are surrounded by coral reefs and home to more than 500 species of fish, 225 reef-building coral species, and 100,000 nesting sea birds. Access to Ashmore Reef is strictly controlled, and your visit will comply with Australian Government regulations. However, there may be an opportunity for a Zodiac cruise near West Island. Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Day 8  (Friday, July 21) — Swift Bay
Our Kimberley voyage continues as we navigate the scattered islands of Bonaparte Archipelago, which stretches almost 100 miles along the dramatic coastline. Today’s destination is the remote and unspoiled T-shaped inlet of Swift Bay with its sandy beaches, ominous sea-worn caves, and mangroves. As you get a closer look on a Zodiac cruise, don’t be surprised if you spot salt-water crocodiles! On land you’ll explore a number of rock-art galleries that display the unique Wandjina and Gwion Gwion styles, denoting the region’s cultural importance. Late today, the captain will navigate to the best-possible location for observing tomorrow’s eclipse. Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Aboriginal rock art at Swift Bay
The rocky islands around Swift Bay are home to two unique “galleries” of Aboriginal rock art. One features Wandjina paintings and several animals including a large white crocodile, five oystercatchers, a sting ray, and fish traps. The reveals the more ancient Gwion Gwion rock art, a style that carbon-dating shows to be at least 17,000 years old.
Steve Bradley / Heritage Expeditions

Day 9 (Saturday, July 22) — Eclipse Day!
Having adjusting our clocks to Australian Western Standard Time (8 hours ahead of Universal Time), we’ll prepare for the day’s big event! Zodiacs will carry you to shore if you prefer to view the eclipse from there. The partial eclipse begins (C1) at 9:18 a.m. local time, with the Sun already high in the northeast. Totality extends from 10:48 to 10:53, with the Sun 53° above the north-northeastern horizon. The celestial spectacle concludes with last contact (C4) at 12:24 p.m. Then it’s time for lunch and the beginning of our post-eclipse celebration! Heritage Adventurer (B, L, D)

Day 10 (Sunday, July 23) — Bigge Island, Careening Bay
Today we explore the sites of ancient Aboriginal rock art on Bigge Island and the historic Mermaid Boab Tree, which bears the carved name of the HMC Mermaid — a ship that was beached there while undergoing emergency repairs in 1820. Now measuring some 10 feet wide, the tree offers a glimpse into Australian colonial history (an old Makassan Islamic prayer alcove can be found behind it).  While in the area, we will also explore the otherworldly sandstone coastline of York Sound with its incredible sea caves and fascinating wildlife. Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Day 11  (Monday, July 24) — Hunter River
This winding, 20-mile stretch of water is widely considered to be one of the highlights of the Kimberley coast. The scenic wonderland is dotted with islands and flanked with wildlife-filled rivers, savanna woodlands, patches of lush rainforest, and soaring red cliffs. At the river’s mouth, a 600-foot-high sandstone escarpment named Kampamantiya keeps silent sentry, welcoming us into this otherworldly realm we will be exploring today. Fed by two 90-metre waterfalls, the Hunter and the Donkin, Hunter River is home to one of the largest and most pristine mangrove systems in the world. As your Zodiac cruises along the coastline, watch white-bellied sea eagles, osprey, great-billed Heron, eastern reef egrets, red-headed honeyeaters, blue-spotted mudskippers, fiddler crabs and more. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the grandeur of the iconic four-tiered Mitchell Falls on a thrilling helicopter flight, subject to availability (optional, cost extra).  Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Day 12 (Tuesday, July 25) — Collier Bay
Located at the eastern end of the Buccaneer Archipelago — and accessible only by sea — Collier Bay is crammed with ancient land- and sea-scapes. At Talbot Bay, we’ll experience the massive tidal movements that have shaped the landscape, most famously at the world’s only Horizontal Falls — once described by naturalist Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest wonders of the natural world.” At nearby Cyclone Creek, you’ll explore the twisted ancient seabed and watch for inquisitive tawny nurse sharks among the incredible marine life on display. If the timing is right, you’ll witness another tidal spectacle at enormous Montgomery Reef, which seems to “rise” out of the ocean as the tide falls, creating torrents and waterfalls up to 10 feet high. Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Horizontal Falls at Collier Bay
The remarkable Horizontal Falls at Collier Bay are a unique phenomenon. As the tide drops some 45 feet, water trapped in an inland bay thunders between narrow chasms to create spectacular falls, whirlpools, and boiling white water.
S. Todd / Heritage Expeditions

Day 13 (Wednesday, July 26) — Lacepede Islands
Today we explore the incredible wildlife reserve and birding paradise of the Lacepede Islands. These four unassuming islands boast what is thought to be the world’s largest breeding colony of brown boobies — up to 18,000 pairs! Elsewhere, low-lying spits of coarse sand and coral rubble are also important breeding grounds for green turtles. This is also home to roseate terns, masked boobies, Australian pelicans, and a vast array of other birds. While landings are not permitted, we plan to explore the islands’ incredible shores by Zodiac and, if lucky, we may also see some humpback whales during their northward migration. Heritage Adventurer  (B, L, D)

Day 14 (Thursday, July 27) — Cruise Ends; Broome to Sydney
This morning we arrive in Broome, known as Rubibi by the local Yawuru peoples. Formerly a wild frontier town and major center for the pearling industry, it’s now a relaxed tropical beach resort. After breakfast, you’ll disembark and take a complimentary coach to Broome International Airport. From there, you’ll fly back to Sydney and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay before flying back to your home. Rydges Hotel Sydney Airport  (B)

Day 15 (Friday, July 28) — Depart for Home
After breakfast and check-out, walk the short distance to your check-in desk at the Sydney International and prepare for your flight home. Flying eastward across the Pacific, you’ll once again cross the International Dateline — but this time you’ll gain a day, arriving in North America on the same date that you left Australia! (B)

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE TOUR

This exclusive Sky & Telescope expedition is designed for travelers wishing to experience a total solar eclipse and Northern Australia’s renowned natural beauty. July in mid-winter in Australia, and temperatures along the northern coast are generally warm, with typical daytime temperatures near 85°F and evening temperatures near 60°F.

We describe this trip as “active.” To enjoy this experience, you must be in good physical and mental health. Many parts of this tour are not wheelchair or stroller accessible, nor are they suitable for travelers who require mobility-assistance devices. Daily excursions from the ship will often involve climbing in and out of Zodiac inflatable boats, as well as walking or hiking over hills and uneven terrain.

If you require assistance or special equipment, you must travel with a companion who will assist you. Any physical or mental health condition that may require special medical attention or physical assistance must be disclosed in writing so that we may evaluate whether participation is feasible.

NOTE: Due to the geographically remote itinerary, medical and evacuation insurance is required for all participants.

WHAT’S INCLUDED ON THE TOUR

  • 11-day, 10-night cruise aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Two nights at 5-star hotel in Sydney with early check-in on arrival
  • One night at 5-star hotel in Darwin
  • One night at 4-star Sydney airport Hotel before departure
  • Welcome reception, with canapés and regional wines, beer, and soft drinks.
  • City tours of Sydney and Darwin
  • Private Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with regional wine or beer at dinner
  • Local guides and services of two professional tour directors
  • Briefings and lectures by Sky & Telescope astronomy director(s)
  • Professional local guides at all locations
  • Team of expedition naturalists aboard the Heritage Adventurer
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell receptions aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Regional wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch/dinner aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Wi-Fi aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Certified-safe viewing glasses for the eclipse
  • Baggage handling
  • Gratuities to porters, waitstaff, guides, tour directors, and drivers
  • Port charges and entrance fees
  • Pre-trip notes including a Travel Guide
  • Customized luggage tags

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • International airfare to and from Sydney
  • Domestic flights within Australia (booked by Royal Adventures but paid for by you)
  • Transfer from Sydney International Airport to Hotel in Sydney on arrival
  • Passport fees
  • Australian Electronic Travel Authority (approximately $20)
  • Excess-baggage fees
  • Travel and trip-cancellation insurance
  • Medical and evacuation insurance (required)
  • Room service, meals, and snacks not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages, aside from wine and beer as specified in the itinerary
  • Items from your cabin’s mini-bar (but included in Deck 6 premium cabins)
  • Personal items such as spa treatments, laundry, hotel wi-fi, and telephone calls
  • Customary shipboard gratuities ($13 per day per person)
  • Gratuities for non-group services
  • Medical expenses and immunizations; COVID-19 testing and quarantine expenses
  • Optional extensions or deviations from the scheduled tour
  • Airport taxes or security fees or fuel surcharges imposed after the initial pricing of this program

PRICING & CABIN SELECTION

PRICING (PER PERSON)TWO PER
CABIN/ROOM
ONE PER
CABIN/ROOM
Premium Suite (Deck 6) sold out!$32,000
Premium Double (Deck 6) 1 cabin left!$23,000$42,000
Superior Double (Deck 5)$19,000$35,000
Superior Double (Deck 4)$18,000$33,000
Main-deck Double (Deck 3) sold out!$15,000$27,500
3rd Person in Superior Triple (Deck 5)$16,000
3rd Person in Main-deck Triple (Deck 3)$12,000
Four Seasons room upgrade to Harbour View    $290    $580

Please refer to the diagram below for the location of the various cabin classes. All cabins are a generous 237 square feet (22 m2) in area, except for the Premium Suites, which are twice that size. Premium Suites and Premium Doubles include complimentary in-room dining and mini-bar offerings, nightly turn-down service, and other amenities. Four triple-occupancy cabins, which feature a pull-down bed, are available (two each on Decks 3 and 5); two guests must pay the “two-per-cabin” rate in order for a third person to get the discounted rate. Two handicap-accessible cabins are available on Deck 4.

Limited single-person cabins are available. Royal Adventures will attempt to pair single participants wishing to share a two-person cabin, in which case each will get individual hotel accommodations and the cost for each person will be $3,000 higher than the “two-per-cabin” rate. However, if a roommate for the cruise is not secured by the final payment date, the single participant will be charged the “one-per-cabin” rate.

Pricing is based on standard capacities on vehicles and at restaurants, hotels, and other venues and does not include any costs that may be incurred by any capacity limitations that may be imposed for any reason. All tour prices are based on costs in effect at the time of posting. As such, prices listed here are subject to change. Royal Adventures and/or AAS Sky Publishing LLC will inform participants of any changes prior to departure.

 
Note: All tour prices are based on costs and U.S. dollar exchange rates in effect at the time of posting. As such, prices listed here are subject to change. While Sky & Telescope and/or Royal Adventures will do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, they are subject to change, participants will be notified of any changes in the price of the trip by July 1, 2027.

PAYMENTS, TERMS, and CONDITIONS

  • To make a reservation: A reservation request can be submitted by completing this form. Reservations are recorded and acknowledged in order of receipt. Royal Adventures (CST #2009579-40) handles all invoicing.
  • Deposits and final payment: The following initial deposits are required with your reservation; if you are requesting a room/cabin just for one person, the initial deposit will be twice these amounts:
         $2,500 per person for a Main-deck Double (Deck 3)
         $2,500 for the third person in a three-person cabin
         $3,000 per person for a Superior Double (Deck 4)
         $3,500 per person for a Superior Double (Deck 5)
         $4,000 per person for a Premium Double (Deck 6)
         $4,500 per person for a Premium Suite (Deck 6)
    Initial deposit(s) may be charged to a credit card or paid by a check (payable to “Royal Adventures”) mailed to: Royal Adventures, 9 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 205, San Ramon, CA 94583. Due to the service agreements for this program, a second deposit of $3,500 per person will be required by July 15, 2026, and a third deposit of $3,500 per person will be required by July 15, 2027. These payments must be paid by check (payable by check to “Royal Adventures”). Final payment, including payment for flights within Australia (see below) will be required by January 3, 2028, and must be paid by check (payable by check to “Royal Adventures”).
  • Refunds and Cancellation Fees: All cancellations must be made in writing to Royal Adventures and will take effect on the date they are received. A participant’s decision to withdraw from the tour for any reason — including, but not limited to, illness, injury, family obligations, work conflicts, or geopolitical concerns — will be considered a cancellation. Cancellation fees are as follows:
         Within 14 days of booking: Full refund of your initial deposit
         After 14 days of booking, before July 15, 2026: $2,500 per person
         On/after July 15, 2026: $5,000 per person
         On/after July 15, 2027: All deposits paid to date, regardless of booking date
         On/after January 3, 2028: All deposits or payments made, regardless of booking date.
    There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations, or other trip features or for any part of the program in which you choose not to participate.
  • Tour size: This tour, exclusively designed for AAS Sky Publishing LLC, is limited to 160 participants plus staff. The minimum group size is 100. Should the minimum group number not be met, Royal Adventures reserves the right to levy a surcharge.
  • Itinerary: The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of AAS Sky Publishing LLC, Royal Adventures, and Heritage Expeditions. All tour prices are based on costs and U.S. dollar exchange rates in effect at the time of posting. As such, the prices listed here are subject to change. In particular, any increases in the fares for in-tour transportation, security, and/or fuel surcharges will be paid by the participants. Sky & Telescope and/or Royal Adventures will inform participants of any changes prior to departure.
  • Eclipse viewing: Viewing conditions for the total solar eclipse on July 22, 2028, will be weather dependent; there is always a chance that the eclipse will be observable only for a short time or not at all. Your Tour Directors and Heritage Adventurer staff will position the ship for optimum eclipse viewing. However, neither Royal Adventures nor AAS Sky Publishing LLC makes any guarantee of viewing the total solar eclipse, or that you will be able to view the eclipse from the shore if that’s your preference.
  • Flight arrangements to/from Australia: The cost of international flights to and from Australia are not included in this program. Note that airline schedules and pricing for such flights will not be available until July 2027 at the earliest. Valerie Wilson Travel is the preferred provider for international airline arrangements for this trip and can be reached at 1-800-447-3560. You are also welcome to book your international air transportation using a local travel agent, online travel site, or airline of your choice.
  • Flight arrangements within Australia: The cost of the tour’s two flights within Australia (Sydney-to-Darwin and Broome-to-Sydney) is not included in this program. However, these flights will be reserved and confirmed by Royal Adventures approximately 9 months before departure, then participants will be billed for the flights separately in the final invoice. The estimated cost is approximately $700 per person based on current costs and is subject to increase.
  • Insurance: Due to the remote location of this tour, medical and evacuation insurance are required with a minimum coverage of $200,000.  Trip cancellation insurance can be purchased through our recommended provider:
    Generali:  Call 1-800-874-2442 and mention Royal Adventures #20241120. (Note: you need to call to purchase insurance for this program — the self-service link will not allow you to purchase insurance yourself until closer to departure.)
    Travel Insured International: Call 1-800-243-3174 and mention Royal Adventures #53140
    Or you can purchase insurance from the company of your choice. NOTE: Most insurance plans need to be purchased within 14 days of paying the initial deposit in order to waive preexisting medical conditions as well as to purchase “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance.
  • Disclaimer: Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented here. Royal Adventures, AAS Sky Publishing, LLC, and Sky & Telescope are not responsible for errors in or damages resulting from use of the information contained herein. Information contained here is subject to change. Neither AAS Sky Publishing LLC nor Royal Adventures accepts liability for any airline-cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour.
  • Responsibility Statement: Royal Adventures (CST #2009579-40), its owners and employees, act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurants, and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services, and transportation are offered or provided; AAS Sky Publishing, LLC and the American Astronomical Society (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Sky”) and Royal Adventures and each entity’s respective board of directors or trustees, officers, shareholders, members, employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability therefor. Sky and Royal Adventures assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages, or expenses of any kind due to sickness, epidemics, pandemics, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, quarantine, force majeure, animal or insect bites, eye injury from viewing the eclipse or other such causes. Sky and Royal Adventures reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour participants. Sky and/or Royal Adventures shall not be deemed to be in breach of these terms and conditions or otherwise be liable to you, and shall not provide any refund, because of delay in performance, or by non-performance, of any of our obligations hereunder to the extent that any such delay or nonperformance is due to any Force Majeure Event. A Force Majeure Event, in relation to this tour, shall mean any circumstances beyond our control, including, but without limitation, acts of God, explosion, flood, forceful wind, fire or accident, war or threat of war declared or undeclared, acts of terrorism, sabotage, insurrection, riots, strikes, civil disturbance, sickness, epidemics, pandemics, quarantines, government intervention or other unforeseeable events. Limitations on travel arising from the COVID-19 pandemic shall be considered a Force Majeure Event. If this tour is affected by a Force Majeure Event, the Sky and Royal Adventures shall be entitled to, and may in their sole and absolute discretion, vary, cancel or postpone any itinerary or arrangement in relation to this trip. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs, rates, and fuel prices and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, security surcharge, or fuel price increases will be passed on to participants. Neither Sky nor Royal Adventures accepts the liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour. The air ticket, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned.  Neither Royal Adventures nor Sky make any guarantees as to the viewing of the total solar eclipse. As part of the consideration and right to participate in this tour, each participant will be asked to sign a liability release.
  • Questions: Please contact Royal Adventures at [email protected] or call 800-453-4754 or 925-820-6260 (Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time).
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