Voyage of the Century: Experience the Total “Eclipse of the Century” and Cruise the Greek Islands

Dates: July 27 – August 5, 2027

Price: From $9,890 from Athens

Tour Operator: Thalassa Journeys

Reserve Your Space

Experience one of the rarest celestial events of the 21st century on an unforgettable journey through Greece and the Aegean Sea. Begin in Athens with visits to the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, and the magnificent Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion before embarking the elegant small ship Blue Zephyr. With a maximum capacity of just 114 guests, the ship offers an intimate setting from which to discover the beauty, history, and culture of the Greek islands.

Explore the Cycladic islands of Paros and Sifnos, with their whitewashed villages, ancient landmarks, beautiful beaches, and renowned cuisine, before sailing toward North Africa. On August 2, position yourself on the open decks of the Blue Zephyr for the extraordinary total solar eclipse, as the moon completely obscures the sun for up to 5 minutes and 18 seconds—one of the longest periods of totality this century. We are especially excited to welcome David W. Sukow, the Robert Lee Telford Professor of Physics at W&L, as your faculty host for this remarkable voyage. 

Continue to Crete, where you’ll discover the Venetian character of Chania and explore the island’s rich archaeological heritage, before visiting the volcanic island of Milos, famed for its dramatic coastline, picturesque villages, and connection to the Venus de Milo. Combining an extraordinary natural phenomenon, fascinating history, and the timeless beauty of the Greek islands, this exceptional voyage offers a truly memorable way to experience the 2027 “eclipse of the century” alongside fellow members of the W&L community.

Traveling With You

David W. Sukow is the Robert Lee Telford Professor of Physics at W&L, where he has taught physics and astronomy since 1999. He witnessed his first total solar eclipse at age 9 in Winnipeg, Canada, and has chased the Moon’s shadow ever since. An enthusiastic astronomy educator, he has involved students in research on stars and galaxies using instruments such as the 100-meter Green Bank Telescope. He is deeply committed to the idea that astronomy is for everyone and loves facilitating the transformative experience of viewing the skies. David is thrilled to join this trip with alumni to discover Greece, and to share both scientific insights and human awe in observing this spectacular celestial event.