On 12 August, the sky offered one of the year’s most eagerly awaited astronomical spectacles: a solar eclipse that could be observed in excellent conditions from the Mediterranean. To mark the occasion, Universidad Camilo José Cela organised the Eclipse 360 Voyage, in collaboration with the Oceanogràfic Foundation and Oceanosophia. The experience offered participants the opportunity to witness the phenomenon from a privileged setting, far from light pollution and with an entirely unobstructed horizon, on board the Cervantes Saavedra training ship.
Held from 11 to 16 August, the Eclipse 360 Voyage made the Cervantes Saavedra the only Spanish training ship to organise a dedicated voyage specifically to observe the solar eclipse from the sea. Taking advantage of the eclipse’s path over the Mediterranean coast, the ship positioned itself near the Columbretes Islands, one of the locations offering the best viewing conditions.
The voyage combined astronomy outreach, sailing and scientific activities related to the marine environment, offering nearly 30 participants an immersive experience surrounded by nature. Scientist, writer and science communicator Antonio Pérez-Verde also joined the expedition.
“These voyages bring the sea closer to people of all ages through a participatory, hands-on experience. Sailing aboard a historic training ship offers a different way of discovering the Mediterranean, while gaining a better understanding of its biodiversity and the need to protect it,” said José Manuel Guzmán.
Representatives of the Oceanogràfic Foundation and Oceanosophia also highlighted the educational value of the initiative, which brings together scientific knowledge, environmental education and first-hand observation of both the sky and the marine ecosystem.
Activities included:
- Workshops led by Oceanogràfic specialists.
- Observation and identification of cetaceans and seabirds.
- Microplastics research and sample analysis.
- Active sailing and participation in life on board.
- Environmental and astronomy outreach activities as part of the Eclipse 360 Voyage.
The Cervantes Saavedra schooner is UCJC’s training ship, a historic sailing vessel that serves as a campus at sea for educational, scientific and cultural projects, providing unique learning experiences on board. UCJC is part of SEK Education Group, which comprises 15 schools in seven countries, six of them in Spain.
The Oceanogràfic Foundation, based at the Oceanogràfic de València, combines research, outreach and marine conservation, promoting greater knowledge and protection of the oceans. Oceanosophia has been organising themed voyages for a number of years, with a focus on cultural outreach and human values.
