Wednesday 12th August 2026 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Experience One of Nature’s Most Incredible Spectacles from the Water

Join Coastal Cruises for a truly unforgettable evening as we set sail across the beautiful waters of Poole Harbour to witness one of the UK’s most exciting astronomical events of 2026 – a deep partial solar eclipse.

Departing Poole Quay at 6:00pm, our special two-hour cruise offers the perfect opportunity to watch the Moon slowly pass across the face of the setting Sun from the unique surroundings of one of the world’s largest natural harbours.

With panoramic views, open-air decks and a relaxing atmosphere, there’s no better place to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What is a Partial Solar Eclipse?

A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, covering part of the Sun’s surface.

During this event, more than 90% of the Sun will be obscured from our part of the UK, creating an extraordinary evening as daylight subtly changes and the Sun transforms into a dramatic crescent before setting over the horizon.

It’s a rare opportunity to witness this incredible natural phenomenon from the water, away from busy crowds and with uninterrupted views of the western sky.

Your Cruise Includes

• Two-hour cruise out through stunning Poole Harbour
• Excellent open-water views of the western horizon
• Spacious indoor lounges and open viewing decks
• Live commentary from our friendly crew
• Fully licensed onboard bar serving hot and cold drinks, wines, beers, spirits and snacks
• A relaxing summer evening with one of nature’s most remarkable displays

Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast, keen photographer or simply looking for a unique evening out, this is a cruise you won’t want to miss.

Cruise Details

Date: Wednesday 12th August 2026

Boarding: From 5:45pm

Departure: 6:00pm

Return: 8:00pm

Departure Point: Poole Quay

Price: Adults £17  Child £13.50

Important Viewing Information

Your safety is our priority.

As this is a solar eclipse, it is essential that you use the correct eye protection when looking at the Sun.

• Passengers wishing to view the eclipse must bring their own ISO 12312-2 certified solar eclipse glasses.
• Regular sunglasses are NOT safe and must never be used to look directly at the Sun.
• Cameras, binoculars and telescopes must only be used with appropriate certified solar filters.
• Children should always be supervised while viewing the eclipse.

If you do not have suitable eclipse glasses, you can still enjoy the cruise, spectacular harbour views and the unique atmosphere on board, but you must not look directly at the Sun during the eclipse.

What to Bring

We recommend bringing:

• Your certified solar eclipse glasses.
• A warm layer or light jacket as it may become cooler during the evening.
• A camera or smartphone to capture the occasion (never photograph the Sun without the correct solar filter).
• Friends and family to share this unforgettable experience!

Weather

The eclipse itself is dependent on weather and cloud conditions. The cruise will operate in most weather conditions, and while we hope for clear skies, visibility of the eclipse cannot be guaranteed.

Even if clouds make an appearance, you’ll still enjoy a relaxing evening cruise around Poole Harbour with breathtaking coastal scenery, great company and our welcoming crew.

Book Your Place Today

A solar eclipse of this magnitude is an exceptionally rare sight, and there’s no better place to experience it than from the deck of a Coastal Cruises boat as the Sun sets over Poole Harbour.  

Step aboard and witness a sunset you’ll never forget.