A month before the total solar eclipse, there are still spots available to experience it from the sea, the Serra de Tramuntana, or the rooftops of Palma. The Mediterranean Navigators Association and several hotels offer proposals with safety and outreach.
On August 12, Mallorca will be one of the best places on the planet to observe a total solar eclipse, a phenomenon that will not repeat on the island for several decades. Although the demand for accommodation and activities has been high, there are still experiences available for those who want to enjoy the event with guarantees. From boat outings to themed dinners in hotels in the Serra de Tramuntana, the options combine astronomy, gastronomy, and unique landscapes.
One of the most unique proposals is organized by the Mediterranean Navigators Association. The entity has prepared a full day that will start with a talk by the Mallorcan astrophysicist Alberto Rebassa. Afterwards, around twenty boats will set sail from the Club Nàutic sa Ràpita heading to a point in the sea from which the eclipse can be seen unobstructed. Attendees will receive certified glasses to protect their eyesight.
The vice president of the association, Carlos Hellín, explains that the idea is to experience the eclipse “without stress and without the overcrowding of any terrace in August.” The activity is open to both members and anyone who wants to register, as long as there are spots available. After the observation, nearly a hundred people will share a dinner at the nautical club. “We are sailors. Experiencing the eclipse from our boats, with family and friends on board, is the right plan,” he sums up.
For those who prefer solid ground, the Serra de Tramuntana offers natural viewpoints with clear views of the horizon. In Estellencs, the Hotel Maristel has designed a gastronomic experience called Flavours of the Milky Way, whose main dish is named Solar Eclipse. The director of the establishment, Matias Mut, points out that the goal is “to give a bit of substance to an event that lasts only a minute and a half.” The tasting menu is inspired by the universe and will be served on the hotel’s terrace, facing the Mediterranean.
The event, which is also open to people not staying at the hotel, has about 80 spots available and has already reserved around 75% of its capacity. “We are not looking to throw a massive party. It’s an event of relaxation and peace,” adds Mut. The combination of the total darkness of the eclipse with the landscape of the Tramuntana promises to be one of the most photographed moments of the summer.
In Palma, several hotel rooftops with views of the bay also offer special packages for the eclipse. Although the city has more light pollution, the height and orientation allow for acceptable observation. Some establishments include dinners or cocktails during the phenomenon and recommend booking in advance as spots fill up quickly.
Safety is a priority in all activities. Organizers insist that one should never look directly at the sun without proper protection, even during totality. Certified glasses are essential, and they will be distributed among participants on boat outings. Additionally, it is recommended to wear light clothing, use sunscreen, and bring water, as August in Mallorca is hot.
The total eclipse will begin around 11:30 AM, and the phase of total darkness will last approximately 90 seconds. The island is located in the totality band, making it a privileged destination for amateur and professional astronomers. The last time Mallorca experienced a total solar eclipse was in 1900, and the next one is not expected for several decades.
For those who cannot attend any of these experiences, it is still possible to find public observation points in elevated areas away from light pollution, such as Puig de Galatzó or Cap de Formentor. However, organizers warn that visitor influx will be high and recommend planning the day in advance.
In short, August 12 presents itself as a historic date for Mallorca. The experiences still available allow for a safe and enhanced way to witness the eclipse, whether from the sea, the mountains, or the city. Those interested should hurry: spots are filling up fast.
