Guests on the TRUE NORTH II have been treated to an exclusive viewing of a rare hybrid solar eclipse.
Words by True North
A hybrid solar eclipse is a solar eclipse that changes its appearance as the Moon’s shadow moves across the Earth and, total eclipse only occurs in a narrow path across the Earth’s surface.
Totality for this eclipse was only visible in the North West Cape region in Western Australia (plus parts of East Timor and West Papua) and guests on TRUE NORTH II were positioned perfectly to view the action.
And all aboard were well and truly prepared for the event having embarked with ‘Space Gandalf’ Greg Quicke.
Greg hosted nightly star gazing experiences in the lead-up to the eclipse and also provided an entertaining presentation on what to expect on the big day.
On the morning of the eclipse everybody onboard went ashore at remote Serrurier Island where telescopes were set-up for what may have been the eclipse’s most exclusive viewing event. Serruier Island is 30 miles northeast of North West Cape and the only people in sight were guest and crew from the TRUE NORTH II. Crew reported that the skies were clear and the ocean was glassy – perfect conditions for eclipse viewing. The activity commenced with ‘congee morning tea’ on the beach before the eclipse began at just after 10am.
Apparently everyone noticed a drop in temperature during the eclipse which lasted for nearly a full minute. Everyone also remained totally silent during the Moon’s transit and guest Annette Straatemeier reported that the event made her “very emotional”.
When the lights came back on – it was time for a swim and then back to the TRUE NORTH II for another scrumptious lunch.
Read Greg Quicke’s full journal about the Solar Eclipse here.
Prepare for the Kimberley Eclipse in 2028
Words by Melissa Thimios
Click here to read this whole post about the 2028 Kimberley Solar Eclipse.
On 22 July 2028, a rare total solar eclipse will traverse Australia, and Western Australia’s Kimberley region is one of the best viewing destinations in the world. This event marks the second of five total solar eclipses visible from Australia between 2023 and 2038.
The eclipse’s path of totality will first make landfall in the Kimberley region, with towns such as Wyndham and Kununurra positioned directly in its path. On the Gibb River Road, prime viewing locations include El Questro, Home Valley Station and Ellenbrae Station. The Mitchell Plateau will also be fantastic. Along the Kimberley coast, one of the best locations will be Bigge Island.
The moon’s shadow will then continue its journey across the continent, passing over the Northern Territory, Queensland, and New South Wales before concluding in the South Pacific Ocean.
The Kimberley is renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution, providing optimal conditions for eclipse observation. The rugged landscapes, including ancient rock formations and expansive wilderness areas, will serve as a dramatic backdrop during the eclipse’s totality.
Notably, the maximum duration of totality will occur in the Kimberley, lasting approximately 5 minutes and 10 seconds, which is relatively long compared to other locations along the eclipse’s path.
For those seeking an unforgettable eclipse experience, the Kimberley stands out as a premier destination. Contact us to find out more about cruising the Kimberley coast – or even chartering your own boat – during this incredible event.
