Join a Kimberley cruise for the ultimate eclipse getaway!
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.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is a celestial event that occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow upon the Earth’s surface. This alignment, known as “syzygy,” results in the Sun being obscured, either partially or completely, depending on the observer’s location. The Moon’s shadow consists of two parts: the umbra, the darkest central region, and the penumbra, the lighter outer region. Observers within the umbra experience a total solar eclipse, while those in the penumbra witness a partial eclipse.
Solar eclipses can be classified into three main types:
-
Total Solar Eclipse: Occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, revealing the Sun’s corona—the outer atmosphere that is usually obscured by the Sun’s bright light.
-
Partial Solar Eclipse: Happens when only a portion of the Sun is obscured by the Moon, leaving a crescent-shaped sliver of the Sun visible.
-
Annular Solar Eclipse: Takes place when the Moon is farther from Earth in its elliptical orbit, appearing smaller in the sky and not fully covering the Sun. This results in a ring-like appearance known as the “ring of fire”.
The 2028 total solar eclipse is particularly noteworthy because it will be visible from a relatively narrow path on Earth. The path of totality—the area where the total eclipse can be observed—will cross parts of Western Australia, including the Kimberley region.
Wearing eye protection
Witnessing a solar eclipse is a rare and awe-inspiring experience. However, it’s crucial to view the event safely. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection can cause serious eye damage. Only use eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers that meet the international safety standard ISO 12312-2. Homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses are not safe for looking at the Sun.
