HOUSTON – A new travel trend lights up the sky! Astro‑tourism with travel planned around celestial events is booming, and Houston travelers are taking notice.
Emily Kaufman, The Travel Mom, joined Houston Life on a special trip with Princess Cruises to tell us why more vacationers want a front‑row seat to the stars and, this week - the sun.
Why a cruise makes eclipse viewing better
Princess Cruises positioned the Enchanted Princess off Sicily and sailed into the Mediterranean to be in the path of totality for the solar eclipse on Wednesday, August 12. Cruises offer mobility (so ships can seek clearer skies), onboard viewing decks, expert talks and telescope setups - which is perfect for families and solo travelers who want comfort plus spectacle. Ships also minimize crowd logistics: no driving between remote viewing sites and all the eclipse essentials are on board.
Tips from The Travel Mom
Kaufman recommends booking early, checking the itinerary closely and packing lightweight layers for deck viewing. Bring ISO‑approved eclipse glasses and a small tripod for phone photography. Keep expectations realistic: cloud cover and weather can’t be controlled, and itineraries may shift to chase clear skies. For families, pick cruises offering educational programs so kids can learn while they watch.
Houston Life viewers: if you’re thinking about astro‑tourism, ask about shore excursions, eclipse‑themed presentations and whether the cruise offers onboard experts. Whether it’s a Mediterranean sail or a closer‑to‑home stargazing getaway, astro‑tourism is making the sky part of the itinerary.
For more information: princess.com.
Keep up with Kaufman online at on social media.