If you are sailing from the US or Canada on an Atlantic cruise then one of the best (and often most underappreciated) features is the chance to get a truly unbeatable view of the night sky.
Stargazing on the open sea is an incredible and unforgettable experience and probably the best way to see the magic and mystery of the cosmos in all its glory. The vast expanse of the Atlantic, far from the light pollution of the cities on the shore, provides all the darkness you need for an unparalleled view of the night sky.
So, if you are packing your bags for a cruise this year, think about staying up a little later and enjoying a truly magical stargazing experience in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Here are some tips for making this experience truly memorable.
Choose the Right Time
A great view of the stars is all about timing. Getting started with stargazing is easy – you just need to look up! But knowing when to watch is important when it comes to enjoying your experience to the max.
The best time of the month to watch the night sky is during the new moon phase when the sky is darkest. The full moon might be impressive, but it shines too much light and can wash out the stars. Choose a clear night with few clouds to maximize your chance of seeing everything the sky has to offer.
Find a Dark Spot
While a ship far out on the ocean waves is a great place to start when looking for a place free from light pollution, you still need to choose your spot wisely. Even the lights from the deck can interfere with your view of the stars, so look for a place on board where there are fewer lights or, best of all, where they can be turned off entirely! Many ships have realized the stargazing potential of their vessels and now provide designated areas where guests can watch the sky without lights.
Let Your Eyes Adjust
When you first look up at the sky, you might be underwhelmed, but don’t be disheartened – this is just the beginning! Your eyes take time to adapt to the darkness, and at first, you will only see the brightest stars. Give yourself 15-20 minutes without light (turn your phone off to avoid temptation), and the sky will light up with all the constellations imaginable.
Learn the Constellations
For newbie stargazers, seeing the stars against the night sky can be a thrill. But if you want a deeper, more significant experience, then it is worth learning a little about what you are looking at and familiarizing yourself with a few of the main constellations you are likely to see.
The North Atlantic is a great spot to see the main constellations of the Northern Hemisphere, including the Big Dipper, Orion, and Cassiopeia. If you are sailing in the Southern Atlantic, you might get a chance to see different constellations, such as the Southern Cross.
Dress Warmly
Even if your cruise itinerary is taking you to warm tropical destinations, it is important to remember that it can be chilly at night at sea. So if you intend to stay up to watch the stars, don’t forget to wrap up warm with plenty of layers so you can enjoy plenty of time stargazing in comfort.
An Atlantic cruise is the perfect opportunity for stargazing and guarantees an experience that you will struggle to replicate anywhere else in the world. Whether you are an experienced astronomer or completely new to stargazing, Atlantic sailing is the perfect opportunity to discover the profound, awe-inspiring beauty of the universe.
