On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, Morocco will experience a rare phenomenon: a partial solar eclipse, visible in the very late afternoon just as the sun sets. In the region of M’diq, Cabo Negro, and Martil, on Tamuda Bay, the expected percentage of the sun’s disk obscured is particularly high, one of the highest in the country. Here’s how to enjoy this spectacle under the best conditions, from the sea, by boat, or on a jet ski.
1. What You Need to Know About the August 12, 2026, Eclipse
On that day, a total solar eclipse will cross the Arctic, Greenland, and Spain. In Morocco, the eclipse will be partial, but with a significant occultation in the northern part of the country. In Tamuda Bay, the moon will cover a large portion of the sun’s disk at the very end of the day, just as the sun is sinking toward the ocean horizon.
- Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
- Time: late afternoon, coinciding with sunset
- Type: partial eclipse in Morocco (total in Spain and the Arctic)
- Area: M’diq, Cabo Negro, Martil, and the entire Tamuda Bay, with one of the most significant occultations in the kingdom
The coincidence with sunset creates a rare visual spectacle: a solar disk partially obscured by the moon, slowly sinking into the Mediterranean. A moment that few generations will witness from this coast.
Safety first: even when partially eclipsed, the sun remains dangerous to look at with the naked eye. Be sure to have certified solar viewing glasses (ISO 12312-2 standard) before heading out to sea. Binoculars, a camera, or a smartphone without a suitable solar filter do not protect your eyes.
2. Why watch the eclipse from the sea, in Tamuda Bay
From the coast, the view to the west is often blocked by hills, hotels, or homes. Setting out to sea from M’diq or Marina Smir provides a completely unobstructed ocean horizon, with nothing between you and the point where the eclipsed sun will set, which is precisely what makes this event so special.
- A 360° unobstructed horizon, ideal for following the eclipsed sun’s descent until it disappears
- Fewer crowds than on land, where beaches and viewpoints will be packed that day
- Two ways to experience the event: a leisurely boat or yacht trip for comfortable viewing, or a jet ski ride in the late afternoon before settling down on the water for the highlight
3. By boat: watch comfortably from offshore
To enjoy the eclipse without having to keep an eye on the handlebars, a boat trip remains the most comfortable option, whether with friends or family. Book a time slot that covers sunset so you’ll be out at sea at just the right moment.
- Private boat rental in M’diq: 2 hours, starting at 880 DH per boat
- Boat tour from Marina Smir to Cabo Negro: 1 hour, starting at 1,400 DH per boat
- Private boat trip in M'diq: 1 to 7 hours, starting at 1,450 DH per boat
- Eclipse I (7 m) at Marina Smir: 1 hour, starting at 1,500 DH per boat
- Malibu yacht (13 m) at Marina Smir: 2 hours, starting at 5,000 DH per boat, for a more upscale experience
4. On a jet ski: a session before the eclipse, then relax on the water
Jet skis aren’t meant for staring at the sun while riding, but they let you enjoy a thrilling session in the late afternoon, then turn off the engine and drift out to sea just as the eclipse reaches its peak, with a breathtaking view and no one to disturb you.
- Yamaha Jet Ski at Cabo Negro: 1 hour, 1,400 DH, the best option for enjoying the open water before the eclipse
- Jet Ski at Marina Smir: 1 hour, 1,300 DH
- Yamaha Jet Ski at Cabo Negro: 30 min, 700 DH
- Jet Ski at Marina Smir: 30 min, 700 DH
- Jet Ski at Martil Beach: 15 min, starting at 400 DH
Tip: Book a time slot that ends about 30 minutes before sunset, so you’ll have time to ride, then head out to a quiet area offshore and come to a stop before the eclipse begins.
5. Summary of offers for August 12, 2026
| Activity | Location | Duration | Price | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Boat | M'diq | 2 hours | 880 DH / boat | View offer → |
| Boat Tour | Marina Smir – Cabo Negro | 1 hour | 1,400 DH / boat | View offer → |
| Eclipse I Boat | Marina Smir | 1 hour | 1,500 DH / boat | View offer → |
| Malibu Yacht | Marina Smir | 2 hours | 5,000 DH / boat | View offer → |
| Jet Ski | Cabo Negro | 1 hour | 1,400 DH | View offer → |
| Jet Ski | Marina Smir | 1 hour | 1,300 DH | View offer → |
| Jet Ski | Martil | 15 min | 400 DH | View the offer → |
Prices for boat and jet ski activities in Tamuda Bay listed on Nordvity, 2026 season.
6. How to Prepare for Your Trip
- Book in advance: August 12, 2026 falls right in the middle of peak season, and the event will drive demand for the sunset time slot
- Bring certified solar viewing glasses, which are essential for safely viewing the sun, even when it’s partially obscured
- Check the exact sunset time for that day, which determines the precise moment the phenomenon will occur in Tamuda Bay
- Charge your devices (phone, camera) before departure, as there is no cell service or power outlets at sea
- Dress warmly: it gets chilly quickly out at sea once the sun goes down
FAQ: August 12, 2026 Solar Eclipse in Tamuda Bay
Will the eclipse be total in Morocco?
No. The total eclipse will only be visible in the Arctic, Greenland, and Spain. In Morocco, including Tamuda Bay, it will be partial, with a high percentage of coverage in the northern part of the country.
Can you watch the eclipse with the naked eye?
No, never, even when the sun is largely obscured. ISO 12312-2-certified solar viewing glasses are essential.
Do I need to book a boat or jet ski specifically for the eclipse?
These are the same packages as for a standard boat tour; book a time slot that covers sunset on August 12, 2026. Given the expected crowds, early booking is recommended.
Does a jet ski really provide a good view of the eclipse?
Yes, provided you turn off the engine and drift at the crucial moment rather than continuing to ride, so you can observe the phenomenon safely and without being hindered by the wind and spray.
Between the spectacular sight of a partially eclipsed sunset and the unobstructed horizon offered by Tamuda Bay, August 12, 2026, promises to be a rare experience to witness from the sea. View all verified boat listings and jet ski listings on Nordvity.
