Southern Cross is a limited-edition work of tropical fine art that brings together two original photographs: a star-filled night sky captured near Mo'orea, French Polynesia, and the Pinta sailing vessel photographed on the Tennessee River.
 
The story behind the artwork began with an extraordinary surprise. While preparing for an already-scheduled appearance on Radio Margaritaville, Dan was researching the song “Southern Cross” and realized that photographs he'd taken of the spectacular South Pacific night sky had captured the Southern Cross constellation—without his knowing it at the time. Just 30–45 minutes later, still on cloud nine, he shared the discovery during his radio appearance.
 
After the broadcast, that unexpected moment inspired the creation of Southern Cross. The constellation, long a guide to navigators in the Southern Hemisphere, found its place above another image from Dan's travels: the Pinta, a replica of a ship from Christopher Columbus' first voyage, photographed in Loudon, Tennessee. Built in Brazil by eighth-generation Portuguese shipwrights, the replica reflects centuries of maritime craftsmanship.
 
Combining the night sky of Mo'orea with a historic sailing vessel creates a visual connection between distant horizons, exploration, and the music that helped bring the discovery to light. The song was made famous by Crosby, Stills & Nash and became a favorite performed by Jimmy Buffett, but the heart of this artwork is an authentic, unexpected encounter with the stars.
 
Availability & Ordering
Framed exhibition artwork: One 34 × 24 in. piece is available for direct purchase at $995.
Custom sizes and finishes: Interested in an unframed canvas, aluminum print, or a different size? Please contact Island Hoppers Art to discuss availability, production timing, and a personalized quote before ordering. These formats are not available for direct checkout at this time.
 
Artwork Details
Medium: Digital art on archival canvas with UV-protectant varnish
Framed exhibition piece: 34 × 24 in.
Custom formats: Canvas, aluminum, and larger sizes by inquiry and quote
Location: Mo'orea, French Polynesia; Pinta photographed in Loudon, Tennessee
Edition: Limited Edition