On August 12, 2026, we are in for a rare and remarkable celestial event – a total solar eclipse - and a cruise may be the best place for you to experience it. This will be the first total solar eclipse visible from Europe this millennium! When you combine an extraordinary natural spectacle that may be best viewed at sea, with the popularity of European holidays, in the warm summer months… that’s a recipe for a must-book vacation of a lifetime.
Highlights of the August 12, 2026, Total Solar Eclipse
This eclipse presents a rare opportunity for observers in Europe and beyond to experience the awe-inspiring phenomenon of totality.
- Path of Totality: The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Arctic Ocean, crossing remote regions of Siberia, and then proceed over Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean, northern Spain, and a small part of Portugal. The path of totality is narrow, making precise location crucial for witnessing the full spectacle.
- Duration and Timing: The maximum duration of totality will be approximately 2 minutes and 18 seconds, occurring just off the western coast of Iceland. Further south in the path of totality in Spain, totality will be visible for between 1 and 2 minutes, depending on the location.
- Viewing Conditions: In Europe, including Iceland and Spain, the eclipse will take place in the afternoon, with the Sun low on the western horizon. This positioning can create dramatic atmospheric effects, enhancing your visual experience.
(Image: Princess Cruises)
Why View an Eclipse from a Cruise Ship?
Viewing a solar eclipse at sea offers several unique advantages:
- Unobstructed View: Being on the open water means there are no buildings, trees, or other land-based obstacles to block your view of the eclipse. You get a clear, panoramic horizon that maximizes your experience.
- Optimal Location along the Path of Totality: being at sea allows you to be in an ideal spot to witness the event, especially if you're on a cruise or a specialized expedition that targets eclipse-viewing zones.
- Escape from Light Pollution: If you're at sea, far away from city lights, you'll have a much darker sky, which allows you to fully appreciate the eclipse, especially the subtle changes in light and color around you.
- Stable Viewing Conditions: While land-based observers might struggle with crowds or fluctuating weather conditions, being at sea can offer more stable conditions. A cruise ship can position itself to maximize clear skies for the eclipse.
- Unique Atmosphere: The combination of the eclipse and the vast, open ocean creates a distinctive atmosphere. The contrast between the darkness of the eclipse and the stillness of the sea can make the experience feel even more profound and awe-inspiring.
- Specialized Themed Sailings: Many cruise lines are offering special sailings with protective eyewear available and onboard experts to help you understand and appreciate the science behind the event. It can be an educational as well as a visual experience. Many turn it into a party, too!
With interest in this rare event high, booking ahead is essential. Here are some cruise lines offering solar eclipse sailings in 2026 in various locations along its path. Some offer enrichment opportunities, as well.
Some are already sold out! So if you want to be in the best place to see the celestial event of a lifetime, don’t wait to plan where you want to be when the sun disappears in August, 2026!
SEABOURN
Ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn will position 2 of its classic ships for the eclipse. (Top image)
Seabourn Ovation will sail a 14-day West Ireland Gems & Solar Eclipse voyage, departing on August 8, 2026, from Dover, England, to Reykjavik, Iceland. The ship will visit unique ports in Western Ireland, including Galway and Killybegs, and position itself off the coast of Ireland in the Atlantic Ocean to view the eclipse.
Seabourn will also host a special Seabourn Conversations program featuring Jane A. Green, Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, to educate guests about the solar eclipse.
Guests can watch the total solar eclipse unfold as Seabourn Sojourn explores the Mediterranean on the 10-Day Spanish Gems & Solar Eclipse, sailing roundtrip from Barcelona on August 7, 2026, to Spanish Morocco, St. Tropez, and destinations along the coast of Spain. The all-new eclipse-themed voyage will find Seabourn Sojourn positioned in the Balearic Sea off the coast of Spain as the eclipse commences, which will be visible closer to the horizon near sunset.
Seabourn will host a special Seabourn Conversations program, featuring Dallas Campbell, a science presenter, author and broadcaster who will educate guests about the solar eclipse.
PONANT
In partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, French luxury expedition cruise line Ponant is offering a unique eclipse sailing.
A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean aboard Le Dumont-d’Urville from August 11-19, 2026. This voyage offers the chance to witness the extraordinarily rare setting of the sun just moments after totality, followed by an exploration of the natural beauty and cultural history of the islands of the western Mediterranean.
On August 12, 2026, after an afternoon exploring the landmarks of Palma de Mallorca, guests will reboard the ship and head out to sea. Guests will experience the total solar eclipse from the comfort of the ship, witnessing the transformation of land and sea as totality is reached at 8:31 p.m. Then, guests can watch the sunset and toast the eclipse at dinner. The eight-night itinerary will continue to four additional Mediterranean islands including Menorca; Sardinia; Corsica; and Napolean’s summer residence on Elba.
CUNARD
British luxury line Cunard has 3 of its ‘Queens’ ships positioned in extraordinary destinations directly along the path of the next solar eclipse.
Queen Mary 2 will embark on a 14-night voyage through Norway and Iceland, August 4-18, 2026 providing guests the rare opportunity to witness the wonderous solar eclipse during an overnight stay in Reykjavik on the evening of August 12. Viewing the eclipse from Iceland will offer a unique, immersive experience as the country’s dramatic landscapes will provide a striking backdrop to this inspiring event.
This unforgettable journey will include visits to the picturesque towns of Zeebrugge, Belgium; Olden and Skjolden, Norway; and Isafjordur, Iceland, before disembarking in New York. Travelers will be treated to the serene beauty of the tranquil fjords, thundering waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery across the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean.
Queen Anne will traverse Spain and France on a seven-night itinerary roundtrip out of Southampton, England. From August 9-16, 2026, guests can indulge in the exotic Spanish ports of Santander, La Coruña, and Gijon, before stopping in the Bay of Biscay to explore the charming town of Pauillac, France.
After a day spent strolling the Spanish streets in La Coruña's Old Town, passengers can sip cocktails and don sunglasses for an unparalleled view of the phenomenon from the deck of Queen Anne, as the ship sets sail from the Spanish harbor.
Queen Victoria will sail a seven-night Western Mediterranean voyage, from Civitavecchia (near Rome, Italy) to Barcelona, Spain from Aug 10-17, 2026, visiting Tarragona and Palma de Mallorca in Spain, plus Villefranche and Toulon in France.
On August 12, after guests spend the day in the historic town of Tarragona home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they will board Queen Victoria to choose the perfect spot for viewing the solar eclipse. With expansive deck space, outdoor pools, and multiple open-air bars, passengers will be able to luxuriate while enjoying the ideal vantage point to witness this rare phenomenon.
AURORA EXPEDITIONS
Australian small ship exploration line Aurora Expeditions is a certified B Corporation and “proudly carbon neutral” with expedition staff to guide guests through experiences like a solar eclipse.
- Its Jewels of the Arctic sailing Oslo/Reykjavik, August 2-26, 2026 on the Sylvia Earle will allow guests to experience the magic of the total solar eclipse in a position to see 100% totality on an extraordinary adventure to Scoresbysund, Greenland, sailing through stunning Arctic landscapes as the ship is positioned for the celestial spectacle. Feel the anticipation grow as the moon gradually eclipses the sun, casting an ethereal glow. Witness the breathtaking moment of totality – 2 minutes and 18 seconds of darkness transformed into daylight by a dazzling diamond ring.
OCEANIA
Oceania will have 5 of its mid-sized luxury ships positioned in prime eclipse-viewing locations, enhanced by enrichment programs offering expert insights from an impressive roster of guest speakers, including esteemed astronomers and NASA ambassadors.
During the eclipse itself, guests will be invited to enjoy a series of vibrant deck parties, offering prime viewing for the main event, alongside celestial festivities and indulgent solar-themed culinary delights designed to celebrate the occasion. Think solar eclipse cookies, star-shaped sandwiches, half-moon shrimp empanadas with chimichurri sauce, eclipse-inspired passion fruit macarons, and more, adding a flavorful touch to the extraordinary experience.
Oceania Marina - 14-day Sailing in the Path of 100 Percent Totality: Oceania Marina’s immersive itinerary sets sail on July 30, 2026, sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Reykjavik, Iceland, with guests invited to visit smaller ports including Invergordon, Scrabster, and Akureyri, and enjoy shore excursions ranging from visits to medieval castles and whale watching to bike tours through unspoiled nature reserves. The prime eclipse viewing will occur while departing port in Grundarfjordur, Iceland.
On board, published astronomer, Dennis Mammana, will guide guests through the wonders and mysteries of the cosmos.
Oceania Insignia - 12-day Sailing in the Path of 97 Percent Totality: Oceania Insignia’s captivating sailing, departing August 3, 2026, embarks in Reykjavik, Iceland, and concludes in London (Southampton), United Kingdom. During this sojourn, guests will visit charming boutique ports including Killybegs, Dingle, and Cork, and can experience unique tours, from relaxing in outdoor lagoons or hiking through the Highlands to horseback riding in glacial landscapes. The highlight of the journey will be the prime eclipse viewing, which will take place at sea, near Glengarriff, Ireland.
To enrich the experience, astronomer and former NASA space shuttle mission specialist applicant Dr. Jerry Krassner, known as “The Wizard of Stars,” will be on board to share his expertise and guide budding astronomers through the solar eclipse.
Oceania Vista - 25-day Sailing in the Path of 93.03 Percent Totality: Oceania Vista’s captivating 25-day Grand Voyage, sailing round trip London (Southampton), United Kingdom and embarking on August 2, 2026, calls at destinations including Falmouth, Holyhead, and Kristiansand. Shore excursion options include exploring 13th-century medieval castles, walking lush subtropical gardens, and indulging in traditional pub lunches. The solar eclipse will be viewed from a prime position off the coast of Belfast as the ship departs Northern Ireland, heading toward Douglas, Isle of Man (United Kingdom).
During the voyage, NASA Solar System Ambassador Ted Blank will captivate guests with his extensive knowledge of astronomy and the solar system.
- Oceania Vista - 15-day Sailing in the Path of 93.03 Percent Totality: For an eclipse cruise of just over two weeks, guests can also join the second segment of Oceania Vista’s Grand Voyage, which departs from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on August 12, 2026. This 15-day journey to London will take travelers through the British Isles and Baltic gems, including stops in Scrabster, Copenhagen, and Berlin. Guests will have the opportunity to tour renowned whisky distilleries, visit iconic landmarks, and explore cities like a true local, with the highlight being the solar eclipse spectacle.
Oceania Sirena - 12-day Sailing in the Path of 94 Percent Totality: Departing from London (Southampton), United Kingdom on August 5, 2026, and concluding in Barcelona, Spain, Oceania Sirena’s voyage along the Iberian Peninsula will offer guests the chance to explore picturesque ports such as Ferrol, Oporto, and Almeria. Travelers will have the option to experience one-of-a-kind shore excursions including shepherding for a day, traditional river cruises, and forest cycling adventures. A memorable part of the journey will be the prime eclipse viewing as the ship sails away from Lisbon, Portugal.
An enrichment guest speaker is soon to be announced.
(Image: Princess Cruises)
PRINCESS CRUISES
With seven- to 21-day destination-rich Mediterranean voyage options departing from several popular ports, Sun Princess 2026 Total Solar Eclipse itineraries include six sailings. The eclipse sailings in the Mediterranean, with views of near totality, have been so popular, Princess has re-worked the itinerary of the Sun Princess voyage departing Barcelona on August 8, 2026 to position the ship off the coast of southern Spain on August 12, as well.
- Roundtrip from Rome: 21-day Best of the Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse - July 25, 2026: Port stops in Naples, Crete, Kusadasi, Mykonos, Athens, Santorini, Bar, Corfu, Sicily, Barcelona, Gibraltar, Cartagena and Florence/Pisa.
- Athens to Rome: 14-day Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse – August 1, 2026: From Athens to Santorini, Bar Corfu, Sicily, Barcelona, Gibraltar, Cartagena, Florence/Pisa, ending in Rome.
- Roundtrip from Athens: 21-day Best of the Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse – August 1, 2026: Visiting Santorini, Bar, Corfu, Sicily, Barcelona, Gibraltar, Cartagena, Florence/Pisa, Rome, Naples, Crete, Kusadasi and Mykonos.
- Barcelona to Rome: 7-day Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse – August 8, 2026: Departing from Barcelona to Gibraltar, Cartagena, Florence/Pisa, arriving in Rome.
- Barcelona to Athens: 14-day Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse – August 8, 2026: From Barcelona to Gibraltar, Cartagena, Florence/Pisa, Rome, Naples, Crete, Kusadasi, Mykonos, arriving in Athens.
- Roundtrip Barcelona: 21-day Best of Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse – August 8, 2026: Visit Gibraltar, Cartagena, Florence/Pisa, Rome, Naples, Crete, Kusadasi, Mykonos, Athens, Santorini, Bar, Corfu and Sicily.
14-day Total Solar Eclipse Mediterranean cruise onboard 3,560-guest Sky Princess sails August 8-22, 2026, roundtrip from Southampton, and visits seven historical and vibrant ports including Cherbourg, France; Bilbao, Spain, Malaga, Spain; Cartagena Spain; Gibraltar, Lisbon and La Coruña, Spain.
During the eclipse, Sun Princess guests will gather on the top decks with Princess safety glasses for viewing, and enjoy lectures from astronomy experts, themed treats and drinks, stargazing at night, solar system trivia and more. Guests are even encouraged to set up their own telescopes on deck and wear festive eclipse-themed apparel and accessories.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
Even mega-cruise ships are getting into solar eclipse mania!
August 7, 2026 departure of Liberty of the Seas from Southampton gives families the opportunity to join the special solar eclipse adventure on Aug. 7, 2026, and witness the celestial event with the ocean as the ultimate backdrop.
In between marveling at the solar eclipse and soaking up the culture of northern Europe, adventurers are in for thrills on The Perfect Storm racing waterslides, ice skating and bonding over family favorites at spots like Sorrento’s Pizza and Johnny Rockets.
START YOUR SOLAR ECLIPSE CRUISE!
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