Eclipse 2026 magazine >>
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Don’t miss the 2026 eclipse
I’m here to help you secure the perfect cabin for the 2026 solar eclipse, so you can focus on enjoying the spectacle rather than navigating the logistics.
I specialize in finding the best available accommodations for your budget and preferences, ensuring you’ll have an incredible viewing experience (weather permitting) in the path of totality. See some of the cruises below, then reach out via email or fill in the form below.
Iceland and Ireland
Iceland Total Solar Eclipse
7 nights | Celebrity Silhouette | From August 8, 2026
This competitively-priced cruise through Iceland offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Explore Reykjavik’s vibrant city life, geothermal wonders, and eclectic cuisine before sailing to Djupivogur, a coastal village known for its birdwatching and access to glaciers.
In Akureyri, discover festivals, geothermal landscapes, and the famed Botanical Gardens, while Isafjordur provides opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, and hiking amid breathtaking fjords.
Each destination offers a glimpse into Iceland’s history, natural beauty, and local culture, all culminating in the chance to witness the 2026 solar eclipse.
West Ireland Gems & Solar Eclipse voyage
14 days | Seabourn Ovation | From August 8, 2026
Sailing from Dover, England, 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.
The voyage will conclude in Reykjavik, Iceland.
Solar Eclipse Expedition 2026—Greenland, Iceland, and Svalbard
Departing from Oslo and traveling via Svalbard, the journey explores East Greenland’s vast national park, a 375,000-square-mile wilderness teeming with Arctic wildlife such as musk oxen and polar bears. The breathtaking beauty and profound silence of this remote region make it a unique adventure for explorers.
17 days | MS Spitsbergen | August 3–19, 2026
The voyage continues to Scoresby Sund, where you’ll witness the solar eclipse amidst one of the largest fjord systems in the world. With its majestic landscapes, historical ruins, and abundant wildlife, this area offers a remarkable backdrop for the celestial event. The expedition concludes in Reykjavík, Iceland, providing a memorable exploration of some of the most stunning and secluded regions of the Arctic.
North Atlantic cruise: Iceland, Greenland and Quebec
18 nights | Azamara Journey | August 8–20, 2026
Azamara prides itself on visiting smaller, less-traveled ports that bigger ships can’t access. Sailing from Reykjavik on August 8, this 18-night cruise takes in Iceland and Greenland before exploring the east coast of Canada.
A luxurious boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Journey is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for — plus some unexpected extras. Seven restaurants, cafes, and lounges, a refreshing pool, sun-drenched decks, a revitalizing spa…the list goes on.
Ireland cruise: Belfast, Dublin and Galway
12 nights | Azamara Quest | August 7, 2026
For those of you with Irish ancestry, perhaps 2026 will be the ideal time to visit your homeland – and marvel at the total solar eclipse while you’re there!
This beguiling cruise sails from Dublin and circumnavigates the whole of Ireland, stopping at enchanting ports along the south and west coasts. Then enjoy an overnight stay docked in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and famous for its Titanic and Game of Thrones connections!
Finish your journey at the historic naval port of Portsmouth, located an hour and a half to the southwest of London.
Don’t forget, Calliope Travel can also help you extend your stay in Ireland or England – perhaps this will be the ideal time to add a few days sightseeing in London!
Eclipse in the Land of Fire and Ice
This 15-night voyage from England doesn’t just take you on a grand tour of Dublin, Glasgow, Stornoway, Edinburgh and Iceland, it also provides the perfect dramatic backdrop for viewing the solar eclipse.
One day you’ll be strolling through Dublin’s Temple Bar, and before you know it, you’ll be walking the streets of Akureyri, Iceland, under the surreal glow of the celestial phenomenon.
Every Virgin Voyages cruise is adults only (18+). Your voyage fare includes dining at 20+ eateries, entertainment, gratuities, wifi, unlimited fitness classes, still and sparkling water. Plus perks that Calliope Travel can bring you…
If you ever want to go to Ireland AND Scotland AND Iceland, plus see the eclipse, this voyage is for YOU!
Transatlantic Crossing, Norway, Iceland
Cunard’s famous flagship will be heading north in summer 2026 on a 14-night adventure. This is a great way to escape the heat of summer and sail through the tranquil fjords of Norway, before crossing the North Sea to Iceland. After all your exploring, relax for the last leg of your voyage: a transatlantic crossing to New York.
On August 12, when the solar eclipse takes place, Queen Mary 2 will be visiting Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, for an overnight call. The eclipse is due to occur late afternoon local time.
Whether you’re trying delicious Icelandic seafood, enjoying a signature afternoon tea on board, or returning from a memorable Shore Experience, this is sure to be an unforgettable setting for the eclipse. What’s more, as Queen Mary 2 will be staying in Reykjavik overnight you get ample time to explore the city’s best spots and experiences by day and by night.
Voyage of the Vikings
Set sail on an epic adventure with Holland America’s 35-Day Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse cruise aboard the elegant Zuiderdam.
Departing from Boston on July 18, 2026, this remarkable journey takes you through the historical heartlands of the Vikings, offering an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty.
As you traverse the North Atlantic, you’ll visit iconic destinations like Iceland, Greenland, and Norway, each rich with heritage and stunning landscapes. The highlight of the voyage is the rare opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse off the western coast of Iceland near Grundarfjordur, a once-in-a-lifetime experience where the sky will darken and the sun’s corona will glow in the dramatic northern skies.
Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland and Scotland
A little shorter than the same cruise line’s Voyage of the Vikings cruise (featured above), this sailing packs the same punch of Viking heritage and unforgettable landscapes.
Other than the eclipse itself, the stop at Stavanger is a real highlight. Archaeological museums and reconstructed settlements pay due reverence to the city’s Viking past. The cobblestoned Old Town is a well-preserved core of white wooden cottages near an Anglo-Norman cathedral, the oldest in Norway.
Natural beauty abounds, too, with the nearby Lysefjord and its impressive Preikestolen (“The Pulpit Rock”) drawing a steady stream of visitors during the summer.
Around Iceland – A Total Solar Eclipse
In the land of fire and ice, your Windstar cruise around Iceland brings you to landscapes both otherworldly and astonishing beautiful.
Your cruise begins in the capital city of Reykjavik, which radiates a small-town, artsy vibe. As your ship circumnavigates Iceland, you’ll encounter once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as hikes on ice and on lava fields, and riding Icelandic horses through lush countryside. You can explore lava caves with helmet and flashlight or take a flightseeing tour over icy glacial terrain.
Nature tours by Zodiac provide up-close views of humpback whales and seabird cliffs, including the largest Atlantic puffin colony. History tours include Viking lore.
Go far beyond the typical tourist hot spots, sailing to remote islands and fjords and tiny villages – including an overnight in Seydisfjordur, with its colorful chalet-style homes and lively arts scene.
Polar Eclipse Quest
As you navigate the Norwegian Sea from Iceland to Greenland alongside a resident astronomer, witness the spectacle of a total solar eclipse from the perfect location.
Out on deck, surrounded by only the horizon, you will share that special moment when everyone looks to the sky for a celestial phenomenon guided by your astronomy expert.
After this incredible experience, the natural marvels and rich cultures of Iceland and Greenland beckon for exploration. In Tasiilaq, the spirit of the Inuit people thrives in the colorful houses and rhythmic drum dances that narrate centuries-old stories. Catch a rare glimpse into a serene, close-knit community living in harmony with the untamed Arctic environment in Grímsey.
Amid the fjords of Greenland, vast tundra and immense glaciers create the image of ultimate adventure. Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth is a science fiction classic, but the landscapes that inspired it are very real and found in Grundarfjörður.
Mediterranean and Iberian cruises
Ijmuiden (Amsterdam) -> Lisbon
11 nights | Crystal Serenity | From Aug 3, 2026
Crystal Cruises is renowned for its luxury and personalized service. This cruise is positioned to see the eclipse off the western coast of Spain as part of an unforgettable itinerary.
First, explore Saint Malo, the medieval French city with a piratical history, then continue along the coast to the historic naval base of Brest, and Montoir-de-Bretagne, your gateway to Nantes, former seat of the Dukes of Brittany.
Cross into Spain to enjoy the pinxto bars of San Sebastian, the cheeses and cider of Gijón, and Galician seafood in La Coruña. The journey ends in Portugal with port wine in Leixões and the famous pastries, trams, and warm welcome of Lisbon.
A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean – with Smithsonian Journeys
Departing from Barcelona, this luxury voyage sails through the Western Mediterranean, reaching Palma for the eclipse. Travelers can also enjoy a guided tour of Palma’s famous landmarks, such as the striking Gothic cathedral and Bellver Castle. With onboard experts from the Smithsonian providing insights, the eclipse promises to be an unforgettable highlight in an already captivating journey.
After the eclipse, the cruise continues to explore the rich histories and scenic beauty of Mediterranean islands like Menorca, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba. From walking tours in Menorca’s historic Ciutadella to discovering Sardinia’s Catalan-influenced town of Alghero, passengers will be immersed in centuries of culture and stunning natural landscapes. Other highlights include a visit to Napoleon’s villa on Elba, panoramic drives along the limestone cliffs of Sardinia’s Capo Caccia, and leisurely strolls through the charming streets of Porto Ercole.
This unique itinerary blends history, culture, and nature, culminating in a final stop at the glamorous village of Portofino before disembarking in Nice, France, for a relaxing afternoon and evening of leisurely browsing through its shops and galleries, as well as a chance to sample the local cuisine and wines.
Total Solar Eclipse in the Mediterranean
Set sail on a 9-day Mediterranean cruise aboard Le Boréal, where you’ll experience the extraordinary blend of cultures, architectural wonders, and ancient traditions along the sun-drenched coastlines. This journey, led by renowned eclipse chasers Joe Rao and Serge Brunier, will culminate in witnessing the awe-inspiring total solar eclipse. Along the way, you’ll explore destinations like the wild Corsican coast, historic Marseille, and the artistic treasures of Barcelona, with each port offering tailored excursions to suit your taste for adventure or relaxation.
The cruise promises unforgettable moments as you sail from the picturesque beaches of Calvi to the scenic fishing port of Port-Vendres and the enchanting Balearic Islands. Your voyage will be crowned with the celestial spectacle of the solar eclipse, where, under the (hopefully) clear Mediterranean sky, the moon will obscure the sun, revealing the mesmerizing solar corona. This once-in-a-lifetime event will leave you with memories of magic, wonder, and serenity as the cruise concludes in Nice, on the French Riviera.
7-Day Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse
The Sun Princess Solar Eclipse Cruise offers an extraordinary blend of luxury cruising and a rare astronomical event. This voyage will take guests through the Mediterranean visiting stunning destinations like Barcelona, Cartagena, and Rome.
This remarkable experience is enhanced by expert-led lectures and special programming focused on the eclipse, making it an unforgettable event for travelers and astronomy enthusiasts alike .
Onboard the Sun Princess, guests will enjoy state-of-the-art amenities and a wide variety of dining, entertainment, and relaxation options. As Princess Cruises’ newest ship, the Sun Princess is designed to deliver an elevated cruising experience, featuring elegant staterooms, world-class dining venues, and a signature glass-enclosed dome with expansive ocean views.
Spanish Gems & 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.
Mediterranean cruise: Greece, Türkiye and Italy
This 11-night cruise will take you to many of the destinations in the Mediterranean that you’ve always wanted to see! Five countries, ten ports – this is a small ship cruising experience unlike any other.
One thing that sets Azamara apart is the breadth of the excursions and experiences available when you visit Greece, Türkiye, Italy, France, and Spain.
You get time to really explore the ancient temples in Ephesus and Crete with extended destination days. Later, bound up the slopes of Mount Etna in a rugged 4×4 adventure, take a guided tour of Pompeii, enjoy beautiful Positano, take a cooking class in Rome… All this and the eclipse too!
Total Eclipse of the (Med)
This 12-night one-way voyage from Barcelona to Rome brings you to Mallorca, Ibiza, Cannes, Corsica, La Spezia, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily.
One minute you’ll be partying it up in Ibiza, the next you’ll be living the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle in Cannes, or walking in the footsteps of emperors in Rome — all under the magical, mysterious glow of the epic solar eclipse.
Every Virgin Voyages cruise is adults only (18+). Your voyage fare includes dining at 20+ eateries, entertainment, gratuities, wifi, unlimited fitness classes, still and sparkling water. Plus perks that Calliope Travel can bring you…
Spain, France, and Portugal With Total Solar Eclipse
Princess Cruises is offering a prime opportunity to witness the eclipse aboard the Sky Princess. This 14-day Mediterranean cruise departs from England on August 8, 2026, and is perfectly timed to position you in northern Spain for two minutes and 18 seconds of totality while at sea.
The cruise promises a unique and unforgettable experience, complete with expert-led lectures, themed activities, and stargazing events, making it a must-do for eclipse enthusiasts.
The sailing will take guests to seven historic and vibrant ports, including Cherbourg, France; Bilbao, Malaga, and Cartagena, Spain; Gibraltar; Lisbon, Portugal; and La Coruña, Spain. These destinations offer a rich blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty, from the art museums of Bilbao to the ancient Roman ruins of Cartagena.
Eclipse, Spain, Portugal & France from England
Carnival has introducing a special 11-day Carnival Journeys Eclipse cruise featuring stops in Spain, Portugal and France on Carnival Legend departing from England on August 9, 2026.
The total solar eclipse will take place on Aug. 12, 2026, when the ship is at sea, providing guests with a prime viewing vantage point for this rare celestial occurrence. Ports of call on this bucket list voyage include: Le Havre (Paris), France; St. Peter Port, Guernsey; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon and Leixões (Porto), Portugal; Le Verdon (Bordeaux), France; and Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium.
Each port of call is carefully chosen to provide a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty, offering a range of excursions and activities tailored to diverse interests. Whether it’s wandering through ancient streets, savoring regional cuisines, or simply enjoying the picturesque views, the cruise is designed to deliver a memorable European adventure.
Remember, when you have a qualified cruise consultant (like me) book your trip, you get access to any perks, upgrades and special rates that may be available.
Western Mediterranean
A favorite among travelers due to her intimate, cozy spaces and warm charm, Queen Victoria will sail from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Barcelona for a week-long Mediterranean adventure. Explore Spanish and French ports, all soaked in summer sun, before disembarking in Barcelona, where delicious tapas and colorful architecture await your senses.
Queen Victoria will dock in the ancient town of Tarragona, in Spain, on August 12. During the day, visit the Roman ruins of Tarraco, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sit on the stone steps of the amphitheater, looking out at endless sea and sky. Walk into the town center to explore Spanish flavors, music and dance at Casa de la Festa. Or visit one of several nearby beaches for some space and a cooling dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
Once back on board for the eclipse in the early evening, you can choose from many viewpoints Queen Victoria has to offer. With ample deck space, outdoor pools and deck bars, you can be comfortable and relaxed after your day of exploring on shore, as the moon and sun connect above you.
Spain and France
Depart from the historic port of Southampton, England for a 7-night roundtrip voyage to visit Spanish and French ports of call on the newest Cunard ship, Queen Anne. Sail south to three beautiful Spanish ports, then stop in at Pauillac, nestled within the Bay of Biscay, before returning to Southampton in style.
When the eclipse happens, you could be on Queen Anne, departing the sunny Spanish port of La Coruña in the early evening. Spend your day strolling the Spanish streets, taste tapas in La Coruña’s Old Town, or visit the Tower of Hercules, an ancient site situated at the top of the cliffs, for a beautiful view. Then return to your ship, and bask in the fading sun on Queen Anne’s deck with a cocktail, sunglasses at the ready for prime eclipse viewing as you sail out of port. A perfect day.
Solar Eclipse Collectors’ Voyage – Spain and Morocco
Board the MS Oosterdam for the Solar Eclipse Collectors’ Voyage, departing from Barcelona, Spain, and concluding in Piraeus (Athens), Greece.
This extraordinary journey combines rich cultural exploration with a celestial highlight, offering stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Malaga, Tangier, Lisbon, and more. From Barcelona’s vibrant arts and architecture to Palma’s stunning bay views and Valencia’s historic charm, each port promises unique experiences. Enjoy days at sea with onboard amenities like the Billboard Onboard, World Stage, and Rolling Stone Lounge, enhancing your cruise experience.
The voyage reaches its peak with the solar eclipse on August 12, adding a spectacular dimension to your trip. In Lisbon, savor the blend of historic and modern charm before exploring the Italian and Montenegrin coasts, including Ajaccio, Civitavecchia (Rome), Bari, and Kotor. Conclude your adventure in Athens, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. Experience a mix of cultural discovery and celestial wonder on this unforgettable journey.
Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnight
This voyage is the same as the one above – Solar Eclipse Collector’s Voyage – except you join the ship later, skipping some of the Spanish ports and Tangier. But you still get to enjoy Lisbon, Alicante, Barcelona and the wonderful destinations in France, Italy, Montenegro, and Greece!
Your home for the two weeks, MS Oosterdam, brings high style to the high seas with thoughtful upgrades and stunning artwork. You’ll have plenty to do on board when not taking in expansive views or stretching out in spacious staterooms. Begin with an exquisite breakfast in the Dining Room. Unwind with a massage at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, indulge in pre-dinner craft cocktails at Ocean Bar, followed by delectable Italian fare at Canaletto. Top off the night with chart-topping hits at Billboard Onboard.
Journey of the Solar Eclipse
Experience the wonder of a solar eclipse while navigating the ocean from Spain to France alongside a resident astronomer, your expedition guide. Witness the marvel of totality from the ideal position as your expedition guide joins you on deck for viewing and to offer cosmic insight into the phenomenon.
But before enjoying the total solar eclipse alongside fellow explorers, the culinary and wine traditions of Spain beckon for an exploration of the palate. From an authentic paella Valenciana cooking demonstration to a wine tasting in Santa Gertrudis near Ibiza, you and your fellow connoisseurs will savor the many flavors of the region.
After sharing the excitement of the solar eclipse, France awaits with opportunities to learn the secrets of winemaking at sun-kissed vineyards. Or let your imagination run wild at the fortified Carcassonne from Sète, with turrets and towers straight out of a fairytale. Conclude in one of the smallest sovereign states in the world, the Principality of Monaco.
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Why cruise the 2026 solar eclipse?
Prime viewing locations
Watching the solar eclipse from the sea offers an unparalleled experience.
- Optimal weather conditions at sea, reducing the risk of cloud cover.
- Ability to position directly in the path of totality for maximum eclipse viewing time.
- Avoid crowded, obstructed land-based locations for a more comfortable experience.
- Enjoy luxury amenities, expert guidance, and a serene, exclusive atmosphere on board.
- Seamless, hassle-free journey with all the comforts of a cruise.
Luxury at sea
Indulge in world-class amenities, from gourmet dining to relaxing spa treatments, all while sailing through some of the most fascinating and historic parts of the world.
The 2026 Solar Eclipse is a rare event, and spots on the best cruises are filling up fast. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary experience.
Contact me today, and let’s start planning your ultimate eclipse adventure.
Why use a cruise consultant?
Using a cruise consultant (like me) ensures you receive expert guidance tailored to your specific needs, access to exclusive deals and perks, and assistance with every detail of your cruise planning—from selecting the perfect itinerary to arranging shore excursions and managing travel logistics.
A consultant also provides personalized service, valuable insider knowledge, and ongoing support before, during, and after your trip, making your cruise experience seamless and stress-free.
Solar eclipse weather reminder
It’s important to remember that you are never guaranteed to see an eclipse.
It can be cloudy anywhere. So be sure that you are OK with that – make sure that you would still enjoy the vacation even if you did not see the eclipse! Use tools like the Time and Date website, which can give you the average cloud cover for any location at any time. The chance of cloud cover around Greenland and Iceland – and even the north coast of Spain – may be high.
Also, in Spain the eclipse will take place in the evening, so the sun will be low in the sky. On a boat around the Balearic Islands that shouldn’t be a problem, the horizon will be visible. For mainland Spain, we’d have to be aware of anything that might obscure the view.
Finally, an eclipse is for everyone to enjoy. We’ve noticed that some people are trying to gatekeep eclipse travel, saying that you can only experience an eclipse on a cruise organized by an astronomy magazine or other such company. But eclipse cruises are not new. One of our esteemed clients recently shared his story of seeing the 1973 eclipse off the west coast of Africa. He’d sailed from New York on the Canberra, a cruise stuffed with celebrities and scientists. And the year before there was a cruise sailing to see the eclipse visible above Nova Scotia, inspiring a certain well-known song lyric.
The small print: Although all information is believed to be accurate at the time it is published, Calliope Travel assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The information contained in this site is provided on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness. All images and names are trademarks of their respective owners.