Solar eclipse cruises: These are the 6 best

If 2024’s solar eclipse whetted your appetite for these rare natural spectacles and got you thinking, “When is the next eclipse?” – 2026’s eclipse game is set to be just as awesome, if not more so. On August 12, 2026, a total eclipse of the sun will be visible in locations across Western Europe and the Arctic Circle, from Spain up to Greenland. During this eclipse, much of the path of totality will be over the sea, making cruising one of the best ways to catch the show!

Specially designed ‘Solar Cruises’ with expert talks, quizzes, and most importantly, perfect positioning to see the solar eclipse in all its glory, promise an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime trip. Taking a solar eclipse cruise 2026 is a must, whether you’re a total space nerd or just want to see something seriously cool. 

The question is, which solar eclipse cruise should you take? As a multitude of cruise lines all vie for the top spot when it comes to the coolest way to witness the lunar marvel, we’ve done the hard work and whittled it down to only the very best options. From budget-friendly to lavishly luxe, here’s a run-down of every solar eclipse cruise 2026 you should consider.

– READ MORE: Huskies, Northern Lights & Reindeer – this is eco-cruising in Norway – 

Best for: Fun with friends & space nerds

All-out eclipse

Cruise Line: Virgin Voyages 

Richard Branson’s adults-only cruise line is serving up a selection of epic eclipse voyages in August 2026, giving guests (or “sailors”, as Virgin Voyages calls them) the opportunity to don their solar specs in a variety of different settings. A Northern Europe itinerary takes in Edinburgh, Dublin and Reykjavik on a roundtrip sailing from Portsmouth, UK, while Virgin’s Barcelona to Rome eclipse cruise will stop along the Amalfi Coast, as well as in Cannes and Mallorca. 

Renowned space explorers and scientists will enlighten travelers on the magic of the cosmos, and galactic grandstands outfitted with telescopes and binoculars will transform the ship’s upper decks into observation viewing areas with professional astronomers on standby to lend a helping hand. New moon ceremonies, starry symphonies and cosmic culinary creations (hello, Milky Way milkshakes!) are some other space-tacular elements included in the onboard programming. Both itineraries depart in early August 2024.

Best for: Families 

Spanish solar sojourn

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean  

For a fun-fuelled experience for families, the Royal Caribbean solar eclipse cruise in 2026 will take in popular spots such as Bilbao in Spain and Lisbon in Portugal, with the ocean providing the ultimate backdrop to witness this rare celestial event. A roundtrip itinerary that departs and returns to Southampton makes this voyage an ideal option for families, minimizing hassle and maximizing fun. Onboard, younger (and older!) guests will be entertained no end by surf simulators, exhilarating waterslides, ice-skating shows and more. Departs August 7, 2026. 

££

Find out more

Best for: Adventurous types 

Incredible Iceland

Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises

An action-packed seven-night adventure awaits with Celebrity Cruises’ Iceland solar eclipse cruise 2026. Gawp at thundering waterfalls, gurgling lava fields, sweeping fjords and of course, the total solar eclipse while out at sea. Onboard the ship, make full use of state-of-the-art facilities including swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness suites and even a lawn club! 

Talks, quizzes and themed dining are all expected onboard, however full details are yet to be revealed so stay tuned on this one. Guests are set to receive solar eclipse viewing merch including oh-so-snazzy solar glasses. Prime viewing of the eclipse from sea means being free from light pollution for unparalleled visibility. And, guests can expect a bumper eclipse show: starting at 15:45 on August 12, 2026, the maximum eclipse will be at 17:45, and ends completely by 19:57. 

Best for: All-inclusive fans

Summer in the Med, with a twist

Cruise Line: Marella Cruises

If you’re looking for a solar eclipse cruise 2026 with all the bells and whistles included at no extra cost, Marella Cruises is the one to go for. The all-inclusive cruise line’s solar eclipse sailing (a revamped version of its popular ‘Cosmopolitan Charms’ voyage) aboard Marella Discovery 2 will witness the total eclipse while sailing along Spain’s rugged Costa Brava. Sipping on free cocktails while watching a lunar phenomenon? Sounds like a summer well spent to us. 

Off the ship, soak in sun, culture, history and fabulous food with stops in Sicily, Corsica, Rome, Salerno (for Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast) and Mallorca. Exploring onboard will reveal a climbing wall, mini-golf course, spacious spa and nightly Broadway-style shows. 

Best for: Couples

Total eclipse of the Med

Cruise Line: Holland America Line

Holland America Line’s solar eclipse cruise 2026 takes in the Mediterranean at a leisurely pace, starting out in Lisbon and finishing up in Athens, with stops in Corsica, Barcelona and Rome along the way. Witness the eclipse on day six while off the coast of Barcelona, before enjoying an overnight in the buzzing city. Though full details of this particular solar eclipse cruise are yet to be revealed, guests can look forward to opportunities to connect with scientific experts, themed activities, talks and more. Eclipse glasses will also be provided. Phew.

Best for: Once-in-a-lifetime expedition 

Greenland Eclipse and the Land of fire & ice

Cruise Line: AE Expeditions in partnership with New Scientist & Polar Routes

AE Expeditions has teamed up with New Scientist to take an immersive 13-day journey through Iceland and Greenland onboard 132-passenger polar expedition vessel: Sylvia Earle. Beginning on land, guests will discover Iceland’s Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park and the explosive Geyser geothermal area. A visit to Scoresby Sund, where an expansive network of waterways makes up the world’s longest fjord system teems with wildlife from Arctic foxes and Atlantic puffins to lumbering walruses. Expect blood-pumping zodiac adventures out on the water and plenty of lectures on nature, astronomy and, of course, solar eclipses, including from world-leading eclipse expert Jamie Carter. Departs on August 7, 2026.