The 2026 solar eclipse will be a particularly special event for viewers in the Northern Hemisphere, so why not make it even better from aboard a cruise ship!
But let’s look at why this Solar Eclipse in particular is special…
The last partial solar eclipse visible from the UK was on June 10, 2021, and it was a memorable event where the moon covered a significant part of the sun. However, it didn’t quite match the dramatic spectacle of a total solar eclipse, like the one last seen in the UK on August 11, 1999.
What Happens During The Eclipse?
The total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, will be a major astronomical event. It’s a rare phenomenon where the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow on Earth and briefly turning day into night. This will provide a unique opportunity for millions to observe (responsibly, through special glasses) the ethereal beauty of the solar corona.
The path of totality for this eclipse will pass over densely populated areas in North America and Europe, making it easily accessible to a large audience. This accessibility could make it one of the most widely viewed eclipses in history.
Additionally, for many in these regions, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness such a dramatic celestial event so close to home, adding to the excitement and significance of the occasion.
Wouldn’t it be incredible to see this amazing solar phenomenon from the deck of a cruise ship or in a spectacular location? Here are just a few of the sailings available, and where the ship will be docked or sailing at the time of the eclipse.
Solar Eclipse Cruises From Southampton In August 2026
P&O Cruises • Arcadia (adult only ship)
16-night cruise to Iceland • 5 August 2026
Arcadia will be docked in Isafjordur on the day of the eclipse. It will begin at 4.42pm with the full eclipse about an hour later. This is the first total eclipse visible in Iceland since 1954, so don’t be surprised if you’re observing it shoulder to shoulder with awe-struck locals.
P&O Cruises • Ventura (family friendly ship)
14-night cruise to Spain & Portugal • 8 August 2026
El Ferrol, on the north-western coast of Spain, is where Ventura will be docked for the solar eclipse. It’s a radiant destination in itself, with ochre-tiled roofs cascading towards golden beaches and sparkling blue waters filling the harbour. You’ll want to have your head turned to the heavens all evening – the eclipse will begin at 7.30pm with the total eclipse occurring about an hour later, followed soon after by sunset.
Princess Cruises • Sky Princess
14-night cruise to the Mediterranean • 8 August 2026
View the eclipse whilst at sea, off the coast of Spain. During the two minutes and 18 seconds of totality, passengers will assemble on the upper decks, equipped with Princess safety glasses for safe eclipse viewing. Attendees will also enjoy astronomy lectures from experts, indulge in themed snacks and beverages, participate in solar system trivia, and more, enhancing their celestial experience.
Cunard • Queen Mary 2
21-night cruise to Norway, Iceland & New York • 4 August 2026
On 12 August, 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 on board from a memorable Shore Experience, this is sure to be an unforgettable setting for the eclipse.
Cunard • Queen Anne
7-night cruise to Spain & France • 9 August 2026
As the eclipse reaches totality, you could be departing the sunny Spanish port of La Coruña in the early evening. Bask in the fading sun on deck with a cocktail, solar eclipse viewing glasses at the ready for prime viewing.
Want To Get Straight To The Action On A Fly-Cruise?
Cunard • Queen Victoria
7-night fly-cruise to the Western Mediterranean • 10 August 2026
Visit Tarragona, Spain, where you can enjoy a day filled with cultural and historical exploration before witnessing the solar eclipse.
With more sailings on the horizon for Summer 2026, for optimal Solar Eclipse viewing, there will be plenty of choice! Call our cruise experts today on 02380 658 386, and secure your space for the celestial event of the century (so far!) on a Solar Eclipse cruise in 2026.
