If witnessing the total solar eclipse in 2026 is on your wish list, several cruise lines are ready to make it happen. Recently, various operators have revealed plans for trips that will transport guests to the path of totality, along with a host of other fascinating stops.

Aurora Expeditions will provide a chance to view this astronomical event with its Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse Itinerary. “Join us for an incredible journey to Scoresbysund, Greenland, navigating through breathtaking Arctic scenery while we prepare for the stunning visual display,” the company announced last week. “Feel the excitement build as the moon slowly obscures the sun, creating a magical ambiance.”

The adults-only cruise line, Virgin Voyages, is also set to offer its own solar eclipse-themed cruises as part of its Marvelous Voyages collection.

When are the solar eclipse cruises in 2026?

Aurora Expeditions’ solar eclipse route starts in Oslo, Norway, and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland, beginning on August 2, 2026. This 15-day voyage aboard the Greg Mortimer ship will also traverse Svalbard, where travelers might catch glimpses of wildlife like polar bears, in addition to exploring the Denmark Strait and more.

The first of Virgin’s two cruises, titled Eclipse in the Land of Fire and Ice, will depart on August 5, 2026, from Portsmouth, England, on the Valiant Lady ship. This round-trip, 15-night cruise will include stops in cities such as Dublin, Ireland; Reykjavik; and Edinburgh, Scotland, in addition to eclipse viewing.

The second cruise, Total Eclipse of the (Med), a 12-night journey aboard the Scarlet Lady, will operate from Barcelona, Spain, to Civitavecchia, Italy, commencing on August 10 and visiting ports like Cannes, France, Ajaccio in Corsica, and Salerno on the Amalfi Coast.

This announcement follows Holland America Line’s introduction of three eclipse cruises in July, one of which departs from the U.S.

Why opt for a solar eclipse cruise?

Cruise ships not only provide broad vistas of the sky but can also navigate to avoid any obstacles that might block the view.

“The capability to adjust based on the current weather to find the ideal spot for viewing the eclipse, along with the flexibility of moving across the ocean to chase ideal conditions, is certainly advantageous,” stated Adam Burgasser, an astronomy and astrophysics professor at the University of California, San Diego, who previously served as an onboard expert for a Holland America eclipse cruise.

What are the cruise prices?

Aurora Expeditions’ sailing starts at approximately $21,245 per person based on double occupancy. This price covers a pre-cruise hotel stay, a chartered flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen, onboard dining, beverages like beer and wine with dinners, shore excursions, and additional amenities.

Virgin’s Eclipse in the Land of Fire and Ice cruise has a starting rate of $5,201 per person based on double occupancy, while the Total Eclipse of the (Med) cruise starts at $3,970 per person. These fares include numerous dining options on the ship, Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness classes, and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel journalist for YSL News based in Nashville.