In an exciting announcement for both astronomy enthusiasts and vacationers, Holland America Line is preparing for a celestial adventure like no other by offering a series of exclusive cruises designed to chase the total solar eclipse of 2026. This remarkable event, which is set to partially occur across North America on August 12, 2026, won’t be visible within the United States. However, the cruise line will make it possible for travelers to experience this extraordinary phenomenon from the best vantage points in the ocean. Their initiative includes three unique cruise itineraries strategically positioned along the eclipse’s path of totality.
The sailings will operate as part of Holland America’s wider range of Celestial Cruises, specifically curated for those keen on witnessing notable astronomical events. They kicked off this series due to the enthusiasm and success surrounding their previous eclipse cruises, as consumers have shown a growing interest in travel experiences that combine adventure with the fascinating world of astronomy.
"After the excitement and success around our 2024 eclipse cruises, we knew our guests were looking for additional opportunities to get a front-row seat for some of the world’s most special natural spectacles," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America's Chief Commercial Officer. Her assuredness reflects the company's commitment to offering travelers unforgettable experiences that are both enriching and entertaining.
Among the three cruise options, the first is the Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse, setting sail from Boston on July 18, 2026. The ship, Zuiderdam, accommodates 1,964 guests and embarks on a thrilling 35-day journey, which will include multiple stops across Canada and Europe—from Maine to Canada, taking in breathtaking locations of Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and the Netherlands. For eclipse viewing, it will strategically position itself off the western coast of Iceland before heading back to the U.S.
The second offering, known as the Scandinavian Solar Eclipse cruise, departs on July 25, 2026, aboard the Nieuw Statendam, which can hold 2,666 passengers. This 28-day voyage provides the option for guests to embark from either Dover, England, or Rotterdam, the Netherlands. This route will traverse several stunning ports and feature an overnight stop near Edinburgh, Scotland where travelers can expect spectacular views of the total solar eclipse while anchoring off of Iceland’s northwest coast.
Finally, the third ship, Oosterdam, will embark on a 13-day Mediterranean Solar Eclipse cruise on August 9, 2026. This adventure begins in Lisbon, Portugal, and will sail towards Piraeus, Greece, including stops at vibrant cities along the Spanish coast, ultimately providing guests with opportunities to observe the eclipse between Barcelona and Alicante.
Guests aboard these extraordinary voyages can expect more than just remarkable sights. They will also participate in a variety of themed activities including engaging lectures by scientific experts, enhancing their understanding of these celestial events. Furthermore, Holland America Line plans to provide specialized eclipse glasses, ensuring that everyone can safely enjoy the spectacular views.
The 2026 eclipse cruises promise to be enriching for travelers and will also offer the flexibility for ships to shift locations as needed based on weather conditions. This adaptability is crucial to ensure the best observational conditions, as Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego, noted, "Having the ability to map out exactly where to catch the eclipse and the capability to move to achieve that is certainly beneficial." This flexibility is one of the advantages of a cruise situation that may not be available for other land-based viewers.
In addition to the eclipse, Holland America is prominent for its winter solar cruises which will include journeys to view the northern lights and opportunities to celebrate the summer solstice above the Arctic Circle. These distinct offerings highlight Holland America’s ambition to cater to diverse interests and deliver exclusive experiences that enable guests to connect meaningfully with nature.
As for the prices of these captivating celestial journeys, they vary, starting from approximately $2,519 to $7,809 per person, depending on the itinerary chosen and the type of accommodation selected. Early booking discounts are available for members of Holland America’s Mariner Society loyalty program, who can benefit from onboard credits for reservations made prior to October 29, 2024. This incentive gives loyal customers even more reasons to embark on these adventures.
Aside from their celestial-themed journeys, Holland America Line continues to enhance its offerings to match the expectations of today’s travelers. The combination of ship mobility, expert insights, and a focus on spectacle positions these cruises as ideal opportunities for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the cosmos in tandem with beautiful global destinations.
The upcoming solar eclipse cruises represent not only a chance to witness a cosmic marvel but also an exciting journey through some of the world’s most enchanting landscapes. As travelers plan their itineraries for this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event, they will undoubtedly look to these adventures as the highlight of their travel experiences in 2026—and beyond.
