In a thrilling announcement for astronomy enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike, Oceania Cruises unveiled plans for five exclusive cruises designed to offer breathtaking views of the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. Each voyage will take guests through prime locations along the eclipse path, ensuring optimal viewing conditions while sailing the open seas.
According to Jason Montague, Director of Luxury at Oceania Cruises, "There is no better way to witness the majesty of a total solar eclipse than from the comfort of an Oceania Cruises ship, where our guests can enjoy this singular cosmic event at sea, away from the lights and distractions of the city." The cruises will feature a range of enrichment programs, enhancing the experience with insights from renowned astronomers and NASA ambassadors.
The first of the five itineraries is aboard the Oceania Marina, which embarks on a 14-day journey starting July 30, 2026, from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Reykjavik, Iceland. This immersive cruise will allow guests to explore smaller ports such as Invergordon, Scrabster, and Akureyri, while engaging in excursions that include visits to medieval castles, whale watching, and biking through pristine nature reserves. The main viewing of the eclipse will take place as the ship departs from the port of Grundarfjordur, Iceland, with astronomer Dennis Mammana onboard to guide guests through the cosmic wonders.
Another option is the Oceania Insignia, offering a 12-day sailing that departs on August 3, 2026, from Reykjavik and concludes in Southampton, United Kingdom. This cruise will visit charming ports like Killybegs, Dingle, and Cork, and will allow guests to enjoy unique excursions, from relaxing in outdoor lagoons to hiking the Highlands and horseback riding in glacial landscapes. The eclipse observation will occur at sea near Glengarriff, Ireland, with Dr. Jerry Krassner, a former NASA space shuttle mission specialist, known as "The Wizard of the Stars," providing expert guidance.
For those seeking a more extended experience, the Oceania Vista will embark on a 25-day Grand Voyage, setting sail roundtrip from Southampton on August 2, 2026. This cruise will stop at destinations like Falmouth, Holyhead, and Kristiansand, with excursions that include exploring 13th-century medieval castles and strolling through lush subtropical gardens. Guests will witness the solar eclipse from a prime location off the coast of Belfast as the ship sails toward Douglas, Isle of Man. NASA Solar System ambassador Ted Blank will be onboard to share his extensive knowledge of astronomy and the solar system.
Additionally, travelers can join the second segment of the Oceania Vista's Grand Voyage, which departs from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on August 12, 2026, for a 15-day journey to London. This adventure will take guests through the British Isles and the wonders of the Baltic, with stops in Scrabster, Copenhagen, and Berlin. Guests will have opportunities to tour renowned whiskey distilleries, visit iconic landmarks, and explore cities like locals, all while anticipating the spectacular solar eclipse.
The final itinerary is on the Oceania Sirena, a 12-day cruise departing from Southampton on August 5, 2026, and concluding in Barcelona, Spain. This journey along the Iberian Peninsula will allow guests to explore picturesque ports such as Ferrol, Oporto, and Almería. Unique shore excursions will include traditional river cruises and forest bike adventures. The solar eclipse will be viewed as the Oceania Sirena sails from Lisbon, Portugal, with an exciting guest speaker to be announced soon.
These five luxurious cruises not only promise exceptional views of the eclipse but also offer a unique blend of culinary delights and celestial festivities. Guests will enjoy themed parties on deck, featuring solar-themed culinary creations designed to celebrate the occasion, such as solar eclipse cookies, star-shaped sandwiches, and shrimp empanadas with chimichurri sauce.
With four ships now positioned within the path of the eclipse, Oceania Cruises is committed to providing an unparalleled experience that combines luxury, enrichment, and the awe-inspiring beauty of a natural phenomenon. The excitement surrounding these cruises is palpable as travelers prepare to embark on what promises to be a truly unforgettable journey.
