Holland America to Offer Solar Eclipse Cruises in 2026, Including Round-Trip from the US

The 2026 total solar eclipse won’t be visible from the U.S., but Holland America Line is making it easy to chase it down.

The cruise line is offering three itineraries that will place ships in the path of totality, including one round-trip from Boston, Massachusetts. These sailings are part of a wider range of Celestial Cruises centered around astronomical phenomena.

“After the excitement and success of our 2024 eclipse cruises, we knew our guests were looking for more 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. “Our team has put together a lineup of cruises that not only deliver on that front but also offer guests in-depth exploration of exciting destinations and the premium onboard experience for which we’re known.”

Holland America’s 2026 Eclipse Cruises Schedule:

• The 1,964-guest Zuiderdam ship will depart on the 35-day Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse on July 18, 2026, from Boston.
• The 28-day Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland and Scotland aboard Nieuw Statendam will start on July 25, 2026, with options for round-trip departures from either Dover, England, or Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
• The 13-day Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnight will set sail on August 9, 2026, from Lisbon, Portugal, to Piraeus, Greece aboard Oosterdam.

Cruise Itineraries:

• Voyage of the Vikings: This cruise will sail from New England to Canada, then head to Europe, with stops in Greenland, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Iceland. Zuiderdam will position itself off Iceland’s western coast for eclipse viewing before returning stateside, featuring overnight stays in Reykjavik and Rotterdam.
• Scandinavian Solar Eclipse: Guests on this cruise will visit Greenland, Scotland, Norway, Iceland, and more, viewing the eclipse off Iceland’s northwest coast. The itinerary includes an overnight stay in South Queensferry near Edinburgh.
• Mediterranean Solar Eclipse: Passengers will explore Spain, France, Italy, and Montenegro, viewing the eclipse from off the Spanish coast between Barcelona, where the ship will stay overnight, and Alicante.

Cruise ships offer guests panoramic views of the eclipse and the flexibility to move to optimal locations as needed. “Having the ability to map out where you can catch the eclipse based on current weather is certainly helpful,” said Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego.

The 2026 eclipse cruises will also feature scientific specialists, lectures, and other themed activities. Holland America will provide eclipse glasses so guests don’t need to worry about finding a pair.

Additionally, as part of its Celestial Cruises, Holland America will offer Northern Lights sailings and an itinerary to celebrate the summer solstice above the Arctic Circle.

Pricing Information: Pricing details are not yet available, but bookings will open on July 31. Members of Holland America’s Mariner Society loyalty program who book by October 29 can receive up to $400 in onboard credit per cabin.