Witnessing a solar eclipse is a breathtaking event on its own—but experiencing it from the deck of an expedition vessel takes it to an entirely new level. Picture yourself on the open ocean, far from city lights and distractions, fully immersed in the wonder as the moon slips between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across the sky. It's an awe-inspiring blend of cosmic magic and adventure.
For those looking to combine this celestial event with an unforgettable journey, many leading expedition cruise operators have already launched their 2026 Solar Eclipse itineraries. These voyages are in high demand, and some companies are even offering special early booking incentives. However, with limited cabin availability, spots are filling up fast.
If you dream of experiencing this once-in-a-lifetime event surrounded by nature's vastness, now is the time to plan. In this post, we'll explore some of the best expedition trips that align with the path of totality in 2026, ensuring you don't miss this rare opportunity. From the rugged beauty of polar regions, these voyages offer an unmatched way to witness one of the universe's most spectacular shows—creating memories to last a lifetime.
1. Wonders of the High Arctic: Greenland & Iceland Solar Eclipse
Ship
Scenic Eclipse
Dates
August 04 -18, 2026 (15 days)
Price
From $53,030 per person
Itinerary
- Start your adventure in Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital, rich with museums and cutting-edge architecture.
- Fly to Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost capital, and board Scenic Eclipse with a champagne welcome.
- Cruise the Svalbard Archipelago, a polar wilderness where glaciers, fjords, and Arctic wildlife await. Keep watch for whales, Arctic foxes, and reindeer, with expert guides leading daily Zodiac and kayak excursions
- Cross the Denmark Strait to East Greenland, home to the world’s largest fjord system. Marvel at Scoresbysund with its towering icebergs and calving glaciers.
- On Day 9, witness the breathtaking Total Solar Eclipse from a prime location in the remote Arctic, with uninterrupted views of the moon’s shadow covering the sun.
- Explore Akureyri, Iceland’s northern gem, known for its charming streets and botanical gardens.
- Visit Vigur Island, a remote haven for puffins, seals, and Arctic terns.
- Be enchanted by the Dynjandi Waterfall in the Westfjords, cascading down seven tiers like a bridal veil.
- Conclude your journey in Reykjavik, Iceland’s lively capital, and gateway to volcanic wonders.
Sail with Scenic
This ultra-luxury cruise offers a seamless blend of Arctic exploration, cultural immersion, and celestial wonder. During this 15-day adventure, you'll get front-row views of the Solar Eclipse amid Greenland's untouched wilderness. Along the way, you'll explore the raw beauty of Norway's Svalbard, Greenland's dramatic fjords, and Iceland's volcanic landscapes, blending awe-inspiring nature with cultural encounters and the finest onboard indulgences.
INQUIRE NOW2. Iceland to Greenland:
Total Solar Eclipse
Ship
Ultramarine
Dates
August 6 – 18, 2026 (13 days)
Price
From $16,095
Itinerary
- Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland, and check in to your included hotel.
- Embark the Ultramarine, and set sail for what’s often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret”—the Westfjords.
- Explore Iceland’s oldest regions (home to volcanic rocks dating back 16 million years) by Zodiac and ship, and during guided shore landings.
- Learn from polar experts about Arctic history, geology, and wildlife.
- Spot whales and seabirds like northern fulmars and kittiwakes during the crossing.
- Navigate through Northeast Greenland National Park, exploring King Oscar Fjord and hiking in the colorful Skipperdal Valley.
- Attend presentations by eclipse experts David Baron and Michael Zeiler as anticipation builds for eclipse day.
- Sail further into King Oscar Fjord, where the team of experts will identify the optimal viewing point along the path of totality.
- Experience 2 minutes and 17 seconds of total solar eclipse—one of the longest totalities in the Arctic.
- Navigate through the world’s largest fjord system, known for its breathtaking icebergs and colorful tundra.
- Explore open-water areas surrounded by ice, home to diverse marine ecosystems.
- Visit small Inuit settlements, where you can learn about the community’s traditions and way of life.
- Watch the world’s largest population of muskoxen in Northeast Greenland National Park.
- Sail through steep cliffs and narrow channels of Bear Islands, discovering the geology and rich history of these remote islands.
- Marvel at the unique basalt columns along the shoreline of Vikingbukta, and explore remnants of ancient Thule settlements, offering insight into early Arctic inhabitants.
- Relax with a massage in Ultramarine’s onboard spa or sip cocktails at the bar.
- Attend final lectures on Arctic exploration, geology, or wildlife.
- Keep an eye out for marine life during the final stretch across the Denmark Strait.
- Disembark in Reykjavik, where you can continue exploring Iceland or fly home.
Sail with Quark Expeditions
Designed to combine the magic of polar exploration with the rarity of a total solar eclipse, this unique journey aboard the luxurious Ultramarine by Quark offers breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and the possibility to be one of a select few who witness one of nature's most spectacular events guided by a taskforce of word-renowned, passionate experts.
INQUIRE NOW3. Arctic Odyssey: Iceland, Greenland, and Canada
Ship
National Geographic Explorer
Dates
August 09 – 24, 2026 (15 days)
Price
From $18,571
Itinerary
- Begin your journey in the northern capital, Reykjavík. Explore its charming Old Town, including the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral, before boarding your expedition ship.
- Visit the serene Flatey Island, a former trading post, and hike scenic trails populated with puffins during their seasonal visit.
- Sail through the Denmark Strait, home to the world’s largest underwater waterfall, while preparing to witness the total solar eclipse from a prime viewing location.
- Navigate through the stunning fjords of Prins Christian Sund, where you can spot glaciers and diverse marine wildlife.
- Explore Viking ruins at Erik the Red’s farm and experience the vibrant town of Qaqortoq, with its colorful colonial architecture and local museums.
- While crossing the Davis Strait, relax on board while watching for whales and polar bears, and enjoy expert talks about the Arctic environment.
- Discover the rugged beauty of the Labrador coast through hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac excursions. Spot polar bears and experience the historical fishing village of Battle Harbour.
- Visit L’Anse aux Meadows, the UNESCO World Heritage site home to Norse ruins that reveal the Viking presence in North America.
- Explore stunning cliffs and fjords of Northern Newfoundland as you enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife watching.
- Conclude your expedition in St. John’s, where you’ll disembark and take home unforgettable memories.
Sail with Nat Geo - Lindblad Expeditions
Join National Geographic - Lindblad Expeditions for an extraordinary journey where nature, history, and the solar eclipse align for a truly remarkable experience. The Arctic Odyssey is a voyage that blends breathtaking Arctic landscapes, rich wildlife, and fascinating Viking history. Scheduled to coincide with the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, this journey promises not only natural wonders but also immersive cultural experiences across Iceland, Greenland, and Canada.
INQUIRE NOW4. Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse
Ship
Greg Mortimer
Dates
August 2 - 16, 2026 (15 days)
Price
From $22,495.50
Itinerary
- Arrive in Oslo and check in to your hotel, where you can gather information about your upcoming journey and enjoy some leisure time.
- Transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Longyearbyen. After exploring this Arctic town, embark on your ship and prepare for departure.
- Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Svalbard, where polar bears and walrus sightings abound. Traverse stunning fjords, enjoy tundra walks adorned with colorful wildflowers, and participate in optional activities like kayaking or a polar plunge.
- Sail towards East Greenland, spotting whales and seals along the way while learning from onboard experts about the rich Arctic environment.
- In Jan Mayen, admire the breathtaking Beerenberg volcano and explore the island’s glaciers. If conditions allow, land at Kvalrossbukta for a chance to see its unique wildlife.
- Explore East Greenland’s striking fjords and deep channels. Visit the remote Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit and its fascinating museum, while keeping an eye out for musk oxen, reindeer, and diverse seabirds.
- Sail to your prime viewing position for the solar eclipse. Witness totality, where day turns to night for an unforgettable 2 minutes and 18 seconds, followed by a celebratory dinner to relive the experience with fellow travelers.
- Delve deeper into East Greenland’s stunning fjord systems, rich in wildlife and unique geological formations. Enjoy hiking opportunities and the chance to see ancient archaeological sites.
- Sail across the Denmark Strait to Iceland, spotting whales and seabirds along the way.
- Arrive in Reykjavik, where you will disembark and conclude your Arctic adventure.
Sail with Aurora Expeditions
Jewels of the Arctic journey is designed to showcase the majestic landscapes of Svalbard and East Greenland while witnessing the spectacular total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. This unique expedition invites adventurers to explore remote regions, rich wildlife, and vibrant local cultures against the backdrop of one of nature's most awe-inspiring events.
INQUIRE NOW