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Four reasons to witness the solar eclipse on an ocean cruise

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Newmarket Holidays

Experience one of the world’s most impressive celestial events on the open ocean with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or Ambassador Cruise Line in 2026.

Few sights compare to the spectacle of a solar eclipse and, as one of the rarest celestial events known to man, it’s not something you’ll want to miss. Rarer still are total solar eclipses – the Earth sees one around every 18 months – which can take up to 400 years to be visible from any given location. In the UK, for instance, we’re set to be graced with a total eclipse as early as 2090 and while we all love to plan ahead, 65 years might be a little excessive. Not to worry, though, on one of our solar eclipse sailings, you can skip the wait!

The world’s next total eclipse is due to be visible across Northern Spain, Greenland and Iceland in August 2026, and it’s the perfect time to book a truly special escape. With the path of totality crossing vast stretches of the Atlantic, there’s no better way to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event than with an ocean cruise courtesy of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or Ambassador Cruise Line. From darkened skies and dazzling coronas to unique crescent suns, you’ll marvel at sights that can’t be seen anywhere else without distractions and see some of the world’s most impressive landscapes in a new light. But why choose a cruise? Our team takes a deep dive into these unique sailing itineraries to find out.

 

 

Be right in the centre of the action 

Solar eclipses are rare occurrences at the best of times, so it pays to make sure you’re as well-placed as possible to make the most of it. Thanks to the added mobility you’ll enjoy while aboard, you can rest assured that your vessel will take you to areas with the very best visibility. With their smaller vessels, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines also takes guests to the areas that larger ships can’t, meaning you can enjoy the eclipse amidst each destination’s most exclusive corners.

Leave the distractions behind

Away from obstructive buildings, light pollution and the distracting bustle of the city streets, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful, uninterrupted viewing experience, allowing you to savour every precious moment. Don’t let cloud cover ruin your view either; with the most up-to-date weather reports, your skilled crew will follow a carefully planned course under the clearest skies to ensure you have the best chance to see the eclipse as it reaches totality.

 

 

See each port of call in a more dramatic light 

While the eclipse will undoubtedly be the main event, the surrounding destinations promise to be no less impressive. Witness Iceland’s phenomenal glacial valleys and volcanic bluffs in a dramatic new light, or take in the charming streets of Santander, Gijon and Bilbao under the dusky daytime light. A stop in Reykjavik, set in the path of the totality, offers the chance to pair enchanting views of the eclipse and Northern lights while, at the other end of the totality’s path, Spain’s skyline will blaze as the sun sets over Iberia.

Enjoy astronomical expertise on deck

Sungazing, particularly during totality, can be a hazardous activity for the unprepared but with a dedicated crew, resident experts and safety glasses provided, you’ll be in safe hands throughout. Join astronomers from Go Stargazing on deck aboard Balmoral or Borealis with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or settle in for astronomy-themed talks from Ambassador Cruise Line’s special guest presenters in between thrilling onboard entertainment.

 

 

Why book an ocean cruise through Newmarket Holidays? 

When you book your wish-list sailing with us, you can rest assured that you’ll pay no more than you would when booking directly with your chosen cruise operator with added financial protection from our ABTA and ATOL memberships. Our dedicated holiday planners will be on hand to help you at every stage of your holiday, from the planning process to your return home. You’ll also have access to our exclusive, limited-time perks, including free cases of premium wines and discounted prices. What’s more, we appreciate that convenience is key and offer no-fly cruises departing from a number of regional UK ports so that you have more time for the moments that matter.

Our recommended cruises

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Beautiful sunrise landscape view of Hallgrímskirkja is a Church of Iceland, church in Reykjavík.It is the largest church in Iceland and the tallest structures in Iceland.
New
Iceland's Land of Ice and Fire and the Solar Eclipse from Dundee (A22620DD)
Iceland, Faroe Islands, Greenland, United Kingdom
  • Soak up the late summer sunshine as you visit Runavik, nestled in the breathtaking Faroe Islands, known for its dramatic landscapes.
  • Explore the vibrant Reykjavík, Iceland’s lively capital, where modern culture meets stunning natural surroundings.
  • Discover the beauty of Grundarfjordur, home to the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, and the scenic, mountain-framed Seydisfjordur.
  • Logo

    14 days from £4,418 pp

  • Dates Available

    08 August 2026

  • Duration

    14 days

  • Depart From

    Dundee

  • Operator

    Ambassador

Le Verdon, France
New
Multi-Generational Adventure to France and Spain and the Solar Eclipse from Tilbury (A12618)
Le Verdon, Getxo, Gijon, Santander, La Coruna
  • Discover the tranquil beauty of Belle Île en Mer and the elegance of Bordeaux, known for its fine wines and stunning architecture.
  • Savour the culinary delights of Bilbao, a hotspot for Basque cuisine, and explore the cultural richness of Santander.
  • Visit the historic pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela from La Coruna, steeped in tradition and religious significance.
  • Logo

    11 days from £2,429 pp

  • Dates Available

    05 August 2026

  • Duration

    11 days

  • Depart From

    London Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

Cadiz, Spain
FREE CASE OF SIX VIRGIN WINES. BOOK BY 5 DECEMBER.
New
Northern Spain with the Solar Eclipse from Southampton (S2620)
Portugal, Spain
  • Witness the rare Solar Eclipse with insights from Go Stargazing experts on board
  • Stroll along scenic promenades like La Coruña’s Paseo Marítimo and Cádiz’s Alameda Apodaca
  • Immerse yourself in Iberian culture with Portuguese pastéis de nata, Spanish tapas, and vibrant Galician and Fado music
  • Logo

    11 days from £1,449 pp

  • Dates Available

    10 August 2026

  • Duration

    11 days

  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred Olsen

Akureyri, Iceland
FREE CASE OF SIX VIRGIN WINES. BOOK BY 5 DECEMBER.
New
Wonders of Iceland with the Solar Eclipse from Rosyth (L2625)
Faroe Islands, Iceland
  • Witness the Solar Eclipse from Balmoral’s deck, with expert commentary from Go Stargazing specialists
  • Explore Iceland’s natural wonders, including Strokkur Geyser, lava tunnel, and the waterfalls of Dynjandi, Goðafoss, and Gullfoss
  • Experience Icelandic culture through horseback riding, local folklore, and relaxing in geothermal pools
  • Logo

    13 days from £1,749 pp

  • Dates Available

    06 August 2026

  • Duration

    13 days

  • Depart From

    Rosyth

  • Operator

    Fred Olsen

Akureyri, Iceland
FREE CASE OF SIX VIRGIN WINES. BOOK BY 5 DECEMBER.
New
Wonders of Iceland with the Solar Eclipse from Liverpool (T2619)
Iceland, Faroe Islands
  • Witness the rare spectacle of the Solar Eclipse from the decks of Bolette
  • Discover Iceland’s geological wonders, including Reykjanes Geopark, Strokkur Geyser, and Dynjandi Waterfall
  • Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture with local folklore, geothermal pools, and horseback riding
  • Logo

    12 days from £1,899 pp

  • Dates Available

    07 August 2026

  • Duration

    12 days

  • Depart From

    Liverpool

  • Operator

    Fred Olsen

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