On 12 August 2026, a fascinating astronomical phenomenon will occur: a total solar eclipse visible from select regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Ponant Explorations offers three itineraries to observe the eclipse under optimal conditions—at sea, off the coasts of Iceland and Spain.
Specialists on board will guide guests through this spectacular event. An unforgettable experience best enjoyed from a ship’s deck!
As a day of onshore excursions comes to an end, the ship sets sail for the open sea. The Captain ensures the vessel is positioned at the best vantage point, far from the landforms and the cloud cover. On the outer decks, guests equipped with their observation glasses attentively listen to the explanations of renowned specialists on board, all seasoned eclipse chasers! Suddenly, the light fades, colours gradually vanish, and the surrounding waters take on an eerie glow, as silence falls… Moments later, totality is reached: the Moon’s shadow completely obscures the Sun, leaving only the solar corona visible.
Three Exceptional Observation Settings: Off the Coasts of Iceland and the Balearic Islands
PONANT EXPLORATIONS pays special attention to crafting journeys that promise unforgettable memories for its guests. With a constant pursuit of unique experiences that celebrate the world, its cultures and natural wonders, each itinerary is designed as an exclusive voyage of discovery.
Whether off the coast of Iceland or in the Mediterranean, the natural environment far from inhabited areas and artificial light provides the perfect setting for an immersive observation. At sea, the silence and purity of the air enhance the spectacle, while the mobility of the small ships ensures an ideal position to admire this celestial phenomenon.
On Board: The Expertise of Renowned Astronomers and Astronauts.
‘I invite you to an extraordinary rendezvous on August 12th, 2026, somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea, off the Balearic Islands: for the moment of a cosmic “tick-tock”, the Moon will eclipse the Sun, and the stars will awaken in a fleeting night.’
Serge Brunier, science journalist, eclipse-chasing photographer
Three Itineraries Where the Sun Meets the Moon
• ‘Total Solar Eclipse in the Mediterranean’
Serge Brunier is also the host of the show Entre Terre et Ciel on Arte and the author of several books. His photographs of the universe are regularly featured by major astronomical institutes and space agencies. On the Mediterranean cruise, he will be joined by Joe Rao. Well-known to English-speaking guests, this meteorologist—with over 40 years of radio and television broadcasts to his credit—is also an accomplished astronomer. He has already led several expeditions in pursuit of solar eclipses.
Nice-Nice, from August 6th to 14th, 2026, aboard Le Boréal, 9 days – 8 nights. From €6,450.
• ‘Total Solar Eclipse in The Far North’
On the Arctic journey, a famous French astronaut couple, Claudie and Jean-Pierre Haigneré, will reveal the secrets of the eclipse. With their extensive experience in space flights aboard the MIR station and the ISS, they will share their knowledge with guests through lectures and exclusive exchange sessions.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard-Reykjavík, from August 1st to 14th, 2026, aboard Le Lyrial, 14 days – 13 nights. From €14,030.
• ‘Total Solar Eclipse from Iceland to Ireland’
Set out to witness the total solar eclipse amidst the wild landscapes of Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and Scotland. From Icelandic fjords to the cliffs of the Shetland Islands, explore volcanoes, Viking lands, and seabird colonies before marvelling at this rare celestial event, where the Moon will eclipse the Sun. An astronaut since 1985 and a veteran of three missions aboard the Atlantis and Discovery shuttles, Jean-François Clervoy will share his expertise with guests through lectures and exclusive encounters.
Reykjavík-Dublin, from August 10th to 18th, 2026, aboard Le Lapérouse, 9 days – 8 nights. From €6,390.
The Captains will adjust the routes to optimise eclipse observation. In case of unfavourable weather, they will alter the course to find clear skies, as conditions remain unpredictable.
(Exclusive: Experience the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse Aboard a PONANT EXPLORATIONS Ship)
Tags: Ponant (Compagnie du Ponant)
Appeared first on: Latecruisenews.com
