Welcome to your ultimate guide to the solar eclipse voyages in Greenland in 2026 onboard our expedition cruise operator ships. But before we review the itineraries, what is the solar eclipse and what makes this phenomenon such an exciting and unique experience?
Solar Eclipses Explained
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking some or all of the Sun’s rays from reaching the Earth.
There are three types of solar eclipses (explanation taken from Greenwich Observatory website, you can learn more here):
Total solar eclipse – happens when the Moon completely covers the Sun, and the observers are within the darkest part of the Moon’s shadow (its umbra). Areas covered by partial shade (its penumbra) witness a partial eclipse.
Annular solar eclipse -when the Moon is not at the point in its orbit where it's closest to Earth, its apparent diameter is less than that of the Sun. During an annular eclipse, even where the Moon's disk covers the Sun centrally, the outer ring of the Sun's disk is still visible. The Sun's edges visible around the Moon is called the annulus (derived from the Latin for 'ring') and is also called a 'ring of fire'. During an annular eclipse, spectators may also see 'Baily's beads' around the edge of the Moon. This is when the Moon's mountains and valleys are silhouetted against the Sun.
Partial solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth but the Sun, Moon, and Earth are not perfectly aligned. This means that only part of the Sun is hidden by the Moon.
Guests onboard expedition ships with dedicated Solar Eclipse sailings will be in the best chance to experience a total solar eclipse which will occur on the 12th of August in 2026 in Greenland.
Experiencing a solar eclipse onboard on expedition ship
To appreciate the excitement of observing this natural phenomenon, we reached out to Julie Butler, Chief Explorer and Managing Director at Astro Trails, pioneers of Eclipse, Astronomy and Space Tours since 1979. Here is what she had to say about chasing solar eclipses in general, and onboard expedition ships in particular:
‘Back in the early days of sailing, a ship’s officer was expected to have a reasonable knowledge of astronomy - it was essential for navigation and for understanding the effect of the moon on tides. It was also in the nature of early explorers to seek to understand the vast universe they inhabited. This curiosity is a common theme among the clients Astro Trails has attracted since 1979 on their total solar eclipse projects.
Expedition ships offer access to a wide range of subjects from wildlife to geology and interesting views of a clear night sky. A total solar eclipse is a relatively rare event (about every 16 months or so) so it provides a focus for the eclipse cognoscenti to gather. Most ‘Umbraphiles’ (as they are collectively known) already understand what they are going to see, but they also appreciate the value and beauty of seeing the real thing and travelling with like-minded people who also understand this.
The track of a solar eclipse is set by the orbital mathematics of the solar system and is known for thousands of years in advance, but getting to the right place at the right time requires good logistical skills and good weather!
As an eclipse track will always be mostly over sea, expedition ships can provide the ideal observation base, with the added ability to reach remote places and accommodate changes in local weather. A community of highly motivated eclipse chasers also adds a unique element to the spirit of such voyages!’
Astro Trails are offering a total solar Eclipse voyage to Greenland in 2026 onboard the Swan Hellenic ship Diana, you can find more details here.
An overview of the ECN expedition cruise operator members offering total solar eclipse voyages in Greenland 2026
AE Expeditions
Voyage: Greg Mortimer, Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse, Longyearbyen to Reykjavik, 2 August 26-16 August 26
Starting cost: Balcony Stateroom B : £19.255.00 pp/$25,645.00 pp
What is included: charter flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen
Best Way to Book: Email our reservations team : reservations@auroraexpeditions.co.uk or call : 0808 189 2005
About AE Expeditions
AE Expeditions, part of Aurora Expeditions is an award-winning, Australian-owned expedition company pioneering experiential travel for over 33-years. A pioneer in Polar Expeditions, deeply committed to environmentally respectful travel being 100% climate neutral and certified B-Corp, we are taking real actions for care of the planet. Founded on guiding principles of adventure and exploration, small-ship experiences are intimate and friendly. AE Expeditions takes travellers on perspective-altering experiences to some of the most remote and incredible places on the planet.AE Expedition’s purpose-built ships are designed for global discovery carrying just 132 passengers each, we can get to the heart of the destination. Our expert crew will navigate the ship towards the perfect spot to witness the eclipse.
Albatros Expeditions
Voyage: Ocean Albatros, Greenland Solar Eclipse 2026, Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq, 10 August 26- 22 August 26
Starting cost: Price from US$13,695 pp, based on triple share
What is included: includes one way flight from Kangerlussuaq to Copenhagen post voyage for additional US$650 per person
Best way to book: email sales@albatros-expeditions.com
About Albatros Expeditions
Albatros Expeditions is part of the family- owned Albatros Travel Group, established in 1986 by Søren Rasmussen, a biologist and expedition leader. Stemming from a passion for remote regions, the travel group now operates globally, covering many areas of Greenland and the polar regions. With our state-of-the-art eco-conscious vessels, we offer sustainable small ship expeditions, inspired by our Nordic heritage. We are explorers ourselves, and since 1986 we have created life changing memories for our guests while offering unbeatable value to Greenland, along side our very own Albatros Arctic Circle destination management company based in the country.
Atlas Ocean Voyages
Voyage No1, observing the eclipse at sea off the coast in Spain: World Voyager, Journey of the Solar Eclipse, Barcelona to Monte Carlo, 9 August -16 August 2026
Starting cost: $7,499.00 pp based on two sharing
Voyage No2, observing the eclipse at sea off the coast in Iceland: World Navigator, Polar Eclipse Quest, Reykjavik to Reykjavik, 11 August 2026- 20 August 2026
Starting cost: $10,799 pp based on two sharing
Best way to book: call 0808 303 5954
Oceanwide Expeditions
Voyage No1: m/v Hondius, Northeast Greenland Solar Eclipse Explorer Voyage, Longyearbyen to Akureyri, 2 August- 15 August, 2026
Starting cost: prices per person start from: €7800/$8550 (USD) in a quadruple cabin.
Voyage No 2: m/v Plancius, Northeast Greenland Solar Eclipse Explorer voyage, 3 August- 16 August, 2026, Longyearbyen to Akureyri
Starting cost: prices per person start from: €7800/$8550 (USD) in a quadruple cabin.
Best Way to Book: You can book your place aboard directly on the Oceanwide Expeditions website. Alternatively, if you have questions or would like support in booking, you can contact the reservations team using the details below.
Telephone: +31 (0)118 410 410
Fax: +31 (0)118 410 417
E-mail: info@oceanwide-expeditions.com
About Oceanwide Expeditions
Oceanwide Expeditions is a true pioneer in expedition cruises to the Arctic and Antarctica, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Aboard small-size vessels, experienced and passionate expedition staff guide guests into some of the most spectacular locations on Earth, getting them closer to the heart of nature and providing a 360° view of the polar world around them. With the best outdoor activity program and the warmest welcome in the polar regions, Oceanwide Expeditions is the ideal choice for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and those wishing to explore the edges of the world.
PONANT
Voyage: Le Lyrial (not a dedicated solar eclipse voyage, but the ship will be in the area), The Far North from Spitsbergen to Iceland, Longyearbyen to Reykjavik, 1 August- 14 August, 2026
Starting cost: prices per person start from £9,200.00 pp. No single supplement
Best Way to Book: Call 0207 66 04 089 or email bookings@ponant.com / or contact your preferred operator
About PONANT
Ponant is a luxury cruise line renowned for its elegant, small-ship expeditions that offer unique and immersive travel experiences. Sailing to remote destinations like Greenland, Ponant combines sophisticated service with a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. The USPs of traveling with Ponant to Greenland include access to intimate cruises that navigate the pristine Arctic waters, offering spectacular views of glaciers and fjords. Guests enjoy personalised service and exceptional French-inspired cuisine onboard. Ponant's expeditions feature expert-led excursions and educational programs, allowing travellers to explore Greenland’s stunning landscapes and engage with its rich Inuit culture. Experience adventure and luxury in harmony with nature.
Poseidon Expeditions
Voyage: m/v Sea Spirit, Arctic Odyssey under a Solar Eclipse, Longyearbyen to Reykjavik, 3 August- 15 August 2026
Starting cost: starting price at $15,895.00 pp and £12,795.00 in double/twin porthole cabin
Best Way to Book: check LIVE availability, send email to sales@poseidonexpeditions.com or call +44 203 369 0020
About Poseidon Expeditions
Poseidon Expeditions is a leading operator of polar adventures, with 25 years of experience and an outstanding reputation in the cruise industry. The small ship, Sea Spirit, accommodates around 100 guests, allowing for multiple activities per day and maximizing time ashore. Designed for extraordinary adventures, the Sea Spirit can navigate remote bays and fjords that larger vessels cannot reach. In addition, Poseidon collaborates with local communities, offering travelers the chance to immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Inuit people. With one of the best expedition teams in the field, each journey is crafted to be truly unforgettable
Quark Expeditions
Voyage: Ultramarine, Iceland to Greenland: Total Solar Eclipse, Reykjavik to Reykjavik, 6 August - 18 August 2026
Starting cost: Explorer suite £17,1925.00 pp
Best Way to Book: Contact your preferred tour operator for flight inclusive prices
Special Guests:
David Baron
The veteran science journalist, broadcaster and umbraphile—who has witnessed nine total solar eclipses across the globe—is also the author of the award-winning “American Eclipse: A Nation's Epic Race to Catch the Shadow of the Moon and Win the Glory of the World.” Baron has traveled to every continent and more than 50 countries for work and pleasure.
Michael Zeiler
The highly-respected author, geographer and eclipse cartographer is a member of the International Astronomical Union Working Group on Solar Eclipses—with an asteroid named in his honor. Zeiler has been witnessing solar eclipses since 1991, and was among the first to develop eclipse maps online.
About Quark Expeditions
Quark Expeditions' Ultramarine is a state-of-the-art polar exploration vessel designed to redefine expedition travel in the Arctic and Antarctic. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters and 20 quick-deploy Zodiacs, Ultramarine enables deeper exploration into remote regions inaccessible to most ships. The vessel offers luxurious accommodations for up to 199 passengers, featuring spacious suites, modern amenities, and a focus on sustainability with advanced energy-efficient systems. Guests enjoy immersive off-ship experiences like glacier landings, wildlife viewing, and cultural visits, all guided by expert naturalists and expedition leaders. Ultramarine blends adventure, comfort, and environmental responsibility for a transformative polar experience.
Scenic Eclipse
Voyage: Scenic Eclipse, Wonders of the High Arctic: Greenland and Iceland Solar Eclipse Cruise, Oslo to Reykjavik
Starting cost: only one suite left, from £21,817pp
Best Way to Book: Call 08d out, waitlist only08 115 0463 or book online using ExpressBook - https://identity.scenicglobal.com/Account/Login
About Scenic Eclipse
Scenic Eclipse is the ultimate 6-star ultra-luxury cruise experience of a lifetime for up to 228 guests in the Arctic region. Designed to take guests seamlessly to the most remarkable and remote locations that few will ever visit. Guests can gaze out at the spectacular Arctic scenery from their private verandah suite and enjoy personalised butler service for every guest, with our close to 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. Indulge in an impressive array of indoor and outdoor spaces, up to 10 dining experiences, up to nine bars and lounges, the indulgent Senses Spa# and yoga & Pilates Studio.
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