Travel

This cruise line will take Bostonians to the path of totality for the 2026 solar eclipse

Travelers can take in the total solar eclipse at sea, off the western coast of Iceland.

The M.S. Zuiderdam, owned by Seattle-based Holland America Line, cruises off Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Monday, Dec. 2, 2002. Andy Newman/Holland America

Local astronomy enthusiasts can experience a total solar eclipse at sea by boarding a cruise out of Flynn Cruiseport Boston in 2026.

Seattle-based Holland America Line just announced a 35-day roundtrip cruise, Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse, that will leave from Boston on July 18, 2026. The trip will take place on Holland America’s Zuiderdam and position travelers directly under the path of totality off the western coast of Iceland during the 2026 solar eclipse.

The journey will include stops in Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Greenland and Iceland; as well as Eidfjord, Norway, and Rotterdam, Netherlands. 

The itinerary of the Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse aboard Holland America’s Zuiderdam.

The cruise line completed two “highly successful” solar eclipse sailings during the solar eclipse in 2024, according to the company, which is why it is sending three ships from the fleet to sail beneath the path of totality during the Aug. 12, 2026 eclipse. Only one ship, Zuiderdam, will journey roundtrip from Boston.

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“After the excitement and success around our 2024 eclipse cruises, we knew our guests were looking for additional opportunities to get a front-row seat for some of the world’s most special natural spectacles,” said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer for Holland America Line, in a statement. “Our team has put together a lineup of cruises that not only deliver on that front, but also give guests in-depth exploration of exciting destinations and the premium onboard experience for which we’re known.”

Cruise guests will enjoy lectures from scientific experts, solar eclipse-themed activities, and more. They will also receive proper eclipse glasses for safety.

Tickets for the 2026 roundtrip solar eclipse voyage from Boston go on sale Wednesday.

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