Virgin Voyages has unveiled two new sailings that coincide with the August 2026 solar eclipse, both strategically planned to maximise views of the phenomenon. Olivia Palamountain reports
Virgin Voyages has unveiled plans for two cruise itineraries to align with the August 2026 solar eclipse.
According to NASA, the 2026 event will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and a small area of Portugal.
Virgin Voyages’ eclipse cruises will provide passengers with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness this astronomical phenomenon from the unique vantage point of the open water.
Two Virgin ships, Valiant Lady and Scarlet Lady, will be strategically positioned under the “path of totality” (where viewers can see the Moon totally block the Sun) in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea.
This unique proposition capitalises on the growing trend of “eclipse tourism”, combining travel with this celestial phenomenon.
The 15-night “Eclipse in the Land of Fire and Ice” voyage on Valiant Lady, departing from Portsmouth on 5 August 2026, will offer a 98.5% totality view from Iceland.
The 12-night “Total Eclipse of the (Med)” cruise on Scarlet Lady, leaving Barcelona on 10 August 2026, aims to provide 100% totality off Ibiza’s coast.
The itineraries include stops in cities such as Dublin, Glasgow, Reykjavik, and Rome, depending on the chosen cruise.
Both cruises will feature eclipse-themed experiences, including lectures by astronomers and astronauts, and the ships will be equipped with observation areas and specialist viewing equipment.
Virgin Voyages also plans to offer special edition merchandise and galactic-inspired culinary options, such “nostalgic moonpies” and “mind blowing Milky Way milkshakes”.
The entertainment programme will include eclipse-related performances and activities, such as orchestral music and themed yoga sessions.
Bookings for Virgin’s eclipse voyages are now open and available to book online here.
Virgin Voyages is far from the only cruise line taking advantage of the upcoming eclipse.
As reported by Forbes, several cruise lines, including Holland America, Cunard, Princess, and P&O Cruises, have announced special itineraries designed to give passengers an unbeatable view of the next total solar eclipse.