Holland America Line is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness some of nature’s most spectacular celestial events with its newly announced Celestial Cruises for 2026.
These exclusive itineraries are designed for travellers eager to experience the Northern Lights, a total solar eclipse, and the summer solstice above the Arctic Circle. Starting July 31, guests can book one of these special cruises and embark on a journey filled with wonder, exploration, and premium onboard experiences.
Solar Eclipse Cruises
After the resounding success of Holland America Line’s 2024 solar eclipse cruises, Holland America Line is excited to announce three new solar eclipse cruises for 2026. These cruises will position guests under the path of totality for the August 12, 2026, total solar eclipse, providing an unparalleled viewing experience.
35-Day Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse (Legendary Voyage)
Ship: Zuiderdam
Dates: July 18, 2026 - August 22, 2026
Itinerary: Roundtrip from Boston, Massachusetts, this cruise will witness the solar eclipse off the western coast of Iceland. Highlights include stops in Portland, Maine; various Canadian ports like Halifax and St. John’s; multiple locations in Greenland; and Icelandic ports including Reykjavik and Grundarfjørdur.
28-Day Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland and Scotland (Legendary Voyage)
Ship: Nieuw Statendam
Dates: July 25, 2026 - August 22, 2026
Itinerary: Roundtrip from Dover, England, or Rotterdam, this cruise features the solar eclipse off the northwest coast of Iceland. The itinerary includes ports in Norway, Iceland, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Scotland, offering a rich blend of cultural and natural beauty.
13-Day Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnight
Ship: Oosterdam
Dates: August 9, 2026 - August 22, 2026
Itinerary: From Lisbon, Portugal, to Piraeus (Athens), Greece, this cruise offers an eclipse viewing between Alicante and Barcelona. Ports of call include Barcelona, Ajaccio, Civitavecchia (Rome), Bari, and Kotor.
Northern Lights Cruises
As 2026 is predicted to be an active period for auroras, Holland America Line is launching inaugural Northern Lights cruises, offering guests the chance to witness the magical Northern Lights in Norway.
14-Day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights
Ship: Rotterdam
Dates: October 4, 2026 - October 18, 2026
Itinerary: From Rotterdam to Amsterdam, this cruise includes an overnight in Alta, Norway, known as "The City of the Northern Lights," along with stops in Nordfjordeid, Trondheim, Narvik, Tromsø, Åndalsnes, and Bergen.
15-Day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights
Ship: Nieuw Statendam
Dates: October 16, 2026 - October 31, 2026
Itinerary: From Dover to Rotterdam or roundtrip from Rotterdam, this cruise features calls at Ålesund, Trondheim, Narvik, Tromsø, Alta, Åndalsnes, and Bergen, with an emphasis on Northern Lights viewing.
Summer Solstice Cruise
For those seeking the longest day of the year, the Summer Solstice cruise above the Arctic Circle promises endless daylight and breathtaking scenery.
14-Day Arctic Circle Crossing: North Cape Solstice
Ship: Nieuw Statendam
Dates: June 13, 2026 - June 27, 2026
Itinerary: Roundtrip from Dover or Rotterdam, this cruise includes stops in Eidfjord, Maloy, Trondheim, Leknes, Tromsø, Honningsvåg (celebrating the solstice), and Lerwick.
Exclusive Onboard Experiences
Guests on the Celestial Cruises can look forward to a range of exclusive onboard experiences. From expert lectures and themed activities to eclipse glasses and wake-up calls for Northern Lights sightings, Holland America Line ensures an immersive and educational journey. Special events like the Magic Castle countdown to midnight and curated displays of curios and artefacts enhance the celestial-themed adventure.
Have It All Early Booking Bonus
For a limited time, guests who book the 2026 Celestial Cruises with the Have It All premium package will receive additional perks. These include shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi, plus free prepaid crew appreciation and upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi. Mariner Society loyalty members can also enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom by booking early.
Embark on Your Celestial Journey
Witnessing celestial wonders like the Northern Lights, a total solar eclipse, and the summer solstice above the Arctic Circle is an unparalleled experience. Holland America Line’s Celestial Cruises for 2026 offer a perfect blend of adventure, cultural enrichment, and premium onboard comfort.
At S.W. Black Travel, we are committed to helping you plan the perfect vacation. Book a call with a travel adviser to embark on your celestial adventure with confidence and excitement, knowing that every detail has been meticulously planned for a smooth and memorable journey.
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