A solar eclipse on August 12 will be the greatest visible from the UK in nearly three decades, with about 90% of the sun obscured. For a total eclipse, a cruise from Scotland offers a last-minute deal.
Ambassador's 2026 Solar Eclipse Cruise
The Ambassador Ambition ship departs from Dundee on August 8 for a 13-night voyage visiting the Faroe Islands, Iceland and the Shetland Isles. On August 12, the ship will be off Greenland's coast within the Arctic Circle, ideally positioned for viewing the total solar eclipse.
The cruise also coincides with the Perseid meteor shower, which can produce up to 150 shooting stars per hour. Ambassador notes the eclipse darkening the sky may allow rare daylight sightings of shooting stars. Later stages offer a chance to see the Northern Lights.
Special Guests and Onboard Experience
Aboard are astronomer Pete Lawrence and impressionist Jon Culshaw. Ocean view cabins remain available from £1,999 per person. Use code SOLAR10 for a 10% discount, plus a half-price drinks package offer.
The ship accommodates 1,200 passengers across 680 cabins, with a theatre, library, craft studio, spa, gym, two swimming pools, hot tubs, two restaurants, a bistro and four bars. Full board dining includes a Captain's Gala Dinner and Baked Alaska Parade.
Other Options
Fred Olsen offers several trips: two Wonders of Iceland with the Solar Eclipse voyages from Rosyth near Edinburgh on August 6 (limited cabins), and one from Liverpool on August 7 from £2,699 per person. Also a Spain & Portugal with the Solar Eclipse holiday from Southampton on August 10, 10 nights from £2,149 per person, adults-only, aboard the Borealis.
