Exclusive Experiences: Witness the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse with PONANT

Imagine standing on the deck of a luxurious expedition ship, gazing at the infinite horizon, when suddenly the light begins to fade. The sky transforms, the ocean reflects an eerie glow, and silence washes over the ship as the Moon eclipses the Sun—revealing the breathtaking solar corona in all its celestial glory.

This is the PONANT Explorations experience: an extraordinary voyage into the heart of one of nature’s most spectacular events.

On 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will cast its shadow across select regions of the Northern Hemisphere. To ensure travellers witness this rare phenomenon in absolute luxury and under the optimal conditions, PONANT has curated three exclusive itineraries, each designed to offer front-row seats to the path of totality.

Where the Sun Meets the Moon: Three Unique Eclipse Voyages

Mediterranean Majesty: Off the Coast of the Balearic Islands

Onboard Le Boréal, guests will embark on a nine-day journey from Nice to Nice (6–14 August 2026), navigating to the best vantage point in the open waters of the Mediterranean. Accompanied by renowned astronomers Joe Rao and Serge Brunier, travellers will enjoy in-depth discussions, expert insights, and immersive celestial photography sessions before the spectacular eclipse unfolds. As the Sun disappears in the midday sky, the stars will momentarily awaken—creating an unforgettable cosmic ballet.

Arctic Eclipse: A Journey Through The Far North

For those craving a more remote and dramatic backdrop, Le Lyrial departs from Longyearbyen, Svalbard and sails to Reykjavík (1–14 August 2026). This 14-day Arctic expedition will be hosted by legendary astronauts Claudie and Jean-Pierre Haigneré, both of whom bring their extensive spaceflight expertise to enrich the experience. Guests will sail through the mystical fjords and untouched landscapes of the High Arctic, ensuring a pristine, uninterrupted eclipse viewing far from the distractions of city lights.

Icelandic Wonders: From Iceland to Ireland

For an adventure that combines Viking lands with astronomical marvels, Le Lapérouse will sail from Reykjavík to Dublin (10–18 August 2026). Led by astronaut Jean-François Clervoy, this voyage traverses Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, the Faroe Islands’ rugged cliffs, and Scotland’s windswept coastlines before reaching the eclipse’s prime viewing location. Guests will revel in exclusive lectures and encounters, absorbing insights from one of space travel’s most seasoned experts.

Luxury Meets Celestial Spectacle

With PONANT’s signature expedition experience, these voyages are designed to maximise the thrill of witnessing the eclipse while indulging in the comforts of boutique luxury cruising. Unlike land-based observation, the ships’ mobility ensures the best possible eclipse vantage points, navigating clear skies away from cloud interference. Each captain will meticulously adjust the ship’s course, pursuing the perfect eclipse moment for every guest.

Whether in the Mediterranean, the Arctic, or Iceland, this celestial journey is not merely an event—it’s an exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime experience, where science, adventure, and unparalleled luxury intertwine.

Set sail into the shadows of the cosmos and witness one of the most awe-inspiring moments of 2026 with PONANT Explorations.