Ship expedition to the solar eclipse in 2026
from/to Reykjavik
17 days / 16 nights
MS Ocean Explorer
17-day Arctic expedition on a small ship from Reykjavik (Iceland) to Nuuk (Greenland) to witness the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, including charter return flight Nuuk-Reykjavik
+++ Total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 +++
Seeing a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience anyway. Observing such a natural spectacle in the Arctic on the deck of a polar ship is even more extraordinary: the last total solar eclipse north of the Arctic Circle took place in 2015. The next one will be visible on August 12, 2026.
Read more
Your expedition ship will ensure you travel in comfort across the polar seas. For a deep and lasting Antarctic experience, a team of experts will accompany you with interesting lectures and presentations on topics such as glaciology, wildlife, ecology, and photography. In addition, the world-renowned eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler will be on board to deepen your understanding of solar eclipses, celestial mechanics, and observational astronomy.
The most courageous take "immersing themselves in the Arctic" literally and dare to take the "polar plunge" (ice bathing). You also have the opportunity to encounter the Arctic Ocean and its animal inhabitants up close as part of the sea kayaking program or on guided paddling excursions (optional, extra cost).
Stephanie Gräf
Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in travel to the Arctic and Antarctic.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings relating to the Arctic and Antarctic, and I am delighted that you are one of the few people who are traveling to the ends of the earth.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
Good to know
Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of individual travel packages including flights and hotels in Reykjavik, as well as transfers and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs to extend your trip.
Attention solo travelers: If you do not wish to have a single cabin, accommodation on board is possible in shared cabins. In this case, you will be accommodated with other travelers of the same gender and possibly of a different nationality. There are no single cabin surcharges.
Entry requirements: German citizens need a valid passport to enter Iceland. Current information from the German Foreign Office on entry requirements for Greenland can be found here.
Insurance: Proof of international health insurance covering medical repatriationmust be provided.
Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, lasting 2 minutes and 18 seconds in the center of totality
- 2,200 nautical mile expedition route through the rarely visited Westfjords of Iceland
- Routing from Reykjavik to Nuuk, two of the world's northernmost capitals
- Crossing the legendary Denmark Strait between Europe and Greenland
- Entering the world's largest fjord system, Scoresby Sund
- Zodiac excursions and landings for a close-up experience of Arctic landscapes and marine wildlife
- Possible sightings of arctic foxes, snow hares, musk oxen, reindeer, puffins, and whales
- Scientific support for the celestial spectacle on August 12 by renowned solar eclipse expert Michael Zeiler on board
- Valuable expert tips from your photography guide on board and during excursions
- Opportunity for a polar plunge (ice bathing)
- Sea kayaking program & guided paddling excursions (optional, extra charge)
route
itinerary
advance information
Your arrival in and departure from Reykjavik are not included in your travel price.
Since our customers all have individual wishes for their trip, we are happy to book flights separately. Of course, the flights then become part of a secure package tour. We recommend an overnight stay in Reykjavik to cushion any irregularities with your flight or lost luggage. We are happy to organize everything for you on request. Please contact us.
Day 1: Start of the trip in Reykjavik
Your journey begins today in Reykjavik. You will make your own way to the hotel included in your charter flight and hotel package. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore some of the most famous sights of Iceland's capital, which is known for its exciting mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage.
Located at 64°08′ north latitude, Reykjavík is the northernmost capital of an independent state in the world.
Days 2 to 4: Embarkation in Reykjavik & exploration of the Westfjords
After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, you will have time to explore Reykjavík on your own before transferring to the Ocean Explorer in the afternoon. With your modern expedition ship, specially designed for polar regions, you will set sail for the Westfjords. This region is considered "Iceland's best-kept secret."
The rugged peninsula in the remote northwest of Iceland is characterized by dramatic mountain ranges, volcanic rock, and deep fjords. The mountains drop spectacularly to the sea and offer fantastic opportunities for impressive landscape photography.
Zodiac trips, boat explorations, and—where possible—landings on the coast await you there. The scenery is very diverse, with steep cliffs, rushing waterfalls, colorful beaches, rolling green hills, vast high moors with rocky outcrops, and small lakes. With a little luck, you may spot Icelandic ponies and shaggy sheep grazing peacefully on the slopes. In the Westfjords, you will likely have the opportunity to go sea kayaking, paddleboarding, and on a guided hike on land.
Scattered signs of civilization can be found in small fishing villages scattered along the edges of the fjords and along the coast of the Denmark Strait.
A special highlight during your stay in the Westfjords is a visit to Vigur, a private island where you can immerse yourself in Icelandic culture and history, with traces dating back to the 11th century. Vigur is considered a true testament to Icelandic heritage. Upon arrival by Zodiac, you will be welcomed by Felicity Aston. The polar explorer and first woman to cross Antarctica alone on skis is co-owner of the island.
You will learn more about the Icelandic tradition of eiderdown harvesting, as well as the diverse Arctic bird life and seal populations that call Vigur home. According to estimates , over 7,000 breeding eider ducks, 100,000 puffins, Europe's largest colony of black guillemots, and huge flocks of Arctic terns live here.
There is time to stroll around the island, sample regional specialties, and visit the charming island café.
A detour to Mongufoss, one of Iceland's most remote and beautiful waterfalls, is planned, which you can admire from the ship. You may also visit Flatey, an island just 1.5 kilometers long in the bay of Breiðafjörður.
Day 5: Crossing the Denmark Strait
As you navigate northward through the Denmark Strait between Iceland and Greenland, our expedition team will prepare you for the experiences ahead. Your polar experts will give exciting lectures on a variety of topics, including Arctic history, wildlife, geology, and climatology.
At the same time, the team keeps an eye out for seabirds circling the ship. And of course, you will be informed immediately if whales are spotted!
Days 6 to 7: Northeast Greenland with Kong Oscar Fjord
In Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park on earth with an area of 972,000 square kilometers, you will sail through Kangerluk Kong Oscar (King Oscar Fjord) on the northern border of Scoresby Land.
This impressive fjord system is known for its bright red sandstone and stretches for around 110 kilometers and is 10 to 25 kilometers wide.
Another natural wonder awaits you in Segelsällskapet Fjord, where alternating layers of limestone and dolomite cover the landscape like a fascinating natural painting.
Days 8 to 9: Exploration of Scoresby Sound
Your expedition ship, specially built for polar regions, will take you deep into Scoresby Sund, the world's largest fjord system, where you can enjoy unforgettable views of its enormous icebergs and the overwhelming beauty of this Arctic landscape.
This region offers numerous opportunities for Zodiac excursions, landings and, conditions permitting, a visit to Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote settlement in East Greenland.
Anticipation is growing noticeably these days, as the eagerly awaited moment of the solar eclipse draws ever closer.
Behind the scenes, the expedition leader and the captain of the Ocean Explorer work closely together: they continuously monitor sea and ice conditions, weather forecasts, and cloud cover in order to strategically position the ship for the best possible view of the solar eclipse.
Day 10: Experience the total solar eclipse in the Arctic
The Ocean Explorer continues to advance into Scoresby Sound, where the expedition team will determine the optimal observation location along the path of totality.
With a total solar eclipse lasting 2 minutes and 17 seconds, this region of the Arctic offers the longest period of complete darkness along the entire eclipse path.
The partial phase begins at 2:34 p.m. The total phase then starts at 3:34 p.m. and ends at 3:36 p.m.
The entire eclipse—from first contact to last contact—lasts 2 hours, 1 minute, and 3 seconds, ending at 4:35 p.m.
During this extraordinary day, our solar eclipse expert Michael Zeiler will provide you with numerous scientific insights.
The 2026 solar eclipse is part of the so-called Saros series 126, a cycle of solar eclipses that repeats approximately every 18 years.
It is noteworthy that total solar eclipses are extremely rare in polar regions due to the limited land area and the fact that the sun only illuminates the poles for part of the year.
In order to determine the best location for observation, the team of experts on board analyzes mountain ranges, the position of the sun, local ice conditions, and weather patterns in detail right up until the day of the eclipse itself.
Your expedition leader will inform you about the planned schedule and the exact procedure in the days and hours leading up to the event.
Days 11 to 13: Days at sea off the coast of Greenland
On these days at sea, you will have ample opportunity to enjoy the various amenities on the Ocean Explorer.
Relax in the Tundra Spa, work out in the fitness area, unwind in the sauna with panoramic windows, or enjoy the view from one of the two heated outdoor whirlpools.
Those who want to learn more about the Arctic will find in-depth reading material on the polar region in the light-filled Discovery Library . Almost all suites have private verandas—ideal for observing the passing Arctic landscape in peace and quiet.
As you travel south along Greenland's east coast, it's worth spending time on deck: majestic icebergs drift by and, with a little luck, whales may also make an appearance.
Don't forget to take a look at the lecture program: your experienced expedition experts and solar eclipse specialist Michael Zeiler will enrich your trip with exciting presentations.
Day 14: Aappilattoq & Prins Christian Sound
The picturesque village of Aappilattoq, with only about 100 permanent residents, lies on the shores of one of the world's most scenic fjords—the 100-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (also known as Ikerasassuaq).
Aappilattoq is Greenland's second southernmost settlement (after Narsamiit). The name Aappilattoq is associated with either "sea anemone" or "red," named after the cherry-red mountain that towers above the settlement.
The area has been settled since the 19th century, but the present village was only founded in 1922. Most residents live from hunting and fishing, with local fishermen selling surplus cod and turbot to a small Royal Greenland fish factory. The infrastructure includes a grocery store, a fire station, an elementary school, boat connections, a church, and a workshop for general repairs. Here you can get a glimpse into the everyday life of the people in the far north.
Day 14: Nordic history and musk oxen around Ivittuut
Ivittuut, formerly known as Ivigtût ("grassy place"), is an abandoned mining town near Cape Desolation in southwestern Greenland, not far from the ruins of the old Norse settlement of Mittelsiedlung.
Historians and archaeologists believe that this Norse settlement in Greenland once comprised around 20 farms. Some relics of the former mining structures still remain, albeit partly in ruins. These include a barracks building, a warehouse, and a cemetery.
Since the relocation of musk oxen from the Kangerlussuaq area to Ivittuut in 1987, these massive animals can be found there.
The original native wildlife consists mainly of arctic foxes and snow hares. Occasionally, semi-domesticated reindeer can also be observed. These originate from Greenland's only active reindeer farm, the Isortoq Reindeer Station south of Ivittuut.
Day 16: Disembarkation in Nuuk & charter flight to Reykjavik
Upon arrival in the Greenlandic capital, you will take one last Zodiac ride to the shore before being transported together to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik.
After landing in Reykjavik, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Day 17: End of the trip in Reykjavik
After a restful night at your hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your connecting flight—or extend your stay in Reykjavik to allow more time for sightseeing, such as visiting Hallgrímskirkja Church or taking a warm bath in the Blue Lagoon. We are happy to assist you with your planning.
Whether today or in a few days, you will return home with a deep sense of awe for the power of nature. This experience will stay with you for the rest of your life.
The daily programs described here are for your guidance. The itinerary may vary considerably due to local ice and weather conditions, last-minute permit procedures, and local authorities, but also to respond to current conditions regarding wildlife viewing.Theexpedition leader on board will determine the final itinerary and daily program. Flexibility is of utmost importance during our expedition-style voyages.
Further information about your trip
Included activities
hiking
Your guides will take you on shorter hikes on land. During your hike, your experts will be on hand to provide you with fascinating insights into the region's wildlife, history, and geography.
Zodiac excursions
The sturdy Zodiac inflatable boats are the perfect means of transport for reaching remote coastlines, navigating narrow passages, or going on wildlife safaris. Your experienced Zodiac operators will ensure safe boarding and disembarking and accompany you with expert commentary to bring the breathtaking scenery to life.
Lectures – Exciting first-hand knowledge
Look forward to daily talks and lectures with world-leading polar experts, including expedition leaders, specialists, photo guides, and other renowned guests. You will learn interesting facts about the history, biology, ornithology, glaciology, and geology of the region—and much more!
Polar Plunge – The ultimate leap into ice-cold water
This "test of courage," which takes place only once per expedition (voluntarily, of course!), offers you the chance to safely jump into the ice-cold Arctic waters under the supervision of the team—while pretty much every camera on board captures the moment.
Photography tips
Documenting your trip will make the experience even more memorable when you return home. Our photography guide will help you improve your technique and capture the spectacular landscapes of Greenland and Iceland in the best possible way—for memories that will last a lifetime.
Optional paid activities
sea kayaking
The sea kayaking program is open to travelers of all experience levels. However, it is strongly recommended that you have some basic sea kayaking experience before embarking on a sea kayaking tour. When sea kayaking, you glide across the water at the perfect pace to create an intense connection with the unspoiled nature and surroundings.
Sea kayaking offers one of the most intimate ways to experience the polar regions—at eye level with the water, up close and personal. The sea kayaking program takes place in small groups and shows you fjords or glacier walls from a unique perspective.
Depending on conditions and organization, your kayak guides will strive to let you paddle as often as possible during the trip. Usually, sea kayakers are taken by Zodiac from the ship to an ideal starting point where the kayak tour begins. After the paddling experience, you will return to the ship by Zodiac. Some kayaking excursions are designed so that you can also go ashore and explore the surroundings.
paddling trips
The alternative to sea kayaking for less experienced paddlers: glide through the pristine Arctic waters in an inflatable two-person kayak. These stable, sturdy, and comfortable boats offer an ideal way to discover the polar regions from a whole new perspective. Experienced guides will lead you safely through the paddling tour. Your group will always be accompanied by an additional safety driver who will stay close by to provide assistance if needed.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Advance reservations are required for all paid activities. We recommend booking early, as places fill up quickly.
Your solar eclipse expert, Michael Zeiler
Michael Zeiler, one of the world's leading experts on solar eclipses, will be joining us on this trip. The geographer and eclipse cartographer discovered his passion for eclipses when he experienced his first total solar eclipse in 1991. In his book Modeling Our World, published in 2009, he explored how modern GIS technologies can be used to create highly accurate eclipse maps. After creating his first map for the total solar eclipse on July 22, 2009, he founded the website eclipse-maps.com to present new and historical eclipse maps.
In 2014, when interest in eclipse viewing surged worldwide, he launched GreatAmericanEclipse.com and later co-authored the Atlas of Solar Eclipses: 2020 to 2045. Michael Zeiler is a member of the Solar Eclipse Working Group of the International Astronomical Union (IAU). The asteroid (53253) Zeiler was named in his honor.
Possible destinations for your ship expedition
Iceland
-
Flatey Island
Small island (approx. 2 km long, 1 km wide) in Breiðafjörður Bay between the Westfjords and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Almost uninhabited in winter, lively in summer with traditional houses. Popular with birdwatchers: barn swallows, black guillemots, common terns, and puffins. The church, built in 1926, with ceiling paintings by Spanish artist Baltasar Samper is a particular highlight. -
Möngufoss Waterfall
One of Iceland's most remote and beautiful waterfalls, with a 60-meter drop of glacial meltwater. Accessible by Zodiac and guided hike for close-up exploration. -
Vigur Island
The second largest island in Ísafjarðardjúp Fjord, located just south of the Arctic Circle (2 km long, 400 m wide). Here you can visit traditional farms, photograph puffins, and enjoy the peace and quiet. Vigur is famous for its large eider duck population and eiderdown harvesting. -
Dramatic landscape with rugged coastline, fjords, steep cliffs, and rocky peninsulas in northwest Iceland. Rich in wildlife such as puffins and seals. Known for geothermal springs, lively fishing villages, and hiking trails.
Eastern and northeastern Greenland
-
Aappilattoq
A small village with around 100 inhabitants, founded in 1922. It is named after a red mountain that towers above the settlement and offers impressive views. The inhabitants mainly live from fishing and hunting. -
Blomsterbugten (Bay of Flowers)
Colorful, lush landscape, unusual for the Arctic. Opportunity for a hike to Lake Noa. This is also the location of the "Varghytta" (wolf hut), a small cottage built in 1929 that is used by the Sirius Patrol. -
Botanikerbugt
Botanikerbucht in Kong Oscar Fjord with rich flora on Ymer Ø, part of the world's largest national park, the Northeast Greenland National Park. -
Hofmann Halvø (peninsula)
Ideal for observing musk oxen, turnstones, snow buntings, and possibly ptarmigans. Impressive fjords and cliffs provide breeding grounds for numerous bird species. Possible Zodiac landing with a short archaeological hike. -
Holm Bay & Ella Ø
Frequent landing point with panoramic views of Kong Oscar Fjord. Ella Ø is also part of the national park. The legendary Sirius Patrol is active here in summer. Musk oxen are often seen. -
Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)
One of the most spectacular fjords in the world, with massive tidal glaciers and steep cliffs. The region is also known as "Arctic Patagonia." Aappilattoq is one of only two settlements here.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
August 3, 2026 – August 19, 2026
from €28,195 per person
17 days/16 nights
Ocean Explorer
Reykjavík, Iceland Reykjavík, Iceland
Selected date
August 3, 2026 – August 19, 2026 (17 days/16 nights)
Ocean Explorer | Iceland to Greenland: Total Solar Eclipse, 17 Days
Studio Veranda Single
Studio Single
Deluxe Veranda Forward
Porch Stateroom
Veranda Suite
Junior Suite
penthouse suite
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
activities
Information
Included services:
- Accommodation on board with daily housekeeping
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and juices on board throughout the trip. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ship's kitchens are unable to prepare kosher meals.
- Complimentary beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and with dinner
- Complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available around the clock
- Guidance throughout the entire trip by our experienced expedition team, including landings and other activities
- All Zodiac transfers and trips according to the daily program
- All landings according to the daily program
- Guided hikes lasting up to three hours
- Formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and guest speakers according to plan (especially regarding the solar eclipse)
- An official expedition parka to take home with you
- Special protective glasses for observing the solar eclipse
- A photo diary documenting your expedition
- A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac excursions
- Hair dryers and bathrobes in every cabin
- Free Wi-Fi access for one device with basic internet access (e.g., for browsing, email, social media posts, and voice services; premium packages available for more data-intensive applications)
- Emergency evacuation insurance for all passengers up to a maximum of $500,000 per person
- All other service charges and port fees during the program
- Baggage handling on board the ship
Your charter flight and hotel package includes:
- One night's accommodation in Reykjavik before the expedition
- Group transfer from the hotel in Reykjavik to the ship on day 2
- Group transfer from the ship to Nuuk Airport on the day of disembarkation
- Charter flight from Nuuk to Reykjavik
- Group transfer from Keflavik International Airport
- One night's accommodation at the airport hotel in Keflavik after the expedition
Not included in the price:
- International airline tickets
- Passport and visa fees, unlisted government arrival and departure taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise stated
- Luggage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and travel health insurance – highly recommended
- Excess baggage fees on international and domestic flights
- Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landings and cruise excursions, or other equipment not mentioned
- Laundry, bar, and spa charges, as well as other personal expenses, unless otherwise specified
- Telephone and internet charges (connection may vary depending on location)
- Voluntary tip at the end of the trip for the expedition staff and ship's crew
- Additional accommodation options
- Transfers upon arrival and departure, unless expressly stated
- Optional activities such as sea kayaking and paddling excursions
Important:
- Language spoken on board: English
- English-speaking expedition team
- Onboard currency: US dollars and major credit cards
- Completing a questionnaire, medical certificate, cruise contract, and flight information form is mandatory.
- A doctor is on board
- Open bridge
- Laundry service available on board (for a fee)
- The route and final itinerary during the voyage will be decided on site by the expedition leader and captain based on ice and weather conditions, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing. The itinerary described here is for illustrative purposes only.
- The trip is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
A heart for solo travelers: Share a cabin with travelers of the same gender and save on the single cabin supplement. Valid for triple rooms with twin or double beds and a sofa bed, Infinity Suite with twin or double beds, Veranda Suite with twin or double beds.
Your ship during the voyage
Your ship: The MS Ocean Explorer
Click here for deck plans, cabin categories, facts & figures
> View here
Ocean Explorer
The MS Ocean Explorer
solar eclipse-island-greenland_kong-oscar-fjord-kayak_quark-expeditions
Kayaking in Kong Oscar Fjord
solar eclipse-island-greenland_kong-oscar-fjord-ringed seal_quark expeditions
Ringed seal in Kong Oscar Fjord
solar eclipse-island-greenland_skipperdal_nicolas-singh_quark-expeditions
Skipperdal in East Greenland | © Nicolas Singh
solar eclipse-island-greenland_ella-o-day-3_nicolas-singh_quark-expeditions
Ella Island in Northeast Greenland National Park | ©Nicolas Singh
solar eclipse-island-greenland_east greenland-ella island_quark expeditions
On Ella Island
solar eclipse-island-greenland_greenland_dani-plumb_quark-expeditions
Shore excursion with hike | © Dani Plumb
solar eclipse-island-greenland_itooqqortoormiit_quark-expeditions
Encounters in Itooqqortoormiit
solar eclipse-island-greenland_aappilattoq_michelle-sole_quark-expeditions
Aappilattoq at Prins Christian Sund | © Michelle Sole
solar eclipse-island-greenland_aappilattoq_sam-edmonds_quark-expeditions
Colorful houses in Aappilattoq | © Sam Edmonds
solar eclipse-island-greenland_prins-christian-sund_michelle-sole_quark-expeditions
Prince Christian Sund | © Michelle Sole
solar eclipse-island-greenland_paddling-excursion_michelle-sole_quark-expeditions
Paddling excursion | © Michelle Sole
solar eclipse-island-greenland_prins-christina-sund_acacia-johnson_quark-expeditions
With the Zodiac in Prins Christian Sund | © Acacia Johnson
solar eclipse-island-greenland_prins-christina-sund-2_acacia-johnson_quark-expeditions
Prince Christian Sund | © Acacia Johnson
solar eclipse-island-greenland_zodiac_nicolas-singh_quark-expeditions
Zodiac excursion | © Nicolas Singh
solar eclipse-island-greenland_spitsbergen_birds_nicky-souness_quark-expeditions
Seabirds | © Nickey Souness
Sounds interesting?
You can book your trip here
Do you have any questions?
just call
Further ship expeditions to Greenland
, starting at€7,550
Spitsbergen – Northeast Greenland – Iceland: Northern lights, Inuit, and long hikes |...
40.796 €
Crossing the entire Northwest Passage
, starting at€7,550
Northeast Greenland Extreme
22.496 €
To the solar eclipse in East Greenland
, starting at€7,150
Fly & Sail East Greenland's majestic fjords & glaciers | SY Rembrandt...
Group trip inventia: Fly & Sail East Greenland's majestic fjords & glaciers |...
, starting at€12,795
Total solar eclipse and the three pearls of the Arctic: Spitsbergen, Greenland, and...
, starting at€16,750
Solar eclipse 2026 with half circumnavigation of Greenland | MS Plancius | MS Hondius
€12,218
East Greenland and the majestic fjords near Sermilik | MS Balto
Hotel Icefiord – Icebergs on your doorstep
Hotel Arctic – Icebergs as far as the eye can see
30.520 €
