Astronomy Experts To Join Holland America Solar Eclipse Cruises

A trio of astronomy academics will be on board special Holland America Line cruises coinciding with the hotly anticipated 2026 solar eclipse.

Guests onboard Nieuw Statendam, Oosterdam, and Zuiderdam, all departing in the summer of 2026, will not only get a glimpse of the epic celestial event, but also be able to attend a number of exclusive lectures, presentations and Q&As hosted by the experts Professor Meers Oppenheim, Professor Adam Burgasser, and Tom Vassos. The solar eclipse itself is due to shroud large parts of the Mediterranean in complete darkness on the 12th August 2026.

"At Holland America Line we are consistently striving to curate extraordinary moments for our guests, and the upcoming solar eclipse cruises are no exception. By welcoming three distinguished astronomy experts aboard, we're offering our guests not only front-row views to a rare phenomenon, but also the opportunity to deepen their understanding in an enriching setting," said Joe Chantry, vice president of entertainment and enrichment for Holland America Line.

Here’s a closer look at the three incredible voyages:

• Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse (Zuiderdam) – Sailing from Boston on the 18th July 2026, or Rotterdam on the 4th August 2026, this legendary itinerary will position guests just off the coast of Iceland for the solar eclipse. On board, Professor Meers Oppenheim from Boston University will bring his expertise in space physics to life with engaging talks.

• Mediterranean Solar Eclipse (Oosterdam) – Departing Lisbon on 9th August 2026, and ending in Athens, this 13-day cruise offers both sun-soaked ports and celestial wonders. Professor Adam Burgasser from UC San Diego will share insights on stars, exoplanets and the history of astronomy across the Med.

• Legendary Solar Eclipse with Greenland & Scotland (Nieuw Statendam) – This 28-day round-trip voyage departing from Dover on 12th August 2026, combines dramatic northern landscapes with the eclipse. Science communicator Tom Vassos, an author and member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, will lead the onboard programme.

All solar eclipse voyages, are available to book now.