Prepare to be awestruck as the heavens align for a breathtaking display during a P&O Cruises holiday (weather permitting). On 12th August 2026, a celestial phenomenon of epic proportions will grace parts of the Northern Hemisphere - a total solar eclipse.
A solar eclipse occurs when the sun, moon, and Earth perfectly align, casting our planet into the shadow of the moon and transforming day into night. Such an occurrence is rare - the last total eclipse visible in UK skies was in 1999. To behold this phenomenon is extraordinary; to do so from the deck of a P&O Cruises ship is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Two of our esteemed vessels will be strategically positioned to witness the 2026 total eclipse: Ventura will be stationed in El Ferrol, Spain, as part of her 14-night Spain & Portugal voyage, while Arcadia will grace Isafjordur, Iceland, on a 16-night Icelandic adventure. Wherever you choose to witness this celestial event, one thing is certain - it will be etched into your memory for eternity.
Iceland, Arcadia (J610)
Embark on a 16-night voyage with Arcadia to explore the enchanting summer evenings of northern Europe. An overnight stay in Reykjavik offers the chance to immerse yourself in the dynamic Icelandic capital, bustling with café culture, vibrant bars, and a thriving art scene. A stop in Akureyri allows for exploration of the stunning countryside, including the majestic Goðafoss waterfall and serene Lake Myvatn.
Discover off-the-beaten-path Icelandic ports like Grundarfjordur, where you can lose yourself in a surreal landscape of lava fields and glaciers, or Isafjordur, where sightings of whales, puffins, and the elusive Arctic fox await. It is here in Isafjordur where Arcadia will be stationed on the day of the eclipse. Commencing at 4:42 pm, with the total eclipse occurring an hour later, this will be Iceland's first visible total eclipse since 1954 - an event not to be missed.
Spain & Portugal, Ventura (N619)
Ventura, our family-friendly vessel, sets sail on a 14-night adventure to bask in the sun-soaked delights of Spain and Portugal. Begin your journey in Santander, a vibrant port city steeped in seafaring culture, before arriving in El Ferrol, where Ventura will be docked for the solar eclipse. With ochre-tiled roofs cascading towards golden beaches and sparkling blue waters filling the harbour, El Ferrol offers a radiant backdrop for this celestial spectacle.
After departing El Ferrol, Ventura heads to Portugal, with stops in the lush island of Madeira and captivating Lisbon, where you can revel in an overnight stay. Lisbon's culinary delights and vibrant nightlife await exploration, from the bustling Bairro Alto district to the sophisticated wine bars of Príncipe Real.
On sea days, Ventura offers endless entertainment for the whole family, from swimming in the al fresco Terrace Pool as the eclipse unfolds above to enjoying stellar performances in the Arena Theatre. With amenities like an arcade, sports court, and children’s club, there’s something for everyone aboard Ventura.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness this celestial marvel with P&O Cruises. Whether in the stunning landscapes of Iceland or the radiant shores of Spain and Portugal, a total solar eclipse experience awaits you on board. Book now for a journey of a lifetime!
