Holland America Line Unveils ‘Celestial Cruises’ for 2026

Holland America Line is set to offer an extraordinary series of ‘Celestial Cruises’ in 2026, specially curated to showcase some of the most awe-inspiring celestial events. Whether you’re keen to witness a solar eclipse, marvel at the Northern Lights, or celebrate the summer solstice in the Arctic, these itineraries promise unforgettable experiences.

A Journey Beyond the Ordinary

Six distinct itineraries, ranging from 13 to 35 days, are on offer, each designed to align with specific celestial events. Among the highlights are cruises departing from Dover aboard the Nieuw Statendam. Bookings for these unique voyages open on 31st July 2024.

For those yearning to experience the maximum daylight during the summer solstice, the Nieuw Statendam will journey above the Arctic Circle to Honningsvåg, Norway. This northernmost city is the perfect setting for an extraordinary celebration of the longest day of the year.

In addition, Holland America Line will position three ships under the path of totality for the total solar eclipse on 12th August 2026. Guests aboard the Oosterdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Zuiderdam will have the chance to witness this rare phenomenon from prime locations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the North Atlantic.

In-Depth Exploration and Expert Insights

Each solar eclipse cruise will feature lectures by scientific experts, themed activities, and essential equipment like eclipse glasses to ensure a safe and enjoyable viewing experience. For those chasing the Northern Lights, a wake-up call service will be available to alert guests whenever the aurora borealis is visible.

Highlights of the Celestial Cruises

Solar Eclipse Cruises

Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse (Legendary Voyage)

• A 35-day roundtrip from Boston aboard the 1,964-guest Zuiderdam, departing 18th July

• Witness the eclipse off Iceland’s western coast. Ports include Reykjavik, Halifax, Belfast, and more.

• Prices start from £8,474pp, including the ‘Have it All’ package.

Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland and Scotland (Legendary Voyage)

• A 28-day roundtrip from Dover or Rotterdam aboard the 2,666-guest Nieuw Statendam, departing 25th July 2026.

• Experience the eclipse off Iceland’s northwest coast, with visits to Edinburgh, Greenland, and more.

• Prices start from £6,239pp, including the ‘Have it All’ package.

Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnight

• A 13-day voyage from Lisbon aboard the 1,964-guest Oosterdam, departing 9th August 2026.

• Sail into the path of totality off Spain’s coast, with overnight stays in Barcelona and other Mediterranean ports.

• Prices start from £2,814pp, including the ‘Have it All’ package.

Northern Lights Cruises

Arctic Journey and Northern Lights

• A 14-day voyage aboard the 2,668-guest Rotterdam, departing Rotterdam on 4th October 2026.

• Explore Norway’s breathtaking landscapes, including Tromsø and the Shetland Islands.

• Prices start from £2,969pp, including the ‘Have it All’ package.

Arctic Journey and Northern Lights

• A 15-day voyage aboard Nieuw Statendam, departing Dover on 16th October 2025, or roundtrip from Rotterdam on 17th October 2026.

• Similar to the 14-day version with additional exploration.

• Prices start from £3,224pp, including the ‘Have it All’ package.

Summer Solstice Cruise

Arctic Circle Crossing: North Cape Solstice

• A 14-day roundtrip from Dover or Rotterdam aboard Nieuw Statendam, departing 13th June 2026.

• Celebrate the summer solstice in Honningsvåg, Norway, and visit other northern ports.

• Prices start from £3,069pp, including the ‘Have it All’ package.

Exclusive Early Booking Bonuses

For a limited time, guests booking a 2026 Celestial Cruise with the ‘Have It All’ package will receive an ‘Early Booking Bonus.’ This includes the Elite beverage package, up to three nights of speciality dining, up to $300 shore excursion credit, the premium Wi-Fi package, and prepaid crew appreciation.

Beth Bodensteiner, Chief Commercial Officer at Holland America Line, expressed her enthusiasm for these new offerings: “After the excitement and success of our 2024 eclipse cruises, we knew our guests were eager for more opportunities to witness the world’s most special natural spectacles. Our team has crafted a series of cruises that deliver these experiences while offering in-depth exploration of exciting destinations and the premium onboard service that defines Holland America Line.”

For more information or to book, consult a travel agent, visit hollandamerica.com, or call 0344 338 8607.