This Arctic Yacht Trip Lets You View the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse Amid Glaciers and Wildlife—Joined by a NASA Legend

When a swathe of Europe goes dark for over two minutes during next summer’s total solar eclipse, some lucky travelers will be able to watch the shadow of the moon sweep across a landscape of glaciers from the deck of their explorer yacht.

That’s thanks to expedition yacht charter specialists EYOS Expeditions, which unveiled a one-of-a-kind opportunity to charter a yacht to witness the eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026, from one of the world’s most untamed wildernesses: East Greenland’s Scoresby Sund. At more than 200 miles long, it’s the largest fjord system on the planet, offering a unique eclipse experience surrounded by shimmering ice and a sea turned silver blue in the twilight.

A dramatic landscape of drifting icebergs, red sandstone cliffs, and wildlife like musk oxen, Arctic foxes, and kittiwakes, Scoresby Sund lies directly in the eclipse’s path of totality, or where the sun will be completely obscured by the moon’s shadow.

“It’s pure drama, framed by some of the most spectacular scenery on earth,” EYOS’ CEO Ben Lyons told Travel + Leisure.

The expedition will take place from Aug. 11 to 18, 2026, and guests will be joined by legendary explorer Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, a NASA astronaut, geologist, oceanographer, and U.S. Navy officer.

“Dr. Sullivan is one of the few people in history to have explored from the deepest ocean trenches to outer space,” Lyons said. “Having her onboard illuminates the science and wonder of the solar eclipse, helps interpret the geological and oceanographic story of East Greenland, and inspires guests with her exploration legacy and environmental insight.”

An expert photographer will also be part of the expedition team, on hand to share tips and techniques for capturing images of the total eclipse in one of the most formidable, yet remarkable environments on Earth.

Passengers will spend seven nights on board the Aqua Lares, a yacht Lyons said has the power and stability to travel deep into the fjords, as well as ice systems inaccessible to most vessels. The 254-foot vessel used to be known as Legend until its recent acquisition by Aqua Expeditions, a T+L reader favorite intimate-ship cruise line.

“It’s an extraordinary polar vessel with ample equipment and space, and provides an experience few yachts can match, combining formidable strength with refined luxury to deliver the ultimate polar expedition,” Lyons said.

From observation decks to zodiacs and kayaks, the yacht’s amenities will allow guests to fully immerse themselves leading up to, during, and after the eclipse.

“With Dr. Kathy Sullivan’s stories, the Arctic’s raw beauty, and Aqua Lares’ polar spirit, this isn’t just about watching the sun disappear, it’s a week of once-in-a-lifetime exploration,” Lyons said.

The yacht can accommodate up to 24 guests. The starting rate is €690 ($803.532) for the charter, plus expenses.