Total Solar Eclipse from Iceland to Ireland

Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, stretches along a wide bay in the western part of the country. Perlan, known as the “Pearl of Reykjavík,” is a museum on Oskjuhlío hill that offers panoramic views of the lush green surroundings. Nearby, a signpost points toward the striking Hallgrímskirkja church and the historic center, where Skolavoroustígur and Laugavegur streets are lined with small, charming shops. For a relaxing escape just outside the city, the Reykjanes Peninsula features the famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths.

Explore Heimaey, the largest and only populated island in the Westman Islands archipelago off southern Iceland. Formed by volcanic activity beneath the sea, this rugged destination features steep cliffs, rocky shores, sea caves, and powerful ocean swells. See Eldfell volcano rise above the island and watch gannets dive along the coastline.

Travel through contrasting landscapes where volcanic slopes meet the green fields of Herjólfsdalur Valley. Follow the road to Storhofdi for views of black-sand beaches, coastal cliffs, and surrounding peaks. Visit Eldheimar Museum to learn about the volcanic eruption that reshaped Heimaey in 1973.

Included Excursion

Circumnavigation of Heimaey
Duration: 2h00
Start at Heimaey’s harbor, an important base for Iceland’s fishing fleet that narrowly escaped destruction during the 1973 volcanic eruption. After a short walk, board a boat and explore the island from the water.

Cruise past towering cliffs, seabird nesting areas, and hidden sea caves accessible only by boat. Observe one of Iceland’s most important wildlife habitats, home to millions of puffins as well as large colonies of gannets, guillemots, and other seabirds. Watch the surrounding waters for whales, orcas, dolphins, and porpoises.

Continue around the coastline for views of dramatic rock formations and coastal landscapes before entering Klettshellir, known as Cliff Cave. Return to the harbor at the end of the excursion.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm, waterproof clothing. The itinerary depends on weather and sea conditions. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and puffin numbers may decrease after mid-August.

Heimaey, Pompeii of the North
Duration: 3h00
Depart from Heimaey’s natural harbor and travel through landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and centuries of settlement. Pass bird-filled cliffs before arriving at Herjólfsdalur Valley, where the remains of early farmsteads reveal the island’s history. Continue along the western coast and view the surrounding islands of the archipelago. See Surtsey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site created during a volcanic eruption in 1963.

Stop at Storhofdi for sweeping views across the island and coastline. Continue to Helgafell and Eldfell, two volcanoes that define Heimaey’s landscape. Walk to a viewpoint overlooking lava fields created during the 1973 eruption that forced residents to evacuate. Drive across younger volcanic terrain and pass Skansinn, a historic fort and wooden church presented by Norway to commemorate 1,000 years of Christianity in Iceland.

Visit Eldheimar Museum to learn about the eruption, evacuation, and rebuilding of Heimaey through interactive exhibits and preserved artifacts. Return to the ship after the tour. Wear sturdy walking shoes and dress in layers. The walk to the viewpoint is steep and can be slippery.

In the Atlantic, facing completely unobstructed skies, the Captain takes you, weather conditions permitting, in search of the best place to observe the 16th total eclipse to occur in the 21st century. On board, admire the horizon, plunge suddenly into darkness, and enjoy this unique spectacle, during which the Moon obscures the Sun.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call can also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they are able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

Streymoy Island is the largest and most populated of the Faroe Islands, with 22,500 inhabitants. Lying between Scotland and Iceland, the 18-island Danish archipelago boasts natural wonders that fascinate lovers of the great outdoors. Here, the hilly green landscapes stand in contrast with the huge basalt cliffs, and the invigorating air shifts with the moods of the ocean. To the north, the small village of Saksun, with its traditional grass-covered rooftops, has 14 inhabitants. In the curve of a magnificent natural amphitheater, it overlooks a fjord with a lagoon: an idyllic setting in a secluded and peaceful environment. To the west, in Vestmanna, myriad birds nest in the crags along the eroded and vertiginous cliff faces.

Included Excursions

Hiking in the Mountains
Duration : 3h30
The Faroe Islands archipelago is a territory with unique geography, a paradise for those who love big pristine spaces. Explore these incredible landscapes during a demanding hike, discovering basalt columns, alpine lakes and rocky outcrops sculpted by ancient glaciers. From Tórshavn, gigantic waterfalls and peaceful sheep punctuate the road that runs along the Kaldbak fjord and will take you to the departure point of your hike.

There, 280 meters (920 feet) above sea level, the impressive Streymoy basalt columns mark the beginning of your adventure. Before these geological rarities, take the path that leads to the summit where it will open up onto an incredible panorama. Make the most of a pause near mountain lakes to admire the rocky formations polished by the ice, the magnificent Vágar Island revealing itself on the horizon, before walking back down towards your coach and the road back to Tórshavn.

This demanding hike involves walking around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) on uneven and steep ground. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes, several layers of clothing, a windbreaker and a waterproof jacket. Bring water from the ship and do not forget your binoculars.

The village of Saksun
Duration : 3h30
Explore Saksun, an iconic little village in the Faroe Islands. It will charm you with its surprising landscapes, which reflect past local life. You will set off for the first stop on your adventure: the village of Kollafjordur, famous for its old wooden church with its turf roof. Then you will head north to discover the village of Saksun. As you come closer to your destination, majestic panoramas reveal themselves. Nestling at the end of the road, between the green meadows and the mountains, a singular village will appear. You are seeing Duvugardar and its old farm, which has today become a national heritage museum which recounts the day-to-day lives of Faroese farmers in the 20th century. Admire the bay below the village, the centerpiece of a spectacular panorama. In the past, it sheltered a harbor but, since a storm made it shallow, it has only been accessible by small boats at high tide. On the road back, you will have splendid views over the island’s capital, Torshavn.

This excursion involves some walking on flat paths and small hills. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a windproof/rainproof jacket. Also bring a bottle of water from the ship

Kirkjubour & Tinganes Old Town
Duration : 3h00
Set off to discover Kirkjubour, a medieval village on the island of Streymoy, and journey through the history of the Faroe Islands. You will reach Streymoy Island heading for Kirkjubour, your first stop! This village was the cultural and religious center of the Faroe Islands in the Middle Ages, and the episcopal residence until the Reform. Admire the impressive ruins of Saint-Magnus Cathedral, vestiges of this rich past. A little further on, discover Roykstovan, home to the farmers of Kirkjubour for centuries; it has been inhabited by 17 generations of the same Faroese family. Admire its unique architecture, its traditional green roof and its structure in wooden logs that arrived from Norway almost 700 years ago according to the story. On the path back, make the most of the magnificent panoramas over the islands of Koltur, Hestur, Sandoy and Vágar, before finishing this journey by visiting the old district of Tinganes. You will stroll around its pretty little streets edged with traditional peat-roofed houses.

This excursion involves walking around an hour on uneven ground, with cobblestones and several steps. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes and several layers of clothing.

The small and charming capital of the Shetland Islands, with its sea front of old houses and narrow streets, offering travellers its old districts and a warm port atmosphere. Geopark Shetland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located to the north. Incredibly well-preserved archaeological sites and ruins prove that the islands’ occupation dates back to the first Neolithic colonies. The Shetland Museum and Archives recounts the Shetlands’ history of heritage and culture: Lerwick’s abundant waters were even fished by the Dutch in the past.

Included Excursion

Treasures of Shetland Islands
Duration : 3h45
Fall under the spell of the unique and spectacular landscapes of the Shetland Islands, and discover Jarlshof, one of Great Britain’s most impressive archaeological sites.

Travel through pretty villages along the coastal road, bordered on one side by the sea and on the other side by the southern part of the island’s hills, and arrive at the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof, located in Sumburgh, at the southern tip of the main island. Here you will discover some of the Shetland’s - and even Scotland’s - oldest and most fascinating remnants of human occupation: prehistoric dwellings and monuments rub shoulders here in a striking setting.
You will then continue your drive to the Sumburgh Head bird cliffs, at the southernmost point of the Shetlands. This spectacular promontory shelters a colony of around 5,000 seabirds, which come to nest on the steep edges and sheer cliffs that lead to the lighthouse. You may have the opportunity to see puffins, the archipelago’s endearing emblems.

This excursion involves walking approximately 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) on uneven ground. It is recommended wearing comfortable walking shoes as well as warm and waterproof clothes. This excursion is not recommended for wheelchair users. The order of the visits may be reversed. 

Lerwick Walking Tour
Duration : 2h30
Join this guided walking tour to explore Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands, and discover the town’s rich heritage.
Led by your guide, you will head to the town center to admire some of Lerwick’s most emblematic landmarks, including the Market Cross and the Tolbooth, home to the local lifeboat station. As you stroll through the cobbled streets, you will learn more about island life before reaching the Town Hall, famous for its stained-glass windows illustrating the history of Shetland. You will then continue to Fort Charlotte. Built in 1665 during the reign of Charles II, it has served in turn as a fortress, a prison and a courthouse.

Finally, you will walk to the Shetland Museum and Archives and enjoy a private visit of this center dedicated to the archipelago’s cultural heritage.
At the end of your tour, you may choose to explore the museum or the town further, or walk back to the ship with your guide.

This excursion involves around 5 km (3 miles) of walking on paved and uneven surfaces. It is not recommended for those with reduced mobility. The team recommends wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Access to the interior of the Town Hall to view the stained-glass windows depends on whether it is open to the public. Please note that the main hall is used for council meetings and is closed at weekends. 

Capital of the Orkney archipelago, Kirkwall, which means “church bay”, is an ideal stopover before continuing on to the Northern Isles. Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town welcomes the visitor with its charming paved alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. Tankerness House, the oldest homestead in the town, is a must-see landmark. But the true architectural treasure of the aptly named Kirkwall is none other than its remarkable red and gold stone cathedral. And because whisky is inseparable from Scotland’s identity, stop at the Highland Park Distillery for a highly instructive visit.

Included Excursion

Orkney's Archaeological Wonders
Duration : 4h00
Discover the archaeological treasures of the Orkney Islands, the region with the largest number of prehistoric sites in Great Britain, and plunge into its fascinating past, with menhirs, stone circles and a Neolithic village. Your adventure will begin at the Ring of Brodgar cromlech, one of Scotland’s most impressive and enigmatic megalithic sites. Dating back to the Stone Age, it still has 27 of the 60 standing stones that originally formed this monumental circle.
You will then continue to the Skara Brae archaeological site, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village, consisting of several dwellings connected to each other by stone corridors. Long buried under sand, this site, which is almost 5,000 years old, offers a striking overview of everyday prehistoric life.

Finally, visit Skaill House, an elegant mansion that houses a museum retracing the history and life of the past through the exhibition and interpretation of many archaeological objects and remnants.

This excursion involves walking around 3 kilometers (1.9 miles). The excursion is accessible to wheelchair users and persons with reduced mobility. The team recommends wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a waterproof jacket. The order of the visits may be reversed. 

Mull Head Hike
Duration : 4h00
From the pier, board your local coach and head towards the Mull Head nature reserve. Along the way, enjoy a panoramic ride through the Viking town and past the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral before heading out into the rural landscape of Orkney’s East Mainland. Orkney has a number of stretches of coastline that are fantastic to explore, but Mull Head is very special indeed. Mull Head is the furthest point of Deerness and offers one of the finest coastal circuits on Mainland Orkney. Enjoy a walk on the coastal parth which allows for many photo opportunities and bird watching. Special points of interest include "The Gloup", a collapsed sea cave, and the remains of a church on the Brough of Deerness. On a clear day you will also be able to see the Covenanter's Memorial further along the coast.

This excursion involves walking approximately 4 miles (6,5 km) on grassy clifftop path, often boggy and uneven grounds. Path to the Brough of Deerness can sometimes be closed and if so the walk will be altered. We recommend you wear waterproof hiking shoes and several layers of clothing. We also recommend you bring a windproof waterproof jacket. Wildlife observation is not guaranteed.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call can also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they are able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

The Irish capital stretches along the banks of the Liffey to Dublin Bay, on the East coast of Ireland. Discover Ireland’s warm conviviality in the pedestrian district of Temple Bar. Its cobbled streets are brimming with fabulous shops, pubs, and arts centers. Next to Trinity College, famous for its 18th-century library, you can stroll along Grafton Street: in one of its famous tea shops, try a delicious scone and clotted cream served hot and melt-in-the-mouth with jam. Not far from here, the majestic O’Connell Bridge leads you to the avenue with the same name, on which Spire, a luminous contemporary sculpture, presides.