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.

Surtsey is a small basalt island in the North Atlantic Ocean, created by a submarine volcanic eruption between 1963 and 1967, south of Iceland near the Westman Islands. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island remains untouched by human activity to protect its natural ecosystem. Landing is strictly prohibited, with access limited to a few scientists studying how plants and animals have gradually settled there. Mosses, fungi, and lichens were the first to appear, followed by vascular plants. Over time, about 300 invertebrate species and 90 bird species have colonized the island. Sailing around Surtsey offers a rare view of its distinctive volcanic landscape.

Located off Iceland’s southern coast, this island is the largest of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago and the only one with a permanent population. Its dramatic landscape includes the steep slopes of Eldfell volcano and the green meadows of Herjólfsdalur. Along the Stórhöfði road, grey sand beaches and cliffs shaped by the Arctic Ocean come into view, along with the bronze-colored peaks of surrounding mountains. Eldheimar, a modern interactive museum, tells the story of the volcanic eruption that affected Heimaey in 1973.

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 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.

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.

Nestling in the crux of a gorgeous bay, Portree reflects the magnificence of the grandiose Isle of Skye as well as being its main town. Apart from the charm of its colorful houses, the town’s outstanding location on the banks of a loch makes it a very pleasant place to be. From its colorful harbor bustling with local craftsmen’s shops, you can take in a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Before trekking through the wilderness and drinking in the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye, check out some of the beautiful images in the Aros Centre.

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.