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Princess Cruises Europe Cruisetours

Already taken a European cruise? Concerned that a cruise-only vacation won’t let you see enough of Europe? Princess Cruises has the solution for the experienced European travelers, or those just seeking a more in-depth vacation experience: European Cruisetours. Extend your voyage, delve deeper and make sure you don’t miss a wine pairing here, or a castle exploration there. Whether you’re an epicurean explorer looking for the perfect dish, or a historical maven yearning to uncover a piece of history, you can make it happen—just choose a Europe Cruisetour with Princess Cruises.

Things to Do on an Europe Cruisetour with Princess Cruises

Anxious to explore Europe, but worried a standard cruise won’t let you see enough of this magnificent continent? Consider a Princess Cruises Europe cruisetour where a pre- or post-cruise land tour is bundled with a cruise to create the best of both worlds. Princess offers several different European cruisetours, each highlighting different regions or sites with trips to the Swiss Alps, France’s Palace of Versailles, Ireland’s castles and much more. Featured below are some of the best ways to spend your time when on a Princess Cruises Europe Cruisetour:

• Swiss Alps and Medieval History (Lucerne, Switzerland) While riding by motorcoach, take in the Renaissance fountains and cathedrals of Switzerland’s medieval towns. After arriving in Lucerne, enjoy a guided walking tour with the Swiss Alps in the background. Your tour will lead you through the Old Town, into the covered 14th-century Chapel Bridge and ultimately to a Swiss folklore dinner show.  

• Palace of Versailles (Paris, France) Located just a short ride from Paris is the remarkable Palace of Versailles. There’s not much humble about Versailles’ design and décor, but it wouldn’t be nearly as fascinating to tour if there were. An engaging guide will lead you through the Hall of Mirrors and Royal Chapel before leaving you with plenty of extra time to explore the 250-acre gardens at your own pace.  

• Ring of Kerry (Killarney, Ireland) Few places on earth offer a landscape as striking as Ireland’s coasts. This excursion will lead you around the “Ring of Kerry” – a 100-mile stretch of non-stop valleys, mountains, lakes and ocean panoramas. After a charming drive through Killarney National Park, you’ll visit the stately Muckross House and the fortified 15th-century Ross Castle.  

• Lively Budapest, (Budapest, Hungary) Follow a local guide through the streets of Hungary’s capital and largest city, Budapest. You’ll see the Fisherman’s Bastion upon Castle Hill, along with the nearby Matthias Church, both of which blend neo-Romanesque with neo-Gothic architectural styles for beautiful results. Additional highlights include the Dohany Street Synagogue, the elegant Andrassy Avenue boulevard and the Thermal Baths – a must-see attraction considering Budapest is nicknamed the “City of Baths.”  

• Berlin Sightseeing (Berlin, Germany) Spend a day touring beautiful Berlin, Germany. Walk through the towering columns of Brandenburg Gate, Charlottenburg Palace and the Reichstag building which was beautifully restored after the German reunification in 1990. You can also visit Checkpoint Charlie to remember the troubling division established during the Cold War.  

• City of the Popes (Avignon, France) Avignon, France is often referred to as the “city of the popes” – and for good reason, for here stands the grand Palace of the Popes, a medieval fortress that served as the Papal Palace until 1377. After touring the palace, enjoy a fresh meal with local wines at the Domaines Mousset vineyards in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape region of southeastern France.  

Top 10 Princess Cruises Europe Cruisetours Cruises

• Regal Princess 16 NIGHT EUROPE - WESTERN TOUR G418 Departing From Southampton, England (May 2024)
• Regal Princess 16 NIGHT EUROPE - WESTERN TOUR G420 Departing From Southampton, England (Jun 2024)
• Sun Princess 13 NIGHT MEDITERRANEAN TOUR U424 Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Jun 2024)
• Sun Princess 20 NIGHT MEDITERRANEAN TOUR U424A Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Jun 2024)
• Sun Princess 13 NIGHT MEDITERRANEAN TOUR U425 Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jun 2024)
• Regal Princess 16 NIGHT EUROPE - WESTERN TOUR G421 Departing From Southampton, England (Jun 2024)
• Sun Princess 10 NIGHT MEDITERRANEAN TOUR U426 Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (Jul 2024)
• Sun Princess 17 NIGHT MEDITERRANEAN TOUR U426A Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (Jul 2024)
• Regal Princess 16 NIGHT EUROPE - WESTERN TOUR G422 Departing From Southampton, England (Jul 2024)
• Sun Princess 13 NIGHT MEDITERRANEAN TOUR U428 Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jul 2024)

Princess Cruises Europe Cruisetours Departure Ports

Featured below are the possible departure ports for Princess Cruisetours to Europe:

Discover imaginative architecture, impressive Spanish dishes and beautiful excursions into nature when you cruise to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

Learn about the Greek gods and the early philosophy of Socrates when you visit the incredible ruins left in Athens, Greece. At night, go out and take in the culture with the modern Athenians.

The cruise port of Southampton features tons of diverse attractions that provide insight into England’s culture and storied past, including fortresses, gardens and national parks.

Photo Gallery for Princess Cruises Europe Cruisetours

Browse our Europe photo gallery for a taste of the treasures waiting in the Old World. Just remember, Europe is meant to be explored, not photographed, so contact one of our cruise consultants today and start planning your own exploration with a Princess Cruises Europe cruisetour.

The Pope's Palace in Avignon, France

Bradenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany

Dunquin Pier on the Dingle Peninsula

A palace in Versailles, France

Lucerne, Switzerland

Parliament building in Budapest, Hungary

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Transatlantic Cruises

The best of classic sailing.

Experience the golden age of ocean travel on a Transatlantic cruise with Princess®. Get to know the tranquility of the sea, and meet the cultures and stories that lie ashore. Choose from itineraries that take you to the castles of the British Isles, the beaches of the Mediterranean and the fjords of Scandinavia and Russia. Feel the thrill of classic cruising while basking in the comfort of home on a cruise across the Atlantic Ocean.

Transatlantic Cruise Departure Ports

Our departure ports are as iconic as the destinations on each itinerary. Arrive a few days early to your Transatlantic cruise or spend time upon arrival exploring the wonders that lie within these cities.

Until it was popularized by the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona was a hidden gem amidst Europe’s diverse landscapes. Now it’s widely recognized for its architectural masterpieces and spirited customs. On European cruises from Barcelona, leave enough time before you depart to visit Park Güell — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and feel inspired by the colors and unique artistry that lies in the park and throughout the entire city.

View cruises with Barcelona | View Barcelona shore excursions

Copenhagen boasts equal parts charm and culture. Before you set sail on your European cruise, indulge in thrills at Tivoli Gardens, and ride a bike along Nyhavn’s waterways, passing multi-colored homes on the way. Tour ancient fortresses, like Kronborg Castle, which inspired Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Or make a stop to see Copenhagen’s most famous symbol, The Little Mermaid.

View cruises with Copenhagen | View Copenhagen shore excursions

Ft. Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has long been known for its white-sand beaches, but has recently become famous for its blossoming art scene — among many other things. Before your Transatlantic cruise, browse galleries on Las Olas Boulevard. Stop for a drink at one of the waterfront cafes. Or ride through the Everglades, a 1.5-million acre UNESCO World Heritage Site, and look for the wildlife that call these lands home.

Cruises with Ft. Lauderdale | Ft. Lauderdale shore excursions | Learn more about Ft. Lauderdale

London (Southampton)

From double-decker buses and telephone booths to medieval castles and monuments, experience the best of the city and countryside on a European cruise from Southampton. Ride on the London Eye, and watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Then head west and walk the hallways of Windsor Castle, or travel even further to learn about the mystery of Stonehenge.

View cruises with London | View London shore excursions  | Learn more about London (Southampton)

The cosmopolitan center of America, New York City, is waiting to be explored. On a Transatlantic cruise with Princess, arrive early to spend the day shopping in SoHo, and then stroll through the Museum of Modern Art. Sail past the Statue of Liberty, walk through Central Park and snap a photo in front of the 238 billboards in Times Square. Or ascend the Empire State building and take in sweeping views of it all from 1,250 feet above.

View cruises with New York | View New York shore excursions | Learn more about New York

Italy’s capital city is something of a dream. Grand chapels and stone angels line the roads, whispering secrets of Rome’s past. On a cruise to Europe from Rome, arrive early to toss a coin into Trevi Fountain. Legend has it, you’ll be guaranteed return to The Eternal City. Then walk in the footsteps of Emperors at the Colosseum, and receive a blessing from the Pope at St. Peter’s Square.

View cruises with Rome | View Rome shore excursions

Why a Transatlantic Cruise

A Classic Cruise Experience

Just as enjoyable as the excursions ashore is the time spent at sea. With all Transatlantic cruises beginning or ending stateside, cut down on air travel and spend more time luxuriating in the ship’s amenities en route to your destinations. Our itineraries were crafted to maximize time at sea with unique port visits, giving you ample time to relax on board and adventure on land. Experience the best of both worlds with Princess.

Transatlantic Excursions

Our award-winning Transatlantic cruise shore excursions bring you up close to ancient history, cultures and architecture. Live like a royal in England, uncover medieval mysteries in Scotland and venture to geothermal wonders in Iceland. Or sip flavorful wines while overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. With ports that change every year, experience all the best destinations on a Transatlantic cruise with Princess.

Learn more about Transatlantic shore excursions

#PrincessCruises Europe Connections

Transatlantic cruise onboard experience.

On Transatlantic cruises, indulge in international flavors and world-class entertainment – like Broadway-style productions and an onboard casino – without ever leaving the ship. Unwind with comfortable stateroom accommodations and refreshing spa treatments, and feel at home with Princess’ signature service. No matter the ship or itinerary you choose, experience the best of ocean travel with Princess.

Accommodations

Your home away from home.

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Flavors That Inspire

From the spice of Moroccan tagine to the sweetness of Greek Baklava, Europe’s flavor profile is incredibly diverse. On a Transatlantic cruise with Princess, taste the best of the Europe on board with specialty dining. Enjoy lunch at a British-style pub and try English favorites like bangers and mash or shepherd's pie. Or savor hearty Italian pastas at Sabatini’s℠ Italian Trattoria and top it off with homemade gelato.

Entertainment

Find your joy.

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Reset, Recharge, Relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas Hits the Seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Celebrations & Romance

Love blooms on the love boat.

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the alluring cities and charming countryside of Europe. While on board your European cruise, we cater to your sentimental side with private dining on your balcony — like breakfast for two or a sunset dinner — honeymoon packages, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

Ships Sailing Transatlantic Cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your Transatlantic cruise.

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European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

Explore Europe

Learn all about our exciting options to visit Europe from cruises to in-depth cruisetour vacations. 

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Must-do summertime activities in Scandinavia

Discover the best summer holiday activities in Scandinavia, including wild swimming in Stockholm and rooftop drinking in Oslo.

Five reasons to cruise from Southampton

Looking for a cruise vacation from Southampton? Set sail to Canada, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Florida and around the British Isles with Princess Cruises.

How to see Stockholm from a unique perspective

Ice bars, rooftop tours, meatballs and more – use our handy city guide to get a fresh view of Sweden’s brilliant capital.

Six places to see the Northern Lights in Norway

Hoping to see the Northern Lights in Norway? Discover the best places to try to catch a glimpse of Mother Nature's exceptional light show

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Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Learn more about transfers

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Europe cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Why Cruise With Princess?

Set sail to incredible destinations with service you’ll love, at an unmatched value.

Come feel the love on a Princess® cruise. We’ll give you the MedallionClass® experience others simply can’t, and it’s exclusively for everyone. Not to mention sharing all our favorite destinations and bringing you the best experiences around each and every one of them. With multicourse meals to remember, Broadway-style shows, comedy acts and bands, and comfortable staterooms featuring the Princess Luxury Bed – all included in one of the best vacation values around. Because The Love Boat® promises something for everyone.

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Service that's all about making you feel special

With the MedallionClass® experience, we’ve made the service guests love even better. It goes beyond knowing your name. It’s surprising you on your birthday. Knowing you take cinnamon in your latte and bringing you that latte anywhere. It’s addressing any concerns right now, not later, maybe even before you ask. Anyone can say their crew is like family. So we don’t say it; our guests do.

Vacation at a value

A cruise with Princess isn’t just a chance to connect with your favorite people and the world. It’s one of the best vacation values around. Exploring multiple destinations yet only unpacking once. Multicourse meals to remember. Broadway-style shows, comedy acts and bands. A comfortable stateroom perfect for unwinding. And the best part? You get it all for a fraction of what you'd spend on a land-based vacation.

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330 destinations, 7 continents.

Our people love travel (and people!) so they’re always happy to share the best places to go in the 330 destinations we visit. And our tour operator partners live in, work in and know these ports better than anyone else. But exploration isn’t something you only enjoy ashore. We bring regional experiences, like cuisine and entertainment, on board so you can dive into local life while you sail.

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Made-from-scratch cuisine

Dine on fresh regional cuisine that gives you a better appreciation of the places you visit. Savor sauces made from scratch, breads baked fresh 24-7 and homemade ice cream created every day. Food is a big part of the travel experience, and we want each meal to be a celebration of your vacation.

Every excuse to just relax

More ways to treat yourself well.

Get the "me time" you deserve with your choice of treatments in this award-winning onboard spa.

The Sanctuary

Find the tranquility you seek on your cruise experience in this top deck retreat solely for adults with Serenity Steward service.

Princess Luxury Bed

Enjoy the best sleep at sea on the Princess Luxury Bed, developed with a board-certified sleep expert.

Entertainment for everyone

Fill your days and nights with events that match your interests. Original programs from award-winning talent. Family-friendly activities based on hit Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ TV shows. Destination-themed offerings. Make the most of every moment at sea.

Stephen Schwartz

Take in all-new musicals produced with by the Grammy and Academy award-winning composer of  Wicked  and Pippin.

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Go Stargazing, play games based on shows like  Deadliest Catch  and hear stories from local residents through Encounters with Discovery at SEA.

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Cheer on your favorites, and vote on the winner in this competition based on the popular TV show.

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Princess Cruises - Northern Europe Cruise

During one of Princess Cruises' Northern Europe itineraries, you'll have the opportunity to take in some of Europe's most spectacular natural beauties. Northern Europe offers a broad spectrum of outdoor adventures and activities. Off-board excursions may involve a tour of the charming French vineyards, a bicycle journey through Belgium's scenic landscapes, a walk along Germany's historic Berlin Wall, or a canal cruise in Amsterdam. The wide variety of activities caters to different interests and energy levels, whether you prefer a relaxing stroll through a city park or a vigorous hike through a national reserve.

Onboard a Princess Cruises ship, you'll discover a wealth of amenities and services that cater to every interest. Indulge in exquisite dining experiences at specialty restaurants, unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments, or relax by the pool while admiring the stunning views. The ships offer a range of entertainment options, including live performances, music shows, and enriching activities such as cooking demonstrations and art classes. Fitness enthusiasts can stay active at the state-of-the-art fitness centers, and those seeking relaxation can find tranquility in the onboard retreats and lounges. Enjoy the independence and flexibility that comes along with traveling with Princess Cruises as you make your way through Northern Europe region , where you'll get to see a wide range of different cultures, magnificent palaces, historical sites, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Immerse yourself in the local culture and history of Northern Europe as you journey from port to port. The lectures onboard provide enriching insights into the cultural diversity of these regions, from France's renowned cuisine and art, Belgium's brewing traditions, Germany's engineering feats, to the Netherlands' maritime history. Each nation has a compelling story, woven through centuries of tradition and transformation, and it is this rich cultural heritage that adds depth and texture to your cruise experience.

Princess Cruises Northern Europe Cruise Schedule

Northern Europe cruises are the ideal way to see the world and you can see a selection of these cruises from Princess Cruises. Princess Cruises have an exciting range of cruises from the British Isles to incredible Northern Lights and the magnificent Norwegian fjords and Scandinavia, via the Baltic States and Russia, all of which can be enjoyed without having to travel too far to join your cruise ship.

12-day Northern Europe cruise from Southampton

Caribbean princess, princess cruises.

Date: September 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Southampton, Rotterdam, Bruges, Oslo, Gothenburg, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Hamburg, Le Havre, Southampton; View Itinerary

5-day Northern Europe cruise from Southampton

Sky princess, princess cruises.

Date: October 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Southampton, Hamburg, Hamburg, Southampton; View Itinerary

Please note that port orders, dates, and itinerary details, including content, are subject to change. Verify specific details for your chosen sailing date on the Princess Cruises website.

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For detailed information about any port, click the name below.

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Cheers broke out on Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship when the total solar eclipse began on Monday.

Off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, passengers were perched on loungers, reclining on beach towels and lining the railings of Deck 14 with cameras on tripods at the ready. When the sliver of fiery orange that remained of the sun disappeared, a black circle ringed by white light took its place. Passengers applauded the moment they'd been awaiting since the ship departed from San Diego on Friday.

The sunny, 72-degree weather – quintessential cruise weather – gave way to chilly wind and late morning’s best impression of sunset. The horizon line glowed orange in the dusky sky.

Cruise ships can help take guests to the path of totality for eclipses, allowing passengers to get a prime viewing spot and make a vacation of it.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun as it moves between the sun and Earth.

While the sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon, the moon is roughly 400 times closer to Earth. “In the past, the moon was much closer, and in the future, the moon will be much further away,” said Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the Cool Star Lab, who served as an onboard expert during the cruise. “And so we're in a special time, which, of course, lasts for billions of years, where it's set up just right to block out the sun.”

Total solar eclipses take place about every 18 months on average, but the last one visible from the U.S. was in 2017 .

The phenomenon creates a multi-sensory experience, with a cold front moving in ahead of the eclipse. “You block the sun, and it gets cold,” said Burgasser. “It’s actually just that simple. And it's slow enough that the atmosphere can react.”

Plants and animals respond, too: Birds often begin to chirp, plants may close up, and nocturnal will come out. “It’s kind of an all-around-you experience where it's not just the fact that the sun has been blocked that’s so fascinating, but just the effect it has on the entire environment.” Those effects weren’t easily discernible on Koningsdam, though, which was about 150 miles from shore.

Nicole Chaput, a 57-year-old passenger from Calgary in Canada, said partial and total eclipses are “totally different.”

“I heard someone describe it as being partly pregnant,” she said. “You can’t do it. There’s no comparison.”

What makes a cruise a good place to see an eclipse?

Bad weather can wreck even the best-laid viewing plans. If a city in the path of totality has overcast skies, it can be tough to quickly move to an alternate site.

“If you're on a cruise ship and a little bit farther to the east or a little bit farther to the west along the path, there's clear sky, the ship can move,” said Dan Jarrell, who was on the cruise with his wife, Kay, and friends. The Washington, D.C.-area resident has seen solar eclipses with friends during two other sailings, including on Holland America’s Veendam in 1998.

“If you're on land and there's not a road there, you’d better have a tank,” Jarrell said.

That’s where a cruise ship comes in handy. “Having the ability to map out based on what the current weather is where you can catch the eclipse, and having a range over the course of the ocean where you could chase that a little bit is certainly helpful,” Burgasser added.

Capt. Ane Smit, Master aboard Holland America’s Zaandam for the viewing, said the ship can move at a maximum of 20 knots, so the crew needs to scout out the conditions with enough time to move as needed.

“If it's not good enough, we really need to start finding another spot because we are not the quickest vehicle, of course, to be driving around, but we have the luxury of being able to go in any direction without any restriction,” he said. “It’s a pretty wide highway that we have.”

The view of the horizon also allows passengers to “see that shadow coming in and leaving more so than you can in a topographical area,” said Burgasser. Being in the ocean away from city lights is also helpful for seeing stars and other parts of the sky usually only visible at night.

The cruise line also made the practicalities of watching an eclipse easier: eclipse glasses were distributed to guests’ staterooms and Burgasser guided guests through the event via the ship’s speaker system, before and after totality.

More eclipse cruises on the horizon

If you missed your chance to see it this time or want another go, Holland America has more eclipse-viewing opportunities on the books.

“Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in an email. Details have not yet been released.

Other cruise lines offer similar opportunities as well. Princess Cruises' Emerald Princess was near Koningsdam on Monday.

Chaput, the Canadian passenger, said she’s been “chasing” total solar eclipses since seeing her first one in 1991. Monday’s eclipse marked her seventh viewing and second on a cruise ship.

“I think it’s just such an amazing natural phenomenon,” she said. “It’s seeing science in action.”

Contributing: Josh Rivera, USA TODAY

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Holland America Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected]

Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

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Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.