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. 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.
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.
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. 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.
As we look towards the potential future trends related to solar eclipses, we can observe several emerging patterns. Firstly, the growing interest in eclipses among “umbraphiles” suggests that this astronomical event has captured the fascination of many individuals. This trend is likely to continue, with enthusiasts actively seeking out opportunities to witness total solar eclipses in different parts of the world.
However, the limited visibility of total solar eclipses in North America highlights the importance of international travel for eclipse chasers. This presents a potential growth opportunity for the travel industry, particularly in countries that are part of the path of totality. Spain, Portugal, Iceland, and Greenland, with their visa-free travel options for U.S. passport holders, are well-positioned to attract eclipse tourists.
Furthermore, the introduction of electronic preauthorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in mid-2025 indicates a growing emphasis on efficient and secure travel processes. This development will likely have implications not only for eclipse tourism but also for overall tourism trends. Travelers will need to adapt to these new requirements and ensure they have the necessary authorizations to visit their desired destinations.
In terms of experiencing the eclipse, the appeal of beach locations becomes evident. The unobstructed views of the sky make beaches an ideal setting for witnessing this celestial event. Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as the coastal areas of Greenland and Iceland, offer picturesque locations for eclipse enthusiasts. The inclusion of these beach destinations in eclipse itineraries by cruise lines further highlights the market demand for unique and immersive eclipse experiences.
Looking ahead, the eclipse tourism industry is poised to expand as more travelers seek out extraordinary celestial events. The integration of eclipse cruises and flights, as evidenced by the plans of major cruise lines, demonstrates the potential for tailored experiences that cater to the interests of eclipse aficionados. With Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, and Holland America Line already developing eclipse-focused itineraries, we can expect more cruise operators to follow suit.
In conclusion, the allure of total solar eclipses continues to captivate individuals around the world. The upcoming 2026 eclipse presents an opportunity for eclipse enthusiasts to embark on international journeys, explore new destinations, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of a total solar eclipse. As the travel industry adapts to evolving requirements and preferences, eclipse tourism is poised for growth, offering unique experiences for travelers seeking extraordinary celestial encounters. So, start planning your next eclipse adventure and prepare to be awestruck by the wonders of the universe.
