Total Solar Eclipse In The Far North

HIGHLIGHTS

• A unique cruise to seek out the 16th total eclipse of the 21st century.
• The exceptional presence of astronauts Claudie and Jean-Pierre Haigneré.
• A cruise to discover the riches of four islands in the Far North, in search of mysterious wild fauna, in the comfort of an exceptional ship.
• The history of Spitsbergen connected to hunting and fishing, the mining industry and polar exploration, with the possibility of discovering Ny-Alesund.
• Discovering the incredible geology of Spitsbergen.
• Explore Jan Mayen, an island dear to Captain Charcot, in the heart of the Norwegian Sea.
• Exploring the region of Ittoqqortoormiit at the entrance to Scoresby Sound, the world’s largest network of fjords.
• Discover Iceland with a stop in Isafjörður to explore the fjords of the north-west in an exceptional natural setting.
• Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
• The possibility of hiking on the island, between tundra, beaches and glaciers.
• Scenic sailing past glaciers or cliffs, inside huge fjords, between dazzling blue sky or mysterious polar mist.
• Landscapes: rugged mountains, icebergs, ice caps, deep valleys, striated cliffs, vertiginous walls, gigantic glaciers, glacier fronts, tundra and the possibility of observing the ice floe.
• Wildlife: polar bears, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, bearded seals, harbour seals, Arctic fulmars, Arctic terns, black-legged kittiwakes, eiders, guillemots, blue whales, minke whales, beluga whales, orcas.

ITINERARY

1 August 2026 - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen

Embarkation 01/08/2026 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 01/08/2026 at 18:00

Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.

2 August 2026 - North-West region of Spitsbergen

A kingdom of contrasts and natural marvels dotted with islands and peninsulas, northwest Spitsbergen fascinates with its preserved beauty. On these pristine lands, infinity unveils itself, treating the eyes to beauty sculpted by nature and enhanced by the changing light. The fjords bathed by icy waters, the jagged mountains and the imposing glaciers stand majestically before you, like monumental sculptures. In these lands, where souls are filled with deep serenity, only the murmur of broken ice, bearing mysteries and legends, disturbs the calmness. Aboard our Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist-guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this centre for scientific expedition departures. In the distance, majestic whales glide silently through the glacial waters, whereas seals, walrus and Arctic foxes add a playful touch of life. As Svalbard reindeer wander the vast expanses, Arctic terns liven up the polar sky with their gracious flight and polar bears, which you may be lucky enough to see, patrol magnificently along the icy shores.

2 August 2026 - Ny-Alesund, Spitsbergen

During your cruise, discover Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town that has been transformed into a scientific base. Founded in 1916, this small town was the departure point for many Arctic expeditions, including those of the famous explorer Roald Amundsen. Don't miss a visit to the museum and its famous post office, considered to be the most northerly in the world!

2 August 2026  5 August 2026 - North-West region of Spitsbergen

A kingdom of contrasts and natural marvels dotted with islands and peninsulas, northwest Spitsbergen fascinates with its preserved beauty. On these pristine lands, infinity unveils itself, treating the eyes to beauty sculpted by nature and enhanced by the changing light. The fjords bathed by icy waters, the jagged mountains and the imposing glaciers stand majestically before you, like monumental sculptures. In these lands, where souls are filled with deep serenity, only the murmur of broken ice, bearing mysteries and legends, disturbs the calmness. Aboard our Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist-guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this centre for scientific expedition departures. In the distance, majestic whales glide silently through the glacial waters, whereas seals, walrus and Arctic foxes add a playful touch of life. As Svalbard reindeer wander the vast expanses, Arctic terns liven up the polar sky with their gracious flight and polar bears, which you may be lucky enough to see, patrol magnificently along the icy shores.

6 August 2026  7 August 2026 - At sea

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 centre. 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.

8 August 2026 - Jan Mayen Island, Svalbard

The island of Jan Mayen, belonging to Norway, lies hidden off Greenland’s coastlines, lost between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean. This small piece of land is inhabited by only a handful of Norwegian meteorologists. Tongues of ice descend from its volcanic summit, which culminates at 2,227 metres and is covered with a thick glacial coat. These tongues join the sea, between ranges of black volcanic rocks at times tinged with red. If the sky is clement, you will have the chance to glimpse the summit, decked out in magnificent light. The visit of a small fin whale will perhaps enable you to complete this memorable picture.

9 August 2026  10 August 2026 - Ittoqqortoormiit Region

On the East coast of Greenland, in the Ittoqqortoormiit region, you will have the rare opportunity of immersing yourself in the heart of isolated scenery and exploring the beauty of its landscapes. The high alpine mountains stand out in the sky, revealing dark rock edges. The region is home to the longest fjord system in the world, Scoresby Sound. On the edge of the fjord, the eponymous village is considered one of the most remote inhabited places in the world. The colourful houses, so typical of Greenland, dot the landscape with small red, yellow and blue patches that stand out against the surrounding arid landscape. Immersing yourself in this region will allow you to discover the ancestral way of life of the last hunters of the polar region. This will be a veritable deep-dive into the lives of the Arctic’s inhabitants.

10 August 2026 - Scoresby Sound

Covering an area of 13,700 km2 (5,290 mi2), Scoresby Sound is the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Named after the explorer and whale hunter William Scoresby, who mapped the region in 1822, it opens onto the Greenland Sea to the north of the Blosseville Coast. This wild and desert region offers untouched panoramas of infinite beauty, with high snow-capped peaks rising tall alongside icebergs immersed in clear, blue-tinged waters. Discovering these stunning places in the wake of great explorers like Captain Charcot, who was deeply attached to the land of the Inuit, inspires a profound reverence.

11 August 2026 - At sea

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 centre. 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.

12 August 2026 - Isafjördur

Your ship will take you to the heart of the fjords of North-West Iceland, a wild land of lost valleys and steep cliffs, where man struggles to survive. In this very isolated region we find the Isafjörður fjord, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country, mainly for its relief, forged by many very ancient basaltic flows. The town of Isafjörður, which nestles at the back of its fjord, between imposing mountains, is a delightful little town that lives exclusively from fishing. The capital of the Western fjords, its old wooden houses bear witness to its past as a major fishing port.

3 available excursions to this stopover SEE OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

13 August 2026 - West fjords

14 August 2026 - Reykjavík
Arrival 14/08/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 14/08/2026 at 08:00

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the airport and the port. This package is included in your cruise fare.

Embarkation day - Paris/Longyearbyen

• Flight Paris/Longyearbyen selected by PONANT.
• Approximate flight duration: 4 h 30.
• We highly recommend you arrive in Paris the day before this flight.
• We suggest you to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.
• Meet & greet at the airport by our local English-speaking representative.
• Transfer to the pier for embarkation.

- Cruise aboard your cruise ship -
This programme includes

• Flight Paris/Longyearbyen selected by PONANT in economy class.
• Transfer mentioned in the programme.
• English-speaking assistance.

This programme does not include

• Personal expenses.
• Any other service not mentioned in the programme.

Please note

• Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class, on a European airline.
• Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
• For passengers in transit in Paris, we recommend staying one night in Paris before this flight.
• Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
• PONANT will adapte the content of the transfer offer from airport according to your flight schedule.

12 August 2026 
Calm fjord kayaking
2h00

Sea kayaking is not only a healthy and rewarding way to spend your day; it is also a perfect way to get to know the Icelandic nature up close. So grab a paddle and get ready for a great adventure.
The surroundings around the town Isafjordur are one of the best kayaking areas in Iceland and the West Fjords as a whole have earned themselves a great reputation as an appealing kayaking centre offering both easy and difficult areas to challenge the inexperienced and of course, the professionals.
The reason is the endless possibilities for kayaking in the fjords and bays that are close by but still so remote.
This trip, a calm discovery of the fjord, is perfect for those looking for an introduction to the sea kayaking. Kayaking between the mountains is an unforgettable adventure. Birdwatchers love kayaking as it gives them a different angle and a quiet and subtle way to approach the bird life. Paddling under the magnificent mountains towering over the town around Isafjordur, the traveler experiences the closeness of nature and the beauty of the landscape from an exciting angle and in a safe environment.
From the pier, a 15-min walk will lead you to the kayak starting point. You will begin with a short lesson in paddling and put the boats out behind the Maritime Museum and paddle a circle inside the fjord while keeping a sharp lookout for various bird species and seals.

• Participants must be in good physical condition, know how to swim and should be able to carry their kayaks on a short distance to the water. This tour includes a walk of 30 minutes (1 mile approximately) to go to/from the place where kayaks are prepared. We recommend you wear warm and waterproof clothes and shoes and to bring a change. The kayaks are single kayaks. Kayaking gear and lifevest is provided. Tour operation is subject to weather conditions. This tour is only conducted in English.

Total : 150 €

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Flowers & fjords
 INCLUDED
3h00

From the pier, board your local coach for a short drive through a mountain tunnel and across the Westfjords mountains to the fjords of Dýrafjörður and Önundarfjörður. Breath-taking views of spectacular landscape carved out by glaciers ages ago.
First, stop at the botanical garden of Skrúður, a jewel of cultured plants contrasted by the raw sub-arctic landscape. This botanical garden was the first of its type in Iceland, founded by a cultivation pioneer in 1909. Enjoy a guided exploration of the garden.
Then, continue to Flateyri village and find out about local history and culture. The village is nestled in the magnificent fjord of Önundarfjörður. Enjoy a live music performance at the charming village church, followed by a short stroll down the main street and along the harbour. Stop for a coffee break with refreshments made locally. Next door to the café you can visit the old bookstore or enjoy the view by the harbour.
Finally, get back to your coach for the transfer back to the pier.

• This tour involves walking approximately 2 km on uneven grounds, gravel and grass. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and a wind-proof jacket.

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Maritime culture & traditions
 INCLUDED
3h00

Begin your excursion by driving through the centre and taking the narrow coastal road to the tiny town of Bolungarvik, here there will be a chance to visit the church. Your next stop will be at Osvor, a former fisherman's home that was restored in 1988 and once harboured boats. Osvor is a stunning example of nature's grandeur and perfectly illustrates just how difficult life was for Icelandic fishermen up until the 20th century.
The village of Bolungarvik nestles into the heart of a spectacular bay surrounded by neighbouring mountains and bathed by the Isafjardardjup or "Djup" fjord, the biggest on Iceland's east coast. You will drive alongside these impenetrably deep waters to return to Isafjördur via the valley of Tungudalur. You will enjoy here a short stop to contemplate the valley’s landscapes.
On your return, pass through the historic old town and its 18th century buildings before visiting the Maritime Museum. This is one of Iceland's oldest houses, a monument in itself, next to three other buildings that have also been renovated and date back to 1780.
A typically Icelandic tasting will be served at the end of your visit giving you an opportunity to savour local specialities such as Schnapps, dried fish and locally canned fish cooked the Icelandic way.

• For this excursion, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes, to protect yourself from the sun and to bring a warm and waterproof jacket. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.