Specially timed journeys for rare and remarkable moments in the sky
Join us in search of rare skies and unforgettable sights, as we journey to witness the magical Northern Lights and the magnificent spectacle of a solar eclipse.
24th January 2028
Canary Islands, Madeira & the Solar Eclipse
Leave winter behind as you sail to the Atlantic Islands, where warmer temperatures offer a welcome change of scene. As well as visiting six islands in just one journey, the standout moment comes at sea, as Balmoral positions herself in the path of a rare annular eclipse, offering a unique opportunity to witness this remarkable natural event from the open ocean.[ReadMoreMob] Ashore, you could choose to relax among the sand dunes of Maspalomas on Gran Canaria, stroll palm-lined promenades or ride the cable car towards the summit of Mount Teide in Tenerife, and discover the lush interiors of La Palma and La Gomera. There’s also a rare call to unspoilt El Hierro, while Madeira offers botanical gardens, scenic levada walks and sweeping Atlantic views.
L2802 | 13 Nights | Málaga | Balmoral
We time our Northern Lights sailings for the best chance of seeing them
Each of our Northern Lights cruises is timed for when the Aurora Borealis is most active, routed away from light pollution, so you have the very best chance of seeing them.
In Search of the Northern Lights - T2803
Go in search of the Northern Lights on this shorter-than-usual journey into Arctic Norway, timed around the New Moon on 25th February, when darker skies can help the Aurora Borealis stand out should it appear.[ReadMoreMob] Some of the best viewing opportunities may come while sailing between ports, away from the light pollution of towns and cities, with spacious decks and plenty of warm indoor viewing areas aboard Bolette. Crossing the Arctic Circle and cruising past Torghatten and the Seven Sisters add memorable moments and Arctic scenery along the way, while ashore, your destinations reveal more of Norway’s remote landscapes and distinctive way of life, with opportunities to enjoy husky sledding and encounter Sámi culture.
In Search of the Northern Lights - T2806
Experience the wild landscapes of Northern Norway as winter begins to loosen its grip, on a journey timed around the New Moon on 26th March.[ReadMoreMob] With less moonlight in the night sky, darker conditions can make the Aurora Borealis easier to see should it appear – especially while Bolette is at sea, away from much of the light pollution of towns and cities. You can watch from the open deck or settle into one of the ship’s warm indoor viewing areas as the Arctic scenery unfolds around you. Crossing the Arctic Circle and sailing past Torghatten and the Seven Sisters are highlights, while time ashore in Tromsø, Sortland, Kristiansund, Trondheim and Ålesund offers opportunities for husky sledding, encounters with Sámi culture and more.
In Search of the Northern Lights - T2805
Venture deep into Northern Norway in search of the Aurora Borealis, reaching remote destinations that can be difficult to experience together in one trip.[ReadMoreMob] Nights spent sailing between ports offer some of the best chances to look for the lights away from the glow of towns and cities, whether heading out onto Bolette’s spacious decks or watching from the warmth of her indoor viewing areas. The journey itself is equally rewarding, with a memorable crossing of the Arctic Circle and scenic cruising past Torghatten and the Seven Sisters mountain range, while time ashore reveals more of Arctic Norway’s scenery and culture, with opportunities to try husky sledding or learn more about traditional Sámi life.
Crossing the Arctic Circle
Wonders & Wildlife of Iceland
12 June | Newcastle | 10 nights | Bolette | T2816
Discover Iceland at a time when long summer days bring more opportunities to appreciate its remarkable wildlife and landscapes, both ashore and from the ship.[ReadMoreMob] Scenic cruising past Hornbjarg reveals remote coastal scenery, while sailing past Látrabjarg and Vigur Island offers chances to look for puffins and whales. A call into Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital, brings another opportunity to spot marine life. Crossing the Arctic Circle near Grímsey also brings the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, with daylight stretching deep into the night. Time ashore reveals natural wonders, from the powerful Gullfoss and Goðafoss waterfalls to the geothermal activity of Geysir and the option to relax in one of Iceland’s renowned bathing lagoons.
Why This Collection?
Perfectly timed for unforgettable moments
Seek out the elusive Aurora Borealis as your Captain manoeuvres your ship for the best possible views of a rare total eclipse, or to witness ribbons of light dancing across the skies.
A SHIP THAT CAN CHASE CLEAR SKY
Land-based viewing is fixed to one spot. Our smaller ships can reposition within the path of annularity, or move to darker water for the aurora – right up to the night itself. You get the best seat in the house, wherever the house needs to be.
GUIDED, NEVER LEFT TO GUESSWORK
Announcements will be made when the Aurora appears, and our on board astronomers, along with an expert from New Scientist on one sailing, will be out on deck guiding you through the night sky and bringing the Northern Lights to life.
A MOMENT THAT WON'T WAIT FOR YOU
The next annular solar eclipse returns in 2047, and each of our Northern Lights sailings is planned for the time of year the Aurora is at its strongest.
Enrichment on board
New Scientist
Co-founder of Go Stargazing and the astronomer behind Twice Brewed Stargazing in Northumberland's Dark Sky Park, Wil has spent over a decade guiding people through the night sky, including leading aurora tours in Iceland. He joins us on board for the 21 March sailing, working alongside New Scientist to bring the Northern Lights to life for our guests.
Go Stargazing
Our dedicated stargazing partner brings astronomers on board a selection of sailings to guide guests through the night sky, away from any light pollution – laser-guided tours of the constellations, talks on the Moon and distant galaxies, and a live eye on the aurora whenever the sky allows. Find out more about Go Stargazing and see which sailings they're joining at
Marine Wildlife Guides
Our long-standing partners at marine conservation charity ORCA join guests on deck to help spot and identify whales, dolphins and other marine life, with a particular focus on whales and cetaceans. Every sighting is logged as part of ORCA's ongoing survey work, helping build a clearer picture of these populations.
Frequently asked questions
What is an annular eclipse?
An annular eclipse happens when the moon passes in front of the sun but sits too far away in its orbit to cover it completely, leaving a bright ring of light – often called a "ring of fire" – around a dark centre. It's a different event to a total eclipse, where the sun is fully covered. On 26 January 2028, that ring will pass directly over Madeira, with Balmoral positioned to meet it.
Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
We can't promise that – the aurora is a natural phenomenon, and no one can guarantee exactly when or where it will appear. What we can promise is the best possible conditions to see it: sailings timed around a new moon for the darkest sky, routes that keep us away from light pollution, and onboard astronomers watching the sky every night and calling guests up on deck the moment there's activity.
Do I need special glasses?
Yes – looking directly at the sun during an eclipse, even when it's partially covered, can damage your eyes without the right protection. We provide specially designed eclipse glasses for every guest on board, so there's nothing you need to bring or buy in advance.
Which cabins are best for viewing?
For both the eclipse and the Northern Lights, the real vantage point is out on deck rather than from a cabin – our onboard astronomers will guide guests to the best spots on the night. If a cabin with an unobstructed sea view or balcony matters to you, our reservations team can talk you through the grades available on your chosen sailing.
What if it is cloudy?
Weather at sea can change quickly, and cloud cover is one of the few things even a smaller, more manoeuvrable ship can't out-sail. What we can do is put you in the best possible position for clear sky, based on forecasts and our Captain's local knowledge, and our onboard astronomers will help you make the most of whatever the sky gives us on the night.
Can I bring a tripod?
Many guests do bring one for photographing the eclipse or the aurora, and deck space is generally available for this. Do check with our guest services team ahead of your cruise for any current guidance on deck equipment, as this can vary by ship and by how busy deck areas are expected to be on the night.