Carnival Cruise Line has just dropped an exciting lineup for the summer of 2026, and it’s packed with some of the most sought-after destinations in Europe and Alaska. But the crown jewel of this announcement is undoubtedly the introduction of Carnival’s first-ever solar eclipse cruise—a unique journey that combines breathtaking destinations with a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events.
Experience a Total Solar Eclipse at Sea
For the first time, Carnival is offering an 11-day Carnival Journeys Eclipse cruise aboard the Carnival Legend, departing from Dover, England, on August 9, 2026. This voyage is set to be a bucket-list experience for astronomy enthusiasts and cruise lovers alike. On August 12, 2026, guests will witness a total solar eclipse while at sea, providing an unrivaled vantage point for this rare celestial event.
The cruise isn’t just about the eclipse, though. The itinerary includes stops at several cultural hotspots across Europe, including Le Havre (Paris), France; St. Peter Port, Guernsey; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon and Leixões (Porto), Portugal; Le Verdon (Bordeaux), France; and Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium. Each destination offers its own unique flavor of European charm, from the art and history of Paris to the picturesque wine regions of Portugal.
Explore Europe with Carnival Legend
Carnival Legend’s summer 2026 season kicks off with a 14-day transatlantic voyage departing from Miami on May 24, 2026. This journey makes stops in Liverpool, England; Holyhead, Wales; and Dun Laoghaire (Dublin), Ireland before arriving in Dover, England.
Once in Europe, the Carnival Legend will embark on a series of nine cruises from Dover, showcasing destinations in Northern Europe, including Copenhagen and Amsterdam. The ship will also venture into the British Isles, with ports of call in Ireland, England, Scotland, and even a unique itinerary featuring four stops in Iceland. For those interested in exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Western Europe, there are itineraries covering Spain, Portugal, and France.
From Civitavecchia (Rome), the ship will offer nine-day and 12-day sailings to some of the Mediterranean’s most iconic locations, including the Greek Isles, Turkey, and Croatia. These cruises include stops at bucket-list destinations like Istanbul, Mykonos, and the Amalfi Coast, making them perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
Discover Alaska Aboard Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle
Alaska remains one of Carnival’s most popular summer destinations, and for 2026, the cruise line is doubling down on this trend. Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle will both sail from Seattle to the Last Frontier, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife.
Starting May 7, 2026, Carnival Miracle will embark on seven-day cruises every Thursday, visiting iconic Alaskan ports such as Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, as well as a stop in Victoria, British Columbia. For those looking for a more extended experience, two special Carnival Journeys sailings will explore the Inside Passage, with additional visits to Sitka and Icy Strait Point.
Carnival Spirit will also sail similar itineraries, with its Alaska season running from April 28 to September 15, 2026. The ship’s season finale will be a 15-day round-trip Carnival Journeys cruise to Hawaii, departing Seattle on September 23, 2026. This voyage will visit four Hawaiian islands, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Epic Panama Canal Journeys
Adding to the excitement, Carnival has announced four Carnival Journeys cruises that will transit the Panama Canal, serving as repositioning voyages for Carnival Miracle and Carnival Spirit before and after their Alaskan adventures. These journeys will offer stops in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; and Cartagena, Colombia. For the first time, Carnival Spirit will connect Seattle and Mobile, Alabama, with 16-day cruises in April and October 2026.
Book Your Summer 2026 Adventure Today
With so many incredible options now open for booking, it’s never too early to start planning your summer 2026 vacation. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant cities of Europe, witnessing a total solar eclipse at sea, or experiencing the untamed beauty of Alaska, Carnival Cruise Line has an itinerary to make your summer unforgettable.
Reservations for these new summer 2026 Europe and Alaska sailings are now open. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of these once-in-a-lifetime experiences!
For those eager to explore more solar eclipse adventures at sea, don’t miss out on what Princess Cruises has to offer. They’re also gearing up for an exciting 2026 season, complete with their own solar eclipse cruise. Check out our detailed look at Princess Cruises’ European itineraries for 2026 here. Whether you’re a loyal Carnival cruiser or curious about what Princess has in store, there’s a perfect voyage waiting for you!
