Passage Stats
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Price: $7,750
Note: 5% discount on all passages paid by wire transfer.
Distance: 800 Nautical Miles
Total Days: 12
Start Port: Reykjavik, Iceland
End Port: Stornoway, UK
SYNOPSIS
This trip, and indeed this whole sailing season, was conceived during a conversation with Dan Stinebring in the Lofoten Islands. Dan is a bona fide astronomer, and a professor of Physics & Astronomy. As we were discussing the total eclipse over the US that year, we learned about an upcoming total solar eclipse over Europe, that sadly would be tough to see, as the best part would occur out in the ocean. It then dawned on us both that there existed a machine that could take us there—the very machine that was ghosting us along the cliffs of Lofoten as we spoke.
ISBJØRN is going to sail to the point of greatest eclipse for the Total Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026! This is the point which will have the longest duration of totality. Experience this unique once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon in the coolest possible location!
As lunar perigee will occur on August 10, 2026, two days before the solar eclipse, the Moon's apparent diameter will be larger, and totality will last for 2 minutes and 18 seconds!
ISBJØRN will start in Reykjavik, then sail for 65°10.3' N 25°12.3' W to experience the eclipse, and then head to Stornaway in Scotland. Book your flights early! The eclipse will be visible from the mainland of Iceland as well (although much reduced) and there will probably be tons of people coming to see it.
Typical Weather Pattern
In August, the weather pattern between Iceland and Scotland is typically characterized by variable winds and occasional gales, with the North Atlantic prevailing westerlies bringing moist, unstable air. These conditions often lead to a mix of overcast skies and intermittent rainfall, though some clear days provide periods of sunshine. Sea temperatures are relatively mild, averaging around 14-16°C (57-61°F), while the region experiences increased humidity and frequent fog patches. Overall, sailors should prepare for rapidly changing weather and be ready to adjust sails accordingly.
HOW TO JOIN
To register, click the 'Sign Up' button anywhere on the site. Complete and submit the form indicating ‘2026 ISBJØRN | Solar Eclipse! | Reykjavik – Stornoway, UK’ as your preferred passage.
We’ll get back to you within 24-48 hours to confirm bunk availability, send you the long-form crew application & invoice you the 50% deposit to hold your spot. Balance will be due 60 days prior to the trip start date.
Payments are non-refundable. You'll be asked to agree to our terms & conditions on your application before submitting the deposit. Please read them carefully.
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Join the boat at 13:00 on the passage start date. Crew must depart the boat by 12:00 Noon on the passage end date.
Make sure you eat lunch before joining! We’ll get straight into bunk assignments & briefings once all crew have arrived.
Travel logistics & specific itinerary will be sent in the Passage Newsletter #2 emailed to all crew 2-4 months before passage departure.
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All 59º North passages are led by qualified RYA / MCA Yachtmaster Ocean-certified skippers & mates. All miles sailed onboard both boats will count towards your own license mileage requirements. We are happy to provide certificates to this effect for your RYA Day Skipper, Yachtmaster or other countries’ sea-time requirements.
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We now reserve two spots for women on all of our passages! You will not be ‘alone’ when you sail with 59º North. Learn more here.