The 2021 Solar Eclipse in Antarctica

A definitive guide
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Written by
Lily Bunker

Published on: January 27th, 2021

Last modified: February 21st, 2024

Antarctica’s awe-inspiring landscapes are the perfect backdrop for a rare planetary phenomenon in December 2021. An already spectacular voyage becomes a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when combined with the total solar eclipse.

Board a specifically timed luxury Antarctica eclipse cruise in 2021 and find yourself in the path of totality as the moon blocks the sun and plunges you into an other-worldy darkness that won’t be seen in the same spot for another four centuries.

When?
4th December 2021
Where?
Antarctica
How?
Cruise

How to See the Solar Eclipse in 2021

When is the Solar Eclipse in Antarctica in 2021?

4th December 2021 at approximately 07:00UT

The 2021 total solar eclipse will be visible from Antarctica on the 4th December. The best way to see this incredible event will be from onboard an Antarctica cruise, near South Georgia and the South Orkney Islands. 

Turn an already spectacular trip into a true once-in-a-lifetime event by boarding a luxury Antarctica cruise timed to coincide with the total solar eclipse. 

The jaw-dropping landscapes of the White Continent provide a fantastic backdrop for this rare planetary phenomenon. Another eclipse won’t follow the same path for around 400 years. 

Where can I see the Solar Eclipse?

The path of totality (the area from where you can see a true total solar eclipse) spans across the Scotia Sea, between South Georgia and the South Shetland Islands. The total eclipse begins at around 7am UT although the timing will vary slightly from spot to spot as the path progresses.

What’s the best way to experience the Total Solar Eclipse in Antarctica?

The best way to experience the path of totality for the 2021 eclipse in Antarctica is while onboard an Antarctica cruise. Specific departures are scheduled to take in the full experience of the total eclipse. As well as the opportunity to see this once in a lifetime event, you will experience the wonders of Antarctica. Start in Argentina and sail from Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. 

whale-antarctica

A solar eclipse cruise includes more than just viewing the eclipse itself. This region is home to stunning marine and bird life.  See the impressive penguin colonies on the Falkland Islands, marvel at the elephant seals in South Georgia and spy albatross as your voyage continues.

 

On your return, why spend some more time in Argentina, visiting the Mendoza wine region or learning tango in Buenos Aires

mountains-antarctica-landscape

What makes this eclipse so special?

A total solar eclipse is a rare event, visible somewhere in the world only every year or two. They happen when a new moon passes between the Earth and sun on precisely the right orbit. The moon blocks the sun’s rays and the shadow plunges the world into an eerie darkness. 

 

The path of totality (the darkest part of the eclipse) is often very narrow and the phenomenon may only last for a minute in any location. 

 

Scientists calculate that there have been many total eclipses in Antarctica before, but only one has ever been witnessed by humans. 

The combination of a rare total solar eclipse and the awe inspiring white landscape of Antarctica has led experts to declare that this ‘could be the most incredible total solar eclipse anyone has ever seen’.

Our travel designers certainly think so.

Antarctica sunset

Every time I go through my Antarctica photos, I’m surprised each time: “Wow, I’ve been there?”. We began our Antarctica exploration on a foggy day where we paddled our kayaks through icebergs shrouded by mystical vapour. On a different day at Neko Harbour, it was sunny with a blue sky; I was simply sitting back – in awe of the mirrored crushed ice and mini icebergs on the glassy water surface. I dont think I can imagine a more magical place to see a total eclipse!

Joyce Choi
Chief Travel Uplifter

Why see the Total Solar Eclipse With Jacada Travel?

At Jacada Travel we are experts in luxury travel and planning trips that you’ll remember for years to come. Our travel designers are hugely knowledgeable and passionate about creating truly personalised vacations. We have years of experience in designing tailormade Antarctica cruise trips and know just how to make sure you get the most out of your adventure.

 

From the moment you begin planning with us you’ll be in safe hands. Our expert team will go above and beyond to ensure that your Antarctica total solar eclipse experience is the journey of a lifetime. 

solar-eclipse