Southampton cruise ship passangers watch the eclipse from sea

2,000 passengers on a Southampton cruise ship had one of the best views of yesterdays eclipse despite the vessel being unable to dock in the Faroe Islands because the weather was so bad.

So instead the Captain of P&O Cruises Oriana headed back to sea and managed to find clear skies giving those on board a perfect view of the total eclipse.

In contrast those on the Island saw hardly anything.

Oriana returned to Torshavn the capital of the Faroe Islands last night and passengers have been telling of their experience. They say the eclipse was "amazing" and "day turned to night."

One said it ended up being "the perfect place to watch the eclipse and the sun was totally covered."

The ship is now heading to see the northern lights as part of a two week trip.

The Faroe Islands was one of only two places in the world a total eclipse could be viewed. While it went dark, to the delight of 9,000 who made the trip, heavy cloud obscured the moon covering the sun.

Some who travelled to the Islands from the UK had paid up to £5,000 to make the trip by air. While there was disappointment at the poor weather most said it was worth going as they experienced darkness.

The sun did show soon after the total eclipse giving views of a partial eclipse. Many said it was an experience "not to be missed" and added to the beauty of the Islands had made a perfect break.