Northern Lights Cruises

Witness nature’s most captivating light show on a Northern Lights Cruise

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are a captivating natural phenomenon that has mesmerised people for centuries. A Northern Lights cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness this celestial ballet, combining the comfort and luxury of a cruise ship with the thrill of the Aurora Borealis chase.

Witnessing the Northern Lights is an awe-inspiring experience that captivates the hearts and imaginations of those fortunate enough to witness its ethereal dance. The night sky comes alive with vibrant colours – emerald green, violet streaks, purple, pink and sometimes even hints of red – dancing and swirling across the canvas of the night. The ever-changing nature of the aurora keeps you captivated, making each sighting unique and unforgettable. Photography enthusiasts will have ample opportunity to capture stunning images of the aurora. Adventure seekers can partake in thrilling excursions. Nature lovers will be captivated by the stark beauty of the Arctic.

While the Northern Lights are the main attraction, a Northern Lights cruise offers much more.

While the Northern Lights are the main attraction, a Northern Lights cruise offers much more. Explore charming coastal towns and historic cities steeped in Scandinavian culture. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of fjords, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains. Participate in exhilarating shore excursions, such as snowmobiling across frozen landscapes or dog sledding through pristine wilderness. Whether you find yourself in the remote reaches of Norway, the vast landscapes of Alaska, or the mystical wilderness of Iceland, each destination offers its unique backdrop for this cosmic symphony.

Your cruise ship is a luxurious haven when you’re not chasing the aurora. Relax in spacious cabins with picture windows, offering stunning views of the Arctic landscape. Indulge in delectable cuisine onboard, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialities. Enjoy onboard entertainment, from live music and theatre shows to relaxing spas and rejuvenating treatments.

From the thrill of spotting the first shimmering streak to the tranquillity of gazing at the swirling lights, a Northern Lights cruise promises an unforgettable voyage into the realm of magic and wonder in the heart of the Arctic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise guarantees seeing the Northern Lights?

For those absolutely intent on seeing the northern lights, Hurtigruten offers a Northern Light Promise on select itineraries.

What cruise guarantees seeing the Northern Lights?

What is the best month to view the Northern Lights?

You are more likely to see the northern lights between October and April, during the winter months, when the night sky is darker, and there are fewer daylight hours. Darkness is essential to spot the vibrant colours of the aurora borealis, as they are challenging to see in daylight.

What is the best month to view the Northern Lights?

Which Northern Lights cruise is adults only?

Sailing to and from Southampton, P&O runs dedicated Northern Lights cruises on its adult-only ship Aurora.

Which Northern Lights cruise is adults only?

Is Iceland or Norway better for the Northern Lights?

Northern Norway is especially ideal for spotting the aurora, but both Norway and Iceland offer excellent opportunities if you visit at the right time of year. Dark skies are essential, but travellers should avoid the winter storms, which can obscure the lights with clouds.

Is Iceland or Norway better for the Northern Lights?

What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise?

It is not guaranteed because often it is not dark enough, but for those cruising to Alaska, the best time to view is in April, August, and September. Here’s a pro tip: opt for August or April cruises for the best chance of catching the northern lights.

What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise?

Ports you might visit

Alesund, Norway
Alta
Alta, Norway
Andalsnes, Norway
Bergen
Bergen, Norway
Bronnoysund, Norway
Calais
Ergersund
Finnsnes, Norway
Hammerfest
Kristiansand, Norway
Kristiansund, Norway
Loen
Lofoten
Narvik
Narvik, Norway
North Cape
Reine
Stavanger, Norway
Tromso
Tromso, Norway
Alesund, Norway

Alesund, Norway

Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful art nouveau architecture. This owes to a devastating fire that burned a large part of the city to the ground in 1904. The entire town was subsequently rebuilt in the fashionable art nouveau style of the time. Take the opportunity to wander Ålesund’s charming cobblestone streets and admire the numerous spires, towers and highly-ornate buildings. Norway is a seafood nation and Ålesund is its fisheries capital. Take the opportunity to visit the Norwegian Aquarium - built directly into the rocky coastline, the aquarium is also an architectural marvel. Due to excellent oceanic conditions along the Norwegian coast, the aquarium features a colourful and exciting range of fish and fauna, including octopus, seals and penguins.
Alta

Alta

Alta lies in the vast wilderness of Finnmark county, well above the Arctic Circle at 70 degrees north. Welcome to the turning point of your expedition and to one of the northernmost towns in the world with a population over 10,000. Plan to stay past midnight to stargaze and watch for the aurora in Alta’s usually clear skies. The town is directly beneath the Auroral Oval, a zone known for consistent Northern Lights activity. If the heavens aren’t overcast, and the conditions are right, you might well be in for quite the show...
Alta, Norway

Alta, Norway

Alta lies in the vast wilderness of Troms and Finnmark county, well above the Arctic Circle at 70  degrees  north. Welcome to one of the northernmost towns in the world with a population over 10,000. The town is directly beneath the Auroral Oval, a zone known for consistent Northern Lights activity. If the heavens aren’t overcast, and the conditions are right, you might well be in for quite the show...
Andalsnes, Norway

Andalsnes, Norway

Near this idyllic town, gaze up at the "Troll Wall", whose immense grassy cliffs form the highest vertical mountain face in Europe. Or make an ascent of the "Troll Ladder", a road whose hairpin bends zig-zag up a steep mountainside and reveal spectacular valley views close to the thundering Stigfossen Waterfall.
Bergen

Bergen

Arrive in Bergen, one of Norway’s most beautiful cities and a great place to explore by foot. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen was Norway’s capital for many years. The city has retained a great deal of its local character, history and charm, and is a hub for Norwegian travel. Be sure to stroll through the historic UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with its colourful wooden wharfs dating back to the 14th century. Wander the cobblestone streets and alleyways of this enchanting, compact city. Drop into one of its many cafés or pubs and order a half-litre of local Hansa beer, browse through unique boutiques and visit world-class museums. Spend the evening relaxing, maybe in the panoramic lounge or out on deck. While its less likely the Northern Lights will appear this far south, it does happen.
Bergen, Norway

Bergen, Norway

Unlock this fascinating "Gateway to the Fjords", Norway's second-largest city, Bergen is home to over 200,000 people. Maritime trade and oil industry are still vital to the city's economy. Visit medieval wooden houses on the waterfront and peek inside the workshops of local painters, weavers and craftsmen where works of art - some better than others - await discovery.
Bronnoysund, Norway

Bronnoysund, Norway

A vibrant and pretty little town of 5,000 located on a narrow peninsula surrounded by islands and sea. You are now at the halfway mark along Norway’s long coastline. Brønnøysund is near the famous mountain with a hole in the middle - Torghatten. Brønnøysund is also the gateway to Vega Island – a UNESCO World Heritage site, which was granted UNESCO status because of how the community demonstrates its centuries-old sustainable way of life. Remarkably, the islanders have thrived by practicing the now unique tradition of eider farming and duck down processing.
Calais

Calais

It’s our final day at sea and your cruise is fast drawing to a close. Today will be a good time to spend reflecting on and taking stock of all the wonderful experiences you’ve had. Like the sensation of standing at dramatic North Cape. Or the spectacular scenery of the Lofoten Islands in Reine. Or maybe the varied and magical landscapes of Senja. In the evening we reach Calais where we will celebrate the end to our journey to the land of the Northern Lights. At a local cathedral we enjoy a classical music concert and our expedition team will recap our journey so far.
Ergersund

Ergersund

Egersund is famous for its brightly coloured, wooden houses – a real departure from the white-painted dwellings of many of Norway’s towns, and a welcome sight as you approach the harbour. It’s also one of the best natural harbours in Norway, and it used to be the largest in the country when measured in quantity of fish landed each year.  Enjoy exploring the bijoux town centre, which has preserved some of the best examples of wooden houses – a few even dating back 160 years. Explore the many beautifully decorated shops in the pedestrianised town centre, while the varied landscape surrounding the town is great for walking. 
Finnsnes, Norway

Finnsnes, Norway

Today we dock at Finnsnes, just across a bridge from the remarkable island of Senja, called the ‘fairytale island’ because of its spectacular nature. Senja is Norway’s second largest island and counts just under 8,000 inhabitants. Cod and pollock are traditionally fished in Senja’s waters while salmon is farmed. The island is famous for its diverse landscapes and is often referred to as Norway in miniature. The scenery can dramatically change within the blink of an eye. The outer side of Senja is characterised by lofty mountains plummeting straight into the sea, interspersed with isolated coves and sandy beaches. South Senja is distinguished by rocky coastline and pine forests and is home to Ånderdalen National Park. The eastern side of Senja has a a gentler landscape with rolling hills and birch forests. There is little light pollution here, increasing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Hammerfest

Hammerfest

Hammerfest is an exciting city; and is considered the world's northernmost town - located roughly at the same latitude as the northernmost parts of Siberia and Alaska. It is a centre of Sami culture, a popular port and the oldest city in northern Norway. Hammerfest is a city of contrasts with an urban city surrounded by mountains, sandy beaches and stunning coastal landscapes.
Kristiansand, Norway

Kristiansand, Norway

Kristiansand, located in the far south of Norway, is a captivating destination that beautifully blends history, nature, and modernity. The city's historic charm is displayed in its well-preserved wooden houses and quaint old town, offering a nostalgic glimpse of Norway’s past. Strolling through these picturesque streets gives you the chance to explore traditional architecture and quaint shops, cafes, and museums. Explore the charms of the old town, or venture beyond at your own pace, by walking through shaded forests to dramatic openings and views of the port or by taking a boat trip along the coast.
Kristiansund, Norway

Kristiansund, Norway

A brief stop in Kristiansund for guests wishing to take a trip along the Atlantic Road, to Molde. Kristiansund's location on four sea islands in the Norwegian Sea has steadily provided livelihoods in the fishing, shipbuilding and oil industries. Interested in history? A decisive battle between Danish and Norwegian Vikings was fought near here in 955 and later noted in the famous ‘Lives of the Norse Kings’ by Snorre Sturlasson. After lunch, we reach Norway’s ‘City of Roses’ – Molde, where you rejoin the ship again.
Loen

Loen

Enter into Nordfjord, the sixth longest fjord in Norway. This fjord was created by the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in Europe. Thanks to the smaller size of the expedition ship, you'll sail through straits and channels that larger vessels simply can’t fit through. This allows you to get that much closer to the fjords and mountains that the Norwegian coast is so famous for. Discover old fishing communities located along the fjord that actually date back to pre-Viking times. The chosen destination to explore the best of Nordfjord is Loen, at the base of the fjord and of Mount Hoven. We dock outside Loen itself, and use small boats to reach the small town. Loen’s Skylift cable car is one of the steepest in the world, climbing 1,100 metres at a gradient up to 60°.
Lofoten

Lofoten

You won’t forget your first approach to Lofoten because of the formidable wall of mountains looming on the horizon. The Lofoten Islands are world famous for their distinctive dramatic peaks, sheltered bays and untouched beaches - and this is your day to explore them. Lofoten is also known for its excellent fishing, picturesque villages and exciting year-round activities. We dock at idyllic Reine in the morning. Fishermen's huts dotting the shoreline and snowy granite peaks shooting out of the fjord make Reine one of the most frequently photographed landscapes in Norway. Keep looking skyward to catch sight of the Northern Lights.
Narvik

Narvik

Narvik has a spectacular setting on a peninsula surrounded by three fjords. The multiple mountains also help to shelter its popular ski slopes from strong coastal winds. And while Narvik is one of the most northerly towns in  the world, some 220km within the Arctic Circle, it enjoys a milder climate than expected thanks to the North Atlantic Current. Narvik  traces its history back to th e Bronze Age and was a Viking  settlement for a time as well. Aside from the War museum, you can enjoy galleries, shops, and restaurants which specialise in locally-sourced seafood  from the fjords and reindeer meat  from the mountains. Ride the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik for the breathtaking views or go on optional excursion hikes, snowshoeing or kayaking on the fjords.
Narvik, Norway

Narvik, Norway

You can reach Narvik on cruises to northern Norway. Indeed it is actually one of the most northerly towns in the world - 220 kilometres inside the Arctic Circle - yet surprisingly mild thanks to a combination of the North Atlantic Current and mountains which encircle the town and shelter it from winds.
North Cape

North Cape

Today we visit one of the northernmost points in Europe, North Cape and is as far north as we go on this winter expedition cruise. Start the day by taking a scenic bus ride from the town of Honningsvåg. At 71°10’21´N, North Cape is just 2,100 km away from the Geographic North Pole. Stand at the edge of the cliff and gaze out on the sea. Only the Svalbard Archipelago separates you from the North Pole. North Cape feels like the end of the world. It’s also a great place to take stunning photos and there will be enough time to visit the North Cape Hall´s cinema, showing a short film about the North Cape Plateau, and there are several exhibits open to visitors. Back in Honningsvåg, you can opt to stroll about, past charming houses, shops and a church that was the only structure left standing at the end of World War II. This is the ship’s turning point and from here we start our return trip southward. Keep looking skyward!
Reine

Reine

In the morning, dock at the picture-perfect fishing village of Reine back in the Lofoten Islands. This is where red-painted rorbuer cling to a string of islands beneath sharp granite mountain ranges. The 450-metre tall Reinebringen is one of the most distinctive peaks, particularly dramatic when layered with snow. The combination of setting and colour makes Reine one of the most photographed landscapes in all of Norway. After spending some time wandering around the village enjoying the scenery, you’ll go on your included activity. A 30-minute bus ride will take you to Å, one of the best-preserved traditional fishing villages in Norway.
Stavanger, Norway

Stavanger, Norway

Welcome to Stavanger – known for its many nearby natural attractions, including famous Pulpit Rock and long sandy beaches along the North Sea. The Stavanger region is on the radar of nearly every visitor to Norway. Many different nationalities are drawn to the area, making it a highly international destination. Its cosmopolitan nature is reflected in the city’s lively, urban ambience, with creative food menus, fun pubs and bars, and a booming cultural scene. While it’s less likely to spot the Northern Lights this far south, it does happen. Keep your eyes on the northern edge of the horizon.
Tromso

Tromso

Explore Tromsø, capital of the Arctic. Tromsø is the perfect destination for winter activities and boasts a wide range of optional excursions to choose from depending on your interests. Enjoy a ride into the sky on the Fjellheisen cable car, with breathtaking views of the city, mountains, fjords - and hopefully the Aurora. Tromsø brims with fascinating history, culture and bold architecture. The Arctic Cathedral is a landmark in Tromsø visible from the Tromsø Sound, featuring a huge stained-glass window. Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost brewery, Mack Bryggeri, which also runs Ølhallen, a lively pub where townspeople go for a chat and a beer. Other winter activities include optional excursions with Huritgruten's Expedition Team on nature hikes, and Aurora-focused bus rides. Tromsø is so far north that you may see the Northern Lights directly overhead.
Tromso, Norway

Tromso, Norway

At Tromso, you’re nearly 250 miles inside the Arctic Circle and one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Clues to your location are everywhere; the bars are fully stocked with Arctic Beer and the Arctic Cathedral resembles a geometric glacier. Home to over 100 nationalities, the city offers a wealth of eateries serving the best native cuisine in the Arctic. Tromso features the Polaria Arctic Centre, where the exhibits recreate a polar bear den and an Arctic snowstorm. You might experience them for real from the cable cars that climb Mount Storsteinen.