For the optimal aurora-viewing experience, you can’t go past a long cruise on the Scandinavian seas. We help you find the best cruises to northern lights in Nordic Europe, based on aurora timing, route and visibility considerations, plus our cruise recommendations for all budgets.
Nothing beats the exhilarating adventure of cruising through the Arctic as you hunt for the elusive aurora borealis. Spending your time aboard a cruise ship in the icy European seas, as you glance up at the night sky, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that only a few have taken advantage of. While there are a number of excellent northern lights cruises available in 2024-2025, the best cruises strike a careful balance between optimal timing and routes for aurora borealis viewing, plus offering all the creature comforts that make your trip a real getaway such as meals, tours and even flights and transfers.
In this article, we share our tips for shortlisting and booking cruises to northern lights in Europe, to help you choose the best one for your budget and needs. To kick off your search, we also share our recommendations for the best cruises to see northern lights in Europe for the 2024-2025 season.
Considerations for Booking Cruises to Northern Lights in Nordic Europe
Before you begin to book your European cruise to northern lights, there are several factors that you need to take into consideration when making your final decisions. Naturally, your budget is one of the biggest factors and with cruises ranging from $1000-$20,000, you will find plenty of options that will fit just about any budget.
With regard to timing and destinations, the best cruises to northern lights should have factored all of this into their schedule and route planning. However, it is your vacation and your hard-earned money, therefore it is wise to do your own research to make sure that the cruise operator has gotten these essential aurora viewing details correct before you book in.
Timing of Cruises to Northern Lights Destinations
Although the northern lights exist year-round, it is much harder to see them during the summer months as the days are just too long. While it may be possible to view the elusive lights during the peak of the solar cycle in the late spring or early fall, the best time for capturing a glimpse of the natural phenomenon occurs between October and March. Make sure when choosing your cruise to see northern lights, that they have available departure dates during these ideal months.
Optimal Months for Viewing the Northern Lights
As a general rule, the optimal months for viewing the elusive lights occur between the end of September and the beginning of April. The closer you get to January, the longer the nights are and the greater the chances of capturing a glimpse of the breathtaking auroras. Keep in mind, however, that it can get quite cold on the open seas during the peak of the winter months.
Solar Cycle Timing
Knowing the optimal conditions to see the aurora borealis means understanding the basic auroral science behind their creation. To summarize, the sun is a massive ball of gas, which regularly ejects large volumes of radiation out into space every single day. These solar flares and explosions on the surface of the star are what create the solar winds. These winds carry the charged particles from the sun and around the earth’s magnetosphere. Just like a fluorescent light bulb, the charged particles cause the gases in the upper atmosphere to glow in various colors, which we call the northern lights.
This is why to create some of the most vivid northern lights displays imaginable, you need large amounts of solar activity. This is where our knowledge of solar cycles comes in useful.
What is a solar cycle?
Although there are solar flares throughout the year, the sun follows an 11-year pattern of activity. During the peak of the 11-year cycle, the amount of solar activity is so great that it increases the chances of creating vivid auroral displays. During the solar maximums, the stunning displays have been viewed as far south as Tennessee and the UK. During the trough of the solar cycle, the chances of capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights are greatly diminished, even for those visiting the Arctic Circle.
What does this mean for aurora hunters?
Well, it comes down to choosing the best year to travel which coincides with a solar cycle maximum (peak). The peak of our current cycle is 2024, after which the intensity and frequency of the aurora borealis will gradually diminish over the following 5-6 years.
Visibility Considerations for Northern Lights Cruises
Visibility plays a crucial role in determining just how well you can view the northern lights. Although it is possible to capture a glimpse of the ghostly display from the land, more and more people are taking cruises as their chances of viewing the elusive lights are greatly increased.
Optimal Routes
For starters, many of the most popular northern lights cruises take routes that provide aurora hunters with optimal viewing conditions. By staying away from the shoreline, the chances of light pollution interfering with the vivid displays is greatly reduced. These cruises will take you up through the Arctic Circle, well within the auroral oval, giving you an improved chance of viewing the elusive lights.
Weather Patterns
At the same time, weather will play an integral role and how well you are able to view the auroras. Granted, it may not always be possible to predict the weather with absolute accuracy, but you should still take into consideration the weather patterns and atmospheric conditions along your cruise route. Keep in mind that well within the Arctic region, the weather can change suddenly and go from clear skies to overcast in a matter of minutes.
Light Pollution
For the best viewing experience possible, you want to have extended darkness. The number one factor that prevents the visibility of the aurora borealis is light pollution, which can come not just from cities but can also be the result of the sun setting or rising in the morning. For more than an hour before the sun rises, and after it sets for the evening, the limited light during the dusk and dawn can prevent you from seeing even the most vivid displays. Choosing to take a cruise during the winter months ensures that not only do you have extended periods of darkness, but that you are far enough away from the lights of major cities.
Be Prepared for Extreme Cold
Don’t forget, that when viewing the northern lights, you want to take a cruise during the winter months. This means you will be exposed to extreme cold. If you have any underlying health conditions that may not be able to cope with these extreme conditions, then a northern lights cruise may not be the best option for you; in this case a land-based northern lights tour package may be a better option.
During a winter cruise to northern lights, the wide open seas surrounding the boat in all directions, allow the wind speeds to pick up dramatically, lowering the “wind-chill” temperature. As a result, you will want to make sure that you are packing the right gear to stay comfortably warm throughout your northern lights cruise.
While some cruises will include an Arctic expedition jacket in the price, not all will. You need to make sure that you bring sturdy footwear, extra hats and gloves, and plenty of warm layers. At the same time, don’t forget to bring your camera equipment as well as binoculars. Keep in mind that a cruise ship is not a hotel, so when planning your trip, make sure to bring everything you need with you.
Best Cruises to See Northern Lights
Below is our shortlist of the best cruises to northern lights taking bookings in 2024-2025, based on traveler reviews, value and inclusions. We’ve divided the list into Premium, Mid-Range and Budget offerings, to help you navigate the options better.
Premium Cruises to See Northern Lights ($5,000+)
Northern Lights Explorer (Norway, Iceland)
Operator: AE Expeditions
Days: 20 nights
From: USD $19,316
Destination: Norway to Iceland (Kirkenes Norway to Reykjavik Iceland)
Official Website: https://www.aexpeditions.co.uk/expedition/northern-lights-explorer/?code=NLE001G
When other cruises need to take you further out to sea to view the elusive lights, the shorter days and higher latitudes encountered during the Northern Lights Explorer cruise ensure that there are plenty of opportunities to view the northern lights while staying close to the shorelines.
Over the course of 20 nights you will skirt along the Norwegian and Greenland coastlines, exploring the many islands and remote villages throughout the region. As the sun sets, you will have ample opportunity to view the spectacular aurora borealis as it dances through the night skies. Thanks to the cruise’s destinations being well within the auroral oval, you are virtually guaranteed to witness the stunning light show multiple times throughout your trip.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Airport to Hotel Transfer, and Pier to Airport Transfer
- One Night Hotel Accommodation
- Kirkenes Tour
- Meals, Snacks, Tea and Coffee Included
- Alcohol and Soft Drinks with Dinner
- Farewell Reception Dinner
- Shore Excursions
- Zodiac Cruises
- Educational Lectures
- Onboard Clinic and Doctors
- Waterproof Polar Expedition Jacket
In Search of the Northern Lights (UK, Norway)
Operator: Viking Ocean Cruises
Days: 12 nights
From: USD $5,869
Destination: Tilbury to Bergen (Tilbury UK to Bergen Norway)
Official Website: https://www.vikingcruises.com.au/oceans/cruise-destinations/baltic/in-search-of-the-northern-lights/index.html
See all that Norway has to offer on this stunning 12-night cruise you will start your voyage in Tilbury, then sail up along the coast of Norway, before flying back home. Throughout your adventure, you will have ample opportunities to join shore excursions at every single port, to immerse yourself in the local Sami culture. As the night sets, you can rest assured knowing that your odds of capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights are greatly increased due to the cruise’s proximity to the auroral oval.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Flight from Bergen Norway back to Tilbury UK, with Transfers Overseas
- Multiple Shore Excursions
- Alcohol and Soft Drinks with Meals
- Choice of Dining Options
- 24-Hour Room Service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Gratuities, Port Charges and Taxes Included
Mid-Range Cruises to Northern Lights ($2,000 to $3,000)
The North Cape Express (Norway)
Operator: Hurtigruten
Days: 13 nights
From: USD $3,000
Tour Style: Cruise
Tour Quality: First-class
Destination: Norway (Bergen to Oslo)
Official Website: https://global.hurtigruten.com/the-north-cape-express/
Hunt for the elusive lights as you head out on an amazing 13-night excursion from Bergen to Oslo. As you cross over the Arctic Circle twice throughout your trip, you will have ample opportunity to capture a glimpse of the elusive aurora borealis. For those looking for adventure, there are plenty of things to keep you busy including a visit to a local brewery which includes a tasting. Find out why the North Cape Express is one of the best cruises to see the northern lights.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Return Flights and Transfers Included
- Brewery Visit and Beer Tasting
- Oslo Sightseeing Tour
- Stay in a 4-Star Hotel
- Receive a Welcome Basket
- Tea and Coffee Included
- Free Wi-Fi
- English-Speaking Tour Guide
- A Visit to The Bridge
Winter Voyage North (Norway)
Operator: Hurtigruten
Days: 6 nights
From: USD $2,355
Destination: Norway (Bergen to Kirkenes)
Official Website: https://global.hurtigruten.com/destinations/norway/classic-voyage-north-bergen-kirkenes/
Explore the picturesque Norwegian coastline on this amazing 6-night voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes. Explore all that the stunning coastline and picturesque towns have to offer, as you make multiple stops throughout your 5-day journey. You will have ample time to join shore excursions during the day, and to hunt for the elusive Northern lights throughout the night.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Choice of Dining Times and Dining Options
- Drinks Included
- Multiple Shore Excursions
- Outdoor Clothing Packages
Astronomy Voyage (Norway)
Operator: Hurtigruten
Days: 13 nights
From: USD $2,730
Destination: Norway (Bergen to Bergen)
Official Website: https://www.hurtigruten.com/en-us/voyages/astronomy-voyage
For those who are looking for more than just the northern lights, the Astronomy Voyage is the perfect option. As you sail along the Norwegian coastline, you will have ample opportunities to view the elusive aurora borealis, while listening to lectures provided by world-renowned astronomers and experienced expedition team members. Experience all that the Arctic has to offer in one wonderful 12-day cruise.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Choice of Cabin
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
- English-Speaking Tour Guide
- Professional Lectures
- Private Excursions
- The Planetarium and Tromsø
Winter Round Voyage (Norway)
Operator: Hurtigruten
Days: 11 nights
From: USD $2,145
Destination: Norway (Bergen to Kirkenes)
Official Website: https://www.hurtigruten.co.uk/destinations/norway/classic-round-voyage-bergen-kirkenes-bergen/
Enjoy 11 amazing nights as you sail along the Norwegian coastline hunting for the elusive aurora borealis. You will have multiple opportunities to go on shore excursions as the ship stops at multiple ports along the way. Not only will you have an amazing experience being immersed in the local Sami culture, but you will have plenty of opportunities to view the ghostly lights as they dance through the Arctic skies.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Return Flights with Airport to Ship Transfers
- Tea and Coffee Included
- Guaranteed Northern Lights during Certain Cruises
Budget Cruises for Northern Lights (below $2,000)
Winter Voyage South (Norway)
Operator: Hurtigruten
Days: 5 nights
From: USD $1,264
Destination: Norway (Kirkenes to Bergen)
Official Website: https://global.hurtigruten.com/destinations/norway/classic-voyage-south-kirkenes-bergen/
Start your voyage at the northernmost part of Norway, and sail from Kirkenes down to Bergen stopping at numerous picturesque Norwegian coastal villages along the way. You will be able to join shore excursions and select the dining time that best suits your schedule. Sit back and enjoy the 5-night trip hunting for the ghostly lights as they dance through the night skies.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Choice of Dining Times and Dining Options
- Drinks Included
- Multiple Shore Excursions
- Outdoor Clothing Packages
Iceland’s Land of the Northern Lights (Iceland)
Operator: Ambassador Cruise Line
Days: 11 nights
From: USD $996
Destination: Iceland and the Faroe Islands
Official Website: https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/cruise/a22403-icelands-northern-lights/
See all that Iceland has to offer on this amazing 11-night cruise through the Arctic. Not only will you visit Iceland, but you will also have opportunities to see the Faroe Islands as you wait for the ghostly lights to make their appearance. Enjoy the many wonderful amenities on board the Ambassador Cruise, including your choice of cabin, and plenty of onboard entertainment.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Full Board
- Choice of Cabin
- Coffee Maker in Every Cabin
- 24 Hour Buffet Area
- Onboard Entertainment and Programs
Norway’s Land of the Northern Lights (UK, Norway)
Operator: Ambassador Cruise Line
Days: 14 nights
From: USD $1,135
Destination: UK to Norway (Tilbury UK to Bergen Norway)
Official Website: https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/cruise/a22402-norways-land-of-the-northern-lights/
When it comes to the northern lights, nothing beats a cruise along the Norwegian coastline. Experience 14 wonderful nights under the Arctic skies, as you wait for the elusive Northern lights to make their grand appearance. There are plenty of things to keep you busy during the daytime, including shoreline excursions and lifestyle enrichment programs on board.
Inclusions and Highlights:
- Full Board
- Choice of Cabin
- Coffee Maker in Every Cabin
- 24 Hour Buffet Area
- Onboard Entertainment and Programs
Conclusion
This brings us to the end of our article on cruises to see northern lights throughout Europe. As you have probably realized by now, the best regions in Europe are in the Nordic Scandinavian countries, which explains why the northern lights cruise options mentioned here are centered on Iceland and Norway.
While a properly organized cruise that has as it’s main goal seeing aurora borealis should in theory have factored in the correct timing, it is worth reiterating that any cruise you take to see northern lights in Europe should occur in the Winter months, between late September to early April (preferably October to March). If the aurora borealis cruise option you’re looking at departs in the summer months, between April and August, don’t touch it with a 10 foot pole. There are too many daylight hours to see the aurora in the warmer seasons.
For more tips on choosing the correct timing, check out our guides on best time for northern lights in Norway and in Iceland here. Or, for more options, consider a land-based aurora borealis vacation package in Iceland, or tours in Norway or Finland Lapland instead. They have similar inclusions to the cruise packages, but travel across land instead, which is great if you want to check out the local landscape and culture as well.
Lastly, check out more cruise options for Norway specifically in our Norway northern lights cruises article.
Happy aurora hunting!
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