Considering northern lights cruises Norway for 2026-27? Choosing the right cruise can be overwhelming with so many options available. In this comprehensive guide, we help you compare the best northern lights cruises in Norway, from budget-friendly 2-night voyages to luxury 18-night expeditions. Whether you’re departing from the UK or Norway, we cover itineraries, prices, what’s included, and expert booking tips to help you find your perfect aurora adventure.
This article was originally published in August 2022 and comprehensively updated in January 2026 to reflect current operators, pricing, and availability.
With so many cruise options to choose from for your Norway aurora vacation, you may find it difficult to decide which one to book or research further. Don’t stress. In this article, we’ll help you narrow down your search. First, we explain what you should look for when choosing the best cruise for your needs. We then discuss a few of the most popular northern lights cruises you can book now, with an overview of their itinerary, inclusions, price and destinations.
Read on to learn more and find your perfect northern lights cruise.
Note: We’ve compiled a quick list of essential travel gear at the bottom of this page to help you prepare for your aurora experience.
How to Choose a Cruise to Northern Lights Norway
If your main motivation for taking one of these cruises is to see the Northern Lights, it is important to mention that as long as you choose the right time of year to travel to Norway to see the aurora (most importantly, not in summer) then no cruise will be better than the other for seeing the lights.
All of the cruises listed here will travel to regions where the aurora is visible, so as long as you step out at night and look to the sky, you will have just as much chance of seeing the lights as passengers on any other comparable cruise in the region.
While we have marked some cruises in this article as ‘best’ in certain categories, this is still just our opinion based on the most popular cruises available. However, the reality is that the ‘best’ cruise is whichever fulfils your criteria. All cruises will offer a good opportunity for you to see the northern lights, but remember, regardless of which cruise you book, it is still up to you to make the effort to get out at night and look for them.
We suggest you base your Northern Lights Norwegian cruise choice on:
- Amenities the cruise offers (pool, gym, bars, kids activities)
- Types of passengers it caters towards (singles, families)
- Duration and price range (budget, luxury)
- Departure point (UK, Norway, Finland)
- Destinations and stopover points
- Other inclusions such as flights, tours, land travel
Northern Lights Cruise Comparison Table
| Northern Lights Cruise Norway | Duration | Departure Point | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SHORT CRUISES (NORWAY DEPARTURE) | |||
| The Arctic Dream – Havila Voyages | 2 days / 1 night | Kirkenes, Norway | From $450 |
| Short Winter Cruise – Authentic Scandinavia | 3 days / 2 nights | Tromsø, Norway | From $900 |
| Classic Voyage South – Hurtigruten | 7 days / 6 nights | Kirkenes, Norway | From $1,220 |
| Kirkenes to Bergen – Havila Voyages | 7 days / 6 nights | Kirkenes, Norway | From $1,300 |
| UK DEPARTURE CRUISES (NO-FLY OPTIONS) | |||
| In Search of the Northern Lights – Fred. Olsen | 10-15 nights | Portsmouth / Newcastle / Liverpool | From $1,600 |
| Norway & Northern Lights – Cunard | 12-13 nights | Southampton, UK | From $2,600 |
| Norway’s Land of the Northern Lights – Ambassador | 13-17 nights | Tilbury / Bristol, UK | From $1,600 |
| The Northern Lights & Arctic Circle – Saga | 16-18 nights | Portsmouth, UK | From $6,600 |
| CLASSIC ROUND-TRIP VOYAGES | |||
| Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen – Hurtigruten | 12 days / 11 nights | Bergen, Norway | From $2,140 |
| Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen – Havila Voyages | 12 days / 11 nights | Bergen, Norway | From $2,200 |
Short Northern Lights Cruises | Norway
Best 1-Night Cruise to Northern Lights Norway
THE ARCTIC DREAM
- Departure Point: Kirkenes, Norway
- Tour Provider: Havila Voyages – https://www.havilavoyages.com/
- More Information: https://www.havilavoyages.com/voyages/the-arctic-dream-kirkenes-tromso
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
- Price: Starting at USD $340
Experience Norway like you have never seen it before, as you journey along the outskirts of the majestic Arctic Circle, in search of the elusive Northern lights.
This short overnight cruise departs from Kirkenes and arrives at Tromsø the following day. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to view the Norwegian landscape as you make your way past Vardø, Båtsfjord, Berlevåg, Havøysund, Hammerfest, Øksfjord, and Skjervøy. After the sun has set over the Arctic, you can look up to the night skies and hunt for the breathtaking auroras.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 – Prior to departing from the Kirkenes port, you will have the opportunity to go on an excursion to the nearby Snowhotel, to view a hotel that is made entirely of snow and ice. There is also plenty of other excursions including snowmobile riding and a trip to the Russian border that are available before departure. Once the ship leaves the port, you will head north towards Vardø, before following the coastline of Norway to the west past Båtsfjord, and eventually Berlevåg.
Day 2 – As the sun begins to set the ship will sail into the port at Hammerfest. There are a number of available excursions while in Hammerfest, including a late-night snowmobile trip to Mehamn, or even a midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral. Once the ship departs from Hammerfest, the cruise will continue on past Øksfjord and Skjervøy before finally arriving in Tromsø on the final evening.
What’s Included
- Room and board
- Spacious sleeping cabins
- Free wi-fi
Why It’s Popular
While there are many great ways to travel between Kirkenes and Tromsø, the best way to see the true beauty of the Norwegian coastlines is aboard a cruise ship. Over the course of 2 days at sea, you will have the opportunity to view some of the most pristine, untamed wilderness that Norway has to offer. Enjoy the beauty of Norway, as you hunt for the elusive auroras.
Best 2-Night Cruise to Northern Lights Norway
SHORT WINTER CRUISE
- Departure Point: Tromsø, Norway
- Tour Provider: Authentic Scandinavia – https://www.authentic-scandinavia.com
- More Information: https://www.authentic-scandinavia.com/tours/short-winter-cruise
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Price: Starting at USD $700
Enjoy what makes Norway truly unique, as you make your way along the untamed Norwegian coastlines from the city of Tromsø all the way over to Kirkenes.
This three-day adventure through the frigid seas along the Arctic coastlines of Norway provides one of the most unique opportunities to view the northern lights. Like so many courageous explorers of days gone by, you will meander along the frigid coastlines of Norway, breathing in the crisp cold sea air as you create memories that will last a lifetime. Spend a night in Tromsø before taking a 2-day cruise to Kirkenes, with a number of optional excursions along the way.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1/2 – After you arrive in Tromsø, spend the first two days exploring the city, experiencing the urban Norwegian lifestyle. Your cruise will not leave until the evening of Day 2, giving you ample time to visit local attractions such as the Polar Museum, Arctic Cathedral, or even go reindeer sledding through the Norwegian countryside. There will be a number of optional excursions that you can choose from, including a ride through the Norwegian countryside via dogsled, or snowmobiles.
Day 3 – Throughout the course of the night, you will have plenty of opportunities to hunt for the elusive auroras over the Arctic skyline. Sleep in the following morning, as the ship will not reach Honningsvåg until around lunchtime. There will be a number of different excursions available, including a trip up to the North Cape Plateau, which provide some of the most amazing views of the Arctic expanse.
Day 4 – After another late night of aurora hunting, the ship will continue rounding the Varanger peninsula, passing Båtsfjord, Vardø, and then Vadsø. This particular location is of historical importance, because both Lincoln Ellsworth as well as Roald Amundsen began their excursions towards the North Pole from here. Eventually, the ship will arrive at Kirkenes, where you can book yourself an optional stay at the infamous Snowhotel.
What’s Included
- One-night hotel accommodation in Tromsø
- Two-night cruise to Kirkenes
- Two breakfasts on board
- Two dinners on board
- 24/7 emergency phone service
Why It’s Popular
There are many different ways to view the splendor that is Norway, but nothing is quite as memorable as a cruise through the frigid Arctic waters of the North. Experience all that the Arctic Circle has to offer, as you stare up at the night sky looking for the northern lights.
Best 1-Week Cruise to Northern Lights Norway
6-Day Classic Voyage South | Kirkenes to Bergen – Hurtigruten
- Departure Point: Kirkenes, Norway
- Tour Provider: Hurtigruten – https://www.hurtigruten.com/
- More Information: https://www.hurtigruten.com/voyages/coastal-express-south
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights (also available 7-day northbound)
- Price: Starting at USD $1,220-1,605
Discover Norway’s spectacular coast as you sail from Arctic Kirkenes down to historic Bergen, with daytime sailing through the magnificent Lofoten Islands.
This southbound voyage offers different experiences than the northbound journey, with the highlight being daytime sailing through the stunning Lofoten archipelago. You’ll also cross the Arctic Circle, visit Hammerfest, and explore the Viking capital of Trondheim.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 – Begin your voyage in Kirkenes, near the Russian border. This frontier town offers optional king crab safaris and visits to the Snowhotel. The ship departs southward along the dramatic coastline.
Day 2 – Wake to views of Kjøllefjord and Mehamn before arriving at Honningsvåg with optional excursions to North Cape. By afternoon, you reach Hammerfest, the world’s northernmost town.
Day 3 – Experience the highlight: daytime sailing through the Lofoten archipelago with its dramatic mountain peaks and fishing villages. Visit the ancient Trondenes Church.
Day 4 – Early morning arrival at Ørnes, then cross the Arctic Circle (marked with a special ceremony). Sail along the scenic Helgeland coast with its thousands of islets.
Day 5 – Visit historic Trondheim and its famous Nidaros Cathedral. Continue to Kristiansund and Molde before evening sailing.
Day 6 – Arrive in Ålesund with its Art Nouveau architecture, then Torvik. Sail past the magnificent Jostedal Glacier before arriving at Bergen.
What’s Included
- 6-day coastal voyage
- Cabin of your choice
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- English-speaking expedition team
- Onboard lectures and presentations
- Daily gatherings and activities
- Wi-Fi access
Why It’s Popular
The southbound route offers daytime viewing of the spectacular Lofoten Islands, which northbound passengers miss. Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express has been operating since 1893, providing an authentic Norwegian experience combining working postal service with tourism. This is ideal for nature lovers who want more time in remote, scenic areas.
UK Departure Northern Lights Cruises (No-Fly Options)
Best No-Fly Northern Lights Cruise – Fred. Olsen
In Search of the Northern Lights
- Departure Points: Portsmouth, Southampton, Newcastle, Liverpool
- Tour Provider: Fred Olsen Cruise Lines – https://www.fredolsencruises.com/
- More Information: https://www.fredolsencruises.com/northern-lights-cruises
- Duration: 10-15 nights (various itineraries)
- Ships: Balmoral, Borealis, Bolette
- Price: Starting at approximately USD $1,600-3,300
Sail from convenient UK ports on smaller, friendlier ships specifically positioned to maximize Northern Lights viewing opportunities, with extended stays in Tromsø, Alta, and Narvik.
Fred Olsen offers multiple Northern Lights itineraries throughout the winter season, all carefully timed for optimal aurora viewing. These cruises feature extended stays in key locations above the Arctic Circle, expert astronomers from Go Stargazing, and authentic Arctic experiences.
Key Destinations & Highlights
- Tromsø – Extended stays allow for dog sledding, snowmobile safaris, and Sami cultural experiences
- Alta – Visit the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel and join Northern Lights hunting excursions
- Narvik – Opportunities for snowshoe hiking and Arctic wildlife viewing
- Ålesund – Art Nouveau architecture and scenic mountain views
- Lofoten Islands – Dramatic peaks and traditional fishing villages
What’s Included
- Round-trip cruise from UK port (no flights needed)
- All meals in main dining rooms
- Afternoon tea
- Onboard entertainment and shows
- Go Stargazing astronomy experts
- Photography guidance for capturing the Northern Lights
- Port talks and destination lectures
- Use of gym, pools, and public areas
Special Features
- Smaller ships (800-1,400 passengers) provide intimate atmosphere
- Freedom Fare (from January 2026) includes drinks with meals and gratuities
- Guest speakers including Norwegian culture experts and photographers
- No single supplement on selected dates
- Flexible shore excursions bookable in advance or onboard
Why It’s Popular
Fred. Olsen is particularly popular with UK travelers seeking hassle-free, no-fly cruising on smaller ships. The extended port stays (often overnight) in key Northern Lights locations like Tromsø and Alta provide significantly better chances to see the aurora than cruise lines that only stop briefly. The inclusion of expert astronomers and photographers helps guests understand and capture this natural phenomenon.
Best Luxury Northern Lights Cruise – Cunard
Norway & Northern Lights
- Departure Point: Southampton, UK
- Tour Provider: Cunard Line – https://www.cunard.com/
- More Information: https://www.cunard.com/cruise-destinations/northern-lights
- Duration: 12-13 nights
- Ships: Queen Anne, Queen Victoria
- Price: Starting at approximately USD $2,600-4,000+
Experience elegant British cruising aboard Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, while searching for the Northern Lights in Arctic Norway with world-class dining and entertainment.
Cunard offers Northern Lights cruises departing from Southampton, featuring multiple days in Norwegian fjords and extended time above the Arctic Circle. These luxury cruises combine aurora hunting with Cunard’s signature white-glove service and British elegance.
Typical Itinerary Highlights
- Southampton – Depart from the UK’s premier cruise terminal
- At Sea – Enjoy Cunard’s legendary service, afternoon tea, and gala evenings
- Ålesund – Art Nouveau architecture and fjord scenery
- Tromsø – 1-2 full days in the “Gateway to the Arctic”
- Narvik – Arctic adventures and Northern Lights opportunities
- Stavanger – Historic wooden buildings and Pulpit Rock excursions
- Southampton – Return after 12-13 nights
What’s Included
- Accommodation in stateroom/suite of choice
- All meals in main restaurants (Britannia Restaurant)
- 24-hour room service
- Afternoon tea
- Evening entertainment and productions
- Guest speakers and lectures
- Fitness center and pools
- Cunard Insights cultural program
Exclusive Features
- Queen Anne – Cunard’s newest ship (launched 2024) with contemporary British elegance
- Mareel Wellness – Thermal pool, Himalayan salt sauna, cold room
- Speciality dining curated by Michel Roux (additional cost)
- West End-style productions and classical music performances
- Formal nights with black-tie gala dinners
- Balcony staterooms for private aurora viewing
Why It’s Popular
Cunard attracts travelers seeking traditional British elegance and luxury at sea. Queen Anne, as the newest Cunard ship, offers modern amenities while maintaining the line’s heritage. The combination of no-fly convenience, world-class service, and proper formal nights appeals to those wanting a more refined Northern Lights experience.
Best Family-Friendly No-Fly Cruise – Ambassador
Norway’s Land of the Northern Lights
- Departure Points: Tilbury (London), Bristol
- Tour Provider: Ambassador Cruise Line – https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/
- More Information: https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/destinations/northern-lights/
- Duration: 13-17 nights
- Ships: Ambience, Ambition
- Price: Starting at approximately USD $1,600-3,300
Britain’s newest no-fly cruise line offers affordable traditional cruising with extended Arctic stays, ORCA wildlife experts, and authentic British atmosphere.
Ambassador Cruise Line, launched in 2022, provides classic British cruising at excellent value. Their Northern Lights sailings feature extended stays in key locations, partnership with ORCA for wildlife watching, and traditional entertainment.
Typical Itinerary Highlights
- Kristiansund – Norway’s “Town of Many Islands”
- Trondheim – Nidaros Cathedral and historic waterfront
- Bodø – Gateway to stunning coastal scenery
- Tromsø – Full day for Arctic activities and aurora hunting
- Narvik – Arctic adventures and WWII history
- Lofoten Islands – Dramatic mountain scenery
- Ålesund – Art Nouveau architecture
What’s Included
- Full-board dining (5 restaurants including speciality venues)
- Afternoon tea and late-night snacks
- Entertainment in The Palladium theatre
- Use of all onboard facilities
- Brontë’s Library and card room
- Pound Sterling pricing (no exchange rate worries)
Unique Features
- ORCA wildlife experts – Marine conservation talks and wildlife watching
- The Ambassador Guarantee – Full refund if not satisfied within 24 hours
- Traditional British entertainment – West End-style shows and plays
- Drinks packages available – Explorer and Expedition packages
- Smaller ships – Maximum 1,400 passengers for intimate experience
- Adults-only sailings available
Why It’s Popular
Ambassador appeals to British travelers seeking excellent value traditional cruising without flying. The partnership with ORCA adds educational wildlife watching, and the extended port stays (often 12+ hours) provide genuine time to explore destinations and search for the Northern Lights, not just brief visits.
Best All-Inclusive Northern Lights Cruise – Saga
The Northern Lights & Arctic Circle
- Departure Point: Portsmouth, UK
- Tour Provider: Saga Cruises – https://travel.saga.co.uk/
- More Information: https://travel.saga.co.uk/cruises/ocean/where-we-go/norway-cruises/northern-lights-cruises.aspx
- Duration: 16-18 nights
- Ship: Spirit of Discovery
- Age Restriction: 50+ only
- Price: Starting at approximately £5,249pp (USD $6,600+)
Truly all-inclusive luxury cruising for over-50s, with every detail included from Arctic jackets to unlimited premium drinks, plus expert-led excursions.
Saga’s Northern Lights cruises are specifically designed for mature travelers seeking hassle-free luxury. Everything is included – from drinks to gratuities to selected excursions – with no hidden costs.
Typical 16-Night Itinerary
- Portsmouth – Embark Spirit of Discovery
- Bergen – UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, Mount Fløyen funicular
- Ålesund – Art Nouveau architecture, Storhaugen viewpoint
- Trondheim – Nidaros Cathedral (included excursion)
- Arctic Circle Crossing – Special ceremony
- Narvik – 2 full days with choice of included excursions
- Tromsø – Arctic capital with Sami cultural experiences
- Alta – Overnight stay for Northern Lights viewing
- Honningsvåg – North Cape excursion (included)
- Return sailing – Relaxing days at sea
- Portsmouth – Disembark
What’s Truly Included
- All balcony cabins – Every cabin has private outdoor space
- Unlimited drinks – Including premium spirits, wines, cocktails, soft drinks
- Chauffeur service – Door-to-port return transportation (nationwide)
- Gratuities – All tips included
- Specialty dining – All restaurants included (Asian fusion, seafood, Coast to Coast)
- Selected excursions – Included in every port
- Arctic jacket – Complimentary Saga-branded jacket to keep
- Wi-Fi – Complimentary throughout ship
- Expert speakers – Astronomers, geologists, photographers, Norwegian culture experts
- Onboard activities – Quilting workshops, photography classes, Nordic-themed crafts
Special Experiences
- Astronomy program – Expert stargazers explain the Northern Lights science
- Nordic quilting – Create four-block Nordic-themed quilts
- Photography masterclasses – Capturing the aurora borealis
- Geology talks – Understanding Norway’s dramatic landscapes
- Choice of excursions – In Narvik, choose between different included activities
Why It’s Popular
Saga is the gold standard for all-inclusive, over-50s cruising. The peace of mind knowing absolutely everything is included – from door-to-door chauffeur service to top-shelf drinks to excursions – appeals to travelers who want zero financial surprises. The smaller ship (987 guests) and elegant atmosphere creates a refined, relaxed environment ideal for mature travelers.
When to Book & Travel
Best Time to See Northern Lights in Norway
The Northern Lights season in Norway runs from September to March, with peak viewing months being:
- November – February: Darkest skies, longest nights, best statistical chances
- September – October: Milder weather, some autumn colors
- March: Still good viewing, longer days, spring approaching
Important: Avoid summer months (May-August) entirely – the Midnight Sun means no darkness for aurora viewing.
Booking Tips
- Book 9-12 months in advance for best cabin selection and early booking discounts
- UK departure cruises often sell out faster due to no-fly convenience
- Hurtigruten & Havila use dynamic pricing – prices increase as ships fill
- Wave Season (January-March) often features cruise line promotions
- Last-minute deals can appear 6-8 weeks before departure, but cabin choice limited
Important Considerations
Northern Lights Are Never Guaranteed
Despite careful timing and location, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that cannot be predicted with certainty. Some operators offer guarantees:
- Hurtigruten: Free 6-7 day voyage if aurora doesn’t appear on 11+ day cruises (Sep-Mar)
- Most operators: No guarantees but position ships in optimal locations
Weather Matters
Cloud cover is the main obstacle to aurora viewing. Multiple nights in the auroral zone increase your chances of at least one clear night.
Essential Gear for Aurora Photography & Viewing
* Check mount compatibility with your camera before purchasing any lens.
📷 Not sure which camera to choose? We’ve compared the best affordable cameras for aurora photography in detail.
Columbia Northridge Lodge 700 Down
Hooded, Omni-Heat — equivalent women’s model Icelandite Parka
* Clothing items are available in men’s and women’s versions — check the Amazon listing for your size range.
👕 Want the full cold weather breakdown? Our complete guide covers everything you need for an aurora trip — what to wear, what to pack, and why.
Key Takeaways
- All cruises visiting Arctic Norway offer similar Northern Lights opportunities if traveling September-March
- Choose based on: departure point, budget, ship size, inclusions, and personal preferences
- UK departures eliminate flight hassles and appeal to British travelers
- Norwegian coastal cruises (Hurtigruten/Havila) offer most authentic local experience
- Longer cruises provide more opportunities to see the lights across multiple nights
- Premium lines (Cunard, Saga) offer luxury and all-inclusive peace of mind
The most important factors are traveling during the right season (September-March) and actually going outside at night to look for the lights. Beyond that, choose the cruise that best fits your budget, preferred departure point, and desired experience level.
New for 2026-27:
- Havila Voyages now offers full range of coastal routes as Hurtigruten competitor
- Fred. Olsen’s Freedom Fare (from January 2026) now includes drinks and gratuities
- Ambassador Cruise Line expanding Norwegian program
- Queen Anne (Cunard’s newest ship, 2024) offering Northern Lights itineraries
Happy travels and clear skies!
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