Get ready to pack your bags and head to the Arctic to capture the stunning Northern Lights.
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Discover the best time to explore the fjords
Best time to cruise to see the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are at their strongest in the Winter months, when the sky is dark for long stretches of time. Between late September and late March is the peak window. Luckily, this is also the best time to see mighty glaciers and catch a glimpse of frolicking whales.
Best destinations to witness the Northern Lights
The Aurora Borealis are at their strongest in the Arctic Circle. The higher you travel, the greater chance you have to find the lights. From the UK, Norway is the easiest and safest option.
Look out for itineraries that include the following ports:
- Bodø is an industrial town with fjords and mountains framing it's cement architecture, which hide art galleries, cafes and antique emporiums
- Tromsø is a shrine to the Northern Lights with its museums, aquarium and numerous opportunities for adventurous excursions, such as husky sledding and snowmobiles*
- Alta is home to the world's first Northern Lights Observatory and the Northern Lights cathedral, which tells the history of man's interaction which the phenomena
- Honningsvag lies on the northern most point of mainland Europe, with a beautiful neo-Gothic church and rich fishing culture.
What do cruise companies offer?
There are several different cruise lines to choose from when you book your trip to the Arctic Circle. Of course, a sighting of the Northern Lights is purely based on luck, so you want to make sure you'll have an excellent holiday, even if they don't make an appearance. Below, we've listed some of the most popular companies and discover what they can offer to make your trip truely magical.
Cunard
Cunard’s itineraries take you into the fjords on their way to Tromsø, where you are most likely to get a sighting. Departing from Southampton, the Cunard approach focuses on formal service and smart interiors.
Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL’s Northern Lights offering takes you to seven towns in the Norwegian fjords, with the most Northerly point being Alto, one of the best places in the world to see the lights. Departing from Southampton, NCL offer relaxed ships with plenty of entertainment options.
P&O
P&O sail up the Norwegian coastline into the Arctic Circle. They offer a variety of excursions, helping you to make memories every day in this wintery paradise. Cruising from Southampton, P&O offer exciting entertainment options throughout the trip, tailored to the British audience.
Princess
Princess offer an excursion to the Alta Northern Lights Camp, where you have a great chance to see the spectacle whilst you cosy up with hot drinks. With ships leaving from Southampton and a range of itineraries to choose from, immerse yourself in the gorgeous surroundings on these peaceful ships.
Fred Olsen
Fred Olsen offer several specialised itineraries to immerse cruisers in the beautiful landscapes, and hopefully catch a glimpse on the lights. These cruises stop in Alta, offering activities such as dog sledding and crossing the Arctic Circle ceremonies, to help you make the most of your time in this stunning and fascinating part of the world.
Saga
Saga offer an amazing experience at the Breivikeidet wilderness camp, where the clear skies make the perfect conditions for a Northern Lights sighting. A short ride from Tromsø, the excursion also offers husky meets and traditional lavvu tents, to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. The itinerary then continues North to Henningsvag, where there are more opportunities to see the lights. Leaving from Portsmouth, these Saga trips are perfect for over 50s who want to truly experience the Arctic upon a beautiful, serene ship.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your perfect cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
