The Top Northern Lights Cruises
There’s a reason seeing the Northern Lights remains a bucket list staple for so many people. This fantastical display of colors across a darkened, frozen sky is something you shouldn’t miss. But how can you ensure you have the best view of this once-in-a-lifetime natural wonder?
Cruise lines can offer you such a view, and these views tend to be better than the ones on land. Here are some Northern Lights cruises to consider booking should you wish to see this spectacle with your very own eyes.
Hurtigruten
With single tickets starting just over $2,200 for 11 or 12-day itineraries, Hurtigruten has a unique coastal route specifically designed around seeing the Northern Lights. Departing from Norway and traversing its coastline, Hurtigruten sails directly beneath what’s been dubbed the “Auroral Zone”. This allows the cruise ship to alter course based on cloud cover so that you have the most unobstructed view of aurora activity possible.
There are multiple itineraries available through Hurtigruten, with September to March noted as the best time to book. Hurtigruten may be an ideal choice if you’re worried about seeing the Northern Lights. If they don’t appear while on your cruise, Hurtigruten will give you another weeklong cruise for free!
Cunard
At $1,700 per person for a 12-night journey, Cunard offers cruise guests the opportunity to view the Northern Lights from the deck of one of their fantastic vessels as well as ashore. Departing from England, Cunard’s Norweigan cruise options sail north and have a later-than-average evening call in Tromsø, a city known for its aurora activity.
The Norway and Northern Lights cruise offered by Cunard also departs from New York City depending on the time of year, with September to November being ideal booking windows.
Holland America
There are so many different customizable cruise options on offer by Holland America, especially ones that pass under typical aurora hotspots. The cruise itineraries involving Alaska may not guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights like Hurtigruten, but booking anytime in September or October will certainly increase your likelihood of success.
With varying trip lengths from one week to twenty days and different departure ports (Seattle and Vancouver are top choices), Holland America offers flexible, unique options compared to many other cruises on this list. Plus, the ship sizes vary, offering you the chance to board a much less crowded vessel and enjoy some peace and quiet on your vacation.
Viking
There are a few different cruise options hosted by Viking that will likely ensure you see the Northern Lights. One particular itinerary explores Greenland, Northern Canada and the Northwest Passage for two weeks, starting just under $15,000. Viking cruises aren’t typically on a budget-friendly list, but they do offer endless amenities and unforgettable routes.
The pacing of Viking’s Northwest Passage cruise has guests enjoying lesser-known parts of the world, and all under an aurora sky. Booking anytime from September to December is recommended for the best Northern Lights nights.
Quark
Known for its polar cruises, Quark offers a Northern Lights itinerary that explores Iceland and Greenland in more detail. With only one departure at the end of September and priced just under $12,000, this 2-week excursion is designed to highlight jaw-dropping glaciers, Icelandic traditions and the rugged, frozen wilderness that the Northern Lights shine on.
Guests can explore these frigid areas on a Zodiac or in a kayak, all with the hope of catching sight of auroras overhead. Plus, Quark has some fantastic all-inclusive choices, making it a standout for those of you hoping for a bit of luxury onboard.
Norwegian
If seeing the Northern Lights is simply a wish of yours rather than a priority, consider booking a European cruise through Norwegian Cruise Lines. With an 11-day package starting at $3,100 per person, Norwegian ensures you’ll see the best parts of Europe and also potentially the Northern Lights. There’s a mid-September departure date for this cruise, which is typically a good month for auroras.
While this cruise line doesn’t guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights, it departs Norway and ends its journey in Sweden, giving you plenty of opportunities to witness both Europe and auroras on darker nights.
Lindblad
Not only does Lindblad offer shorter excursions and cruise trips, they also offer smaller ship sizes. With an early September itinerary exploring some of the most idyllic parts of Alaska in only six days, Lindblad sets itself apart as a Northern Lights cruise trip that won’t break the bank if you’re located in the United States. Embarking from Sitka and disembarking in Juneau, Lindblad’s Alaska Escape starts at $3,500 per person.
Keep in mind that National Geographic has partnered with Lindblad for this cruise, making it an adventurer’s dream, especially if you’re hoping to photograph some fantastic wildlife.