If you’re dreaming of witnessing the breathtaking northern lights, a cruise could be your ticket to adventure. From the stunning fjords of Norway to the remote wilderness of Greenland, here are the top seven destinations to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder.
1. Norway – The Fjords and Arctic Circle
Image: Courtesy of Royalcaribbean
Norway’s pristine fjords and northern regions offer some of the best aurora sightings on the planet. Cruises depart from Tromsø, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," taking you on a scenic journey past dramatic cliffs, quiet fishing villages, and the stunning Lofoten Islands. As you sail northward, crossing into the Arctic Circle, your chances of seeing the aurora increase dramatically.
- Best Time: September to March, with peak views from December to February.
- Highlights: Tromsø, Lofoten Islands, and the North Cape.
For an unforgettable experience, consider booking a cruise with Viking.
2. Alaska – Wilderness and Remote Skies
Alaska's rugged landscapes make for an epic backdrop to northern lights cruises. Sail along Alaska’s coastlines, where glaciers calve into icy waters, and head deep into the state's northern wilderness. Most cruises depart from Anchorage or Fairbanks and offer a chance to see the aurora reflected in the calm waters of fjords or among towering mountains in Denali National Park.
- Best Time: Late September to early April.
- Highlights: Denali National Park, Glacier Bay, and Fairbanks.
For a remarkable experience, look into cruises with Holland America.
3. Iceland – Fire, Ice, and Waterfalls
Image: Courtesy of Oceanwide Expeditions
Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and dramatic natural beauty are a must-see, and its dark winter skies provide an ideal stage for the northern lights. Northern lights cruises around Iceland offer incredible experiences, from the otherworldly Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon to the thundering Gullfoss waterfall. Add the aurora borealis dancing above snow-covered landscapes, and you have the perfect combination of adventure and natural wonder.
- Best Time: September to March, with the darkest skies in December and January.
- Highlights: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Kirkjufell Mountain, and Reykjavík.
For an exceptional cruise experience, check out options with Oceanwide.
4. Greenland – The Ultimate Arctic Wilderness
Greenland's vast, untouched wilderness and remote locations make it one of the best places for northern lights cruises. As you sail along Greenland's fjords and icebergs, the northern lights can light up the sky in vivid greens and purples. This destination provides a raw, off-the-beaten-path aurora experience, away from the crowds.
- Best Time: September to early April.
- Highlights: Ilulissat Icefjord, Disko Bay, and Nuuk.
Consider booking a cruise with Quark Expeditions for an extraordinary adventure.
5. Finland – Lapland and Glass Igloos
Finland, specifically its northern Lapland region, is a favorite among aurora hunters. Northern lights cruises that explore Finland often pair with land excursions, giving you the chance to enjoy unique experiences like staying in glass igloos or remote wilderness cabins under the aurora-filled skies. Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus, offers both charm and great aurora sightings.
- Best Time: September to March.
- Highlights: Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland, and dog-sledding under the northern lights.
For a magical experience, check out www.eckeroline.fi for luxury cruises in the region.
6. Russia – Murmansk and the Arctic Frontier
For a more unique and adventurous northern lights cruise, consider heading to Russia’s Arctic frontier. Cruises departing from Murmansk take travelers deep into the Russian Arctic, where the northern lights shine brightly over the stark, snow-covered landscapes. Sail through the Barents Sea or around the Kola Peninsula, offering both dramatic scenery and the chance to experience remote Russian culture.
- Best Time: November to February.
- Highlights: Murmansk, Kola Peninsula, and remote Arctic villages.
For an exhilarating journey, explore cruises with discoveryrussia.com.
7. Antarctica – Aurora Australis in the Southern Hemisphere
While most northern lights cruises focus on the aurora borealis, adventurous travelers can also chase the aurora australis, or southern lights, in Antarctica. These remote expeditions take you far into the southern polar regions, offering breathtaking views of the southern lights over icebergs and frozen landscapes. The aurora australis may be more elusive, but catching sight of it in Antarctica is an unforgettable experience.
- Best Time: June to August (southern hemisphere winter).
- Highlights: Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, and stunning icebergs.
For a unique expedition, consider a cruise with AntarcticaCruises.com.