Set sail on one of our northern lights cruises in 2023 & 2024 and witness the mysterious spectacle of the Aurora Borealis – one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders.

With the first recorded sighting dating back to a 30,000-year-old cave painting in France, it's clear that this extraordinary natural phenomenon has been delighting humans for thousands of years. For the chance to enjoy this elusive light show, join one of our dedicated northern lights cruises that sail to Iceland or Norway in late autumn or early spring.

Cruise through the dramatic landscapes of the fjords and the far north, stepping ashore to explore remote towns by day and then returning to the ship to gaze skywards in search of the magical illuminations by night. Set sail on a northern lights cruise from the UK and discover glorious natural scenery, the fascinating culture of the Sami people, and waterside towns such as scenic Bergen, as well as vibrant cities such as Reykjavík and Tromsø. Some of our cruises include passages through the mighty fjords off the coast of Norway and Iceland, while longer voyages might journey even further north, to the stunning Lofoten Isles or way beyond the Arctic Circle to the very tip of Europe.

Norway's Land of the Northern Lights

Netherlands, Norway, Canada, Romania
Ambassador

In Search of the Northern Lights in Nine Nights

Norway
Fred.Olsen

View Itinerary Map
Embark on a cruise created specifically for seeking out the Northern Lights
You’ve chances to witness Mother Nature’s light show from the comfort of Balmoral
Explore Arctic wilderness, go husky sledding and have a go at traditional ice fishing too

In Search of the Northern Lights

Norway, Canada
Fred.Olsen

Have the opportunity to spot the elusive Northern Lights in Alta
Meet huskies on a tour and learn about traditional dog sledding
Capture the views from the top of Mount Storsteinen in Tromso

In Search of the Northern Lights

Canada, Norway, Romania
Fred.Olsen

Have the chance to see the Northern Lights in Alta
Connect with the Sámi people and learn of their cultures
Sail through the Tjeldsundet Strait, accessible only to small ships

In Search of the Northern Lights

Norway, Canada
Fred.Olsen

Search for the Northern Lights from the decks of Balmoral in Alta
Enjoy a scenic discovery of the Seven Sisters mountain range
Spend time with a Sámi community to learn about local traditions

In Search of the Northern Lights

Norway, Canada
Fred.Olsen

Have the opportunity to see the magical Northern Lights in Alta
See remote coastal scenery as Balmoral sails the Tjeldsundet Strait
Visit a husky yard to learn about local cultures and traditions

Things to see on a Northern Lights Cruise

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For those seeing Iceland as part of a cruise, northern lights experiences can often be enjoyed via the comfort of the ship. The best time to enjoy this bucket list phenomenon is between September and April.

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Many cruise lines offer the chance to explore the unspoilt landscapes of Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site complete with snow-capped peaks, imposing waterfalls, lush greenery and traditional farmsteads.

Things to do on a Northern Lights Cruise

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Visit the scenic waterside city of Bergen as part of a Norway cruise. While you're unlikely to experience a sighting of the northern lights here, this scenic city is a worthy stop thanks to its colourful wooden houses, fjord vistas and mountain funicular.

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Alta and Tromsø are popular ports of call on many northern lights cruises. Here you can partake in activities such as husky sledding, spending time with local Sami people and riding the mountain cable cars.

Food and drink

Locally caught fish is a must-try.

In Iceland, look out for Hákarl, a national delicacy made from cured shark meat, and Kjötsúpa, a filling stew consisting of lamb, potatoes, vegetables and herbs.

For those in search of the northern lights on Norwegian cruises, traditional favourites like Kjøttboller, or meatballs, and Fiskesuppe, a creamy fish soup, are a perfect way to refuel.

There are plenty of excellent dishes to sample on your northern lights cruise. Of course, aboard every ship will be a plethora of food and drink to choose from, making a cruise to find the northern lights both exciting and comfortable.

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Northern Lights Cruises

FEATURED NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE DEALS

Norway's Land of the Northern Lights

In Search of the Northern Lights in Nine Nights

In Search of the Northern Lights

In Search of the Northern Lights

In Search of the Northern Lights

In Search of the Northern Lights

Things to see on a Northern Lights Cruise

Things to do on a Northern Lights Cruise

Food and drink