Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the water adds a whole extra dimension to this incredible experience. It removes any exposure to light pollution that can dampen the intensity of the lights and ensures you're in a remote, tranquil spot surrounded by nothing but the gently lapping waters of an icy fjord.
As the established experts in Northern Lights travel, the Baltic Travel Company specialists often discuss this unique adventure with their guests—either curating cruises and onboard holiday packages or ensuring visits to the frozen north include a boat trip within their itinerary.
The knowledgeable travel advisers who have experienced every Northern Lights holiday first-hand share some insights into why seeing the Aurora by boat is special and suggest some of the most popular tours and packages you may be interested in.
What Are the Benefits of a Northern Lights Chase From the Water?
It is well known that the Aurora, a natural phenomenon linked to solar activity in the earth's atmosphere, can't always be predicted. It is subject to weather patterns like cloud cover and is far less visible in towns and cities where artificial light diminishes the vibrancy and rich, swirling colours the Northern Lights are known for.
Some guests love to book wilderness tours or camps, where they can escape the crowds and noise and spend a few days in a rustic cabin, Aurora lodge, or even a glass igloo, watching the lights dancing in the night sky overhead without distractions.
Others prioritise cruises and fjord crossings, with much the same impact—being as far as possible from manufactured structures, lighting, and transport routes means that nature’s most famous light show is as spectacular as possible and that you can truly immerse yourself in this bucket-list experience.
Cruises and fjord tours have long been favourite excursions or activities at any time of the year. Visitors can see mountain ranges, sea birds, and species like whales, dolphins, seals, and walruses. They can also head towards tiny and uninhabited islands for amazing opportunities to see vast waterfalls, soaring glaciers, and unpopulated inlets that showcase the natural beauty of the Arctic.
Combining this magical excursion with an evening or overnight trip ensures you can watch the lights safely from the deck, tucked up in warm blankets and Arctic clothing, sipping a delicious drink or warming hot chocolate—before heading to a private cabin or joining the captain for a luxurious dining experience.
Seeing the Northern Lights on a Classic Arctic Odyssey Cruise
One of our all-time favourite holidays is the Arctic Odyssey. This fantastic 16-night adventure replicates the same journey explorers took back in 1968, heading to the furthest corners of the frozen Arctic. However, it has been reimagined for modern guests with all the conveniences you would expect.
We host visitors on the beautiful MS Trollfjord, with catering provided by the renowned Coastal Kitchen team and a friendly, welcoming crew who do everything possible to make your cruise extra special, from organising excursions to ensuring you are delighted with the menus and accommodations.
Departing from Bergen, you head into the cold waters of the Norwegian Sea, pausing at cultural stop-off points such as Åndalsnes, a small, lively town hidden away among astonishing scenery, the Træna archipelago on the edge of the Arctic Circle, and Vesterålen—after which the first Coastal Express ship was named in 1893.
Throughout the voyage, the ship docks at points like Tromsø, the Arctic hub and starting point for countless expeditions, and heads into the High Arctic, Honningsvag, and Svalbard.
You'll also explore Longyearbyen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, with remarkably pure Arctic air. After this, you head across the vast stretches of the Kongsfjord—where you can spot polar bears, seals, puffins, foxes and reindeer roaming the land and glaciers.
Although departure dates are between spring and early autumn, it's very possible you'll be able to catch the Northern Lights if you book your coastal cruise at either end of the available travel dates when the warmer weather hasn't yet set in. The full Northern Lights season runs from late August until around mid-April.
September is a particularly great time to see the Northern Lights. The equinox sparks a greater amount of solar activity, making the aurora visible throughout the hours of darkness. Areas within the Aurora belt, especially close to Svalbard, are among the best places in the world to watch the light show.
Northern Lights Holidays With Onboard Aurora Chases and Tours
If you’re less keen on an epic Arctic coastal cruise but love the idea of watching the lights from a ship, we’d recommend one of several packages that incorporate a guided boat tour.
While we can provide more tailored suggestions on request, one package that could fit your requirements is the North Norway Winter Adventure, which includes a visit to Tromsø in Northern Norway—the gateway to the Arctic.
The eight-day holiday includes an overnight cruise aboard the Hurtigruten from Tromsø to Svolvaer. After a day exploring Tromsø, guests depart at midnight and are allocated a private outside polar cabin. Breakfast is served in the morning as the vessel continues travelling south until reaching Lofoten.
This holiday provides a chance to see the Lofoten coastline via a two-hour boat safari over the Trollfjord, with mountains towering 1,000 metres above the ocean waters and sea eagles soaring overhead.
On the return journey, a ferry takes guests to Bodo. Being surrounded by calm waters, mountain ranges, and glaciers ensures there is a wonderful chance of seeing the Northern Lights at numerous points—alongside a dedicated Aurora hunt during your time in Tromsø.
We might also recommend alternatives like the Arctic Combo, but our advice is always based on your expectations, preferred travel dates, the number and ages of people in your party, and any specific excursions, experiences or activities you’d like to include.
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About Baltic Travel Company
We specialise in crafting unique, tailor-made travel experiences that showcase the diverse wonders of Europe and the Baltic region. With over 15 years of experience, our dedicated travel experts are committed to providing exceptional service and unparalleled expertise to ensure your Baltic adventure exceeds your expectations. From cultural city breaks to the inspiring northern lights and breathtaking natural landscapes, our carefully curated itineraries highlight the very best of the Nordic Region, Scandinavia, The Baltic Region, Poland, Slovakia and more. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, embark on a journey of discovery with Baltic Travel Company – your ultimate travel partner in exploring the hidden gems of the Baltics.
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