The Best Northern Lights Cruises to Experience the Magic of the Aurora

The northern lights are one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles, and there's no better way to witness its beauty than from the deck of a luxury cruise ship.

Cruises provide an unparalleled opportunity to chase the lights, offering prime viewing spots far from city lights, in the heart of the Arctic Circle. The optimal time to see this breathtaking phenomenon is during the long, dark nights of late autumn, winter, and early spring.

Whether you’re gliding through Norway’s fjords, exploring Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, or sailing through the icy waters of Greenland, a northern lights cruise promises an unforgettable adventure, where nature’s light show becomes the star of your journey.

Read on to see  what Havila Voyages have to offer, the top places to see the aurora, what to wear on your cruise and much more.

Best time to see northern lights on a cruise

The best time to see the northern lights on a cruise is during the winter season, specifically between September and March. During these months, the conditions are ideal, with dark, cloudless nights that provide optimal viewing opportunities.

You're most likely to catch a glimpse of the auroras between 9:30pm and 1am, though they can appear anytime from 6pm to 4am. This wide window gives travellers plenty of chances to witness the spectacle.

Additionally, being aware of the solar maximum can enhance your experience. The solar maximum occurs halfway through the sun's 11-year cycle, when the solar activity is peaked. During these periods, the auroras tend to be more intense and frequent, offering even more spectacular displays. Combining these elements makes winter cruises an exceptional way to chase the impressive northern lights.

Astrologers and meteorologists have seen a large spike in solar activity for 2025 as the sun has reached its solar maximum period, resulting in 2025 having the most frequent and dramatic solar storms in more than a decade. Discover more about the solar maximum and how it affects the northern lights:

Havila Voyages under the northern lights in Norway

Havila Voyages: The best for Norwegian northern lights cruises

Havila Voyages is one of the best cruise lines for experiencing the northern lights in Norway, offering eco-friendly cruises with a 'northern lights promise' for guests travelling between October 1 and March 31. This means that if the aurora doesn't appear during your trip, you'll be offered a complimentary voyage for another chance.

Known for their commitment to sustainability, Havila's ships are powered by the world's largest battery packs, allowing them to sail silently for up to four hours with zero carbon emissions. This makes them a top choice for environmentally conscious travellers looking to seek the natural phenomenon.

Havila’s Norwegian fjord cruises provide an unforgettable journey through Norway's stunning landscapes, with dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and charming coastal towns steeped in Viking history and culture. Sailing from Bergen to Kirkenes, their routes pass through 34 ports, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience.

Whether you opt for a round trip, half trip, or shorter voyage, Havila offers the perfect way to explore the breathtaking beauty of Norway while enjoying the spectacular aurora borealis.

Havila has also launched something very spectacular that you can experience in 2025! As of 30 October 2025, you can discover the new Astronomy Sailings with Havila Cruises. Enjoy a journey like no other to chase the northern lights, learn about the star-filled sky and much more. Speak to a Norway Travel Specialist about your extraordinary voyage today! See below for the 2025 dates: 

21 Jan, 23 Feb, 15 Oct & 14 Nov 2025.

Our favourite Havila Voyages that take you to the best places to see the northern lights

Norway’s Glacial Fjords: Havila Voyages Winter Cruise

Norway’s Glacial Fjords: Havila Voyages Winter Cruise takes you from Bergen to Trondheim via Kirkenes. You’ll sail through stunning fjords, cross the arctic circle, and visit the North Cape. The journey includes an overnight stay in vibrant Bergen, with its iconic Bryggan and hidden wooden walkways, making for an unforgettable Norwegian adventure. Along the way, you'll sail into Tromsø, one of the best cities in Norway to see the northern lights.

Tromsø under the northern lights

Havila Voyages Winter Northbound Cruise

Havila Voyages Winter Northbound Cruise offers you the incredible opportunity to journey from Bergen to Kirkenes, where you’ll sail through breathtaking fjords, cross the Arctic Circle, and pass the North Cape—Europe’s northernmost point where the aurora is at its brightest and most frequent. Experience vibrant Bergen, the iconic Snow Hotel, and Norway’s wild, stunning landscapes - a truly unforgettable Norwegian adventure.

Norway under the northern lights

Solo Holiday - Havila short Aurora Voyage

Solo Holiday - Havila short Aurora Voyage is designed specifically for the solo traveller. From Bergen to Tromsø, cross the Arctic Circle and pass the North Cape. Witness the mesmerising aurora, explore Bergen’s charming Bryggan, and experience Tromsø, creating an unforgettable Arctic adventure.

Bergen under the northern lights

Northern lights in Svalbard

Top northern lights cruise destinations

Norway

Sail through the arctic beauty and dramatic landscapes of Norway, known for its stunning fjords and picturesque towns. As well as being known for its scenic cruising opportunities, Norway boasts one of the world's best destinations to see the elusive aurora. With Norwegian cities nestled in the northernmost part of the world, like Longyearbyen, this region boasts dramatically more auroral displays than most countries.

Greenland

The world’s largest island offers breathtaking scenery and a high chance of glimpsing the northern lights. Cruises in Greenland to see the northern lights promise an awe-inspiring sight, as the country is nestled in the heart of the Arctic Circle. Home to the largest fjord system in the world, Scoresby Sund, you're likely to see incredible vistas and enjoy some whale watching throughout your aurora chase.

Iceland

Iceland is one of the top destinations for northern lights cruises due to its prime location just below the Arctic Circle, offering frequent and vivid displays of the aurora borealis. Its unique landscape, with glaciers, volcanic terrain, and geothermal hot springs, provides an extraordinary backdrop for witnessing the lights. Additionally, Iceland's relatively low light pollution and clear winter skies increase the chances of a spectacular view.

Svalbard

As winter approaches Svalbard and the crowds disperse, this region offers an exceptional northern lights holiday. Cruise Svalbard's coastline to spot the dazzling displays of northern lights that spread across the night sky. Alongside aurora expeditions, you have a strong chance of seeing wildlife like polar bears, seabirds and possibly whales, making for the perfect Arctic circle experience.

See more opportunities to spot polar bears in Svalbard.

Finland

Finland is another country that offers an exciting aurora borealis experience. Sitting on the aurora belt in the northern hemisphere, you're highly likely to see the lights at sea. When you're not aboard the ship watching the arctic scenery and striking lights pass you by, this country is excellent for a multitude of activities, from husky safaris and nature walks in the snow to meeting indigenous Sami people and more.

Northern lights over the wilderness of Norway

Why take a northern lights cruise?

Taking a northern lights cruise offers an unparalleled experience, providing better views than on land. A cruise ship allows you to move and adjust your position to find the best viewing conditions.

Whether you’re on the deck, relaxing on your cabin’s private balcony, or enjoying the show from a public indoor venue with panoramic windows, each location offers a perfect vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring display of the aurora. This flexibility ensures you won’t miss a moment of the breathtaking spectacle.

Traveller watching the northern lights in Norway

What to wear on a northern lights cruise

When preparing for a northern lights cruise, it’s essential to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially during late-night viewings. Be sure to bring a cosy hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect yourself from the cold while you wait for the northern lights to appear.

Layering is key. It allows you to adjust your clothing depending on the weather. A warm, insulated jacket and comfortable boots are also recommended to ensure you stay warm while enjoying the stunning aurora from the deck or other outdoor viewing spots.

• Discover more about how to dress for the Arctic here. 

Tromsø under the northern lights

More of our top northern lights' cruises, hand-picked for you

On the Aurora & Whales Expedition onboard MV Quest, sail into prime aurora viewing, enjoy cosy comforts, and wake up to whale sightings. Add a stay in Tromsø for an immersive Arctic adventure.

Planning your northern lights cruises

If you want to speak to a northern lights expert, get in touch with the Regent team today. We will find the perfect cruise for you, whether you're an adventurous couple looking to chase the aurora, or a curious solo traveller looking for an exciting tour in the arctic belt. We can even book a cruise ship cabin balcony or a window to maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights.