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7 of the Best Northern Lights Cruises

Set sail on these itineraries to try to spot the aurora borealis.

If seeing the northern lights , also known as the aurora borealis, is on your travel list, you've probably already looked into the best places to see them : northern destinations like Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland , and Scandinavia among them. But have you ever considered visiting those destinations by sea rather than land? Many cruise lines not only offer itineraries to those regions but also offer northern lights-specific sailings, too. Cruising is particularly appealing for northern lights seekers because the ships can access remote areas without light pollution, allowing guests to see the aurora in its full brilliance. So if you haven't yet seen the northern lights — or if you're looking to see them again — here are seven northern lights cruises to help you accomplish your goal.

Viking: In Search of the Northern Lights

RelaxFoto.de/Getty Images

Over the course of 13 days, a luxurious Viking ocean ship transports guests from London to Amsterdam , then all the way up the coast of Norway and north of the Arctic Circle, before returning back south to the Norwegian city of Bergen. (Although some sailings operate in reverse.) The Norwegian fjords themselves are a sight to behold — and if they're paired with the northern lights, that's all the better! The sailings run from January to March when daylight is limited in the Arctic Circle, making for prime aurora opportunities. Rates start from $4,999 per person in 2023, and it should be noted that Viking is an adults-only cruise line.

Aurora Expeditions: Northern Lights Explorer

Considering the cruise line is named after the atmospheric phenomenon, it should come as no surprise that it offers a northern lights itinerary. At 19 to 22 days long, depending on the departure, there is plenty of time to hope for a northern lights appearance — or two, or three, or more. The sailings start in the northern Norwegian city of Kirkenes before sailing south along the coast, heading back north to the remote archipelago of Jan Mayen (a polar bear hotspot), over to the scenic fjords of East Greenland, and around the northern half of Iceland. The longer itinerary continues with a visit to the Faroe Islands and disembarkation in Bergen, Norway. Aurora offers just one of these sailings per year in September. Rates start from $19,705.50 per person in 2023.

Hurtigruten: The Classic Roundtrip Voyage

Hurtigruten is something of an outlier in this group because it doesn't offer specific northern lights itineraries. But the routes of this coastal ferry company in Norway just happen to traverse the perfect latitudes to see the aurora. In fact, Hurtigruten is so confident you'll see the northern lights during the auroral season (Sept. 26 through March 31) that if they don't show up on a sailing of 11 days or more, the company will give you a free six- or seven-day cruise to try again. For the best odds of seeing the northern lights, we suggest the 12-day round-trip itinerary from Bergen up the coast of Norway and back. Rates start from $2,309 per person in 2023.

Quark Expeditions: Under the Northern Lights

Specializing in polar voyages, Quark Expeditions knows a thing or two about the northern lights, which is why the company offers aurora sailings each fall. These 14-day itineraries cruise from Iceland to Greenland and back from September into early October. As the majority of the voyage takes place above the Arctic Circle, the odds of seeing the northern lights are high, especially as solar activity tends to peak around the autumnal and vernal equinoxes in September and March, respectively. And if they don't show, well, you still get to explore Iceland's Westfjords and Greenland's eastern shores — and that's a worthwhile journey in itself. Rates start from $8,501 per person in 2023.

Oceanwide Expeditions: East Greenland Scoresby Sund - Aurora Borealis

If you don't have two or three weeks to take off work to go northern lights watching, consider Oceanwide Expeditions' eight-day aurora borealis sailings from Iceland to Greenland and back. The adventure begins in Akureyri, the unofficial capital of north Iceland, before heading for Greenland's breathtaking Scoresby Sund, the largest fjord system in the world. If you do have a little more time, you can opt for the 13-day Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland - Aurora Borealis itinerary, which embarks in the Svalbard archipelago before sailing to Greenland and down to Iceland. Both take place in the late summer into early fall, as darkness returns to the skies in the Arctic. Rates for the eight-day itinerary start from $4,600 per person for the 2023 sailings.

Cunard: Norway and Northern Lights

Each fall, one or two of the ships in Cunard's legendary fleet head north for Norway, where guests are treated to scenic cruising along the coast. The 12-day itineraries depart from Southampton, England, before traveling to Alesund, Tromsø, Narvik, and Haugesund, sailing through majestic fjords along the way. Since the ships sail this itinerary from October to November, the skies will be dark enough to see the northern lights, should they decide to appear. In 2023, the voyage will be undertaken by Queen Victoria , while next season, the Queen Mary 2 and the upcoming Queen Anne will take the reins. Rates start from $1,689 per person in 2023.

P&O: Norway

The most affordable option on this list, British cruise line P&O operates 12-day sailings to Norway year-round, but during the auroral season, there's a strong chance you'll see the northern lights while onboard. Guests embark in Southampton, England, before sailing north to Norway, traveling as far north as Tromsø, well north of the Arctic Circle. We recommend splurging on a room with windows for the best northern lights viewing options. However, those in interior cabins can always run up on deck — which you should do anyway to witness the full grandeur of the atmospheric phenomenon. Rates start from $1,385 per person in 2023.

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The 9 best northern lights alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Consider one of these trips for a chance to see this mesmerizing natural wonder.

The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

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There's no other experience on Earth quite like witnessing the northern lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, this spellbinding phenomenon – when brilliant hues of green, yellow and purple dance across the night sky – is visible in Alaska from late August to late April. Clear, dark evenings away from the ambient light of cities provide prime viewing opportunities.

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis – especially locations in the Interior and Arctic regions, such as Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik (Barrow) and Nome. Fairbanks is regarded as a top location due to its position directly under the auroral oval, a ring-shaped area in the far north where aurora activity is generally concentrated. The Southcentral region of Alaska, where you'll find Anchorage, Talkeetna and the Mat-Su Valley, also offers basecamps for northern lights viewing.

If you're hoping to see the magic aboard an Alaska cruise in 2024 or 2025, then you just might be in luck. Experts predict the next few seasons will be particularly good for northern lights sightings, due to increased solar activity. While seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed, your best chance of seeing them is during these high-activity solar cycles, which occur about every 11 years.

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When to take a cruise to view the northern lights

The Alaska cruise season falls between May and September, with a few cruise lines extending the season from April to October.

Holland America Line recommends booking a cruise or cruisetour (a combined sea and land package) during the autumnal equinox, or the official start of autumn, which falls around Sept. 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. Disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field are more likely around the autumn and spring equinoxes, which could increase your chances of seeing the aurora. For the best views, Holland America advises heading to higher ground in Anchorage , to vantage points like Glen Alps, the Knit River Valley and Point Woronzof.

Princess Cruises also suggests booking your vacation in the fall. September is an ideal month to watch for the spectacle in the sky as the nights start getting longer and darker. The elusive display is most likely to appear on crystal-clear evenings between midnight and 4 a.m. While you can see incredible light shows in Anchorage, consider an extended tour of Fairbanks or the Interior that takes you away from light pollution (such as to Denali National Park & Preserve).

U.S. News has compiled a list of the nine best cruises and cruisetours to give you the optimal chance of viewing these whimsical lights in the sky, with a focus on sailings around the autumnal equinox in 2024 and later dates in September 2025. We've also included an early sailing in April, before the end of the aurora season. (Keep in mind: Many of these trips and itineraries are also available on other dates during the season. Cruise fares were accurate at the time of publication.)

Holland America Line

Princess cruises, celebrity cruises, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international.

Thierry Guenez | Courtesy of Holland America Line

9-Day Denali: Tour D8l

This nine-day land and sea tour on Nieuw Amsterdam includes an opportunity to search for the northern lights in Fairbanks, one of the best places to see them in Alaska (and in the world). Holland America offers a four-hour aurora borealis viewing tour outside the city in a yurt; it operates between the last week of August and mid-September.

If you'd like more options, there's no shortage of tour operators in town that can take you on a northern lights adventure in Fairbanks. You can even fly into town early to stay in the wilderness in an igloo with clear views of the night sky at Borealis Basecamp, located less than 30 miles from Fairbanks. Be sure to notify your hotel that you'd like a wake-up call or a knock on the door if the northern lights are on display.

You'll have more opportunities to see the aurora when you head to Denali National Park & Preserve for a stay at Holland America 's exclusive 60-acre McKinley Chalet Resort, located near the entrance to the park. After a full day exploring the park by ATV or a bucket list flightseeing adventure over Denali, you'll have another chance to see the colorful light display in Alaska's wilderness after midnight. The rest of the cruisetour itinerary includes scenic cruising days, with one spent in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. You'll also call on Juneau , Skagway and Ketchikan before disembarking in Vancouver .

14-Day Denali: Tour D3c

This 14-day adventure includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord, with stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Whittier and Seward. You'll then have nearly a week on land in Anchorage, Denali National Park & Preserve and Fairbanks to go aurora hunting. If you spend an extra night or two in Fairbanks at the end of the trip, you'll be in town for the autumnal equinox, maximizing your northern lights viewing opportunities.

With the extra time in town, plan to book the Arctic Circle Air Adventure with Northern Alaska Tour Company. This unforgettable journey takes you on a flight over the Yukon River and Brooks Range, just east of the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve. You'll then land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the community of Coldfoot and receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate before your return flight to Fairbanks.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Northbound

If you're interested in a cruise-only option and would prefer to arrange the land portion independently, consider this seven-day voyage on Nieuw Amsterdam. The itinerary includes three scenic cruising days, with one day in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, and calls on the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Whittier, which sits roughly 60 miles south of Anchorage.

From Whittier, there are many options to transfer to Anchorage (by rail or by road), including the iconic Glacier Discovery Train. Plan to stay a few evenings in Anchorage with a multiday guided aurora tour, or reserve a spot on an evening outing in search of the northern lights.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

11-Day Denali Explorer – Tour DA4

This 11-day cruisetour begins with a seven-night voyage embarking from Vancouver on Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The itinerary includes three sea days, two of which are dedicated to scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord. You'll make stops in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Anchorage (Whittier) before disembarking to depart for the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge via the line's direct-to-the-wilderness rail service.

Spending three nights at the lodge – located just outside the entrance to the park – in mid-September will offer excellent opportunities for aurora viewing. Keep your fingers crossed for high solar activity and clear, dark skies. Throughout your trip, learn photography tips to capture the mesmerizing display through Princess' North to Alaska Program. After your stay in Denali, you'll take a motor coach to Anchorage and stay overnight in a hotel there to finish up your voyage.

10-Day On Your Own – Tour BBX

The 10-Day On Your Own cruisetour with Princess Cruises begins with three nights on land, including overnights in Fairbanks, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. While at the Mt. McKinley resort, be sure to check out the lodge's treehouse. Designed by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," this vantage point offers impressive views of Denali – the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet above sea level.

Before heading off to bed, get an update on aurora activity from the tracker on your smartphone, especially if you have clear skies that night; the app My Aurora Forecast & Alerts has excellent reviews. Request a wake-up call to have the Princess lodge staff call your room if the dazzling bands of light begin to dance in the sky. The next day, after traveling to Whittier by motor coach, you'll embark on your cruise to Vancouver aboard Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess.

The voyage from Whittier includes three sea days for relaxing activities on board the ship, with two days of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier and in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. During your time in Glacier Bay, park rangers will board the ship to offer commentary about this captivating wilderness area's pristine glaciers and abundant wildlife. Younger cruisers and teens will also appreciate learning about this spectacular place through the Junior Ranger program, which features interactive games, activities and presentations. (All cruise ships visiting the park participate in this program with the National Park Service.) Ports of call for the rest of the journey include Icy Strait Point or Skagway (depending on the cruise), then Juneau and Ketchikan. The voyage ends in Vancouver.

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

The Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour

Celebrity's pre-cruise national parks adventure takes guests on a wildlife viewing quest to destinations in the north and the Interior where you can watch for the aurora. The 12-night trip begins in Fairbanks with a free day to explore.

Consider a trip to the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which features exhibits on Arctic dinosaurs, diverse wildlife, Alaska Native cultures and 2,000 years of Alaska art. You could also visit the impressive collection of antique cars and clothing at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, or take a walk with the reindeer into the woods at Running Reindeer Ranch. The second day in town includes a Riverboat Discovery ride and a tour of the city, as part of the cruisetour.

On the third day, you'll board the Wilderness Express (a glass-domed railcar) for the ride to Denali. Then, you'll embark on the Tundra Wilderness Tour in search of the park's grizzly bears, moose, Dall sheep and other wildlife. Be sure to put your name on the list before bedtime to get a wake-up call for aurora activity. You'll also have one evening in Anchorage, where you can arrange for a northern lights tour, and one night in Seward before setting sail on Celebrity Summit the next morning. Highlights of the voyage include cruising Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage as well as stopping in Juneau, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. You'll disembark in Vancouver.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

13-Day Denali Explorer – Pre-Cruise Cruisetour

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-day pre-cruise adventure begins with overnights in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage, where you'll have the best chances to view the northern lights. Other highlights for the first part of the trip include a deluxe dome car rail journey from Talkeetna to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad and a private tour to an Iditarod sled dog musher's kennel. You'll also have plenty of time in Denali National Park to book a flightseeing tour, go whitewater rafting, or take a hike with a park ranger to look for bears, moose, Dall sheep, wolves and other local wildlife before starting your cruise in Seattle .

Norwegian Encore will call on Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan (Ward Cove) in Alaska. The Mill at Ward Cove near Ketchikan is a newly built cruise ship port that serves as a jumping-off point for outdoor activities in the Tongass National Forest, from hiking and biking to kayaking and sea cycling. You can even pick up souvenirs, grab a bite to eat and sample a cold Alaska brew at the mill. The cruise itinerary also includes one day at sea and a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, before you disembark in Seattle.

7-Night Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Consider this seven-day cruise on Norwegian Bliss if you prefer to travel early in the spring and take your chances at catching the northern lights toward the end of aurora season, which falls around April 21. This round-trip itinerary from Seattle is one of the earliest sailings of the year to visit the Great Land and features two sea days, with one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. You'll also visit Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan (Ward Cove) and Victoria before disembarking in Seattle.

Juneau will offer one of the best opportunities during the cruise for seeing the northern lights, although chances are dependent on the weather and solar activity. There are several apps and websites with real-time updates for aurora tracking, including My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. If the skies are clear in the evening and the forecast looks promising, ask guest relations if there's a sign-up sheet to get a call or a knock on the door in the event of aurora activity.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

12 Night Mountain Panorama Adventure Cruisetour 5B (Pre Tour)

This 12-night cruisetour with Royal Caribbean International begins with an overnight in Anchorage before boarding the Wilderness Express, where you'll have a glass-domed rail car for the journey to Talkeetna. The quirky community of Talkeetna is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Alaska town of Cicely in the 1990s show "Northern Exposure." It's also an excellent base for chasing the aurora – especially at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where you'll be staying.

After an overnight at the lodge, your tour moves on to Denali, where you can search for wildlife by day and look for the aurora at night. Another evening on land at Hotel Alyeska in the remote town of Girdwood affords more opportunities to chase the finnicky lights before heading to Seward to board your ship, Radiance of the Seas .

Ports of call on this voyage include Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. There are also two days of scenic cruising through Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver. While there are plenty of activities, dining venues, bars and lounges on board to keep you entertained all night long, be sure to save up enough energy to wake up in the middle of the night should you get a call to see the magical natural wonder that is the northern lights.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

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An aurora is a natural light display that can appear as brilliant green, yellow, red, blue and purple light patterns, spirals or dynamic flickers covering the night sky.

The Aurora Borealis originates on the sun’s surface with a massive explosion of electromagnetic matter, which projects a stream of charged particles known as solar wind into space. When these particles approach Earth a few nights later, they distort our magnetic field. The excited, ionised atoms that enter our atmosphere through the poles emit light which, when emitted on a large scale, causes the phenomenon of the Southern and Northern Lights.

There is no best place to witness an aurora which, in our opinion, only adds to the mystery and appeal surrounding them. It is most frequently visible in high-latitude regions in the Arctic and Antarctica, but most accessible between 10° and 20° of the North Pole in a band called the ‘auroral zone’. It’s important to understand that this oval-shaped halo can shift slightly, and there are many factors at play that affect how bright the lights appear or if it’s possible to see them at all.

To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, be prepared to venture into the heart of the Arctic, to destinations such as Greenland, Iceland, Northern Canada and Northern Norway. While aurora activity happens year-round, the best time to witness the Northern Lights is during the long winter months, when the windows for viewing them each night are longer.

Northern Lights Cruises & Expeditions

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Northern Lights Cruises

Increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights or aurora borealis on a small ship expedition cruise that takes you deep into the Arctic , to iconic destinations such as Greenland , Iceland and Norway .

In true expedition style, we encourage exploration and adventure on our Northern Lights tours. Aurora Expeditions’ Northern Lights cruises offer flexibility in challenging environments in a way that puts you amongst the action to see and do as much as possible. Our Northern Lights adventures will take you across the seas, seeking out the Northern Lights in multiple countries and landscapes. To increase your chances of seeing the lights we move to different locations around the Arctic Circle, ensuring all bases are covered.

• Expeditions

Destination Highlights

Northern Lights Explorer

USD $ 20,335.50

Why Join a Northern Lights Cruise with Aurora Expeditions?

First, what is this strange natural phenomenon? An aurora is a natural light display that can appear as brilliant green, yellow, red, blue and purple light patterns, spirals or dynamic flickers covering the night sky. The aurora borealis originates on the sun’s surface with a massive explosion of electromagnetic matter, which projects a stream of charged particles known as solar wind into space. When these particles approach Earth a few nights later, they distort our magnetic field. The excited, ionised atoms that enter our atmosphere through the poles emit light which, when emitted on a large scale, causes the phenomenon of the Southern and Northern Lights. Northern Lights experiences are best with a dark sky as the aurora is not strong enough to outshine the sunlight.

There is no best place to witness an aurora which, in our opinion, only adds to the mystery and appeal surrounding them. This is why Aurora Expeditions’ Northern Lights tours don’t focus on one spot or location. The Northern Lights are most frequently visible in high-latitude regions in the Arctic, but most accessible between 10° and 20° of the North Pole in a band called the ‘auroral zone’. It’s important to understand that this oval-shaped halo can shift slightly, and there are many factors at play, like weather conditions and clear nights, that affect how bright the lights appear or if it’s possible to see them at all so our Northern Lights tour reflects this.

While aurora borealis activity happens year-round, the best time for a Northern Lights adventure is during the long winter months, when the windows for viewing them each night are longer and the skies darker. The season in the Northern Hemisphere is generally from September through April.

Unique Northern Lights Experiences

Our Northern Lights cruise sticks to the aurora zone in the Arctic Circle, but seeing the lights dance is only one part of your Northern Lights adventure. Exploring the polar regions provides you with opportunities like no other.

By night you will seek out the Northern Lights, but by day we will try to get you off the ship 2-3 times per day (depending on the weather and conditions) so you can get the most out of your time in the Arctic. Walking and bird-watching are popular activities as they offer a chance to witness the unique wildlife in the destinations you visit. 

Take a polar plunge in the icy waters of the Arctic Circle, or stay above the water on a Zodiac cruise through the fields of icebergs. Zodiac cruises allow you to get closer to some of the wildlife and landscapes you’ll see throughout your Northern Lights tour. If you have the necessary experience you should also consider adding sea kayaking to your Northern Lights itinerary.

Enrichment is an important component of our expeditions – we hope that you will leave changed and become lifelong ambassadors for the natural world and the wild, important destinations we visit. Your world-class Expedition Team will be on hand to answer your questions about the aurora borealis and how it comes to appear in the night sky, Arctic wildlife , geological formations and the history of the places we visit.

Northern Lights Cruise Regions

Greenland Northern Lights

While Greenland is one of the best countries in the world for witnessing the Northern Lights, getting there can be challenging and often what holds people back. The good news is that, once you’re there, you can see the Northern Lights from almost anywhere in the country – even in the heart of its capital city, Nuuk! This is because Greenland’s population is tiny and scattered across small, remote communities, so it has minimal light pollution. Not many Northern Lights tours go to Greenland but Aurora Expeditions Northern Lights cruises explore using a small expedition ship which makes it easy to visit the prime locations in Greenland to see the Northern Lights.

Some other superb options for aurora viewing in Greenland are Kangerlussuaq, Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Kulusuk and Tasiilaq.

Svalbard Northern Lights

Every year, millions of tourists flock to the Arctic for a chance to witness the phenomenon of the Northern Lights. However, few venture to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, located between the Norwegian mainland and the North Pole, which offers exceptional conditions to see the Northern Lights, not to mention dramatic fjords, rugged mountain ranges and a huge variety of unique wildlife, including majestic polar bears.

Northern Lights Canada

Northern Canada is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada, in remote places with minimal light pollution. Nunavut in the heart of Canada’s High Arctic is a prime aurora borealis viewing country, with its close proximity to the North Pole and vast expanses of tundra. Consider visiting a remote traditional Inuit community for an unparalleled night of dazzling aurora displays.

Northern Lights Iceland

Aside from volcanoes, glaciers and geysers, one of the main reasons people have Iceland on their travel bucket list is because they dream of seeing the Northern Lights on display. Iceland is a sparsely populated country, so you don’t have to go far to get away from light pollution.

With longer hours with dark skies and clear night skies, the Westfjords and North Iceland are the best regions to head to if you want to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. There are many fantastic remote locations in South Iceland where you can witness the aurora, including the popular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The Seltjarnarnes peninsula is a prime viewing area as there is minimal light pollution. There are also plenty of places near Reykjavík you can head to if you’re short on time, including Thingvellir National Park.

Northern Lights Norway

Norway is often the first country that comes to mind when people think of the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights are a prominent feature of the night sky throughout the country and have even influenced folklore and indigenous culture. Because Norway is so long, the seasons change at different times, with summer lasting longer in the south and winter lasting longer in the north. As a rule of thumb, the further north you go, the longer your window is for seeing them.

The ‘auroral zone’ starts in Northern Norway just above the Lofoten Islands and extends up the coast to the North Cape (Nordkapp) and beyond. You will observe the same light display from anywhere in this region, but from a different angle. Some of our favourite places in Northern Norway to witness the Northern Lights include Tromsø, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands, Bodø and the North Cape.

Northern Lights Cruise Activities

See The Northern Lights with Aurora Expeditions and our Expedition Team will take you on excursions unique to the High Arctic, fully included in the cost of your expedition. For those interested in a little extra excitement, there are optional activities designed to get you closer to the action. Our Northern Lights expeditions provide a mix of comfort and adventure; for those willing to explore the Arctic the memories will last a lifetime.

Bird Watching

Photography

Polar plunge

Trips ashore

Whale and mammal spotting

Zodiac cruises

Lecture on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations

Add-on Activities

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling…

*Optional add-on activities are available on select voyages. They are listed on each itinerary page and additional fees apply. 

Northern Lights Cruises FAQs

Northern Lights cruises and expeditions with Aurora Expeditions offer a unique and enchanting experience, providing travellers with the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing natural phenomenon known as the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis. These expeditions take place in regions near the Arctic Circle, such as Norway or Iceland, where the Northern Lights are frequently visible. Our cruises are strategically timed to coincide with periods of high auroral activity. Passengers will embark on comfortable expedition vessels, equipped with expert guides, to explore remote and dark-sky locations. This extraordinary adventure combines celestial spectacle with Arctic landscapes, creating an unforgettable and magical journey.

Yes, you can witness the Northern Lights from a cruise ship during dedicated Northern Lights cruises with Aurora Expeditions. These cruises navigate to prime viewing locations near the Arctic Circle, offering passengers a unique vantage point to experience the dazzling spectacle of the Aurora Borealis. The expedition vessels are strategically positioned in areas with minimal light pollution, maximizing the chances of observing the vibrant colours and dancing lights of the Northern Lights against the Arctic night sky. Passengers will enjoy the magical display from the comfort of the ship, creating a truly extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

Popular regions for Northern Lights cruises and expeditions with Aurora Expeditions include Arctic destinations like Norway, Iceland and the Canadian Arctic. These Arctic regions, located near the magnetic poles, offer optimal conditions for observing the Northern Lights. Aurora Expeditions carefully plans itineraries to position their vessels in prime locations, away from light pollution, providing passengers with the best chances of witnessing the spectacular light display.

The optimal time to witness the Northern Lights during Aurora Expeditions’ cruises and expeditions is typically during the winter months when the polar night prevails. This period, from late September to early April, offers extended darkness and clearer skies, enhancing the visibility of the Aurora Borealis. The absence of sunlight allows passengers to fully immerse themselves in the captivating light displays against the Arctic or sub-Arctic landscapes. Aurora Expeditions carefully schedules these voyages to coincide with peak Northern Lights activity, ensuring passengers have the best chances of experiencing this celestial spectacle in its full splendour.

Northern Lights cruises and expeditions with Aurora Expeditions offer a range of captivating activities . Passengers can enjoy nightly Aurora photography sessions, guided by expert photographers, to capture the ethereal displays. Onboard, expect to learn all about our surroundings from our expert expedition team. Additionally, cultural interactions with local communities will enhance your Arctic experience. The vessels are equipped with observation decks, ensuring optimal Northern Lights viewing. To unwind, onboard amenities include wellness facilities, dining featuring local cuisine and presentations from naturalists. These diverse activities create a holistic and enriching journey for travellers seeking the magic of the Northern Lights.

We use all of our expertise when it comes to maximizing your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights during a cruise, such as creating an itinerary that navigates to prime Aurora viewing locations like Norway, Iceland and the Canadian Arctic, and opting for departures during the Northern Lights season, typically from late September to early April, when the polar night skies are darkest. We also have expert-led programs within the expedition, such as lectures or photography sessions, to enhance your understanding and capturing capabilities.

Yes, Aurora Expeditions’ Northern Lights cruises and expeditions are designed to accommodate participants of all ages and experience levels. The itineraries are crafted to provide a comfortable and enriching experience, whether you are a seasoned traveller or exploring the polar regions for the first time. Expedition staff and guides offer support and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone. Activities and excursions cater to various interests, allowing participants to customize their experience. From informative lectures to adventurous shore landings, there’s something for everyone, making these expeditions inclusive and suitable for individuals, families and groups with diverse backgrounds and preferences.

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Northern Lights Cruise: How to See the Stunning Natural Phenomenon

Last updated: June 25th, 2021

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Seeing the Northern Lights is one of those magical experiences on nearly every traveler’s bucket list due to the surreal way light moves in waves of green color across the nighttime sky.

Aurora Borealis, as it’s officially known, can only be seen above the magnetic pole of the Northern Hemisphere. Your chances of seeing them increase the farther north you are, which in turn makes Iceland an ideal place to try your luck at Northern Lights gazing.

Dreaming about seeing the Northern Lights is easy; figuring out the logistics of viewing those shimmering colors in the nighttime sky aren’t so simple. A Northern Lights cruise takes the stress out of planning, lodging, and even transportation to destinations like Iceland, Alaska, and more.

What is the best cruise to see the Northern Lights?

Watch: Iceland Cruises Aboard Celebrity Cruises

On Celebrity, cruises to Alaska and Iceland just might yield sightings of Aurora Borealis. That said, even if you don’t see the Northern Lights during your cruise, there’s plenty to fall in love with in these exciting destinations, from incredible dog-sledding competitions to hiking along stunning fjords.

Alaska Cruises to See The Northern Lights

In 2021, our cruises to Alaska will be sailing later than usual, kicking off the season in late July and ending in early October. These exciting seven-night itineraries stop in stunning Alaskan ports, such as Ketchikan and Juneau, and spend a day sailing close to the majestic Dawes Glacier, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers.

One of the benefits of sailing to Alaska later in the year is that it increases the chance of seeing the breathtaking Northern Lights, as these are much more likely to be witnessed during the fall and winter months. If you’re sailing on a 2021 cruise to Alaska , you might even have the chance to admire this natural phenomenon from the comfort of your private Veranda Stateroom or from one of the open-air decks on board.

14-Night Iceland and Ireland Cruise to See the Northern Lights

Get up close to beautiful, picturesque landscapes on an Iceland and Ireland cruise from Southampton, England, which offers 14 nights of pure bliss on Celebrity Silhouette .

In Iceland, you’ll stop in Akureyri and overnight in the capital city, Reykjavik. Discover the wonders of Iceland’s nature by hiking along snow-capped mountains, marveling at enormous waterfalls, and exploring gurgling fields of Icelandic lava.

The best Iceland cruise excursions for someone who is hoping to see the Northern Lights takes place in Reykjavik, where you’ll have the unique chance to explore the scientific and cultural significance of aurora borealis at the Northern Lights Center, head outside the city for a chance to see them in person, followed by a jaunt to the small fishing village of Stokkseyri, where you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Icelandic lobster feast.

Alaska Cruisetours to See the Northern Lights

Alaska cruisetours are the ideal way to explore the state’s stunning interior and extend your Alaska cruise vacation.

For the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, the Evening Aurora Pursuit is available on Alaska Cruisetours in mid- and late August on Celebrity Millenium. The Evening Aurora Pursuit is an optional land excursion available on different cruise tours from 10 to 13 nights, like:

Alaska Gold Rush Adventure Cruisetour

The 10-Night Alaska Gold Rush Adventure Cruisetour (2A Northbound) will take you deep into the interior of Alaska, where you can explore Gold Rush history. Stay overnight in Fairbanks and explore Denali State Park. You might lose track of time, since the sun shines late into the night.

Majestic Tundra Explorer Cruisetour

If you like to spend quality time in the cities you travel to, the 11-Night Majestic Tundra Explorer Cruisetour (4A Northbound) is ideal because it features two nights in both Denali and Fairbanks. You’ll stay in a cozy lodge and keep an eye out for Alaska’s “Big Five”: caribou, moose, bears, grey wolves, and Dall sheep.

Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour

The 12-Night Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour (6A Northbound) is perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, and offers even more time in Alaska’s breathtaking national parks like Denali and Kenai Fjords.

The Great Frontier Expedition & Grand Heartland Adventure

Cruisetours like the 13-Night Great Frontier Expedition (8A Northbound) and the 13-Night Grand Heartland Adventure (7A Northbound) show Alaska’s many majestic sides. Meet the eclectic locals in Talkeetna. Discover a wealth of knowledge on indigenous history. Board a glass-domed rail car, called the Wilderness Express, to Fairbanks, and soak up picturesque views every step of the way.

On cruisetours like these, you’ll traverse to towns like Seward, Anchorage, Denali, and tiny Talkeetna . Of course, sightings of the Northern Lights on your cruisetour depend entirely on natural circumstances, relying on weather, darkness, and a bit of magic.

While we can’t guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights on your cruisetour, we can promise you’ll walk away with a deep appreciation for Alaska’s rugged wilderness, flora, fauna, and rich history.

What month is best to see the Northern Lights?

Aurora Borealis is more likely to be seen between September and March. Darkness is essential if you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights during your travels.

Read: Best Time to Cruise Alaska

You’re also more likely to see them if you visit in colder months, as the most brilliant displays occur both in dark and cold environments. Because it’s a scientific phenomenon beyond the comprehension of modern science, you can only truly predict occurrences of the Northern Lights roughly two hours before they happen.

What do I pack for a Northern Lights cruise?

For fall and winter, when sightings of the Northern Lights are more common, layering is key.

A large coat or puffer jacket is helpful, but the true secret to staying warm is layering. Thick wool socks and not airy fabrics (avoid cotton or linen) are important in keeping heat trapped in and closer to the body.

When in doubt, wear one more layer than you think you need. Remember: you can always take off another layer, but if you didn’t bring one to begin with, you might find yourself battling the cold.

Beanies, hats, hoods, gloves, and hand warmers are all good ideas, too.

Read: What to Pack for Iceland

Book A Cruise to See the Northern Lights

While seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed, cruises to Alaska and Iceland make for unforgettable vacations. Whether you’re traversing the wild terrain of the Last Frontier or spending your days exploring cities like Bergen and Alesund, we have an ideal itinerary for you.

Call one of our vacation specialists at 1-800-852-8086 or browse our cruise itineraries online.

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Northern lights cruises: A guide to chasing the aurora borealis at sea

Witnessing the elusive northern lights flickering across the sky might cause you to gasp because it's actually that cool. The colorful ribbons of green look like something from outer space — and they are. Auroras appear when charged particles collide with Earth's atmosphere.

Seeing the ethereal display, also known as the aurora borealis, is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. Cruise ships can take you to destinations where your chances of catching Mother Nature's special light show are improved.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Remember that seeing this phenomenon doesn't involve a cruise director flipping on a switch. Witnessing the northern lights requires clear and dark skies, late-night viewing hours, enough solar activity for the colors to appear and a big dose of luck. Keep that in mind before you invest all your cruise vacation hopes in this one experience.

Where can I see the northern lights on a cruise?

The lights are best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere and especially in locations on the so-called auroral oval, a ring zone over the polar regions. In cruising terms, that means prime viewing is in northern Alaska (which is easily accessible on cruisetours), Norway, Iceland, Arctic Canada and parts of Greenland.

Just off the auroral ring is the rest of Alaska. If you are on a cruise in the Inside Passage before April 21 or after Aug. 21 and are willing to be awake in the middle of the night (the lights tend to appear in Alaska after midnight), there's a chance you'll see the aurora borealis.

Cruise lines operating in Alaska — including Holland America , Princess Cruises and UnCruise Adventures — have northern lights sign-up sheets so you don't have to stay up all night, every night, hoping to see the display. Put your name on the list, and you'll receive a wake-up call or knock on your cabin door if there's aurora action. Plan to put on your clothes or bathrobe quickly, as the lights might only appear for a few minutes. (They could also last considerably longer.)

Related: Peak solar activity is forecast for 2024: Here are the best places around the world to see the northern lights

If you're interested in where to see the northern lights outside Alaska, the Arctic city of Alta, Norway, calls itself "The City of Northern Lights."

Alta's credentials include the world's first permanent observatory for viewing the aurora borealis; it was built there in 1899. A whole industry has sprung up around the lights, including such extravagant shore excursions as an overnight in a tent with viewing windows at a Sami dog-sledding camp. Alta is also home to the Northern Lights Cathedral, an architectural landmark.

Tromso is another Norwegian destination known as a hub for aurora borealis viewing. In late January, there's a northern lights arts festival featuring top artists in various musical genres.

Cunard Line and Hurtigruten are among the lines that visit northern Norway in the fall. However, the peak viewing season is from November to March (see below). Viking also visits but in the winter.

Iceland, Greenland and Arctic Canada appear on many expedition ships' itineraries during northern lights season, mostly early in the season in August and September. Lines with ships there include Quark Expeditions, Aurora Expeditions and Lindblad Expeditions.

When can I see the northern lights on a cruise?

Because of the late-setting and early rising midnight sun, it's way too light during the summer to see the northern lights in the destinations mentioned, but solar activity does take place year-round.

If you have a goal of seeing the aurora borealis in any of the destinations discussed here, you're best off booking as far into the fall as you can find a cruise. Norway is the only prime northern lights destination with winter cruises.

The lights like to appear in the wee hours — particularly between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. — in Alaska. An advantage in Norway is that it's dark enough to see them for a longer period during fall and winter.

Do cruisetours in Alaska improve my chances of seeing the lights?

Cruisetours in Alaska can improve your odds of seeing the aurora because they get you to Fairbanks and other inland destinations in Alaska that tend to have more cloud-free skies than in the Inside Passage, where cruise ships sail.

While you might see the lights from Denali National Park and Preserve during the viewing season, venturing to Fairbanks and points farther north will increase your odds.

Fairbanks tourism folks like to brag that if you visit for at least three nights between Aug. 21 and April 21, your chances of seeing the aurora borealis are more than 90%. (That assumes you are out actively looking during the late evening hours.)

Since your cruisetour might not visit for three nights, consider booking extra hotel nights before or after your cruise. Other things to do in this laid-back city (human population: about 100,000; moose population: 16,000) include riverboat tours, gold panning and yoga with reindeer.

You can also see the lights in Canada's Yukon Territory, including in the gold rush town of Dawson City, which is visited on some Holland America cruisetours.

Related: What's the best way to view the northern lights? We tried to see them by air, land and sea

Should I go on a cruise just to see the northern lights?

Yes, but remember that the phenomenon is dependent on the weather (clear skies required) and hard to predict, despite scientists' best efforts.

Viking has wintertime cruises to Norway from London specifically designed to track the lights in the Norwegian Sea during the peak viewing season — throughout the cruise but especially above the Arctic Circle in Tromso and Alta (where the sailings stop overnight). It's dark in these locales in winter, increasing your chances.

Hurtigruten is so invested in its northern lights experiences that it has hired famed northern lights astronomer Tom Kerss as its "chief aurora chaser." He will serve as an onboard expert, offering talks and workshops for passengers.

The line is so sure you will see the lights on the October-through-March sailings of its year-round 11- and 12-day Norwegian Coastal Express itineraries that the company has a guarantee called the Northern Lights Promise. If the deck's officers don't announce to all on board that the northern lights are happening, you can get a six- or seven-day Norwegian Coastal cruise for free.

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Embark on a celestial journey during the anticipated Solar Maximum of 2024-25 , promising the most spectacular Northern Lights display in over a decade. Seize the opportunity to witness, learn , and photograph this extraordinary phenomenon now.

Book confidently with our Northern Lights Promise – get a free trip if the lights don't appear on select voyages ( Ts&Cs apply ).

Don't miss this celestial spectacle – book your journey and embrace the magic of the Northern Lights with us!

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Feel the spirit of the north

Experience a land where dawn and twilight merge on the edges of the long Arctic night. Sailing far north during Norway’s winter, witness snow-covered landscapes dotted with rugged mountains and steep fjords, and seek out the brilliant aurora borealis dancing in the night sky. Delve into Sami legends and World War II history, and pilot a dog sled or snowmobile to further immerse yourself in the Norwegian Arctic as you join us on this illuminating voyage.

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12 best northern lights cruises for a spectacular adventure

Maximise your chances of seeing mother nature’s most spectacular light show dancing across the night sky on a sailing into the arctic circle.

N o photograph or television documentary can prepare you for seeing the northern lights in real life. They are one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena and cruises, which sail beneath the aurora oval, provide some of the best chances of spotting the aurora borealis in all their glory. The best time for sightings is from September through to April in Norway, Greenland and Iceland. You can keep cosy in panoramic observation lounges before going out on deck if the lights make an appearance. Additionally, shore tours seek out the best potential viewing spots based on meteorological forecasts. Here’s our pick of the best northern lights cruises.

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1. Princess Cruises

Choose how you hunt for the northern lights this 13-night trip to and from Southampton on the 3,140-passenger Caribbean Princess. On the overnight in Alta you can head to the Paeskatun centre, set at the top of a slate quarry, with sweeping views over the dark winter sky, Here you can watch a film presentation on the myths, history and science behind the lights and warm up in cosy cottages with hot drinks and cakes. The alternative viewing spot is a longer trip to a camp site to look for Mother Nature’s marvel.

Best suited to six months+ Price ££ Family-friendly Y

2. Ambassador Cruise Line

One of the latest cruise lines to launch sailings to seek out the aurora is Ambassador. It’s the first British cruise line to do so in more than a decade and has convenient, value-for-money, round-trip voyages from Tilbury, Bristol, Newcastle and Dundee. These include a 14-night sailing on its recently launched second ship, the 1,200-passenger Ambition. Highlights include visits to former Viking strongholds Haugesund and Trondheim, and Arctic Circle calls in Alta, Narvik and Bodo.

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Best suited to 50+ Price £ Family-friendly N

3. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Create a very personal souvenir as you go in search of the northern lights with an art session on Bolette and Borealis; watercolour classes to help you capture the awe-inspiring night-time display are held aboard both ships in the Olsen Art Studio. You can book a nine-night sailing on Balmoral out of Newcastle — a shorter than typical trip due to the closer proximity of the departure point to Norway . Depending on where you live, there are also convenient sailings with longer voyages from Southampton, Portsmouth and Newcastle.

Best suited to 50+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

4. P&O Cruises

Sailing to and from Southampton, P&O runs dedicated northern lights cruises on its adult-only ship Aurora. During these 12-night sailings you’ll sail along the dramatic coast of Norway to the fringes of the Arctic Circle and also visit the country’s beautiful fjords, including 550m-deep Romsdalsfjord. On a shore tour in Alta you’ll meet a northern lights expert who monitors the skies and aurora borealis forecast beforehand to help pick the best location for the day.

Best suited to 21+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

• Things you might not know about the northern lights

Search for the northern lights in style aboard Cunard’s stylish Queen Anne, the line’s first new ship in 12 years. The 12-night, round-trip Southampton sailing includes several days at sea to explore the 3,000-passenger vessel and indulge in the signature afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters. You’ll visit Narvik, one of the world’s most northerly towns, where a ride on the cable car is the best way to experience breathtaking views over the fjords and Arctic landscape. Sailings from Southampton are also available on Cunard’s ocean liner and flagship Queen Mary 2.

Best suited to 12+ Price £££ Family-friendly Y

6. Hurtigruten

Although sightings of the northern lights can never be 100 per cent guaranteed, Norwegian cruise specialist Hurtigruten is so confident you’ll see them that it has a “Northern Lights Promise” on selected sailings — if the lights don’t put on a show, you’ll enjoy a future Classic Voyage sailing free of charge. Dedicated trips in search of the aurora borealis include a 13-night round-trip expedition cruise from Amsterdam on MS Maud. It features a day on Senja, one of the most ruggedly beautiful and lesser-visited Norwegian islands.

Best suited to 14+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

As well as the chance to view the northern lights, Viking’s sailings offer exciting excursions to experience local culture and traditions. The adult-only line, which has its roots in Norway, has a reputation for creating curated and insightful tours. On the 12-night northern lights itinerary aboard Viking Venus from London Tilbury to Bergen, or in reverse, these include Polar Park, the world’s northernmost wildlife park. Here, you’ll meet wolves on an extraordinary tour led by a wildlife biologist. Other activities include a snowshoe hike above Bergen and learning the winter sport of curling.

• Best ways to see the northern lights: our top tips

8. Havila Voyages

The new kid on the block along the Norwegian coast is Havila Voyages, which has a fleet of four eco-friendly ships that launched in 2022. The line has a variety of options to sail part or all of the way along the classic route from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, with the round trip taking 11 nights. Observation lounges have glass roofs and reclining chairs to view the Arctic sky and you can push a button on the cabin telephone to be woken up in the night if the lights appear. It also has a northern lights promise — if the phenomenon doesn’t appear during a 12-day sailing, passengers get a free week-long voyage.

havilavoyages.com

Cross the Arctic Circle on a 15-night itinerary available on Saga’s two 999-passenger ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery. Cruises sail to and from Portsmouth and to increase your odds of seeing the light show there’s an overnight stay in Tromso, where you can visit the Polar Museum or embark on an exhilarating husky or reindeer sledding ride. You’ll be joined by experts from the conservation charity Orca who will be out on deck to host seabird and wildlife spotting sessions.

10. Quark Expeditions

Explore Iceland and Greenland, two of the last unspoilt wilderness areas on the planet, with Quark Expeditions. Sailing round-trip from Reykjavik on the 128-passenger ice-class ship Ocean Adventurer, the 13-night Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland itinerary takes in Iceland’s mountainous Westfjords and Greenland’s rugged and isolated northeast coast, home to the largest fjord system in the world. The ship sails to Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote inhabited community in the western hemisphere, where polar bears are frequently sighted and there’s a good chance of seeing the northern lights.

Best suited to 21+ Price £££ Family-friendly N

• Best northern lights igloos and bubble domes

11. Aurora Expeditions

Embark on an epic sailing in 2024 aboard the 132-passenger Greg Mortimer, the first expedition cruise vessel to feature a striking inverted bow design for smoother sailing. Aurora Expedition’s 19-night Northern Lights Explorer sailing from Kirkenes to Reykjavik will hug coastlines in the Arctic Circle and explore far-flung islands and villages. Highlights include a visit to Unesco-listed Vega Island, a centre for the production of duck eiderdown, and a planned landing at Jan Mayen where the Beerenberg volcano is the world’s northernmost active volcano, last erupting in 1985.

In 2024 luxury line Ponant features its first-ever winter cruise holidays in Norway. On the ten-night Nordic Discoveries & Traditions itinerary you’ll sail to and from Tromso on the elegant 184-passenger Le Bellot or Le Champlain. Timed to coincide with the best chance of viewing the northern lights, the cruise will also have an accent on the region’s cultural traditions, with shore tours to meet the indigenous Sami people, who have been reindeer herders since the 17th century, and the chance to try your hand at dog sledding, ice fishing and snowshoeing.

• Best northern lights tours: Iceland, Lapland and Canada

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Inspired to book a Northern Lights cruise? Here are the best cruising options with Fred Olsen and Cruise 118 .

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Northern Lights Cruises

Aurora borealis cruises - mother nature’s ultimate light show.

The sensational Aurora Borealis is one of Mother Nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena, a magical multi-coloured light show that presents those lucky enough to witness this simply unforgettable, must-see spectacle with memories that will last forever. [ReadMoreMob]

With Fred. Olsen, you can go in search of the Aurora on a selection of specially timed Northern Lights cruises from southern and northern UK departures ports that offer the best chances to see dancing ribbons of green, blue and pink illuminating the skies above Arctic Norway's wonderland of remote islands, towering mountains and stunning glaciers. 

Presenting opportunities to explore flawless Arctic wilderness on exhilarating snowmobiling or husky sledding adventures; immerse yourself in authentic Sami Culture, visit an Ice Hotel; and much more too, Northern Lights cruise holidays always sell-out quickly, so be sure to book now and secure your chance to seek-out the Aurora Borealis with Fred. Olsen.

Hand-crafted Arctic Cruises

Our Northern Lights cruises are hand-crafted to show you the very best of the stunning Arctic region, whether this be docking closer to interesting towns, or scenic cruising past ice-capped northern fjords. And our curated programme of shore tours offer authentic Arctic experiences for the most avid travel enthusiast.

Expert guides will take you to the best local spots, amid beautiful landscapes, perfect for seeking out the elusive Aurora Borealis.

Husky sledding is the ultimate Arctic experience. Take an exhilarating ride through snow covered pine forests before learning how these magnificent creatures are trained.

Surrounded by stunning arctic landscapes, get closer to magnificent Humpback and Orca Whales, listening out for their otherwordly calls echoing around you.

Experience glassy waters and unspoilt views of the Arctic from a kayak for a different and fascinating perspective of this beautiful part of the world from the water.

Experience life as one of the Sami people and their deep connection to nature, where reindeer and traditional costumes are an integral part of their culture.

• On Board Experience

19 Ocean Cruises

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2431

• Search for the Northern Lights on an extended stay in Alta
• Enjoy a scenic cruise of the Seven Sisters mountain range
• Spend time with a Sámi community to learn about local traditions
• 2 offers available

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2432

• 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 Tromsø
• 1 offer available

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2433

• Take 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

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2435

• Have the chance to spot the Northern Lights in Alta and from Balmoral
• Experience crossing the Arctic Circle and the ceremony held on board
• Spend time with a Sámi community and learn of local traditions

In Search of the Northern Lights • S2427

• Look for the Northern Lights in 'Gateway to the Arctic', Tromsø
• Spend time with local Sámi people to learn about their way of life
• Experience husky sledding through snowy landscapes

In Search of the Northern Lights at Christmas • L2437

• Have the chance to see the Northern Lights during the festive season
• Celebrate Christmas Day on board Balmoral
• Experience the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv in winter

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2503A

• Catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights in Norway
• Cross the Arctic Circle on board Balmoral
• Connect with nature and pristine Arctic landscapes

In Search of the Northern Lights • S2502

• Have the chance to experience the Northern Lights in Alta and Tromsø
• Embrace friluftsliv and enjoy outdoor activities like husky sledding
• Sail past Torghatten, the intriguing mountain with the hole through its centre

In Search of the Northern Lights • S2506

• Witness the Northern Lights from the decks of Borealis
• Learn about life in the Arctic in Tromsø with a Sámi community
• Marvel at the views from Mount Aksla in Ålesund

In Search of the Northern Lights • S2507

• Witness the magical Northern Lights from Borealis
• Learn about life in the Arctic in Tromsø
• Climb the steps to the top of Mount Aksla in Alesund

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As part of our Northern Lights cruises, our new programme of on board activities allows guests to discover real in-sights about the culture and nature of the places we are visiting, so you can arrive in each destination fully prepared to get the most out of of your visit.

Take a look at the below for a taste of the wonderful activities which may be available on each of our Northern Lights cruises:

Itinerary Insights

Our Journey Planners have carefully curated a programme of events throughout your cruise, with special guest speakers selected for their expertise and knowledge about local wildlife, culture and traditions, to give you a deeper understanding of each of the destinations we will be visiting. On all our Northern Lights cruises we will of course go in search of the elusive Aurora Borealis, and there will be plenty of opportunities to wrap up warm and join our team out on deck to hopefully catch a glimpse of Mother Nature's most imitable light show!

Scenic Discoveries

Our Scenic Discoveries are designed to allow you to enjoy seeing the world from a unique perspective of our ship. On your cruise, soak up the scenic sights on offer on your unique itinerary - this could be the majestic peaks of the Seven Sisters Mountains, the astonishing natural wonder of Torghatten Mountain, or joining in the fun and festivities of a traditional ceremony out on deck as we cross into the Arctic Circle. 

Treats of the Region

As we explore your cruise itinerary together, you'll be able to sample various treats of the region in our on board restaurants - trying out local delicacies, with options for both lunch and dinner. Our talented Chefs and their teams will also provide cookery demonstrations throughout your cruise, where you will learn to recreate traditional dishes such as Lapskaus; a winter warming beef and vegetable stew, Kjøttkaker; famous Norwegian meatballs or even Serinakaker; a delicious butter cookie which is a staple in Norway at Christmas time.

The Sky at Sea

There's very little in the natural world more beautiful than a clear night sky, sunrise or sunset seen from sea. Take the opportunity to wrap up warm with a hot chocolate in hand and head out on deck for a chance to catch a glimpse of the famously elusive Northern Lights!

The Ship and Sea

We know a lot of our guests are curious about what it takes to operate a cruise, or find out what it's like to call our cruise ships 'Home', so join us for our  Audience with... sessions and learn all about what life is like as a member of our Show Company team, or maybe a live Q&A session with the Captain himself! 

Taking a cruise to the Northern Lights is a special experience, offering the chance to see the colourful Aurora Borealis in the skies above your smaller ship. 

Read below to see what our lovely guests have said about our Northern Lights cruises.

"Lovely relaxing cruise beautiful scenery, a great chance to see the Northern Lights". Independent Feefo Review

"Some magical sailing from the Scottish Islands in perfect weather to the Northern Lights in Tromso". Independent Feefo Review

"We travelled to Norway with Fred. for the Northern Lights - it was fabulous!!" Independent Feefo Review

"Good ports of call and seeing the Northern Lights on two nights was fantastic". Independent Feefo Review

"Lovely ship, and we saw the Northern Lights display on a number of evenings". Independent Feefo Review

Fabulous cruise to see the Northern Lights!! Independent Feefo Review

Take a look at our gallery of fantastic photos taking on board our ships as we cruise to the Northern Lights. 

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Call now for FREE on: +441473746175

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Where and when to see the northern lights in 2024

Now is the perfect time to plan a northern lights trip

• North America
• Viewing from home

When to see the northern lights

Northern lights forecasts.

Nothing quite beats seeing the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in all their glory. But where and when can you see them? 

Lucky for us the next few years are going to be the best for seeing the northern lights due to heightened solar activity as we approach "solar maximum" in the current solar cycle.

So if you are planning a trip to see the northern lights now is the time to do it. Not sure where to go? Here we have rounded up some of the best places to see auroras around the world. 

Related: Aurora colors: What causes them and why do they vary?  

The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph), but our planet's magnetic field protects us from energetic assault.

As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike. The southern lights, or aurora australis, are produced in the same way. 

We asked Tom Kerss, astronomy, author and northern lights expert what three pieces of advice he would give to someone wanting to see the northern lights. 

Tom Kerss is an astronomer and the author of numerous best-selling books about the night sky for both adults and children, including Northern Lights , Diamonds Everywhere and the Starry Stories Series .  

What are your top tips for seeing the northern lights?

1. Unless you're lucky enough to have the lights come to you, seeing auroras is a matter of being in the right place at the right time. Fortunately, we can forecast where and when they are likely to become visible, so you can increase your odds. Being in Norway between late September and mid-March, during the darkest, moonless nights, and being mobile will greatly improve your chances. 

2. It's important to persevere! The arctic nights can be extremely cold, but you'll need to push yourself and stay up late to make the most of the auroral zone. On good nights, the Lights are visible as soon as it gets dark, but you should try to stay up until after midnight.

3. Taking your own photographs of the Northern Lights is so alluring, and very rewarding. Today's cameras — including smartphones — capture super, colourful and clear shots. But try not to get too carried away. Make sure you absorb the luminosity, colour and subtle movement of the Lights with your own eyes. You'll make pictures in your mind that you can't share, but you can feel!

What is your favorite aurora fact?

My favorite fact about auroras is that they appear not only on Earth, but on many other worlds. Every planet in the Solar System (except Mercury) exhibits auroras, as do several moons and even a comet! Moreover, we've measured auroras on other stars, and possibly even exoplanets, and they can teach us about the environments and interiors of these remote worlds.  

Where to see the northern lights in Europe

If you live in Europe, the easiest thing to do is head to the far northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Finland. Many local people speak English in those regions and there are lots of tours available.

Wherever you plan on going, bear in mind that cloudy skies may make it difficult to catch auroras on any one particular night. If possible, leave yourself extra time to accommodate inclement weather.

Here is a list of some possible European northern lights trips and tour providers:

Hurtigruten Coastal Express

Bergen — Kirkenes — Bergen 

Price: From £2942pp, includes breakfast, lunch and dinner + exclusive excursion to the Tromsø planetarium.

Duration: 12 days 

Northern Lights Promise :  If there is no recorded sighting of the northern lights while sailing, Hurtigruten will give guests a free 6- or 7-day Classic Voyage to redeem the following season. Terms and Conditions apply.

If you're interested in booking the Astronomy Voyage head over to Hurtigruten's official site .

If you're looking for the ultimate skywatching and cultural experience in Norway, we recommend taking the Hurtigruten Coastal Express along the stunning Norwegian Coast. 

There are a number of voyages available as well as specialized " Astronomy Voyages " that include additional astronomy lectures from an onboard astronomer and a visit to Tromsø's impressive planetarium and science center. 

You can read more about what it's like to experience the Hurtigruten Astronomy Voyage in our article . 

The Northern Lights Company

The Northern Lights Company based in stunning Vesterålen, Norway, offers various 4, 5 or 7-night northern lights trips between September and April. 

All tours include transport, accommodation, aurora chasing by night as well as daytime activities so guests not only get to see beautiful Norway but also experience it. 

From eagle safaris and visits to the local Sami Reindeer farm to aurora research at the Andøy Space Centre and photography trips. There is something for everyone with the Northern Lights Company.

Visit Tromsø

Visit Tromsø sells aurora-watching trips around the city of Tromsø in Norway. The largest urban area in Northern Norway and the world's third largest city above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø lies just within the Northern Lights Oval, the region above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole where aurora displays are most likely to occur.

Visit Tromsø sells 'aurora chases,' dynamic night hunts for aurora displays in the aurora season between September and April, and slower-paced 'experiences' such as dog-sled and boat trips and overnight stays at aurora hotspots. Tromsø can be accessed by plane from Norway's capital Oslo; adventure seekers are sometimes rewarded by an aurora display during their incoming flight.

Lights over Lapland

Lights over Lapland sells a range of aurora-watching packages that take skywatchers to Sweden's northernmost region, Lapland. Lapland straddles the border between Sweden and Finland, with both sides offering excellent aurora viewing opportunities in winter months and the midnight sun experience in summer. 

Lights over Lapland operates on the Swedish side of the border with most of its tours aiming for Abisko National Park (not far from the Esrange Space Center which runs rocket tests for ESA and is gearing up to perform the first satellite launches from continental Europe).

"Abisko has developed a reputation for being the No. 1 aurora-watching destination on the planet, due to the fact that it is located in a very special microclimate with less precipitation than any other location on Earth that is located within the aurora zone," photographer Chad Blakley, who is a co-founder of Lights over Lapland, told Space.com via email. 

If you want to see what it's like to chase auroras in Swedish Lapland check out our article on what it's like to put Abisko's "cloud-busting weapon" to the test . 

Guide to Iceland

Guide to Iceland sells a range of aurora-watching packages on the North Atlantic island, including bus tours, boat tours and hunting trips. Situated just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland provides a decent chance of catching the Northern Lights during winter months. If that doesn't work out, you can instead relax in the island's powerful natural hot springs and outdoor pools.

Viatour northern lights night tour from Reykjavik

Viatour operates evening aurora-watching trips from Iceland's capital Reykjavik. The bus tour takes tourists across the island to its most popular aurora spots. The operator says that those who don't get to see the northern lights during their trip can join again at no additional cost. 

Arctic Adventures

Arctic Adventures offers a large number of tours from day trips to multi-day excursions to experience the very best of Iceland. There is a range of northern lights tours available whether it be traveling by bus, boat, or multi-day hiking tours. Experience the majestic northern lights with Arctic Adventures and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Where to see the northern lights in North America

If you're interested in trying to photograph the northern lights check out our guides on how to photograph auroras , as well as the best equipment for aurora photography .

There are plenty of options for good aurora viewing in North America. While far-eastern Canada tends to be cloudy, the shore of the Hudson Bay, the northern Canadian towns of Yellowknife or Whitehorse, or the west coast of Alaska are usually good bets. (The city of Fairbanks itself can be a great choice for seeing northern lights without needing to go too far in the wilderness.)

Alaska Tours

Alaska Tours offers a range of packages from one-day trips to week-long tours that take visitors past the Arctic Circle to the heart of Alaska's wilderness, where the chance of catching the glowing auroras is among the best in the world. 

Aurora Borealis Yukon  

Aurora Borealis Yokon runs one-day to five-day aurora-watching trips in the Yukon territory in northwestern Canada. A direct neighbor of Alaska, Yukon offers pretty much the same aurora-observing conditions during the winter months.

Churchill Arctic Adventures

In the east, Churchill Arctic Adventures offers trips to Churchill, Manitoba, on the western shores of Hudson Bay. The company operates dedicated 'aurora domes,' heated cabins and other outposts in the boreal forest that allow visitors to observe the magnificent lights in perfect comfort. If the aurora doesn't show up, then perhaps some of the polar bears residing in this region may. 

Can I see the northern lights from my home?

If you capture an amazing photo of the northern lights and would like to share it with Space.com and our news partners for a story or gallery, send images to [email protected].  

The "standard" aurora borealis, observable in the Arctic regions, is generated by the solar wind , which constantly flows toward Earth. It manifests itself into a large "ring" above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is known as the aurora oval. 

During times of heightened solar activity, the aurora oval can expand more southern latitudes. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center maintains a detailed 30-minute aurora forecast where you can see the predicted extent of the auroral oval and the probability of auroras. The aurora borealis is visible most nights, weather permitting, within a band several hundred miles wide that's centered at about 66 degrees north — about the same latitude as the Arctic Circle.

But geomagnetic storms, caused by coronal mass ejections (CME), can ramp up the northern lights considerably and make them visible over much wider areas. In early November 2023, for example, a powerful geomagnetic storm sparked auroras as far south as Greece and Turkey .

Related: Aurora myths, legends and misconceptions

As the solar cycle intensifies, such occurrences might become more common (or rather, slightly less rare). We recommend keeping an eye on Spaceweather.com for alerts of possible incoming geomagnetic storms as well as NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center . 

Yet even the most powerful geomagnetic storm will fail to deliver the experience unless other factors cooperate — a cloud-free sky, not too much moonlight, nighttime hours and absence of light pollution. (City-dwellers have to get out into the countryside for an aurora experience no matter how strong the geomagnetic storm supercharging the sky might be.)

But you can have an aurora experience without even leaving your house if you so choose. Our northern lights webcams article offers aurora views from some iconic locations from across Europe and North America, all in one place. 

If you're planning an aurora-viewing trip, the best time is throughout the winter months. Anytime between late September to late March is a good time for northern lights hunting as the long nights provide ample aurora viewing opportunities.

The good news is that the sun's approximately 11-year solar cycle of solar activity is ramping up as we approach solar maximum. This means that the next few years will be the perfect time to plan a northern lights adventure.

The northern lights can appear for long periods or short bursts lasting only a few minutes (if that!) so the best way to see them is to wrap up warm, and wait. I have been on several northern lights hunts and sometimes they can appear when you least expect, so unless you're already outside and ready, you'll miss them completely. For me, the wait is all part of the experience, especially when you're out aurora hunting with other like-minded individuals. It provides the perfect opportunity to share aurora stories, do a spot of stargazing and simply enjoy the shared experience of the night sky . 

You can get an idea of how active the northern lights are likely to be in your area by keeping tabs on a short-term aurora forecast, such as the one provided by the Geophysical Institute . One predicting the next half hour is available on NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Website . Also, a citizen science website called Aurorasaurus gives on-the-ground instant information from aurora enthusiasts wanting to alert the community to new sky shows.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

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Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

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• dcr66 To be honest I have never paid explicitly for some tours to see Northern Lights. They are more visible than you think and you just need to know when. I do know people that pay $$ to go see these things in Norway. Then I showed them the pics I took from a plane window. If you are flying from North America to Europe the great circle route usually takes you up to Greenland and Iceland. If the flight is night time, then get a window seat on the left side of the plane. Don't sleep and keep your eyes peeled when you are up there. Very likely you will see the green curtains easily up near the horizon. My daughter despite never seen them before saw it flying to Europe. Same can be done if your route takes you over Anchorage Alaska, the right side of the plane. I used to see it all the time on the fueling stopover to Anchorage AK back in the 80s and 90s. Less likely these days except on certain China based airlines. The polar route from North America to Asia that goes over the North Pole. You should be able to see the green curtains on either side when you are in the artic circle. The Prairies in Canada but avoid the summer because you will be in astronomic twilight essentially. I lived in Winnipeg for some years in the 1980s and I see them all the time. All kinds including the white sheet that cover the whole sky and bright enough to read. Reply
• michael'Buzz'collins Yes, luckily some only have to travel a short distance out to your back door! As Recently the Aurora Borealis, thankfully (no clouds 🙏)was able to be viewed in NW Donegal, Eire As I recently saw the repeat of Alexander Armstrongs Iceland visit on RTE ( as I missed it on ch5) So wasn't expecting to see this wonderful cosmic display!! Here are a few pictures that people took from their backyard from Burtonport to Buncrana, Inc Churchill, As I see another Churchill featured below in Manitoba as if seeing the Northern Lights isn't enough, it's program on Ch4/BBC has featured it as it has the most concentration of polar bears too (, because of the ice melting!) https://www.facebook.com/162517790452520/posts/pfbid031eTNJrFWY791rydpEhMDQDUyvGh3pnKZfgwKsK7VRTYwjGdSXZoTHaFdSfUvQNUVl/?sfnsn=mo https://www.facebook.com/1580520814/posts/pfbid033woQiJnL5XpYNoweeEznauNbSjQNJDxSSMxvzE7RxrrxoAwS7kbrTYPnDvZHKgBRl/?sfnsn=mo Simply outta this world,so to say😇 Reply
• View All 2 Comments

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6 of the best Northern Lights cruises

Here’s how to have a floating holiday under the technicolour waltz of the aurora borealis, article bookmarked.

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Ribbons of brilliance, dazzling displays and ethereal stargazing – the Northern Lights are a lifetime highlight for those lucky enough to witness the intriguing spectacle.

Famously, orchestrating a glimpse of the elusive celestial ballet requires that a lot of factors fall into place. Clear viewing conditions, a great vantage point and a lot of patience are a must to watch the lights dance at their most visible between September and March.

To maximise your chances of a rare Northern Lights sighting, you’ll need to head for locations with the latitude to host nature’s best performance, and chances of a successful sighting soar on the remote Arctic Ocean .

Forget shivering on city-side snowscapes you were ferried to by coach and float far from light pollution, gliding past giant ice cubes on luxury vessels beneath the dramatic backdrop of the aurora borealis.

With cruises bound for Norway , Iceland , Canada and Greenland chasing the cosmic whisps of purple and green, here’s our guide to the sailings primed for illuminated skies.

Read more on cruises :

• The best winter cruise holidays for winter sun, city breaks and the Northern Lights
• Best Caribbean cruises for a holiday on the water
• The best river cruises in Europe, from the Douro to the Danube

Best for: Aurora guarantee

The north cape express, hurtigruten.

Departs: Oslo, Norway

Arrives: Bergen, Norway

Hunting the aurora borealis with  Hurtigruten  entails a journey from capital  Oslo  to North Cape, on the Arctic Norwegian coast, in the hopes of watching the ultimate light performance. Think frost-tipped mountains, icy fjords and some serious snow with stops at Tromsø, aurora hotspot, Alta, and Honningsvåg, Norway’s northernmost city, along the way.

A voyage on the 14-day The North Cape Express itinerary costs from £1,827pp, with multi-course dining, flights, port transfers and on-board activities – such as photography workshops – on MS Trollfjord included in the price. The cherry on top of the cake? Hurtigruten promises an additional six- or seven-day Norway voyage free of charge if the Northern Lights don’t put on a show while you sail.

Departures until April 2024.

Best for: Illuminating science

Greenland and iceland, celebrity cruises.

Departs:  Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrives:  Boston, Massachusetts

For a surreal sea voyage across the Northern Hemisphere’s wild terrain,  Celebrity Cruises  provides a slice of volcanic Iceland with six ports, including Greenland and Nova Scotia . At Reykjavik’s Northern Lights Center, you’ll also learn the science behind the spectacle and its cultural significance on a cruise that could yield a sighting of the unpredictable aurora.

Spend 12 nights onboard the decadent Celebrity Eclipse from $2,163pp (£1,706). Cruise in style on the ship complete with a European shopping piazza, yoga studio and a martini bar that boasts a whole portfolio of vodkas.

Departing 16 August 2024.

Best for: Cruising and perusing

Arctic circle cruise, royal caribbean.

Departs: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Arrives: Amsterdam, Netherlands

To peruse eight port cities during a round trip of the Arctic Circle’s Norweigan aurora belt, Royal Caribbean’s 12-night Arctic Circle Cruise to Tromsø, Flam and Kristiansand provides the ideal glide through remote dark skies.

It’s £1,478pp for an interior cabin including daring dining from sushi rolls to plates of steak and glasses of fine wine. Entertainment-wise, musical performances, rock climbing walls and mini golf fill days anticipating nature’s displays after dark.

Departing 30 May 2024.

Best for: Sustainable sailing

Norway round voyage, havila voyages.

Departs: Bergen, Norway

This coastal express cruise by Havila Voyages visits 34 Norweigan ports across 12 days including travel wish list staples such as the Lofoten archipelago and the sensatinal North Cape landscape and there are few places better to watch the lights dance.

Lucky travellers will be able to watch the sky illuminate in secondary colours through the glass ceiling of the ship’s observation lounge as they sail sustainably by battery for up to four hours of silence – a Northern Lights promise also applies to this magical £2,096pp voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes.

Departing 30 December 2023.

Best for: Exhaustive expeditions

Journey across the northwest passage, seabourn.

Departs: Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrives: Anchorage, Alaska

Onboard  Seabourn’s  Venture ship, a 23-day journey across the Northwest Passage floats from Iceland to Greenland, Canada and Alaska and the kaleidoscope of colourful houses typical of Scandinavian towns extends above to the night skies. There’s even a constellation lounge with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, which offer views of penguins and killer whales by day and the light’s wonders by night.

The cruise costs from £24,299 for a veranda suite; not cheap, but the Northwest Passage experience through the glacier-carved Canadian Arctic and 23 opportunities to tick the Northern Lights off your bucket list is arguably priceless.

Departing 6 August 2025.

Best for: Intimate adventures

East greenland explorer fly & cruise, secret atlas.

Arrives: Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland

To explore Greenland’s breathtaking Scoresby Sund fjord, the colossal ice columns of Viking Bay and the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, Secret Atlas has an impressive  East Greenland cruise . Groups of just 12 intrepid travellers can board MV Vikingfjord to reach Greenland’s mammoth fjord, from €9,900 (£8,579) for eight days of lectures, zodiac shore landings with polar bear protection guides, and full-board dining.

An on-deck sauna, comfortable cabins and an open-plan observation lounge primed for photographing the Northern Lights complete the intimate adventure. Float to the northern wilderness in September, when there is little light pollution and the best chance of being mesmerised by the vivid aurora.

Departing 5 September 2024.

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How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska | Holland America Line

Find out the best time to see the northern lights on your Alaska cruise and what Alaska locations offer the best viewing.

Viewing the Alaska northern lights takes the right timing, the right location and the right conditions. The supernal shimmer of emerald and violet begins with a few streaks and then breaks out into a graceful ballet. Spectators gaze at the sky in awe or snap photos well into the middle of the night. Some claim they can even hear auroral sounds! The northern lights or Aurora Borealis is a top-listed experience on many travelers’ bucket lists. But like most things in nature, they might not show, even if you visit Alaska at the best time.  

Here’s all you need to know to pick the best time to see northern lights in Alaska.  

What Are Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights and Aurora Borealis are one and the same — most people call them Northern Lights, while the scientific name is Aurora Borealis. The northern lights happen when charged particles from the sun enter the atmosphere and collide with gas atoms in Earth's atmosphere. They occur all year long but are only visible when the sky is dark and clear.  

How Often Do Northern Lights Happen?

The northern lights, or  aurora borealis, aren’t predictable, but they are more likely to display during high solar activity cycles. The sun alternates between a high activity cycle and low activity cycle every eleven years or so. We just headed into a high activity cycle, Solar Cycle 25. Watch the Kp-index, an aurora activity indicator to find out when conditions are ideal  

What Is The Best Time To See Northern Lights In Alaska?

The sky may be nature’s theater, but there’s no set time for this show. Like other natural occurrences, the Aurora Borealis come out to play when they feel like it. That said, being in the right place at the right time of year increases the odds.

Alaska’s northern lights viewing season stretches from late August through late April. The best time to visit Alaska for Northern Lights is winter or early spring. As far as cruises go,  Alaska cruises  in September is a good pick because nights are long and dark.

These finnicky ballerinas prefer the hours between midnight and 4:00 a.m. and favor crystal-clear skies. They also love to come out near the equinox as that’s when there are more disturbances in earth’s magnetic field, so choosing an itinerary close to the Autumnal Equinox may help your chances.

If you’d rather  cruise to Alaska  in summer, don’t expect to see the northern lights, but do soak up that midnight sunshine.  

What Is The Best Place To See Northern Lights In Alaska?

Alaska is by far the best place to see the northern lights in the U.S., though they have been reported as far south as Honolulu. That said, some towns in Alaska are better for Aurora Borealis viewing than others.

To give yourself the best possible chance of a northern lights encounter, take an  Alaska cruise tour  and visit these locations:  

Fairbanks, A Northern Lights Favorite

Fairbanks  is the best place to see northern lights in Alaska for visitors. When it comes to northern lights, Fairbanks knows what’s up. It consistently tops the list of places in Alaska and the world to catch the dazzling display and it’s not because the dancing green lights just happen to favor this gold rush boomtown. Fairbanks is located inside the Auroral Oval, the geomagnetic North Pole. The city is full of modern conveniences and there are many Fairbanks northern lights tours. There is also an Alaska igloo hotel 25 miles from Fairbanks, known as the Borealis Basecamp.  

Denali National Park

Denali National Park  is another good option in early spring or fall, as it’s far enough north and free from light pollution. If the stars align and the conditions are ripe for the show, try to find a clear viewing path, free of buildings and forest and face north, as that’s where activity starts.  

Northern Lights In Anchorage

Anchorage  also witnesses tantalizing displays, just not as frequently as Fairbanks and Denali as it’s farther south. But there’s plenty of moose to look at when you’re not watching the sky. If you’re in Anchorage and the conditions are ideal, head to a higher elevation. Glen Alps, Point Woronzof, and the Knit River Valley offer decent vantage points—some face north with no pesky mountain peaks in the way.

Hunting the Aurora Borealis is an adventure. If you see them (lucky duck), it’s a faux pas to wave, whistle, or call out—according to legend, that drives them away. Just sit back, relax and take in the extraordinary dance.

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Northern Lights Cruises

Venture into the heart of nature’s most mesmerising spectacle on one of our Northern Lights Cruises. As you sail through the icy waters, the skies above unfold a canvas of shimmering colours, presenting the Aurora Borealis in all its ethereal glory.

The best time to embark on this luminous adventure is during the darker months, typically between late September and late March. During this window, the skies are at their darkest and the lights, with their mesmerising hues of green, pink, and violet, are at their most vibrant.

While Aurora Borealis remains the star attraction, these cruises also offer a unique perspective on the stark beauty of the polar regions. Imagine sailing past towering icebergs, or catching a glimpse of a whale breaking the surface in the moonlit waters, all under the watchful gaze of the Aurora.

Want to know more about the Northern Lights?

For the optimal Northern Lights experience, head as near to the Arctic Circle as you can, beneath a canopy of absolute darkness. Embark on a journey to destinations within the Northern Lights Oval for a front-row seat with uninterrupted views.

The prime time to witness the Northern Lights is during the winter months, from September to April, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. Venturing into this winter wonderland is well worth wrapping up for!

History of the Aurora Borealis

From ancient Norse tales of celestial battles to indigenous beliefs that these lights held spiritual significance, the Northern Lights have woven a tapestry of wonder and intrigue throughout human history.

When is the best time to visit the Northern Lights?

The best time to take a cruise holiday to the Northern Lights depends on the region you want to explore and the specific experiences you’re seeking.

In general, the optimal time for witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon is during the winter months when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. This means the period from late September to early April, particularly from late autumn to the early winter months, is ideal for Northern Lights hunting.

Regions situated within or near the Arctic Circle, such as Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and parts of Canada and Alaska, offer excellent chances to see the lights during this time. It’s important to consider factors like weather conditions, moon phases, and light pollution when planning your trip to maximise your chances of experiencing this awe-inspiring celestial display.

It’s also essential to consider factors like local holidays, festivals and peak tourist seasons. It’s always a good idea to consult with one of our cruise agents who will give you the best advice!

Which cruise lines sail to the Northern Lights

Ambassador Cruise Line , Cunard , Fred Olsen Cruise Lines , Holland America , Hurtigruten , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , P&O Cruises , Princess Cruises , Silversea Cruises & Viking Ocean Cruises .

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Our cruise specialists at Southampton Cruise Centre are here to help! Call us from 9am to 9pm, 7 days a week on 02380 658 386 . Or search our collection of Northern Lights cruises below and send us an enquiry online! 

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Iceland cruise demand surges after stunning Northern Lights displays across UK

A urora hunters have been rushing to research holidays to Iceland to catch the Northern Lights, new data suggests, after the phenomenon swept across the UK last week.

Cruise companies have seen a spike in people googling trips to Iceland , possibly to see the spectacular light display, according to research by Iglu Cruise.

The phenomenon, also known as the aurora borealis, was spotted across the country last week with Londoners stunned as bands of pink and green light could be seen over areas such as Hampstead Heath , Primrose Hill, Muswell Hill and Alexandra Palace.

The aurora borealis was visible all over the UK with spectacular photos flooding social media as people rushed into gardens and nearby parks to witness the display. 

Google Trends shows search data for cruises to Iceland has increased by 40% in May 2024 compared to 2023. 

Searches for “Northern Lights” have also shot up by 9,900% compared to last year.

Iceland is renowned for being one of the best destinations in the world for catching the Northern Lights.

Dave Mills, Chief Commercial Officer at Iglu Cruise said: “Demand for Iceland has been growing steadily in recent years. 

“The Northern Lights, the blue lagoon and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach are just some of the world-famous sights to witness in Iceland. 

“Known as ‘the land of fire and ice’ the Nordic country is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe and some of the world's most active volcanoes, making for an unforgettable trip.”

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Baltic Cruises

Embark on a voyage of discovery to the Baltic region, a destination that brings together awe-inspiring landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and diverse urban sophistication. On a Northern European cruise, immerse yourself in the distinctive charm of the Baltic Sea, known for its captivating coastal cities and untouched wilderness. Breathe in the fresh sea air, admire the stunning archipelagos, and let the region's unique beauty captivate your senses. Each port along the Baltic Sea unfolds like a new chapter in a storybook, offering scenic vistas and enriching experiences.

The Baltic Sea boasts a myriad of highlights, each more intriguing than the last. From the historic charm of Tallinn , Estonia , to the vibrant modernity of Stockholm , Sweden , the ports of call offer a compelling mix of past and present. St. Petersburg, Russia, often dubbed the 'Venice of the North', enchants with its opulent palaces and majestic cathedrals. As you sail along these waters, gaze upon the natural spectacle of sprawling archipelagos, dense forests meeting the sea, and the mesmerizing interplay of light that the Baltic region is famed for.

Baltic Cruise Lines

Each Baltic cruise features a one-of-a-kind combination of thrilling activities and luxurious amenities, all of which are designed to make the most of every moment. Learn more about the selection of Baltic cruises in 2024 from major cruise lines such as Azamara Cruises , Celebrity Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Holland America , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruises , Oceania Cruises , P&O Cruises , Princess Cruises , Regent Cruises , Royal Caribbean , Silversea Cruises , and Viking Cruises , as well as other ocean cruise lines.

Departure ports for Baltic cruises

Cruises to the Baltic typically depart from one of the cities in Northern Europe, such as Amsterdam , Bergen , Copenhagen , Dover , Le Havre (Paris) , Oslo , Rotterdam , Southampton , Stockholm , and Warnemunde (Rostock) , which are among the most popular departure ports.

The best time to take Baltic cruises

The Baltic region is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique charms. Summer (June to August) provides long daylight hours and warm temperatures, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and wildlife spotting. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) present milder weather and fewer crowds, ideal for city tours and nature walks. The winter months (December to February) add a magical touch to the region, with snow-covered landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Take a look for Baltic cruises during the months of May 2024 , June 2024 , July 2024 , August 2024 , September 2024 , April 2025 , and May 2025 .

Baltic Cruise Schedule 2024

A cruise to the Baltic region is more than just a journey — it's an invitation to experience a mosaic of cultures, explore stunning landscapes, and connect with a vibrant history. From charming coastal towns to mesmerizing natural spectacles, the Baltic Sea has a way of capturing the heart of every traveler. As you sail away from this enchanting region, you'll carry with you unforgettable memories and a longing to return. So set sail for the Baltic and let the adventure unfold.

11-day Baltic cruise from Copenhagen

Azamara onward, azamara club cruises.

Date: August 11, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Gdansk, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Tallinn, Kotka, Helsinki, Mariehamn, Stockholm, Stockholm; View Itinerary

12-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Norwegian dawn, norwegian cruise line.

Date: September 15, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Tallinn, Riga, Visby, Karlskrona, Warnemunde, Kiel, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, London Tilbury, Bruges, Le Havre; View Itinerary

14-day Norwegian Fjords cruise from Bergen

Viking sky, viking ocean cruises.

Date: June 17, 2024

Ports of Call: Bergen, Bergen, Eidfjord, Stavanger, Oslo, Oslo, Aalborg, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Bornholm, Gdansk, Mariehamn, Stockholm, Stockholm; View Itinerary

14-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: July 1, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Stockholm, Mariehamn, Gdansk, Bornholm, Warnemunde, Copenhagen, Aalborg, Oslo, Oslo, Stavanger, Eidfjord, Bergen, Bergen; View Itinerary

7-day Baltic cruise from Copenhagen

Msc poesia, msc cruises.

Date: July 27, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Stockholm, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Date: September 10, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Karlskrona, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Stockholm, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Date: August 22, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Visby, Gdansk, Gdansk, Ronne, Warnemunde, Kiel Canal, Hamburg, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Antwerp, Antwerp, Southampton; View Itinerary

11-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: June 5, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Visby, Kotka, Tallinn, Helsinki, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Warnemunde, Kiel, Copenhagen, Oslo; View Itinerary

12-day Baltic cruise from Southampton

Celebrity apex, celebrity cruises.

Date: May 27, 2024

Ports of Call: Southampton, Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Visby, Skagen, Southampton; View Itinerary

7-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Silver dawn, silversea cruises.

Date: July 16, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Ronne, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Viking Venus, Viking Ocean Cruises

Date: June 28, 2024

17-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: August 19, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Ronne, Copenhagen, Stavanger, Alesund, Trondheim, Geiranger, Flam, Bergen, Kristiansand, Skagen, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

12-day Baltic cruise from Copenhagen

Insignia, oceania cruises.

Date: August 5, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Gdansk, Liepaja, Saaremaa, Tallinn, Helsinki, Mariehamn, Stockholm, Warnemunde, Kiel Canal, Amsterdam, London Tilbury; View Itinerary

Date: June 3, 2024

17-day Norwegian Fjords cruise from Amsterdam

Seven seas navigator, regent seven seas cruises.

Date: June 15, 2024

Ports of Call: Amsterdam, Nordfjordeid, Kristiansund, Alesund, Stavanger, Kristiansand, Oslo, Helsingborg, Kiel, Ronne, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Viking Saturn, Viking Ocean Cruises

Date: July 10, 2024

Date: August 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Ronne, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm; View Itinerary

14-day Baltic cruise from Warnemunde

Date: June 9, 2024

Ports of Call: Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Visby, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Bergen, Eidfjord, Kristiansand, Oslo, Copenhagen, Warnemunde; View Itinerary

13-day Baltic cruise from Amsterdam

Celebrity silhouette, celebrity cruises.

Date: May 24, 2024

Ports of Call: Amsterdam, Stavanger, Skagen, Warnemunde, Visby, Tallinn, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Rotterdam; View Itinerary

21-day Norwegian Fjords cruise from Southampton

Sky princess, princess cruises.

Date: July 13, 2024

Ports of Call: Southampton, Bergen, Skjolden, Olden, Stavanger, Southampton, Skagen, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Stockholm, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Visby, Kristiansand, Southampton; View Itinerary

10-day British Isles cruise from Southampton

Marina, oceania cruises.

Ports of Call: Southampton, Gothenburg, Kiel, Warnemunde, Ronne, Visby, Stockholm, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Date: June 8, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Visby, Stockholm, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Date: July 9, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Ronne, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm; View Itinerary

11-day Scandinavia cruise from Southampton

Date: August 27, 2024

Ports of Call: Southampton, Skagen, Stockholm, Visby, Copenhagen, Oslo, Oslo, Southampton; View Itinerary

10-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Sirena, oceania cruises.

Date: September 9, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Kotka, Tallinn, Riga, Visby, Gdansk, Ronne, Warnemunde, Warnemunde, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Date: July 12, 2024

Date: June 2, 2024

Ports of Call: Warnemunde, Bergen, Eidfjord, Kristiansand, Oslo, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Visby, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Warnemunde; View Itinerary

13-day Iceland cruise from Stockholm

Date: April 30, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Oslo, Oslo, Bergen, Torshavn, Akureyri, Isafjordur, Reykjavik, Reykjavik; View Itinerary

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Northern lights expected Thursday night in US. Here's where and when to see the aurora.

The northern lights, aka the aurora borealis, could be visible over portions of the northern U.S. again Thursday night, space weather forecasters said.

The lights might be seen farther south than usual, and might even be visible in U.S. states such as Oregon, Nebraska and Virginia, SpaceWeather.com reported.

The sky show is due to yet another geomagnetic storm that's now hurtling toward the Earth, following one that hit on Wednesday.

According to SpaceWeather.com, the geomagnetic storm is the result of a coronal mass ejection from the sun that took place Tuesday. Energetic particles from the outburst were forecast to arrive during the day on Thursday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center rated the storm as a G3, or "strong" geomagnetic storm.

Northern lights photos: See aurora borealis light up skies across several states

Where will the northern lights be visible Thursday?

According to the Space Weather Prediction Center , the northern lights are most likely to be seen across the northern tier of the U.S. Thursday night.

NOAA reports that the northern lights will likely be visible tonight in portions of these "Lower 48" states: Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

The lights may also be seen in Alaska and parts of Canada.

As of midday Thursday, satellite images showed that skies were clear across much of the northern tier of the U.S., except for some cloudy areas in the northern Rockies and northern Plains. 

The colorful aurora forms when particles flowing from the sun get caught up in Earth's magnetic field. The particles interact with molecules of atmospheric gases to cause the famed glowing green and reddish colors of the aurora.

Tips for viewing the northern lights

"Go out at night," NOAA said. "And get away from city lights. The moon will also diminish the apparent brightness of the aurora."

The best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time). These hours expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases.

There may be aurora in the evening and morning, but it is usually not as active and therefore, not as visually appealing, NOAA said.

Photo gallery: Best spots to see the northern lights

• Security Council

Escalating Attacks on Ukraine’s Civilian, Energy Infrastructure Making Humanitarian Aid Delivery Even More Dangerous, Relief Chief Tells Security Council

Amid Moscow’s intensified attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure — causing extensive damage to energy facilities, compromising water supply in certain areas and disrupting electricity access for millions of civilians — the delivery of humanitarian assistance is even more dangerous, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today, as delegates condemned this pattern of aggression and detailed their humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine. 

Lisa Doughten, Director of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs’ Financing and Partnerships Division, speaking on behalf of Martin Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said that her Office recorded over 700 civilian casualties across Ukraine in April, including 129 deaths, a significant increase from March.  Since 22 March, there have been five waves of attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure, particularly in Kharkiv and Dnipro regions, causing rolling power outages and affecting millions nationwide.  Moreover, attacks on ports are threatening their ability to export grain at a time of rising food insecurity. 

Despite the spike in hostilities and the related risks, “the UN and its humanitarian partners are doing everything we can to reach people in need of support”, she said.  From the beginning of January until the end of March, 3.6 million people across the country received some form of assistance, and so far this year, 12 inter-agency convoys have delivered vital supplies to 20,000 people in front-line areas.  Yet reaching civilians in areas of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia — currently under Moscow’s occupation — remains a challenge, she observed, urging all parties to facilitate rapid, unimpeded humanitarian relief to the 1.5 million people who require life-saving assistance.

Caitlin Howarth, Director of the Conflict Observatory at the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab, said that 223 damage events across 23 of Ukraine’s 24 oblasts were identified between 1 October 2022 and 30 April 2023.  “That’s a rate of over 7 damage events identified per week, with peak impact timed for the height of winter,” she stated, noting that these “strikes of retribution” — as described by Russian Federation politicians — mean extended periods without water, productivity lost, education fragmented and “blackouts that last longer than the emergency batteries on life-saving health-care equipment”. 

Against this backdrop, she asserted:  “As Russia’s officials have comprehensively planned and executed their destruction of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, so should the international community systematically counteract this devastation.”  She called on it to “target the missiles” through enforced sanctions; “prepare for emergency” by mobilizing resources today to ensure civilian survival this winter; and “let Russia pay” by releasing Russian Federation assets seized under global sanctions to fund these emergency preparations.  “Above all else, do not underestimate the scale of this threat,” she stressed.

In the ensuing discussion, many delegates condemned Moscow’s massive attacks on Ukraine’s civilian population and infrastructure, noting that the worrying developments in Kharkiv Oblast demonstrate the humanitarian impact of the intensified hostilities.  Several — among them the representative of Denmark, also speaking for Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden — expressed support for the upcoming first peace summit on Ukraine, which will take place in Switzerland on 15-16 June.

The representative of France observed that Moscow’s attacks on civilian populations and infrastructure may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity for which no impunity must be allowed.  He welcomed the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants issued on 5 March 2024 against senior officials of the Russian Air Force and the Russian Black Sea Fleet for the campaign of missile strikes against Ukrainian civilian energy infrastructure. 

Guyana’s speaker expressed particular concern about the continuing attacks on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, stating:  “This cannot and must not continue”.  

Calling for an immediate halt to “this destructive campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure,” the United Kingdom’s representative said that Moscow aims to terrorize civilians, obstruct livelihoods and businesses, and ultimately break down Ukraine’s resolve.  However, “Ukrainians will not allow Russia to do that”, she said.  She reiterated London’s commitment of $55 million to the Energy Community’s Ukraine Energy Support Fund, and over $214 million in overall support to the country’s energy sector.

Echoing her sentiment, the United States’ delegate recalled that his country recently announced $1 billion in new assistance for Ukraine, which includes urgently needed air-defence equipment.  And since February 2022, Washington, D.C., has provided nearly $2.9 billion in aid to Ukraine and its neighbours — including life-saving support for the 3.4 million people that remain internally displaced and the nearly 6.5 million refugees. The speaker for Sierra Leone called for fully funding the 2024 humanitarian response plan for Ukraine, while the representative of the European Union, in its capacity as observer, pledged that “the EU will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.”

The speaker for Poland said that the purpose of Moscow’s barbaric actions is clear:  to destroy the lives of Ukrainian people and make large parts of Ukraine uninhabitable.  In this context, he voiced particular concern over the ongoing deportations and transfers of Ukrainian children and their forced “Russification”.  Slovenia’s delegate noted the death rate of children jumped nearly 40 per cent in the first quarter of 2024, compared to the same period last year. 

For his part, the Russian Federation’s representative pointed to Western countries’ failure to condemn the latest terrorist attack on 12 May, when the peaceful Russian city of Belgorod once again was targeted by a large-scale missile strike, killing 15 civilians.  Western countries continue to provide long-range weapons to the Kyiv junta in “the illusory hope of inflicting a strategic defeat upon the Russian Federation”.  However, this will only prolong the Kyiv regime and cost the lives of tens — if not hundreds — of thousands of ordinary Ukrainians.

Ukraine’s delegate said that Moscow launched a new offensive on 10 May, targeting the northern Kharkiv region with the immediate aim of taking the city of Vovchansk.  While Ukrainian forces are holding the line to prevent Russian troops from advancing to Kharkiv — the second-largest Ukrainian city — he said that heavy defensive battles are under way, and the situation remains extremely dangerous for local civilians.  Noting that Ukraine is now “the only country in the world being attacked by ballistic and cruise missiles almost daily,” he stated:  “The more active the world is now in restoring a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, the more likely it is that others in the world will not become the victims of similar aggression.”

MAINTENANCE OF PEACE AND SECURITY OF UKRAINE

LISA DOUGHTEN, Director, Financing and Partnerships Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs , speaking on behalf of Martin Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said that her Office recorded over 700 civilian casualties across Ukraine in April, including 129 deaths. While 90 per cent of the casualties occurred in Ukrainian-controlled territory, strikes have also been reported inside the Russian Federation, including on Sunday in the Belgorod region, reportedly causing several deaths and damage to residential homes.  Attacks on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine have intensified. “Since 22 March 2024, the UN and its partners have seen five waves of attacks directed against the Ukraine’s energy infrastructure,” she said.  Kharkiv and Dnipro regions are particularly affected. The country’s Energy Ministry reported that up to 250,000 residents have experienced rolling power outages in Kharkiv and ongoing restrictions in Dnipro since March. 

Noting “the stark impact of these power cuts on the most vulnerable”, she said that they have temporarily left millions of households across the country with no power, water or gas needed for cooking, heating and hygiene. “Children who rely on online schooling are not able to learn.  Older persons with mobility impairments, persons with disabilities who use wheelchairs or other assistive devices, and mothers with small children are unable to leave multi-story apartment buildings to access food and medical support,” she said.  She cited a new pattern of attacks on railway infrastructure in the east and south — with OHCHR recording 10 such attacks in Government-controlled territory in April alone.  Also concerning are attacks on factories and production plants, limiting the availability of locally procured humanitarian goods, and on port infrastructure, threatening their ability to export grain and other agricultural commodities at a time of rising food insecurity. 

Reported attacks damaging energy infrastructure and oil refineries in the Russian Federation “risk enflaming the war further and worsening its humanitarian impacts”, she said.  “The intensification in hostilities is making the delivery of humanitarian assistance all the more dangerous.  Nevertheless, the UN and its humanitarian partners are doing everything we can to reach people in need of support, despite the enormous risks,” she said.  From the beginning of January until the end of March, 3.6 million people across the country received some form of humanitarian assistance, and so far this year 12 inter-agency convoys have delivered vital supplies to 20,000 people in front-line areas.  Assistance has also included the delivery of health-care services to nearly 860,000 people, and emergency water supplies for over 1.2 million people.  Humanitarian protection activities have been expanded, including gender-based violence support for people newly displaced by hostilities.

Commending Ukraine’s Government for the extra support it has announced for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence — in the form of financial reparations and medical and psychological assistance — she said donors have so far given $669 million, 22 per cent, of the $3.1 billion needed under the Ukraine Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan.  “Another challenge remains reaching civilians in areas of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia that are currently under the occupation of the Russian Federation,” she observed, voicing concern over the estimated 1.5 million people requiring life-saving assistance there and urging all parties to allow and facilitate the rapid, unimpeded humanitarian relief.  This war has caused the death and injury of tens of thousands of people in Ukraine, displaced millions, caused immense suffering and left more than 14 million people — 40 per cent of the population — in need of humanitarian assistance, she said, calling on the Council “to seek an end to it”.

CAITLIN HOWARTH, Director of the Conflict Observatory at the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab , recalling recent missile strikes on three thermal plants and two hydroelectric power plants in Ukraine, noted that — by some counts — “near every single power plant” has been targeted.  Citing a report released by her Lab on 29 February 2024 documenting verified damage to Ukraine’s power-generation-and-transmission infrastructure that occurred between 1 October 2022 and 30 April 2023, she said that 223 damage events across 23 of Ukraine’s 24 oblasts were identified.  She noted: “That’s a rate of over 7 damage events identified per week, with peak impact timed for the height of winter.” On 8 May 2024, almost 12 Ukrainian power facilities were reportedly struck in a single day and, since March 2024, successful targeting of power-generation facilities has further slashed Ukraine’s capacity.  “Each hit compounds the problem,” she observed.

She went on to point out that Russian Federation officials have clearly stated their objectives for targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure:  first, to advance Moscow’s military objectives; second, to retaliate for Ukraine’s purported actions; and third, to inflict harm on civilians to compel Kyiv to submit to negotiations favourable to Moscow.  She stressed that, while the first justification “may” be lawful under the law of war, the other two likely violate international humanitarian law. Further, while the Lab did not assess the degree of dual-use afforded by the energy infrastructure documented in its report, the law of armed conflict prohibits attacks on both civilian and military targets if the attack causes excessive civilian casualties, damage to civilian objects or a combination of these relative to any concrete or direct military advantage anticipated.  Recalling a definition of Moscow’s campaign by a State Duma member — that it is aimed against Ukraine’s “whole energy infrastructure” — she emphasized:  “A comprehensive campaign, by its own definition, defies proportionality.”

She noted further comments by Russian Federation politicians that “strikes of retribution” on Ukraine’s power infrastructure will make Ukrainians “sit there without gas and without electricity and without everything”. Asking and answering what this means, she said it means extended periods without water, productivity lost, education fragmented and “blackouts that last longer than the emergency batteries on life-saving health-care equipment”.  Against that backdrop, she urged:  “As Russia’s officials have comprehensively planned and executed their destruction of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, so should the international community systematically counteract this devastation.”  To this end, she called on the international community to “target the missiles” through enforced sanctions; “prepare for emergency” by mobilizing resources today to ensure civilian survival this winter; and “let Russia pay” by releasing Russian Federation assets seized under global sanctions to fund these emergency preparations.  “Above all else, do not underestimate the scale of this threat,” she underscored. 

The representative of France said that the Russian Federation has shown no concern about its obligation to minimize injury to civilians and damage to civilian objects.  These practices may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity for which no impunity must be allowed.  The International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants issued on 5 March 2024 against senior officials of the Russian Air Force and the Russian Black Sea Fleet for the campaign of missile strikes against Ukrainian civilian energy infrastructure are a decisive step.  He also welcomed the renewal of the mandate of the Human Rights Council’s Independent Commission of Inquiry, which documents indiscriminate attacks against Ukraine’s populations and critical infrastructure.  He noted that mitigating the humanitarian consequences of this war by strengthening the resilience of strategic infrastructure will be a key topic at the peace conference hosted by Switzerland in June.

The representative of Ecuador expressed concern over the continued suffering in Ukraine and risk to regional and global instability. “The statistics are alarming,” he said, citing increased intensity and frequency of attacks against essential infrastructure, the destruction of hospitals and schools, and attacks disabling several energy facilities this month, affecting millions of people’s access to electricity and clean water.  The impact of attacks in the Kharkiv region has been equally devastating, with numerous civilian casualties and a significant increase in internal displacement.  Condemning these attacks, he declared:  “International humanitarian law is explicit in its prohibition of attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure.”  The warring parties must adhere strictly to the principles of proportionality, distinction and precaution to avoid escalating this cycle of suffering. 

The representative of Guyana sounded alarm over the unrelenting attacks on residential buildings, schools, medical and energy facilities and grain ports since the start of the war.  “These attacks were often unrelated to frontline engagement and appeared to have little regard for the requirement of proportionality and military necessity,” she observed.  She noted the international community continues to witness large-scale coordinated attacks on civilian infrastructure, including dozens of energy facilities, resulting in disrupted access to electricity and water supply for millions of people in multiple locations.  They are not only causing incidental civilian harm through the disruption of access to critical services but also resulting in loss of civilian lives and injury to those in near-to-target sites.  There have also been attacks on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, despite the many calls to end the attacks on or near the site, she cautioned, stating:  “This cannot and must not continue”.

The representative of Japan expressed regret that the Council heard another briefing “about the many civilian casualties caused by the clear violation of the UN Charter by a permanent member of the Security Council”. Underscoring that attacks against civilian populations and infrastructure are “clearly prohibited” under international law, he also condemned Pyongyang’s export and Moscow’s procurement of ballistic missiles — as well as the latter’s use of these missiles against Ukraine. This transfer — a clear violation of relevant Council resolutions — supports Moscow’s war of aggression and increases the suffering of the Ukrainian people, he stressed, adding: “We continue to monitor closely what North Korea gains in return.”  He also detailed his country’s support of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which includes the provision of two large autotransformers, six mobile-power-supply vehicles and five advanced gas turbines.  “Japan remains committed to supporting the Ukrainian people through bolstering the electricity and heating supplies in Ukraine,” he said.

The representative of Algeria expressed grave concern about the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including energy and power plants.  In addition, the worsening tensions and pursuit of hostilities have had dangerous repercussions on the international arena.  He reiterated an appeal for diplomatic efforts to avoid a further humanitarian crisis and address human suffering without distinction.  Civilians must be protected in line with the UN Charter and international law, including international humanitarian law.  He called on all parties to set aside the mindset of confrontation and find what is needed to restore comprehensive and constructive dialogue.

The representative of the United Kingdom observed that this spring, the Russian Federation has targeted power plants, electricity sub-stations and gas storage facilities across Ukraine.  Calling for an immediate halt to “this destructive campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure,” she said that millions of people already face disruption to power, heating and water supply.  “These attacks are making an appalling humanitarian situation even worse,” she said, noting that this is especially the case for frontline communities, as the attacks and lack of power hamper humanitarian partners’ communications and movements.  This pattern of aggression continues in an attempt to terrorize civilians, obstruct livelihoods and businesses, and ultimately break down Ukraine’s resolve; however, she stated, “Ukrainians will not allow Russia to do that”.  London has committed $55 million to the Energy Community’s Ukraine Energy Support Fund and over $214 million in overall support to the energy sector in Ukraine, she added.

The representative of the United States said that the Russian Federation’s large-scale attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure are a “clear escalation” that threaten critical services.  “Next week, this Council will be subjected to yet another meeting where Russia will claim that Western arms are to blame for prolonging the war it started,” he noted, urging that Moscow “need only look in the mirror” to understand why more than 50 countries provided support to Ukraine’s forces.  In April 2024, the United States announced $1 billion in new assistance for Ukraine, which includes urgently needed air-defence equipment. Further, since February 2022, the United States has provided nearly $2.9 billion in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and its neighbours — including life-saving support for the 3.4 million that remain internally displaced and the nearly 6.5 million refugees.  He added that newly approved supplemental funding will help maintain the humanitarian response amidst “unabated” attacks on civilian populations and infrastructure.

The representative of the Russian Federation said that if Western colleagues were striving to convey to the international community at least “an iota of the truth” about what’s happening in Ukraine, then they would not be sweeping it under the rug.  Rather, they would condemn the latest terrorist attack on 12 May, when the peaceful Russian city of Belgorod once again was targeted by a large-scale missile strike.  A residential building was partially destroyed by a missile launched from Ukrainian-controlled territory, killing 15 civilians.  He also highlighted the culpability of Western countries that continue to provide long-range weapons to the Kyiv junta in “the illusory hope of inflicting a strategic defeat upon the Russian Federation.”

On 20 May, the Council will discuss these destructive actions of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries.  In early May, the United Kingdom’s Foreign Minister, David Cameron, made a revelatory statement that the weapons provided by London could be used to carry out strikes against Russian territories, including areas beyond the special military operations’ confines.  The formulas or plans advanced by the Ukrainian henchman and his Western sponsors are so divorced from reality. Any discussion on them will become a pure loss of time, and “you will become complicit” in prolonging the Kyiv regime, with the cost of this being tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of the lives of ordinary Ukrainians.

The representative of Slovenia noted that, since early April, over 1,000 drone and missile attacks were recorded across Ukraine, forcing thousands to flee as their homes are being destroyed.  She noted a reported 140 educational facilities were destroyed or damaged in attacks across the country in 2024 alone.  And according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the death rate of children jumped nearly 40 per cent in the first quarter of 2024, compared to the same period last year.  She further condemned Moscow’s use of cluster munitions in its bombardment of Odessa in late April, stressing that “using such weapons in a densely populated area is against all rules of international humanitarian law”.   “These attacks seek to impair Ukraine’s economy and are obviously not directed against military targets.  This is a clear violation of international humanitarian law and it needs to stop now,” she said, adding:  “Ukrainian civilians have suffered too long.  We call on Russia to stop with its subversive actions and give peace a chance.”

The representative of Sierra Leone expressed concern that attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure have resulted in major disruptions of essential services, such as electricity, water and gas to medical facilities, manufacturing industries and places of work for “a significant portion of the population”.  This slows production and reduces economic activity, and he also expressed alarm over the impact on health-care facilities — including those with incubators and other life-saving devices.  On that, he noted that such facilities “in some cases had to resort to the use of batteries that ran out before the re-establishment of power — putting the lives of many at risk”.  Given the devastating impact of the conflict on the civilian population, he called on the parties involved to adhere to their obligations under international law to protect civilian populations and infrastructure — including energy facilities. He also called for the full funding of the 2024 humanitarian response plan for Ukraine.

The representative of Malta noted the Russian Federation’s aerial assaults against Ukrainian power generation and transmission facilities in several regions last week.  This deadly trend encompasses daily drone, missile, rocket and artillery attacks in Kharkiv, Odesa, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk regions — “yet another example of Russia’s disregard for human life.”  As of today, more than 800 heat supply facilities have been destroyed or damaged and the attacks have caused more than $1 billion worth of damage to the energy sector, she said, expressing full support for the important work undertaken by the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.

The representative of Switzerland condemned the massive attacks on the civilian population and infrastructure across Ukraine, which have killed and injured civilians in populated areas.  Last week alone, several children were injured, and schools and a hospital were damaged, she observed, stating:  “As Ukraine fights for its future, all those who can build it — including children — must be protected.”  Noting an increase in attacks on critical energy infrastructures, she said that, in total, nine regions across Ukraine — including those far from the front lines — have experienced disruptions to their electricity supply in the past week.  In addition, the situation around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remains worrying.  Determined to do everything in its power to contribute to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, Switzerland will host the first High-Level Summit for Peace in Ukraine on 15 and 16 June, she said, stressing the need “to define together a road map on how to involve both sides in a future peace process”.

The representative of the Republic of Korea underscored that Moscow’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure are unacceptable, as targeting such infrastructure violates international humanitarian law. He further stressed that, today, critical energy infrastructure “holds far more significance in people’s daily lives than decades ago” when such law was created.  In addition to hindering millions of Ukrainians’ access to electricity in the short-term, the destruction of energy infrastructure has long-enduring impacts on the humanitarian situation in that country. A recent report by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) highlights a domino effect where such destruction leads to the disruption of other basic services such as water and sanitation.  Noting that the lack of such services can impair the operation of hospitals and the viability of food production — leading to the spread of disease, death and displacement — he underscored that the Russian Federation’s illegal invasion “must end now to save lives and restore humanity”.

The representative of China said that his country is neither the creator of the Ukraine crisis nor a party to it.  It has long campaigned for peace and a political settlement.  The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected.  At the same time, the legitimate security concerns of all countries should be taken seriously.  In his recent visits to France, Serbia and Hungary, President Xi Jinping had an in-depth exchange of views with European leaders on the Ukraine crisis.  China and Europe should work together to oppose the spillover and escalation of the fighting, create conditions for peace talks, and safeguard international energy, food security and the stability of the global supply chain.  His country and France also agreed to seize the Paris Olympics as an opportunity to advocate a worldwide ceasefire.

The representative of Mozambique , Council President for May, spoke in his national capacity to highlight the devastating implications of the war in Ukraine for the humanitarian situation in the country.  Noting that “the prospects for a mutually accepted solution remain elusive,” mainly due to the conflicting parties’ firm belief in the primacy of military and zero-sum game logic at the expense of a cooperative approach, he underscored that the Council’s consistent calls for the immediate cessation of hostilities “can no longer be ignored”.  Against this backdrop, he stressed the need to ensure the protection of civilians and to facilitate full, safe, rapid and unhindered access for humanitarian personnel. 

The representative of Ukraine reported that the Russian Federation launched a new offensive on 10 May, targeting the northern Kharkiv region with the immediate aim of taking the city of Vovchansk.  While Ukrainian forces are holding the line to prevent Moscow’s troops from advancing to Kharkiv – the second-largest Ukrainian city — he said that heavy defensive battles are under way and the situation remains extremely dangerous for local civilians.  He added:  “Russian forces persist in razing Ukrainian towns to the ground without regard for the local population’s suffering, with Vovchansk becoming the latest victim — akin to Bakhmut or Maryinka.”  Detailing numerous attacks committed by “a country that called itself a friend of the UN Charter”, he noted that Ukraine is now “the only country in the world being attacked by ballistic and cruise missiles almost daily”.  Major cities have borne the brunt of these assaults, with devastating consequences.

“All the above crimes cannot be committed perpetually,” he stressed, noting that a summit on peace in Ukraine will take place in Switzerland on 15-16 June.  While stating that “we have invited all peace-loving nations, and each nation can really bring peace closer”, he said that — meanwhile — Moscow intensifies its lies about “a so-called peace deal that Ukraine and Russia were allegedly close to in spring 2022”.  However, it is the Russian Federation President who has been ruining peace in Ukraine for more than a decade — by occupying Crimea and parts of the Donbas in 2014, by obstructing the Minsk and Normandy peace processes, by launching a full-scale war of aggression and then by refusing to end it.  Urging nations to attend the peace summit, he said:  “The more active the world is now in restoring a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, the more likely it is that others in the world will not become the victims of similar aggression.”

The representative of Germany said that the Russian Federation is attacking the foundation of the United Nations and global peace and security.  As a nuclear State, it is invading its neighbour that has renounced nuclear weapons.  By employing arms imported from Iran and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, it defies Security Council resolutions.  To shield its illegal activities, it is dismantling instruments of this Council, such as the Panel of Experts for sanctions against Pyongyang.  His country supports Ukraine with political, humanitarian and military means.  Air defence systems supplied by Germany are actively helping to protect Ukrainian cities.  Berlin has also invested in humanitarian relief efforts.  The upcoming peace summit in Switzerland offers a unique platform.  However, a just and lasting way out is only possible if Moscow renounces its objective of conquest and annexation, he stressed.

The representative of Estonia , also speaking on behalf of Latvia and Lithuania , said that every month, the Russian Federation uses over 130 types of missiles — including those provided by Pyongyang — over 320 Shahed drones and around 900 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine.  As of late, chemical weapons can also be added to that list.  “These weapons are systematically used to kill and maim Ukrainian civilians, destroy homes, schools, hospitals and places of cultural heritage, attack food storage facilities and wipe out Ukrainian energy infrastructure,” he stated.  In total, Moscow’s bombs have destroyed over 80 per cent of Ukrainian thermal power plants and 50 per cent of hydroelectric power plants.  

He also highlighted that country’s pattern of “double-tap” attacks targeting civilians and the rescue workers helping them — “the trademarks of Russia’s aggression”.  Accordingly, he underlined the need to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid and the restoration of the energy infrastructure across Ukraine, noting that Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have altogether contributed over $100 million worth of humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine and “will continue to support Ukraine until the aggressor is defeated.”

The representative of the European Union , in its capacity as observer, underscored that “every discussion on Ukraine must start by restating one unequivocal fact — Russia’s illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression constitutes a manifest violation of international law”. This is why that country must cease its attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure now, why its leadership must be held fully accountable and why all nations must come together in support of a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in Ukraine.  Stressing that Moscow’s indiscriminate attacks further exacerbate a dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine where over 14 million people require assistance — “you have heard so much about this here today” — he reported that the European Union has stepped up its provision of aid, including power generators and transformers.

The Russian Federation, however, has an obligation to allow such aid to reach all those in need, he said, also recalling the March 2022 legally binding order from the International Court of Justice for Moscow to immediately suspend its military operations in Ukraine.  He also stated that third parties must immediately cease providing material support to the Russian Federation’s war of aggression — “or other kinds of cuddling”.  Reiterating support for peace in Ukraine, he welcomed Switzerland’s initiative to host a peace summit in June and called on all States to participate.  “The EU will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes,” he added and, to Moscow, he said:  “Stop your illegal war, and the illegal and inhumane means you are using to pursue it.”

The representative of Poland said that the Russian Federation is seeking to degrade the Ukrainian economy and society, making large parts of Ukraine uninhabitable. The purpose of these barbaric actions is clear:  to destroy the lives of Ukrainian people and intimidate Ukraine and those who support it.  In this context, he was particularly appalled by the ongoing deportations and transfers of Ukrainian children and their forced “Russification”.  Welcoming Switzerland’s initiative to host a peace summit for Ukraine in June, he voiced support for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s peace formula as a plan for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine and for the enduring security on the European continent.

The representative of Denmark , speaking also for Finland , Iceland , Norway and Sweden , condemned Moscow’s systematic and detrimental attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Noting that since 22 March 2024 there have been five massive attacks damaging over 80 per cent of Ukraine’s non-nuclear power plants, she pointed out that this has included dangerous attacks on hydroelectric infrastructure which increase the risk of environmental disaster.  She extended the Nordic countries’ full support to the upcoming first peace summit on Ukraine in Switzerland, expressing hope that many countries will join.  The Russian Federation’s aggression and its detrimental global consequences “demand united efforts” firmly based on international law, including the UN Charter, and in line with Ukraine’s peace formula.

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