Sunday, June 29, 2025
One of nature’s most stunning displays, northern lights attract thousands of tourists every year, as bewitching aurora borealis illuminate transparent night skies in glorious exhibitions of green and purple and pink colors. While once wished for by many, there’s no better way than on a Northern Lights cruise to witness this heavenly ballet. With unrivaled vantage points outside city light smog, these cruises represent an easy and comfortable way for viewing the aurora borealis.
The best Northern Lights cruises, including options departing from the UK, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, and Canada, take place from September to April, when the conditions for sightings are most favorable. During these months, the aurora is visible in the high-latitude regions, making cruises the perfect way to maximize the chances of witnessing this incredible spectacle. If you’re eager to witness the lights in all their glory, here’s a guide to nine of the best Northern Lights cruises for 2025, featuring top destinations and luxurious voyages.
Celebrity Cruises: Greenland & Iceland Expedition
Celebrity Cruises offers a stunning 13-night voyage to some of the best Northern Lights viewing spots in the world, departing from Reykjavik, Iceland, aboard the Celebrity Silhouette. This incredible cruise includes stops in Iceland, Greenland, and Canada, including the picturesque Prins Christian Sund and the tranquil Qaqortoq, Greenland. The cruise also visits beautiful corners of Canada, like Corner Brook, Newfoundland, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, before ending in Boston, Massachusetts.
During the journey, guests will enjoy not only the stunning aurora borealis but also an onboard experience filled with luxury amenities. The Celebrity Silhouette, which has undergone a US$500 million refurbishment, boasts features such as the Lawn Club deck, perfect for outdoor activities like golf putting, croquet, and bocce. The cruise departs on August 15, 2025, with prices starting from £2,153 per person.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Northern Lights & Fjords of Norway
For those interested in combining the beauty of the Northern Lights with Norway’s awe-inspiring fjords, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 10-night roundtrip itinerary from Southampton to the Arctic Circle. Guests aboard the Norwegian Bliss can enjoy amazing views of the Northern Lights while sailing through Norway’s majestic fjords, including the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. The ship also includes a plethora of onboard amenities, from multiple dining venues to a thrilling waterslide park. This cruise departs from Southampton, England, in February 2025 and provides plenty of opportunities for Northern Lights sightings, with the ship’s location away from light pollution.
Hurtigruten: Ultimate Norway Northern Lights Voyage
Hurtigruten, known for its expertise in Arctic and Antarctic exploration, offers an immersive experience for those seeking the Northern Lights in Norway. The Ultimate Northern Lights Voyage spans 12 days, departing from Bergen and cruising through some of Norway’s most northernly ports. The expedition includes stops in Tromsø, Alta, and Kirkenes, where you’ll have an excellent chance to view the aurora borealis under clear, dark skies. Hurtigruten’s ships also feature spacious cabins with large windows for optimal viewing, as well as an onboard team of expert guides and naturalists to help interpret the phenomena.
MSC Cruises: Northern Lights Cruise from the UK
MSC Cruises offers a convenient option for UK travelers with a Northern Lights voyage departing from Southampton. The 7-night itinerary sails to the Norwegian Arctic Circle, with stops in the port towns of Bergen, Tromsø, and Lofoten. Guests aboard the MSC Magnifica will experience the spectacular aurora borealis, along with comfortable and luxurious onboard accommodations. With the option to extend your stay in the Arctic Circle and enjoy activities like husky sledding and snowshoeing, this cruise offers a full Arctic experience. Departing in February 2025, this cruise is perfect for those seeking a shorter, yet unforgettable Northern Lights getaway.
Viking Ocean Cruises: In Search of the Northern Lights
Viking Ocean Cruises’ 12-day itinerary, In Search of the Northern Lights, provides an opportunity to explore Northern Europe’s top cruise destinations while also chasing the elusive aurora borealis. Departing from London, this voyage stops in Norway’s beautiful coastal towns and cities, including Tromsø, Stavanger, and Bergen. The luxury ship, Viking Sky, offers an incredible onboard experience with an award-winning spa, fine dining options, and panoramic views that make this cruise a prime choice for aurora chasers.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines: Northern Lights of Iceland & Norway
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offers a fantastic 10-night cruise from the UK to the North Sea, specifically designed for those hoping to see the Northern Lights in Iceland and Norway. Departing from Dover, the Balmoral ship takes passengers to some of the most scenic and remote ports, including Akureyri and Isafjordur in Iceland, before heading to the coastal beauty of Tromsø, Norway. The cruise offers multiple days at sea and ample opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, as well as immersive shore excursions that highlight the culture and history of the destinations.
P&O Cruises: Arctic Circle & Northern Lights
P&O Cruises’ Arctic Circle & Northern Lights voyage departs from Southampton and offers an 11-night roundtrip adventure to Norway, designed to give passengers the best possible chance of seeing the aurora borealis. The ship’s expert naturalist guides and onboard astronomical experts will help ensure guests have the best viewing experience. As the ship sails through Norway’s fjords and coastal towns, guests can enjoy the scenic beauty of Norway, as well as winter activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoe hiking.
Cunard: Northern Lights & Arctic Adventure
Cunard’s Northern Lights & Arctic Adventure cruise offers an elegant and luxurious way to chase the aurora borealis. Departing from London, the cruise sails to Norway, stopping in Tromsø, Alta, and Kirkenes. Onboard, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth offers first-class dining and entertainment, making it a luxurious choice for travelers looking to experience the Arctic in style. The 9-night cruise departs in January 2025, and with its prime location within the Arctic Circle, it’s an ideal voyage for spotting the Northern Lights.
Discover the Magic of the Northern Lights
Witnessing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and embarking on a cruise to chase this awe-inspiring phenomenon is the perfect way to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity. With numerous itineraries departing from the UK, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, and Canada, travelers have a wide variety of options to choose from, each offering stunning landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and, of course, the chance to see the aurora borealis in all its glory.
(Source: Norway Tourism Website, Ice Land Tourism Website, Green Land Tourism Website and Canada Tourism Website.)
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