Why a Hurtigruten Cruise is the best way to see the northern lights

Telegraph

04-02-2025

There is nothing quite like witnessing the northern lights in person as the sky dances with a life-affirming light show. And there is no better way to savour this natural wonder than on board a Hurtigruten cruise, the local Norwegian experts since 1893, on whose ships it's a sheer joy to sail.
The northern lights, or the aurora borealis, grace us with their presence when the sun's charged particles hit the earth's atmosphere. They are the world's most spectacular natural movie, exploding across the skies with shimmering pink, burning red, pure purple and emerald green curtains of light. No wonder they have long brought drama to folklore. The past few years have been blessed with even more frequent and dramatic northern lights displays, so there has never been a better time to enjoy them.
Being at sea on board Hurtigruten away from ambient light offers such a superb chance of seeing the northern lights that, if you don't spot our celestial friends during a journey of 11 days or more in season, you receive a free six or seven-day Coastal Express trip. The peak viewing season normally runs from October (in 2024 it was even earlier in September), through to the end of March.
A Hurtigruten Cruise offers the perfect chance to gaze upon Norway's natural light show
Credit : Espen Mills
The Norwegian coast, which eases above the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees north, and directly beneath the Auroral Oval, is rightly renowned for its active displays, with the ship's bridge officers always scanning the skies to be the first to spot the aurora and set spirits soaring with an announcement to guests. How about dining under the northern lights, or even bubbling away in an outdoor hot tub as they dance above? Or gazing up into the wonders of the universe at the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø, the home of the northern lights.
Quite simply, Hurtigruten is Norwegian cruising. It is no ordinary cruise line, with unparalleled experience and a continuing commitment to the seas, skies and lands it serves. Sustainability has always been at its core and it is currently in the midst of its most ambitious sustainability drive ever, as it aims to develop zero-emission ships by 2030, further protecting the land of the northern lights and its pristine nature.
Hurtigruten cruises are perfect for people who wish to learn in an illuminating lecture and immerse themselves in the richness of local culture. Nature lovers adore Hurtigruten too, appreciating the wonder of the night skies viewed from the water.
Hurtigruten Cruises feature comfortable and stylish interiors to enjoy the captivating views
Credit : Espen Mills
You are spoilt for choice with Hurtigruten's options to see the northern lights. Join one of the full-board Original Voyages on the authentic Coastal Express, cruising with Norwegians to up to 34 diverse ports on a historic world-famous route that has been connecting local communities for more than 130 years. On board you'll be treated to fresh local produce they pick up in 15 of the ports The Coastal Express sails to as part of Hurtigruten's 'Norway's Coastal Kitchen'.
How about a dedicated 12-day The Coastal Express – Northern Lights adventure; a 12-day Bergen-Bergen Astronomy Voyage with a dedicated astronomer aboard; or the odyssey of a 16-day Complete Norway – Northern Lights voyage combined with a rail journey? You'll already be dreaming of the northern lights as the excitement builds while you pore over the choices at home.
Hurtigruten's premium Signature Voyages, meanwhile, offer all-inclusive food and beverages. Peer out of floor-to-ceiling windows at the northern lights as you savour fresh Norwegian produce from 50 local producers – think delicious Vesterålen cod, artisan Lofoten cheese and crisp Bergen craft beer. Then head out with the larger Coastal Experience Team – they can offer photography tips for the northern lights and delve deeper into their magic. Working with local experts you can pick unique excursions too, such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
Hurtigruten offers various cruises to the northern lights, each showcasing the best of the Norwegian coast along the way
Credit : Tommy Simonsen
Explore the North Cape Line, Signature-style, with 15 days and 14 ports, journeying from Oslo to Honningsvåg. Or try the Savour the Northern Lights cruise from Oslo to Helsinki, which takes in seven ports and three countries across a fortnight. What are you waiting for? The northern lights, one of life's true bucket-list experiences, await aboard Hurtigruten, with a bountiful smörgåsbord of cruise options.
Experience authentic Norway
With more than 130 years of experience in Norwegian coastal cruising, Hurtigruten Cruises delivers an unparalleled experience with fascinating excursions, breathtaking views, and locally sourced dishes that offer a true taste of Norway. Book your voyage today at hurtigruten.com and save up to 25 per cent on Original Voyages and up to 15 per cent on Signature Voyages for departures until April 2026. Book by 3 March 2025.