Northern lights

Northern Lights Cruises

Set sail on one of our northern lights cruises in 2023 & 2024 and witness the mysterious spectacle of the Aurora Borealis – one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders.

With the first recorded sighting dating back to a 30,000-year-old cave painting in France, it's clear that this extraordinary natural phenomenon has been delighting humans for thousands of years. For the chance to enjoy this elusive light show, join one of our dedicated northern lights cruises that sail to Iceland or Norway in late autumn or early spring.

Cruise through the dramatic landscapes of the fjords and the far north, stepping ashore to explore remote towns by day and then returning to the ship to gaze skywards in search of the magical illuminations by night. Set sail on a northern lights cruise from the UK and discover glorious natural scenery, the fascinating culture of the Sami people, and waterside towns such as scenic Bergen, as well as vibrant cities such as Reykjavík and Tromsø. Some of our cruises include passages through the mighty fjords off the coast of Norway and Iceland, while longer voyages might journey even further north, to the stunning Lofoten Isles or way beyond the Arctic Circle to the very tip of Europe.

 

Our Northern Lights Cruises

Green northern lights curving from the right back to the left. Below, a lake with ice blocks
Iceland - Reykjavik and the Northern Lights
Iceland
5-day holiday in Reykjavik to witness the Aurora Borealis and discover the smouldering volcanoes, geysers, glaciers & bubbling thermal pools of Iceland.ActiveFly Local+ 3 More
  • Explore Reykjavík on a guided tour
  • Enjoy an optional visit to the steamy and salubrious Blue Lagoon
  • Set off on an included tour in search of the Northern Lights
  • 5 days from £948 pp

    was £1,115 pp

    Flights included
  • Dates Available

    November 2025 - March 2026

  • Duration

    5 days

  • Depart From

    5 airports

  • Excursions & Visits

    2 included

  • Meals

    4 included

Alesund, Norway
In Search of the Northern Lights from Southampton (L2530)
Leknes, Alta, Tromso, Alesund, Narvik
Venture into the Arctic during the Northern Lights season, with chances to witness Mother Nature’s captivating light display both ashore and while cruising the Tjeldsundet Strait – a route only accessible to smaller ships like Balmoral. Discover the local way of life by visiting a Sámi community, where tales of intriguing customs such as reindeer herding and joiking – a form of Sámi song, unfold around a fire in a cosy tepee-style lavvu tent. Elsewhere, you can meet the friendly inhabitants of a husky yard and gain an insight into the tradition of sledding. Beyond the opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis, uncovering the science behind this extraordinary wonder will enrich your journey.
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    15 days from £1,399 pp

  • Dates Available

    13 November 2025

  • Duration

    15 days

  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Narvik, Norway
In Search of the Northern Lights from Newcastle (L2607)
Tromso, Alesund, Narvik, Molde
Join us on this sailing to Northern Norway, a gateway to witnessing the captivating Northern Lights. You’ll have the best chances of seeing Mother Nature’s light show during extended stays in Tromsø and Narvik and while cruising the Arctic waters. Experience the local culture through exhilarating husky sledding, snowshoe hiking and snowmobiling across a winter wonderland, and engage with the indigenous Sámi community to gain insights into their unique way of life, from reindeer herding to traditional tepee-style lavvu tents. Deepen your understanding of the Aurora Borealis by exploring the science behind this.
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    11 days from £1,249 pp

  • Dates Available

    13 March 2026

  • Duration

    11 days

  • Depart From

    Newcastle Tyne

  • Operator

    Fred Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Leknes, Norway
In Search of the Northern Lights at Christmas from Southampton (L2534)
Leknes, Tromso, Alta, Alesund, Narvik
Enhance the enchantment of the festive season on this cruise to Northern Norway, timed for Christmas and the chance to witness the natural wonder of the Northern Lights. Look out for the colourful light display both at sea and ashore, especially during extended stays in Narvik, Alta and Tromsø. Immerse yourself in the Arctic lifestyle through snowshoe hiking and thrilling snowmobile and husky sledding rides across winter landscapes. You can also connect with a local Sámi community, listening to captivating stories in a cosy tepee-style lavvu tent. Uncover enchanting secrets of the Aurora Borealis, unravelling the cosmic wizardry that conjures up the vibrant displays in the night sky.
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    16 days from £2,099 pp

  • Dates Available

    22 December 2025

  • Duration

    16 days

  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Invergordon, Scotland
Norway's Land of the Northern Lights and Scotland from Tilbury (A12524)
Scotland
Set sail on a captivating Arctic journey from Invergordon to the reaches of Alesund and Trondheim. Venture beyond the Arctic Circle to Tromso, known for its vibrant cultural scene. Continue to Alta, a prime destination to hunt for the Northern Lights. On your return, explore the historical significance of Narvik and the maritime allure of Kirkwall in the Orkney Isles. This Arctic sailing offers a seamless fusion of cultural exploration and breathtaking landscapes.
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    17 days from £1,199 pp

  • Dates Available

    27 October 2025

  • Duration

    17 days

  • Depart From

    London, Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambience

Tromso, Norway
Norway's Land of the Northern Lights and Scotland from Tilbury (A12603)
Scotland
On this captivating North Sea voyage, discover scenic wonders including Invergordon, Trondheim, Narvik, and the Shetland Isles. Immerse yourself in coastal Scotland's rich history, hunt the enchanting Northern Lights in Tromso, and explore the picturesque charm of Lerwick. This sailing offers an unforgettable journey from the historic ports of Scotland and the Shetland Islands to the stunning fjords of Norway.
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    17 days from £1,169 pp

  • Dates Available

    11 March 2026

  • Duration

    17 days

  • Depart From

    London, Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

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