The Best Places For A Northern Lights Cruise

Finding the best place to see the northern lights is critical, but it's not the only detail that matters. Before you go aurora chasing, brush up on the facts about this dazzling natural spectacle. This captivating phenomenon, also known as the aurora borealis, occurs near the polar regions due to the interaction of solar radiation with Earth's magnetic field. Ever wonder just how old are the northern lights? Surprisingly, the first historical mention of the lights is from a Babylonian king in about 500 B.C. Since then, the lights have been a thing of wonder.

When planning northern lights trips or — better yet — a special northern lights cruise, you'll need to consider timing. Since the phenomenonnorthern lights is generally only visible under very clear skies, keep in mind the time of year you visit, the time of day you set out and the weather. Here is some advice on planning your trip — and a whole lot of inspiration to catch these lights dancing through the sky.

1. Admire The Aurora Borealis Amid Alaska's Wilds

See and Visit the Northern Lights in Alaska

Within the United States, Alaska is the best place to visit the northern lights due to how far north it is. Ideally, you start in Anchorage or Fairbanks and drive into Denali National Park. The dark skies in winter here make it ideal for seeing the lights.

Be prepared to "aurora chase" in Alaska because of how fickle the lights can be. Reserve at least a few days to maximize your chances of seeing them. Other winter activities in Alaska, such as dogsled mushing and snowmobiling, will keep you busy and satisfied, even on days when you aren't lucky enough to get a glimpse of the lights.

Is There a Northern Lights Cruise Ship in Alaska?

It's difficult to book a northern lights Alaska cruise since cruises only sail during the summer season. However, you may get lucky enough to see the lights if you take to the seas in September, which is the earliest you can expect the Aurora to appear. Another option might be to stay in Alaska after your cruise.

Start planning your Alaska cruise today.

2. Go Chasing Northern Lights — And Waterfalls — In Iceland

The best time to plan northern lights trips in Iceland is as deep into winter as you can go. Late December and early January are best because they're the darkest times of the year, but the northern lights can appear as early as September or as late as March.

As for where in Iceland to see them, it really depends on how comfortable you are with winter driving. If you can rent a 4x4, you'll be all set. Drive slowly on icy roads, taking in the stunning scenery along the way, including Reykjavík, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon on Iceland's southern coast or Kirkjufellfoss waterfall on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in the northwestern part of the country. Alternatively, you can book organized tours from Reykjavík to the nearby "Golden Ring" — highlights of which include Gullfoss Waterfall and the Great Geysir.

Is Iceland or Alaska Better for The Northern Lights?

You can see the northern lights in both Iceland and Alaska. Alaska may be better if you’re located in North America. However, the best trip depends on your needs, including:

• Where you’re departing from.
• What else you want to do on your vacation.
• If you’d like to take a northern lights cruise.
• What’s available during your desired dates.

Book your Iceland cruise to see northern lights today.

3. See The Northern Lights In Santa Claus's Homeland  

Finland is another destination that often comes up in discussions about when and where to see the northern lights. September through March, Lapland, the northernmost part of mainland Scandinavia — popularly known as the home of Santa Claus — is one of the best places to see the northern lights. 

One popular place in Lapland to see the northern lights is near the Arctic Circle in Finland. You'll have to fly to Rovaniemi to get here. Whether you take a tour (which can include activities like dog mushing and snowshoeing) or you head out on your own, you can also choose to stay in a glass "igloo" that gives you the chance to sleep under the tapestry of lights.

4. Look Up Into Norway's Night Sky

5. Head South To See The Aurora Australis

While the best time to see the northern lights is in the northern winter, this is flipped for the aurora australis, aka the southern lights. These lights are visible in places like:

• South America.
• Australia.
• New Zealand.
• Antarctica.
• Tasmania.
• Argentina.

The southern lights are easiest to see during the months of June and July on an Australian cruise, although they can be visible as early as April and as late as September, depending on how far south you are.

New Zealand's Mt. Cook (known to the indigenous Maori people as "Aoraki") also provides a stunning foreground for the aurora australis, as does the Church of the Good Shepherd in nearby Lake Tekapo.

6. Northern Lights Cruise FAQs

When Is the Best Time To See Northern Lights?

The best time to see the northern lights depends on where you’re going. However, certain months offer longer hours of darkness and clearer skies:

• March.
• April.
• September.
• October.

Is It Better To See the Northern Lights on a Cruise or on Land?

A northern lights cruise makes stunning views accessible, comfortable and even more fun. While you may have different opportunities on land, like visiting different landmarks, a cruise puts you right in the heart of the action under the brilliantly colored sky — all with restaurants, shops and activities just a few steps away.

Where Can You See the Northern Lights?

You can see the Northern Lights in high-latitude regions like:

• Alaska.
• Canada.
• Iceland.
• Greenland.
• Norway.
• Sweden.
• Finland.

What Should You Expect From a Northern Lights Cruise?

Expect a northern lights cruise to offer potential sightings from the ship, often at night, while also visiting scenic locations. You’ll also get all the benefits of cruising, like getting to see multiple destinations and experiences but only unpacking once.

7. Plan Your Northern Lights Cruise