Experience the Northern Lights with Hurtigruten

Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten is committed to helping travelers achieve their goal of witnessing the northern lights—one or maybe two cruises at a time.

1. Hurtigruten’s Northern Lights Promise

With its Northern Lights Promise, passengers aboard selected Hurtigruten Expedition and Coastal Express itineraries will be offered a second free trip if the aurora borealis does not appear during their scenic cruise along the Norwegian coast. This is a fantastic opportunity for travelers who dream of witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon.

For those wanting to embrace the cold, wintery weather, these journeys are scheduled to set sail between September 26 and March 31 and encompass cruises lasting 11 days or longer. When the ship’s deck officers spot the aurora, they will promptly announce it, providing passengers the chance to step outside and marvel at the lights.

2. Cruise Itineraries and Experiences

Hurtigruten’s latest cruise itinerary, the North Cape Express, also falls under this promise. Departing from Oslo, passengers aboard the newly refurbished MS Trollfjord will keep their eyes peeled for the northern lights. Guests can enjoy the sights from two outdoor hot tubs, the floor-to-ceiling sauna, or the expansive new two-story lounge area, complete with Scandinavian-inspired cocktails and live music.

Moreover, during the day, passengers can embark on excursions, including a trip to Alta, often called “northern lights city.” This enjoyable tour emphasizes the science and history behind this breathtaking phenomenon while showcasing the highlights of Alta.

Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten Norway, expresses, “The Northern Lights Promise reflects our mission to inspire adventure and deliver memorable experiences. Travelers from around the world choose Hurtigruten Norway to fulfill a lifelong dream, and we don’t take the responsibility lightly.”

In the event that the sky does not illuminate with the mesmerizing greens and purples of the aurora, travelers have the option to board one of Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express itineraries. They can enjoy a seven-day northbound cruise from Bergen to Kirkenes or a six-day southbound sailing from Kirkenes to Bergen.

3. Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express

Hurtigruten’s signature Coastal Express itinerary has been an iconic voyage along the Norwegian coast for 130 years. Initially designed to transport mail and goods to remote ports, it now serves citizens and tourists seeking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Norway. The Roundtrip Voyage lasts 12 days and includes stops at all 34 ports twice—once on the way up and again on the way back.

Additionally, its extended winter cruises, departing from Hamburg to northern Norway, and the Northern Lights expedition cruise from Dover are encompassed within the Northern Lights Promise. With a forecast predicting a multi-year period of heightened aurora activity, travelers may be fortunate enough to witness this stunning phenomenon on their first attempt. However, should the opportunity not present itself, remember that the second attempt could very well be the charm.