Northern Lights cruise in Tromsø

Key Points

• Duration: 4-hour cruise departing from Tromsø’s docks at 19:30
• Location: Leaves from The Dock 69 39 By Scandic, in Innlandet County
• Experience: Sail in a high-speed catamaran to chase clear skies for the Northern Lights
• Highlights: Learn about aurora myths and science, enjoy warm drinks, and take photos on outdoor decks
• Flexibility: Tour can last up to 4 hours, with a free ticket if the lights remain unseen
• Suitability: Ideal for those who want a quick, comfortable, and flexible Arctic night adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tromsø’s Northern Lights Catamaran Adventure Starts at The Dock

This Northern Lights cruise is a 4-hour journey that sets sail from The Dock 69 39 By Scandic in Tromsø, Norway. The tour begins at 19:30, giving ample time after sunset to seek the best viewing conditions. The departure point is easy to find, marked by beach flags at the coordinates 69.6537, 18.9659.

This tour is operated by Maritime Tours AS and features a modern, high-speed catamaran designed for swift and agile travel across the Arctic waters. The focus is on maximizing the chances of seeing the aurora borealis by quickly reaching areas with clear skies, far from Tromsø’s city lights. The boat’s speed allows it to outrun poor weather pockets, heading toward fjords and open waters for optimal viewing.

The Catamaran: Comfortable, Fast, and Well-Equipped

The vessel used for this tour is spacious and modern, with both indoor and outdoor viewing options. Inside, the heated lounge offers panoramic windows so guests can stay warm and still enjoy spectacular views. Outdoors, large decks provide the best vantage points for photography and sky gazing.

The boat’s speed and agility are key advantages, letting the crew chase clear weather swiftly. This means less waiting and more time sitting under the stars. The boat’s design minimizes rocking and seasickness issues, making the experience comfortable even in windy Arctic conditions.

The Guide’s Role: Explaining the Aurora and Sharing Arctic Stories

Every trip is led by an expert guide who shares insights into the science of the aurora borealis as well as Arctic myths and stories. This educational element adds depth to the experience, helping travelers understand what causes the lights and their cultural significance.

Guides are multilingual and can provide narration in English, Norwegian, German, French, or Italian upon request. They also take photos of guests on the outdoor decks, ensuring everyone has memorable pictures of the moment when the aurora appears.

Enjoy Warm Drinks and Snacks on Board

A selection of hot beverages such as coffee and tea is served throughout the cruise, keeping guests cozy during their Arctic night. Some tours also offer snacks and drinks available for purchase onboard, providing comfort amid the cold. This hospitality, combined with the warm lounge, makes the journey both relaxing and practical.

More Great Tours Nearby

Flexible Duration and the Free Ticket Policy

The tour’s length can extend up to 4 hours depending on when the aurora appears. If the lights stay hidden due to weather or low activity, guests receive a free ticket for the next available departure—a generous promise to maximize chances of witnessing the lights.

This flexibility is a strong point, allowing travelers to tailor their experience and avoid wasting time on less promising nights. The tour starts promptly at 19:30, making it easy to plan an evening outing in Tromsø.

The Route: Chasing the Aurora Across Fjords

Once underway, the catamaran speeds to outlying fjords and open waters, far from Tromsø’s light pollution. The crew continuously monitors the weather and sky conditions, stopping immediately when clear skies are spotted. This dynamic pursuit increases the likelihood of a sighting, compared to land-based tours that are limited by parking or traffic.

Traveling by boat also means less time waiting on land, and the quiet Arctic silence and vast scenery provide a serene backdrop for this celestial quest.

What Guests Say About the Experience

Reviews highlight the speed and directness of this tour as major advantages, with many appreciating the professional guides who combine knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. Guests note the clean, comfortable boat and ample outdoor space for photos, especially during the aurora display.

Several reviewers mention that even when the lights don’t appear, the journey itself remains enjoyable for the scenic water routes and cozy onboard environment. The hot drinks and photo services are frequently praised, adding extra value to the experience.

Most reviews describe the tour as well-organized and efficient, with some mentioning the possibility to join a follow-up attempt if the aurora isn’t visible on their initial night. The speed of the boat and ability to reach outside Tromsø quickly stand out as key features that improve the chances of a sighting.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Travelers

This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider range of guests. Travelers should bring warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and thermal layers, as outdoor decks can be cold. A camera and tripod are recommended for capturing the northern lights, especially since the outdoor decks offer the clearest views.

Meeting time is at 19:30 in front of the hotel The Dock 69 39 By Scandic. Guests should look for the beach flags to find the group. The tour ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

Comparing This Tour to Other Aurora Experiences

Compared to bus or snowmobile tours, this catamaran cruise is often recognized for its shorter duration and direct approach. The ability to move swiftly away from light pollution and the comfort of the vessel are notable benefits.

While some other tours involve longer hours or different modes of transportation, this cruise aims to deliver the best chance of seeing the aurora within a relatively short, comfortable timeframe.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy the Tromsø Northern Lights Catamaran?

This 4-hour cruise offers a balanced mix of comfort, speed, and education. It suits travelers who want a quick Arctic adventure with a real shot at witnessing the aurora, without spending an entire night outdoors or on longer excursions. The flexibility of the tour duration and free rescheduling make it a smart choice for visitors with tight schedules or uncertain weather forecasts.

The expert guides, warm lounge, and strategic routing make this experience stand out among Northern Lights tours. It is especially appealing for those who appreciate well-organized logistics and personalized assistance in capturing photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
It is generally not recommended for those prone to seasickness, as the boat can be affected by windy Arctic conditions.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Guests should bring warm clothing and a camera with a tripod for photos. Warm hats, gloves, and thermal layers are advisable.

What happens if we don’t see the Northern Lights?
Guests receive a free ticket for the next available departure, giving another chance to see the aurora without extra cost.

Where exactly do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is in front of The Dock 69 39 By Scandic, at 19:30, identified by beach flags at the coordinates 69.6537, 18.9659.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts up to 4 hours, depending on the visibility of the aurora and weather conditions.

Can I request the guide to narrate in my language?
Yes, the tour offers multilingual narration in English, Norwegian, German, French, or Italian upon request.

This Northern Lights cruise in Tromsø combines speed, comfort, and expert guidance to give you the best chance of experiencing the Arctic’s most magical sky phenomena.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby