Northern Lights Promise On Select Norwegian Coastal Voyages
The Aurora Borealis—nature’s most spectacular light show—is one of the greatest wonders of the Arctic. For many travelers, witnessing the Northern Lights is a lifelong dream, and Hurtigruten is so confident in the visibility along Norway’s coast that they offer a Northern Lights Promise on select voyages.
If the Northern Lights do not appear during your 11‑ or 12‑day Classic Roundtrip Voyage, Hurtigruten will give you a FREE 6‑ or 7‑day Norwegian Coastal Voyage to try again. This promise applies to select departures between October 1 and March 31, the peak Northern Lights season.
This guarantee gives travelers peace of mind—and a second chance to experience one of Earth’s most magical natural phenomena.
HOW THE NORTHERN LIGHTS PROMISE WORKS
QUALIFYING VOYAGES
- Applies to 11‑day Bergen–Kirkenes–Bergen voyages
- Applies to 12‑day Classic Roundtrip Voyages
- Valid on select departures between October 1 and March 31
WHAT COUNTS AS A NORTHERN LIGHTS OCCURRENCE?
A Northern Lights sighting must be officially recorded by the ship’s crew and announced to guests. Even a brief appearance counts as a fulfilled promise.
IF NO NORTHERN LIGHTS OCCUR
You will receive a FREE 6‑ or 7‑day voyage, typically:
- 6‑day Southbound Voyage (Kirkenes to Bergen)
- 7‑day Northbound Voyage (Bergen to Kirkenes)
Your complimentary voyage must be taken within a specified period (usually within the next two years), giving you plenty of flexibility.
WHY NORWAY IS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Hurtigruten’s coastal route travels directly beneath the Auroral Oval, the region with the highest Northern Lights activity on Earth. This means:
- High probability of sightings
- Minimal light pollution
- Long, dark winter nights
- Clear Arctic air
- Multiple viewing opportunities each night
With the ship sailing continuously, you have the chance to see the lights from the deck, your cabin, or panoramic lounges.
ENHANCE YOUR NORTHERN LIGHTS EXPERIENCE
ONBOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Crew members monitor the skies and will make announcements—day or night—when the lights appear.
EXPERT LECTURES
On many voyages, the Coastal Experience Team offers talks on:
- The science behind the Aurora
- Sami legends and folklore
- Photography tips for capturing the lights
IDEAL VIEWING SPOTS
- Outdoor observation decks
- Panoramic lounges
- Your own cabin balcony (on select ships)
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
- October–March: Highest chance of sightings
- December–February: Longest nights
- March: Often clearer skies
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
- Bring a tripod
- Use manual settings
- Wide‑angle lens recommended
- Dress warmly for extended time outdoors
WHY CHOOSE HURTIGRUTEN
- 130+ years of Norwegian coastal expertise
- Small‑ship experience with authentic local culture
- Sailing directly under the Auroral Oval
- Northern Lights Promise for added peace of mind
