Can You See the Northern Lights From a Cruise Ship?

By Alice Nichols

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon of the night sky which has been captivating humans since ancient times. It can be seen in the northern latitudes of the Arctic regions and is caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere. Seeing the Northern Lights from a cruise ship is something many people dream of yet few manage to experience.

Cruise ships usually travel north from larger cities such as Anchorage, Alaska, and Seattle, Washington on trips to areas like Glacier Bay and Juneau in Alaska. As they travel northward, passengers can often glimpse the Northern Lights draping across the night sky like a curtain of light. However, due to their unpredictable nature it is not guaranteed that you will be able to see them during your cruise.

The main challenge when trying to see the Northern Lights from a cruise ship is that you have to be in an area with clear skies. Unfortunately, this cannot always be guaranteed as it depends on atmospheric conditions.

You may also need luck on your side as they don’t always appear when expected. Therefore it’s important to plan ahead and book a trip during one of the peak times for seeing them.

In addition, there are some other things you can do to increase your chances of seeing them while on board a cruise ship:

  • Choose an itinerary with northern destinations: Look for cruises that include stops at ports located further north such as Alaska or Norway.
  • Go during peak season: The best time for viewing this natural phenomenon is usually between late August and early April.
  • Be prepared: Make sure you have warm clothing and binoculars so you can get a better view of the lights.

Ultimately, whether or not you are able to see the Northern Lights from a cruise ship depends on many factors such as weather conditions, time of year and luck. However, if you plan ahead and follow these tips then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to catch a glimpse of this amazing display in all its glory!

Conclusion



The Northern Lights are an incredible sight that can only be seen in certain locations at certain times of year. While it may not always be possible to see them from a cruise ship due to unpredictable atmospheric conditions, there are some steps one can take in order to maximize their chances such as choosing an itinerary with northern destinations and going during peak season. With some luck and preparation it may still be possible to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder while at sea!