Tromsø Fjords: Northern Lights evening cruise with guide

Summary

Nighttime catamaran journey from Tromsø in search of the Aurora

You’ll board a cozy catamaran in Tromsø after dark and set off into Arctic silence with a local guide leading your hunt for the Northern Lights. Warm up inside or brave the deck as you watch for Auroras over snowy fjords. With stories from your guide and an Aurora guarantee if nature doesn’t cooperate, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about being out on the water at 9pm in the middle of winter — I mean, who actually chooses to leave a warm hotel for the Arctic darkness? But there we were, bundled up and shuffling onto the MS Rygerdronningen, breath fogging in the air. Our guide, Erik (who had that dry Norwegian humor), handed out tips on spotting the Northern Lights and pointed to where we’d be cruising along the Tromsø Fjords. He said something about “patience and luck,” which made me laugh — not exactly what you want to hear when you’ve traveled so far for this.

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it got once we left the harbor. The city lights faded behind us, replaced by this thick kind of silence that only happens when snow’s all around. Inside, people huddled by panoramic windows with mugs of hot chocolate (the kiosk sells snacks too — I caved and bought a cinnamon bun). Every so often someone would rush outside to check the sky. The cold hit hard — sharp on your cheeks, almost electric — but it felt right somehow, like you needed that bite to really wake up for what might happen next.

When the Aurora finally showed up — honestly, it started as just a faint green smudge above the fjord — Erik tapped my shoulder and grinned like he’d seen it a thousand times but still cared every single time. It grew brighter and started moving across the sky in these slow waves. There was this moment where nobody talked; even kids went quiet. I tried taking photos but mostly ended up staring, forgetting about my phone completely. Someone whispered about Valkyries riding across the night (I think Erik had told us that story earlier), and for a second it did feel like something old and wild was happening above us.

We didn’t stay out forever — maybe two hours? Time got weird out there anyway. Heading back toward Tromsø, I kept thinking about how different everything looked under that green light, even if it only lasted a few minutes. Not sure if everyone saw what they hoped for, but I know I’ll remember that hush when the lights appeared more than any photo could ever show.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Northern Lights Evening Cruise

• Depart Tromsø at 9pm on catamaran
• Watch Aurora Borealis from panoramic windows
• Step outside on deck for clearer views
• Enjoy onboard kiosk with food and drinks

Top questions

What time does the Northern Lights cruise from Tromsø depart?

The cruise departs at 9pm from Tromsø.

Is there an English-speaking guide on board?

Yes, both Norwegian- and English-speaking guides are included.

How long is the evening catamaran cruise?

The cruise lasts around two hours.

Is food available during the cruise?

You can buy food, snacks, and drinks at the onboard kiosk.

What happens if we don’t see the Northern Lights?

If you don’t see them, you get a free ticket for another Northern Lights safari on their boat (one-time use).

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants join this Northern Lights tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap; prams or strollers are allowed.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided catamaran cruise through Tromsø Fjords with both Norwegian- and English-speaking guides onboard. There’s an Aurora guarantee if you don’t spot them on your trip, plus access to snacks and drinks for purchase in a warm cabin before heading back to port late at night.