Tromsø, Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise

Tromsø, Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise: An Honest Look

Taking a Northern Lights cruise in Tromsø promises a blend of Arctic charm, cozy comfort, and the potential to witness one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays. While the experience is quite popular and books up quickly—averaging 58 days in advance—the reality can vary greatly depending on weather and luck. This particular tour, offered by My Holidays Online, takes you out on the spacious MS Rygerdronningen to hunt for the Aurora Borealis after dark.

What we genuinely appreciate about this cruise is its timing and comfort. At just two and a half hours, it’s a relatively short outing—making it appealing for those who prefer not to spend an entire night at sea. Plus, the large, stable vessel offers both indoor warmth and outdoor decks, giving you options depending on the conditions and your mood. That said, a key consideration is that, since Aurora sightings are a natural phenomenon, there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights, which can disappoint even keen Aurora hunters.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, scenic experience with a chance to see the Northern Lights, especially if they are new to Arctic adventures or prefer a shorter, hassle-free outing. If you’re expecting a guaranteed Aurora show, you might want to explore other options, but if you’re after comfort, good company, and a lovely boat ride, this cruise could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable vessel: Large and cozy, suitable for all weather conditions.
• Short duration: Around 2.5 hours, making it ideal for a quick Arctic experience.
• Aurora guarantee: Includes a free ticket for a future cruise if the lights aren’t seen.
• Weather dependency: Visibility of the Northern Lights is highly reliant on weather and sky conditions.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and attentive, with some reviews highlighting specific guides like Carlo.
• Limited inclusions: No food or drinks are provided, so bring your own snacks if desired.

Exploring the Experience in Depth

The Itinerary and Its Charm

The tour departs at 9 pm from Tromsø’s Alti Nerstranda meeting point, in the heart of the city. The journey begins in the dark Polar Night, when Tromsø’s sun seldom rises—around late November to mid-January—creating ideal conditions for Aurora viewing. The large catamaran MS Rygerdronningen sets sail into the Arctic waters, offering a stable platform that many find more comfortable than smaller boats or buses.

The cruise’s main advantage is its panoramic windows in the warm, well-equipped cabin. This setup allows you to keep an eye out for the shimmering lights without braving the cold. As the boat moves into darker waters, you can venture outside onto the spacious decks for a better view of the night sky if conditions permit.

The Search for the Aurora

Northern Lights sightings are notoriously unpredictable. The crew, including guides like Carlo, do their best to locate Aurora activity based on weather forecasts and real-time sky conditions. Several reviews mention the crew’s high level of knowledge and enthusiasm, with one reviewer praising Carlo’s expertise about the Aurora Borealis.

While the guides cannot guarantee sightings, they offer a Northern Lights guarantee: if you don’t see the Aurora on your first trip, you get a free ticket for a future cruise. This policy reflects the understanding that Aurora is a natural phenomenon, heavily dependent on factors beyond anyone’s control.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cruise includes an English- and Norwegian-speaking guide, who provides commentary and insights into the science, mythology, and local folklore surrounding the Aurora Borealis. However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or hot beverages might enhance the experience.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The vessel’s size and amenities make for a comfortable ride, even in Arctic weather.
• The short duration appeals to travelers with limited time or those who prefer a less daunting outing.
• Guides like Carlo are well-regarded for their knowledge and friendliness.
• The Northern Lights guarantee offers peace of mind and an opportunity for a repeat experience at no extra cost.
• The scenic Arctic waters and city views from the boat add to the overall experience.

Cons:

• The weather-dependent nature means you might spend a lovely evening on a boat but see no Aurora.
• Some reviews mention limited visibility of the Northern Lights compared to bus tours or other hunting methods, especially if you’re in the southern parts of Tromsø.
• No food or beverages are included, which might be a downside for those expecting a full experience without extra planning.
• There are occasional reports of cancellations due to bad weather or last-minute changes, which can be frustrating and emphasize the unpredictability.

How Does This Tour Compare?

Compared to other Aurora hunting options like bus tours or specialized Aurora chases, this catamaran offers a quieter, more scenic alternative. The boat’s size and stability mean less motion sickness and more space for outdoor viewing, which many reviews appreciated.

However, some travelers note that views from buses or land-based vantage points might be more effective, especially if the boat stays close to the coast where city lights can interfere. But the upside is the peaceful, immersive Arctic atmosphere that a boat ride offers, which can be a memorable part of the adventure.

Practical Details and Value

At $158.20 per person, this cruise provides a decent value considering the comfort, expert guides, and the chance (though not a certainty) to see the Northern Lights. Since no food is included, travelers should budget for snacks, but the cozy indoor environment often more than compensates for the chilly outdoor air.

The max group size of 100 ensures a lively atmosphere but still enough space for everyone to comfortably find their spot. Booking around 58 days in advance indicates strong demand, making early reservations highly advisable.

The cancellation policy offers flexibility—full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance—adding reassurance for travelers worried about weather or schedule changes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for first-time visitors to Tromsø or those seeking a comfortable, short Arctic adventure. It’s ideal if you want a relaxing evening with the potential to see the Aurora without committing to a longer or more strenuous activity.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a peaceful, scenic outing, you’ll likely enjoy this cruise. Families and older travelers will also find it accessible. However, if your main goal is to guarantee Aurora sightings, you might want to explore other options or combine this with land-based activities for better chances.

Final Thoughts

The Tromsø Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise offers a pleasant, comfortable way to hunt for the Aurora Borealis. While weather and luck dictate whether you’ll witness the lights, the experience itself—characterized by friendly guides, scenic Arctic waters, and a cozy vessel—is worth considering.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic Arctic adventure that balances comfort with the thrill of Aurora hunting, and you’re okay with the unpredictability of natural phenomena, this cruise could be a good choice. Just remember to manage expectations and pack some snacks for the ride.

This tour is especially suitable for those who value ease and comfort over prolonged or more intense excursions, making it a suitable option for a wide range of travelers eager to experience Tromsø’s winter magic.

FAQs

What is included in the cruise?
The cruise features a catamaran ride and an expert guide in both English and Norwegian. You will also receive a Northern Lights guarantee, meaning if you don’t see the Aurora, you can take a free ticket for a future cruise.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring your own snacks and warm beverages to stay comfortable during the trip.

What time does the cruise depart?
The cruise departs at 9 pm from Alti Nerstranda in Tromsø, offering a late-night Arctic adventure.

Can I see the Northern Lights from the boat?
Yes, there’s a good chance, but since Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings depend on weather, sky conditions, and solar activity. The guides do their best to locate Aurora activity.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly! Arctic winter temperatures can be quite cold, especially when outside on the decks. Layers, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and boots are highly recommended.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the boat’s size makes it accessible for many. However, if you have mobility issues or are sensitive to cold, consider your comfort level.

In short, this Northern Lights catamaran cruise in Tromsø provides a cozy, scenic way to chase the Aurora, with knowledgeable guides and a flexible booking policy. While it doesn’t guarantee a sighting, the experience of floating through Arctic waters in search of the lights remains a memorable part of any winter trip to Norway.