Tromsø: Aurora Dinner Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

Taking a cruise to see the Northern Lights around Tromsø is a bucket-list activity for many travelers visiting Norway’s Arctic region. This particular tour, run by Brim Explorer, offers a unique blend of eco-friendly sailing, scenic views, and a cozy dining experience—all wrapped into a 3.5-hour adventure. The highlight? Dining on a thoughtfully curated 3-course Arctic seafood meal while floating silently through the dark waters, with the chance to catch the elusive Aurora dance overhead.

What really stands out for us about this experience is how it balances sustainable travel with comfort and genuine local flavor. The hybrid-electric catamaran moves almost silently, allowing you to fully soak in the Arctic landscape without engine noise disturbing the peace. Plus, the attentive crew, including guides like Olaf and Fred, make the journey both informative and warm.

One consideration worth noting is that Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather conditions. Cloud cover or snow can obscure the view, which means patience is sometimes required. This makes the tour a perfect choice for those willing to embrace the unpredictability of Arctic nature, rather than solely focusing on aurora hunting.

This cruise appeals especially to travelers who appreciate authentic, intimate experiences—combining natural beauty, local cuisine, and eco-conscious travel. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo adventurers who want a memorable Arctic night with a touch of luxury, without the crowds or noise of larger tours.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly Sailing: The hybrid-electric catamaran cruises in near silence, significantly reducing noise and emissions.
• Gourmet Arctic Cuisine: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared 3-course seafood meal based on local flavors, with vegetarian options available.
• Scenic Arctic Views: Pass snow-covered mountains, landmarks like the Arctic Cathedral, and icy waters—all illuminated by the Arctic night.
• Northern Lights Flexibility: The crew actively monitors the sky, and if conditions are right, you can witness the Aurora dancing overhead.
• Comfort & Convenience: Heated saloons with panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere make the experience leisurely and enjoyable.
• Authentic Small-Group Vibe: With around 40 minutes for tasting, dinner, and dessert, you’ll experience a more intimate, less crowded setting.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Check-in

The journey begins at the Brim Explorer dock, situated beside Skarven Kro Restaurant at Kaigata 6. Travelers should arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in and get a briefing. The crew, including guides like Olaf and Fred, are friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making sure everyone is comfortable and informed before setting sail.

Safety & Welcome Refreshments

Once aboard, there’s a quick safety briefing—no surprises here, just the usual instructions to ensure everyone’s safety on the water. A welcome glass of sparkling wine or similar beverage kicks off the evening, adding a touch of celebration right from the start. The boat’s hybrid-electric engines are notably quiet, which creates a peaceful ambiance and allows guests to focus on the scenery and the conversations.

Scenic Cruising & Sightseeing

The cruise takes you around Tromsø Island, offering sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, the Arctic Cathedral—an iconic landmark—and other Arctic sights. The boat’s 360-degree panoramic windows and heated saloons allow guests to enjoy the landscape without feeling the chill. Some reviews mention that the crew is particularly attentive, with Olaf and Fred helping camera settings and pointing out interesting sights as they appear.

The Stops: Food & Aurora Viewing

The itinerary includes several key moments:

• About 18 minutes are dedicated to a safety briefing and initial refreshments, setting a relaxed tone.
• The first viewpoint (40 mins) is an opportunity for tasting Arctic delicacies—mini Norwegian starters that showcase local flavors. Reviewers appreciated the quality and presentation, with one noting the collection of flavors as a highlight.
• The dinner stop (around 1 hour) is where the 3-course meal takes center stage. The menu focuses on seafood, with options for vegetarians. The main dish often features cod stew, embodying classic Arctic flavors. Reviewers have raved about the deliciousness of the food, with many surprised at its quality considering it’s part of a cruise.
• Following dinner, there’s a dessert stop (40 mins), giving time for guests to relax, chat, and enjoy dessert while keeping an eye on the sky.
• Throughout the evening, the crew actively monitors aurora activity, and if conditions are promising, they will pause the boat for optimal viewing. Reviewers like Camilla and Xin An mention that the crew’s real-time updates and support made the Aurora sighting more magical.

End of the Trip

The cruise concludes back at the dock, where guests often remark on the peaceful, memorable atmosphere. Despite occasional cloud cover, many reviewers like Megan and Gareth express satisfaction, emphasizing the quality of the experience—from tasting local cuisine to the friendly crew and stunning scenery.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Environmental Concerns: The hybrid-electric propulsion means the boat moves quietly, providing a more eco-conscious way to explore Arctic waters. Several reviews mention how this quiet operation added to the serenity of the night, letting the natural sounds and sights take precedence.

Authentic Arctic Flavors: The focus on local seafood gives this cruise a culinary edge over more generic Northern Lights tours. Many reviewers highlight the surprisingly high quality of the food and appreciate the chance to try Norwegian flavors in a cozy setting.

Attention to Detail: From helping with camera settings to sharing cultural insights, guides like Olaf and Fred add value beyond just navigating the waters. Guests noted how attentive and knowledgeable they were, making the experience both informative and fun.

Weather Dependence: The main caveat is that Aurora sightings hinge on weather conditions. Cloud cover, snow, or overcast skies might obscure the Northern Lights, but many reviewers mention that even if the sky stays cloudy, the overall experience remains enjoyable due to the scenery, food, and company.

Group Size & Atmosphere: With a moderate number of guests, the cruise feels intimate, especially during the tasting and meal segments. The reviews mention that some tables, particularly upstairs, can be tight for larger groups, so booking early or with fewer people might improve comfort.

Value for Money: At $175 per person, the price includes the meal, guide, and the chance to see the Northern Lights—making it a good value considering the quality of food, scenery, and eco-conscious sailing. Drinks are available for purchase, but water is complimentary.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration & Timing: The trip lasts about 3.5 hours, with starting times varying—check availability when booking. It’s best to do it on a clear night for the best Aurora chances.
• Meeting Point: Arrive 15 minutes early at the pier beside Skarven Kro. The activity ends back at the same spot.
• Dietary Restrictions: Notify the tour provider via email at least 24 hours in advance if you have special dietary needs, especially for vegetarian options.
• What to Wear: Dress warmly! Layering is key in Arctic temperatures, and the boat’s heated saloons offer some respite, but outdoor viewing calls for insulated clothing.
• Drinks: While water is free, alcohol and specialty drinks are available for purchase—consider bringing cash or card onboard.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is great for travelers with mobility needs.
• Weather & Aurora: Remember, the Northern Lights are elusive. Being flexible and patient increases your chances of witnessing this spectacular phenomenon.

Authentic Experiences From Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention the helpfulness of the crew, especially Olaf and Fred, who went above and beyond in assisting with camera settings and sharing insights about Tromsø and the Aurora. Tara described it as a romantic experience under the Northern Lights, while Camilla called the light show “incredible.” Even when weather didn’t cooperate, many still enjoyed the cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly guides.

One reviewer, Luigi, noted how the crew’s professionalism made up for poor weather, emphasizing that the dinner and service were still memorable. Others loved that the boat sailed further past the usual drop-off point to maximize Aurora viewing, a tactic appreciated by Gareth and others for giving a better chance to see the lights.

The Sum Up

This Aurora Dinner Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran offers a well-rounded Arctic experience—combining eco-friendly sailing, stunning scenery, and delicious local cuisine. It’s a fantastic choice for those who crave an authentic, intimate adventure with the added bonus of hopefully witnessing the Northern Lights dance overhead.

The focus on sustainability, attentive crew, and quality food makes it stand out. While Aurora sightings are weather-dependent, the peaceful cruise, panoramic views, and cultural touches ensure you’ll leave with more than just photos of the lights—you’ll have a memorable Arctic evening.

Ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed yet immersive experience, this tour balances comfort, authenticity, and environmental consciousness. If you’re lucky with the weather, it might just be one of the most magical nights of your trip to Tromsø.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The price covers a 3-course seafood meal (with vegetarian options), a professional local guide, and complimentary tap water. Drinks are available to purchase onboard.

How long does the cruise last?
The tour runs for about 3.5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability. Check the schedule when booking.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet 15 minutes early at the pier beside Skarven Kro Restaurant (Kaigata 6). The tour ends back at the same spot.

Can I request special dietary options?
Yes, inform the tour provider via email at least 24 hours before the trip to arrange vegetarian or other dietary needs.

What if we don’t see the Northern Lights?
Weather and sky conditions influence aurora visibility. Many reviews mention that even if the lights are elusive, the trip remains enjoyable thanks to the scenery, food, and crew support.

Is the boat accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility requirements.

Is it cold on the boat?
Absolutely. Dress in warm layers, including insulated outerwear. The saloons are heated, but outdoor viewing calls for proper Arctic gear.

Can I buy alcohol onboard?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase, but water is complimentary. It’s a good idea to bring some cash or cards for drinks and souvenirs.

This Arctic adventure promises a blend of stunning visuals, authentic local flavors, and a sustainable approach to exploring Norway’s northern waters. Whether you’re hoping to catch the Aurora or simply enjoy a serene, scenic cruise, this tour offers a memorable way to spend an evening in Tromsø.