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This Norwegian coastal voyage is a superb way to see the Northern Lights because being out at sea you get away from the artificial lights of towns and cities which can spoil the viewing experience.

Now the Arctic Highlights cruise is an even more attractive prospect as there is a range of direct charter flights available from UK airports including Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast.  Because this cruise also provides a superior level of comfort to many of the alternative Arctic holidays to view the Northern Lights, it is ideal for over 50s travellers with a great sense of adventure. 

The Northern Lights

Every year between October and March, the beautiful Aurora Borealis graces the skies above northerly latitudes, making Norway one of the best places to see this mesmerising phenomenon.

What makes Northern Lights holidays even more exciting right now is the fact that our sun is going through a phase of increased activity, which means that the Aurora appears more vividly and more frequently than in previous years.  Scientists have predicted that the winter of 2012/2013 is set to be another good one for seeing the elusive Northern Lights. 

Arctic Highlights Cruise 

The atmosphere on board these Norwegian coastal voyages is friendly, relaxed and informal.  Guests are welcomed into the cosy Panorama Lounge where they can watch through the enormous windows as the striking coastal scenery drifts past.  Hearty Norwegian cuisine, freshly prepared by talented on-board chefs, is served morning, noon and night in the elegant dining hall.

The interior decor of the ship reflects the traditions and customs of the Sami people who are native to these northerly parts of Scandinavia.  Wonderful pieces of art and craftwork are strategically placed throughout the ship’s interior, some of which pay homage to the beauty of the Aurora Borealis.

Destinations on an Arctic Highlights Cruise 

Setting sail from Tromso, the Arctic capital of Norway, the ship calls at Hammerfest and then Honningsvag.  From here, there is an opportunity to take an excursion to the North Cape, which claims to be the most northerly point of mainland Europe.  Arriving in Kirkenes, passengers can also visit the impressive Snow Hotel. 

At any time after nightfall on any day of the Arctic Highlights cruise, the Northern Lights could appear in the skies and illuminate the snow-covered landscape of Norway with an ethereal glow.  Guests can even request a wake-up call to their cabin should the Aurora appear late at night.

Returning to Tromso on day four of the Arctic Highlights cruise, travellers will spend the remaining two nights based in the city, a place renowned for its Northern Lights activity.  With various tours available in Tromso that are aimed at enhancing visitors’ experience of the Aurora, there is no better place to visit to be in with a chance of spotting the unpredictable phenomenon.

By Linda Gilmour 

Linda works for the Mighty Fine Company and specialises in exceptional holidays to Scandinavia. Visit the website for more information on the Arctic Highlights cruise and other Northern Lights holidays.