Tromsø: Evening Cruise with Northern Lights Opportunity

Planning a trip to Tromsø and dreaming of catching the elusive Aurora Borealis? We’ve reviewed this evening cruise with Polar Adventures, and here’s what you need to know before booking. While it’s not a guarantee to see the Northern Lights — and that’s true of almost all Aurora outings — this tour offers a solid chance to witness the green lady from the warmth and comfort of a boat.

What we love about this experience are its friendly, knowledgeable guides, the relaxed boat setting with indoor and outdoor options, and the value for money at just over $100 per person. The snacks, hot drinks, and thermal suits make it feel like a well-rounded Arctic adventure. The only possible downside? The unpredictability of the Northern Lights means you might not see the display every time. But if you’re up for an authentic, cozy experience on the water — and the chance to get some epic photos — this tour could be perfect for you.

It’s an experience best suited for those who enjoy guided tours, are comfortable in cooler weather, and appreciate a more intimate, less crowded atmosphere than larger bus trips. Let’s take a closer look at what this 3.5-hour night adventure involves, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Arctic escape.

• Comfortable boat experience with indoor cabin and deck options
• Expert crew and guides who help with Aurora spotting and photography tips
• Snacks, hot drinks, thermal suits included for warmth and comfort
• Flexible booking options with a 50% discount on a second tour if no Aurora is seen
• Unpredictable Aurora sightings—weather conditions greatly influence success
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, authentic Arctic night

An Honest Look at the Tromsø Northern Lights Cruise

This cruise, operated by Polar Adventures, is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, departing at 8 pm from the Tromsø city center, specifically from the front pier at Kilengreensgate 7-11. The boat, MS Sagasund, is described as comfortable and well-equipped—though some reviewers mention it being a bit older, which adds a certain charm rather than discomfort.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary and What It Entails

The experience kicks off on the dock, where you’ll meet your crew and get settled aboard. From there, the boat departs promptly at 20:00, setting sail toward the areas where the Aurora is most likely to appear. The route is carefully chosen, with the captain actively monitoring weather conditions and satellite data to find the clearest skies.

While the boat travels in the Arctic Sea around Tromsø, you’re encouraged to stay on deck as much as possible for the best views. The indoor cabin offers a cozy escape with toilets, hot drinks, and snacks, which are included in the ticket price. You can also purchase additional drinks or waffles — the latter highly praised by some guests.

How the Crew Maximizes Your Chances

One of the standout points from reviews is the knowledge and helpfulness of the crew. Guides like Holly and Christina are frequently mentioned as friendly and eager to help guests capture photos of the Aurora. They assist with camera settings and advise on the best spots on the boat to see the lights. The captain actively “chases” the Aurora using apps and satellite data, sailing miles if necessary to get away from city light pollution and cloudy skies.

Guests have shared that, even when weather is less than ideal, the crew’s persistence often pays off. For example, Ted mentioned how the captain tracked cloud cover from satellites and repositioned the boat into a perfect viewing spot, resulting in a stunning Aurora display despite overcast skies earlier in the night.

Food and Drinks Onboard

While the tour doesn’t include a warm meal, you’ll find hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and biscuits available. Many guests, like Tom and Sarah, enjoyed the hot drinks as a comforting way to stay warm during the chilly Arctic night. Some reviews highlight the waffles as a standout treat — freshly made, crispy outside and soft inside, with toppings like whipped cream or jam. It’s a small but memorable touch that adds to the cozy, communal feel of the trip.

The Experience of Searching for the Aurora

Most travelers appreciate the informative and honest communication from guides about the chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The tour provides a 50% discount on a second attempt if the Aurora doesn’t appear on the first night, which many reviewers found fair and reassuring. If the weather is poor, the team will contact you in advance to reschedule or suggest alternative activities, like bus tours, which some guests found advantageous for chasing clear skies.

Several reviews mention how the guides keep everyone engaged, calling out when the Aurora appears, often on the deck so guests don’t miss a moment. For example, a guest named Sarah noted how the crew took them away from the bright city lights and notified them where to look, resulting in a “dancing” Aurora that was truly breathtaking.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Intimate and Comfortable Setting

Instead of large bus tours, this boat offers a more personalized experience. Many reviews mention the cleanliness, space, and friendly atmosphere onboard. The indoor cabin provides relief from the cold, along with toilets—important on a long night out.

Helpful and Engaged Guides

Guests highlight guides like Holly, Christina, and captain Bogdan, describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and persistent. They don’t just chase the lights; they offer valuable tips for photography and share Arctic insights, making the experience more meaningful.

Great Value for Money

At $117 per person, this tour covers transportation, guidance, snacks, thermal suits, and the chance to see the Aurora. Reviewers frequently mention that the hot drinks and snacks made the cold nights more bearable, and the thermal suits meant you didn’t have to bring your own bulky winter gear.

Potential for Scenic Arctic Views

Even if the Aurora eludes you, the cruise itself is a lovely way to see Tromsø’s night scenery, with many reviewers describing the peaceful, starry waters and the thrill of being out on the Arctic Sea.

The Unpredictability of the Aurora

While every effort is made to optimize your chances, the Northern Lights are inherently unpredictable. Weather conditions like cloud cover can block the view entirely, which is why the tour offers a discount for a second trip if needed.

Weather and Warmth

Expect chilly conditions, especially on deck. The thermal suits provided help, but bringing warm clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes is essential. The boat’s indoor area offers a cozy refuge, but most of the Aurora viewing happens outside.

Group Size and Duration

The tour accommodates a minimum of 10 participants, which might affect the overall atmosphere. The 3.5-hour duration is generally enough to enjoy the experience without it feeling rushed, and it fits well into an evening schedule.

If you’re eager to chase the Northern Lights in a relaxed setting, this cruise offers value, comfort, and expert guidance. It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate experience than large bus tours, and for travelers who appreciate warm drinks, snacks, and helpful tips to capture the Aurora.

While seeing the lights can never be guaranteed, the combination of dedicated guides, strategic routes, and a cozy boat environment maximizes your chances. Plus, the ability to reschedule or receive a discounted second trip provides peace of mind.

This tour suits travelers who are adventurous, patient, and open to the unpredictability of Arctic weather. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, authentic Arctic night with a touch of comfort and camaraderie.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, departing at 8 pm and returning around 11:30 pm.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the front pier at Kilengreensgate 7-11 in Tromsø.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, hot and cold drinks, cookies, and snacks are included in the ticket price. Additional drinks or waffles can be purchased onboard.

Is there a guarantee I will see the Northern Lights?
No, sightings depend on weather and Aurora activity. If you don’t see the Aurora on your first trip, you’re offered a 50% discount for a second tour, subject to availability.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, sturdy shoes, hats, gloves, and anything else to stay comfortable on deck during cold nights.

Can I take photos?
Yes, the crew will help you with camera settings to capture the Aurora, though photos are not included in the tour.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
No, the tour is not suitable for electric wheelchairs or guests with mobility issues.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The team will contact you to reschedule or suggest alternative options, like a bus tour, if weather conditions make the cruise unfeasible.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Final Verdict

This Tromsø Northern Lights evening cruise offers an authentic Arctic adventure with a good mix of comfort, expert guidance, and scenic beauty. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Aurora from the water, away from city lights, and with the reassurance of flexible booking. Just remember, patience and luck play a part, but with the crew’s dedication, your chances of witnessing the green lady are as high as they can be.

You can check if your dates are available here: