24hr Northern Lights & Whale Watching Cruise

Planning a trip to Tromso and dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights while also catching a glimpse of majestic whales? This 24-hour cruise promises to do just that, offering an immersive Arctic adventure. While it’s not your typical sightseeing trip, it’s designed for travelers who want a real taste of the polar wilderness, away from city lights and crowds.

What immediately drew us in about this experience is its focus on small group intimacy—which means more personalized attention—and the chance to combine two of Tromso’s world-class natural phenomena in one go. We also appreciate the well-structured itinerary: starting with an evening Northern Lights chase, followed by a restful night at sea, and then an exciting morning of whale watching. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the journey is quite long and involves being on the water for nearly a full day, which might not suit everyone. Still, for those with a sense of adventure and patience, this trip can be a highlight of a Northern Norway visit.

This experience is best suited for curious, nature-loving travelers who are comfortable with boat trips and are eager to see the Northern Lights and whales in a single, continuous adventure. It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy learning from expert guides and appreciate good food while they’re out exploring the Arctic.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Combination tour of Northern Lights viewing and whale watching maximizes your chances to see Arctic wildlife.
• Quality guides and talks enrich the experience with fascinating insights.
• Comfortable cabins and a 3-course dinner enhance the overnight sea journey.
• Optimal timing from late evening to late afternoon offers both nighttime light shows and daytime whale sightings.
• Price point is on the higher side but reflects an all-inclusive, immersive Arctic experience.

An In-Depth Look at the 24-hour Northern Lights & Whale Watching Cruise

We’re always cautious about overhyping tours, but this one genuinely catches the eye for its ambitious combination of Arctic phenomena. We’ll go through what you can expect at each stage, what makes it worth considering, and some practical tips based on reviews and the detailed itinerary.

Starting Point and Check-in

Your adventure begins at the Norwegian Travel Shop, located on the top floor of Tromsø Havn at Samuel Arnesens gate 5. The check-in window is flexible, starting from 10:00 AM but no later than 6:45 PM, with boarding guaranteed at 7:00 PM sharp. This flexibility is handy if you’re arriving in Tromso earlier or want to explore the city before departure.

Getting familiar with the meeting point is straightforward, and the location’s proximity to public transportation makes it accessible. The check-in process is smooth, and the staff is noted for being friendly and accommodating, which sets a welcoming tone for the trip.

Nighttime Northern Lights Chase

Departing at 8 PM, the boat takes you beyond Tromso’s light pollution, setting the scene for prime Northern Lights viewing. We loved the way the trip is designed to carry you into the Auroral Oval Zone, which is one of the best spots on Earth to witness this celestial display.

On the boat, you’ll settle into your cabin, which is described as cozy, warm, and comfortable—a key consideration, given the Arctic temperatures. The dinner service is a three-course Arctic restaurant experience, and reviews praise the quality of the food. This is an important part of the trip—not just for sustenance but for making the long evening more enjoyable and relaxing.

As the night unfolds, you can sit in the panorama lounge with a drink, watching the sky flicker with colors. The guides often give lectures about the Northern Lights, adding educational value and helping you understand what you’re seeing. Many reviews mention that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more meaningful.

Sleep and Rest at Sea

After a night of potentially spectacular light shows, you’ll sleep in your cabin, gently rocked by the waves. This part of the trip is ideal for travelers who don’t mind sleeping on a boat and want a different experience from hotel stays. The cabins are warm and comfy, which helps counter the cold Arctic night outside.

The Morning Whale Watching

Waking up to a new day, you open your porthole and might see whales just outside your cabin. That’s the magic that makes this experience stand out—being so close to wildlife in a peaceful ocean setting. The guides are praised for their insightful commentary on whale behavior and biology, making the experience both exciting and educational.

You’ll spend hours observing whales—most likely orcas or humpbacks—while enjoying your breakfast and lunch on board. The timing is perfect; most whale activity happens during daylight hours, giving you the best chance to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Returning to Tromso

The journey concludes with your return to Tromso around 7 PM the following day. You’ll leave with a sense of having experienced something truly unique: Arctic skies, whale encounters, and the calming rhythm of sea life.

Practical Details and Value

At roughly $1,087 per person, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s designed to be all-inclusive—dinner, breakfast, lectures, cabin, and activities. Many travelers see it as a worthwhile investment for the chance to witness Northern Lights and whales in one trip, especially since both are unpredictable and weather-dependent.

The group size is limited to 52 travelers, which means a more personal experience and less noise or chaos. The reviews reinforce this, emphasizing that the guides and crew go out of their way to ensure comfort and engagement.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who are serious about Arctic wildlife and natural phenomena. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a bit of adventure with comfort, as the cabins are cozy and the food is good. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate guided learning and don’t mind a long day at sea.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with boat trips and Arctic conditions. The focus on wildlife and natural displays makes it especially attractive for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a comprehensive Arctic experience, this tour checks many boxes. It offers the excitement of chasing the Northern Lights in a dark, pristine environment, combined with the thrill of whale watching—two of Tromso’s most captivating attractions. The guides’ expertise and the quality of the included meals add to the value, making it a memorable journey.

The high price tag reflects the all-inclusive nature and the exclusive, small-group setting. For those who want to maximize their chances of witnessing Arctic wildlife and natural light displays, it’s a strong choice. Just remember, Arctic weather can be unpredictable, so a flexible attitude and warm clothing are essential.

If you’re seeking a deep, immersive Arctic adventure with expert guidance and a focus on natural phenomena, this cruise is worth considering. Just be prepared for a long, full day and a night at sea—part of the charm, in our opinion.

FAQs

How do I check in for the cruise?
You can check in at the Norwegian Travel Shop located at Samuel Arnesens gate 5 in Tromsø. The check-in window is from 10:00 AM to 6:45 PM, and boarding starts promptly at 7:00 PM.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the full 24-hour experience, including your cabin, all meals (a 3-course dinner, breakfast, and lunch), lectures, and the boat trip itself.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations made less than 24 hours out will not be refunded.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 52 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it’s generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with boat trips and Arctic conditions. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I wear?
Warm layers, including waterproof outerwear, are recommended given the Arctic temperatures and boat environment.

How long do the whale sightings typically last?
The whale watching portion lasts several hours, with a chance to observe whales in peaceful ocean surroundings, guided by experts sharing insights on whale behavior.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights every night?
Auroras are naturally unpredictable, but traveling beyond city lights increases your chances significantly. The guides will do their best to find clear skies.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 129 days in advance, which suggests this is a popular and well-anticipated experience. Early booking ensures better availability.

In all, this 24-hour Northern Lights & Whale Watching Cruise from Tromso is a solid pick if you’re craving an authentic Arctic adventure packed with wildlife, natural beauty, and expert insights. It’s an experience that, while long, can leave you with incredible memories of Norway’s wild side.