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Pick the right cruise at the right time and you can improve your odds somewhat, but otherwise you'll have to choose the experience that matters to you most. On northern lights-themed cruises, viewing activities and excursions will abound. Announcements (even opt-in late night wake-up calls) may be issued when there’s an opportunity to view the northern lights from your ship. Excursions may give you the opportunity to be transported to northern lights viewing spots by everything from buses and minivans to small boats and dogsleds. Once a gold mining settlement, this Alaskan Arctic destination is now little more than a truck stop at 67° N latitude on the famed Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay. Many aurora adventure tours take guests here, and to Wiseman about 15 miles north, for the high chances of a northern lights display.
7 Best Northern Lights Cruises - Travel + Leisure
7 Best Northern Lights Cruises.
Posted: Sat, 04 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Alaska.org's Tips to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
In the early morning, the lights seem to be flickering clouds that fade away as the sun rises. All told, this is one cruise that is guaranteed to provide the individual experiences that will make up the trip of a lifetime. While theres no such thing as a one-size-fits-all Alaska cruise, newbies and seasoned pros will always be guaranteed cinematic scenery, out-of-the-ordinary ports of call, and oceangoing adventures of epic proportions. Little wonder, then, that its one of the worlds most popular cruise destinations not least because it makes light work of showcasing the very best of Americas 49th state . With this in mind, weve put together a list of reasons why you need to experience the Last Frontier from the water. One of the best viewing locations is Fairbanks, Alaska, which is why this landmark is one of the central highlights of a Norwegian Cruise Line tour.
The 9 Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Anchorage
Before delving into the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, it’s helpful to understand the science behind this captivating phenomenon. The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, producing colorful displays of light. The colors are determined by the type of gas and the altitude at which the collision occurs. But for serious Aurora hunters in Alaska, March is the best time to visit because of the clearer spring skies.
Alaska Cruises to See The Northern Lights
Even after all that time, perhaps nobody does Alaska better than UnCruise. Yet, the core mission remains unchanged—to provide transformative experiences and memorable adventures for guests. And this year is a peak chance to embark on an extraordinary journey with UnCruise with the Northern Lights promising to be more impressive than ever. Remember, while these FAQs provide a broad overview, each traveler’s experience is unique. Personal research, consultation with cruise experts, and maintaining flexibility in expectations can ensure an enriching and memorable Northern Lights journey.
Anchorage: Point Woronzof
No cruise can guarantee sightings as the aurora is a natural and unpredictable phenomenon. However, cruises specifically tailored for aurora viewing will optimize the chances by choosing routes and timings with historically higher success rates. While cruises offer a unique perspective, many land-based locations in Alaska, such as Fairbanks, offer excellent opportunities for aurora viewing, often paired with other activities like hot springs or dog sledding. You’ve got your camera, a snack, and a heart full of patience, just in case you don’t see anything that night. The less-fun news is that there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights— the show could easily be upstaged by a cloudy sky, a full moon, or even a weaker solar cycle. The fresh arctic air and the bright night sky alone will likely fill your cup.
An advantage in Norway is that it's dark enough to see them for a longer period as you get into the fall and winter. The Borealis is composed of solar particles shooting into the magnetic field of the earth and appear more than 60 miles above the earth's surface. Natives have believed the lights have a mystical force or even marked the appearance of spirits who have passed on. A commitment to personalized service is an integral part of UnCruise’s all-inclusive experience. Whether accommodating dietary restrictions, celebrating special occasions, or providing additional support during activities, the crew is dedicated to each adventurer’s needs.
While the Northern Lights are a year-round phenomenon, not all times are ideal for viewing. Aurora Borealis is the kind of scientific phenomenon that most people seem to either know everything about or nothing at all. I must admit – until I became interested in global cruising, I don’t think I’d ever heard of this natural wonder with the weirdest of names. You’re also more likely to see them if you visit in colder months, as the most brilliant displays occur both in dark and cold environments. Because it’s a scientific phenomenon beyond the comprehension of modern science, you can only truly predict occurrences of the Northern Lights roughly two hours before they happen.
Chena Hot Springs Aurora Tour from Fairbanks
With its vast wilderness and minimal light pollution, this park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. Fairbanks, known as the “Golden Heart City,” is renowned for its prime Northern Lights viewing conditions. Located in the heart of Alaska, this city is situated directly under the “Auroral Oval,” a band of high auroral activity. This positioning makes Fairbanks one of the best places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights. When it comes to experiencing the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights in Alaska, there are a few key spots that stand out. Fairbanks, Denali National Park, and Anchorage are among the top locations for witnessing this natural wonder.
It’s easy when the inky night sky comes alive with an amazing light show like the aurora borealis. Braving the cold is nothing if you get a chance to see the lights dancing and waving overhead. Combine your aurora viewing trip with a few other highlights planned out by Salmon Berry Tours, and you’ll experience the best of winter in Alaska. While the aurora is a spectacle for all ages, consider the late-night hours and colder temperatures. Some cruise lines offer kid-friendly programs and activities to engage younger travelers during the trip.
The sailings run from January to March when daylight is limited in the Arctic Circle, making for prime aurora opportunities. Rates start from $4,999 per person in 2023, and it should be noted that Viking is an adults-only cruise line. If the solar-wind-based forecast is promising, you need to find a location with clear skies. Alaska’s classic aurora viewing occurs during cold snaps when high pressure has cleansed the atmosphere of clouds.
This Cruise Line Guarantees You'll See The Northern Lights (Or You Get A Free Trip) - Forbes
This Cruise Line Guarantees You'll See The Northern Lights (Or You Get A Free Trip).
Posted: Tue, 07 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
In 2021, our cruises to Alaska will be sailing later than usual, kicking off the season in late July and ending in early October. These exciting seven-night itineraries stop in stunning Alaskan ports, such as Ketchikan and Juneau, and spend a day sailing close to the majestic Dawes Glacier, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. It’s worth noting that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can be affected by various factors such as solar activity, weather conditions, and geomagnetic storms. Planning your trip during periods of high solar activity, when the sun is generating more charged particles, increases your chances of experiencing a more vibrant and active display of the Northern Lights.
Winter is a strict no-go, so the cruise season typically runs from the end of April to the beginning of October . Not only is this six-month window the safest time for cruise ships to sail, but it also means avoiding the freezing months of January and February when the earth has tilted and theres hardly any sunlight. Equally standout are the peak summer months for glorious light-filled days when the sun simply refuses to set, temperatures that range from 60°F to 80°F , and rainfall that wont ruin your sightseeing .
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