The Best Way To See The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are on the bucket list of many adventurers. They are, after all, the greatest light show on earth. However, for the best chance of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon, you need to travel to the far north – to the Arctic Circle – in winter. Getting there on land is notoriously tricky, especially when there’s no guarantee of seeing the famous lights, meaning that the best way to see the Northern Lights is from a yacht. This way, you can enjoy this incredible display in pure luxury, effortlessly moving from one viewing spot to another.

The best way to see the Northern Lights in Norway

Northern Norway is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, and there are a number of stunning explorer yachts for charter that will take you there. Book a yacht charter and you’ll be able to cruise in complete comfort along the country’s stunning coastline and into the Arctic Circle. Your captain will know where to take you for the best view, well away from any light pollution, and you’ll be able to enjoy the show from the warmth and luxury of your own private yacht. Choose a luxury yacht charter in Norway with a Jacuzzi to watch the Aurora Borealis whilst relaxing in a blissfully warm hot tub. What could be more indulgent?

Tromso

A Norway yacht charter tailored to Northern-Lights-hunters is sure to stop at Tromso. This town in the Arctic Circle is in the heart of the Aurora Borealis zone, and is one of the best places in the world to see the lights. Outside of sky-gazing hours (6pm to midnight) you’ll find a host of snow-based activities to try, from dog and reindeer sledding to snowmobile safaris.

If the cold doesn’t phase you, you can continue north to Kirkenes and Alta for more lights viewing spots – not to mention the famous snow hotel.

The Norwegian Fjords

Of course, no trip to Norway would be complete without seeing some of the stunning fjords and visiting some of the picturesque towns and fishing villages along the coast. Travelling by yacht is the perfect way to take in the sights as you can stop at many towns and sail all the way up many of the fjords. Some must-sees on a Norway yacht charter include:

Alesund

Spreading across a peninsula and several islands, Alesund is a true city on the sea. Following a fire in 1904, the city was rebuilt in Art Nouveau style and its colourful buildings are ornately adorned with turrets and spires. As well as being a delightful town to visit, it’s an ideal starting point for exploring the Geirangerfjord and the beautiful surrounding islands.

Flam

Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the vast Sognefjord, winds its way inland for 29 km. At its innermost bank – which is easily accessible by boat – one arrives at the little town of Flam. Nestled between steep green mountains, it’s a great base for hiking, mountain biking and river fishing. For a dramatic bird’s eye view of the fjord, head up to the Stegastein viewing platform, which is suspended 650 metres above its still waters.

If time allows, the Flam railway offers one of the most scenic train journeys in the world; another of the best ways to see the Northern Lights.

Bergen

Enclosed by seven mountains on one side and sea on the other, Norway’s second city retains a small-town feel. It’s a compact and lively town with a particularly colourful and bustling waterfront where you can enjoy wandering along the historic wharves, shopping, dining and marvelling at the fish market.