Tromsø, Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise

A Sail Through the Arctic Night: Tromsø’s Northern Lights Catamaran Cruise

When it comes to hunting the elusive Northern Lights, Tromsø is a top destination—and this particular evening cruise offers a relaxing way to chase those shimmering waves of color. The Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise by My Holidays Online is a 2.5-hour journey that departs at 9 pm from Tromsø, promising a cozy, scenic experience on the waters of the Arctic. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking comfort and a good shot at witnessing the Aurora Borealis, especially since the boat is large, spacious, and equipped with panoramic windows.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances comfort with the thrill of a night in the Arctic darkness. The MS Rygerdronningen is described as a large, comfortable vessel, perfect for those who might feel a bit uneasy about smaller boats or choppy waters. Plus, the guides—like Carlo, who’s praised for his extensive knowledge—add a layer of genuine enthusiasm and reassurance, even if the skies stay stubbornly clouded. Another highlight: the Northern Lights Guarantee offers a free ticket for a future cruise if the Aurora doesn’t show, giving a little extra peace of mind to those spending a significant chunk of change.

However, it’s worth noting that weather plays a crucial role in the success of this trip. Several reviews mention how luck of the draw with weather conditions can make or break the experience—some travelers get spectacular light shows, others see very little or none at all. If your goal is to see the Aurora, you’ll want to book with flexibility and a sense that Mother Nature sometimes needs a little help. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, which means bringing snacks is a smart move, especially since some on reviews felt the short time was a bit limited for sightseeing outside.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable and spacious vessel makes this cruise accessible and relaxing, particularly for travelers wary of smaller, bumpy boats.
• Expert guides like Carlo are highly praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, which enhances the experience, regardless of Aurora sightings.
• Weather unpredictability is the biggest factor—good conditions can lead to a stunning display, bad weather often means a quieter cruise without lights.
• The Northern Lights guarantee offers a second chance at no extra cost if no Aurora is visible during your first trip.
• Indoor panoramic windows provide a cozy viewing option, while outdoor decks allow for a more immersive Arctic experience.
• Lack of food and drinks might be a minor downside; consider bringing your own snacks for the journey.

A Deep Dive into the Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Timing
You meet at Alti Nerstranda in Tromsø at 9 pm, where you’ll board the large, stable catamaran. The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes—just enough time to enjoy the Arctic night without it feeling overly long or rushed. Most travelers book well in advance—about 58 days ahead—highlighting its popularity in peak Aurora season.

The Vessel: MS Rygerdronningen
This boat gets mentioned repeatedly for its comfort and size. It’s designed for Northern Lights hunting, offering ample indoor space with panoramic windows that let you enjoy the dark Arctic scenery without exposing yourself to the cold. Those who’ve reviewed the vessel describe it as very comfortable, with good indoor and outdoor seating options. Several reviews mention the vessel remains close to the coast, which could limit the viewing compared to more specialized Aurora chasers that venture farther out.

The Itinerary and Viewing Experience
The cruise starts in Tromsø’s Polar Night darkness—meaning the sun doesn’t rise from late November until mid-January—creating ideal conditions for Aurora viewing. Once underway, the crew and guides—like Carlo—provide insightful commentary about the Northern Lights, Viking mythology, and Arctic environment, adding educational value to the trip.

The experience shifts between cozy indoor observation through panoramic windows and stepping outside onto the decks for a more direct, if colder, view. Some reviews mention limited outdoor space—so if you’re hoping for a full outdoor experience, this might be a consideration. Others note that the boat’s position close to the coast sometimes results in light pollution from Tromsø’s city lights, which can hinder the Aurora’s visibility.

Weather: The Wild Card
Many reviews highlight how weather conditions greatly influence the trip’s success. Heavy snow, cloud cover, or just poor aurora activity mean some guests, like Edward, saw nothing, calling it “a rather expensive & boring late-night excursion.” Conversely, others like Angelica praised the guides’ positivity and knowledge, even if no lights appeared. It’s a reminder that patience and a bit of luck are essential when chasing the Northern Lights.

The Aurora Guarantee and Repeat Opportunities
The tour business offers a Northern Lights guarantee—if you don’t see the Aurora during your booked trip, you get a free ticket to try again. Several travelers, including those who experienced clear skies on a subsequent visit, appreciated this policy. It reflects the natural uncertainty of Aurora sightings and makes the experience more reassuring if your main goal.

Additional Considerations
Since food and drinks are not included, bringing your own snacks is wise—especially if you’re prone to hunger after an Arctic night. The tour’s maximum group size is 100, which keeps it feeling lively without being crowded. For those with mobility concerns, the boat’s accessible design helps ensure everyone can enjoy the trip.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a comfortable, scenic Arctic adventure with knowledgeable guides, this cruise hits the mark. It’s ideal if you prefer a more relaxed viewing environment compared to bus-based Aurora hunts or if you want to avoid the sometimes bumpy boat rides. The Northern Lights Guarantee means you’re not entirely dependent on clear skies on your first try, making it a good choice for travelers who value peace of mind.

However, if your main goal is to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora, be prepared for the element of luck, and consider adding some flexibility to your plans. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with bringing their own snacks and who appreciate a warm, indoor setting with the option of stepping outside into the Arctic air.

Practical Tips for Your Arctic Night Cruise

• Book early—the tour is popular and books around 58 days in advance.
• Dress warmly and consider layers, especially for outdoor deck viewing.
• Bring snacks and drinks since food is not included.
• Manage expectations: Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather conditions and solar activity.
• Take advantage of the guarantee: If you don’t see the lights, you can try again without extra cost.
• Arrive at the meeting point early to ensure smooth boarding.
• Prepare for variable weather—a clear night isn’t guaranteed, but the experience itself remains enjoyable.
• Listen to your guide—like Carlo, who’s praised for his helpful commentary and enthusiasm.

FAQ

What time does the cruise depart?
The cruise departs at 9 pm from Alti Nerstranda in Tromsø, lasting roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is food included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, so plan to bring snacks or warm beverages if you like.

Can I see the Northern Lights from the boat?
It’s possible, but sightings are weather-dependent. The boat’s indoor panoramic windows help, but outdoor decks provide a better view if conditions are clear.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
The company offers a Northern Lights guarantee. If you don’t see the lights, you receive a free ticket to try again on another night.

Is the boat accessible?
Yes, the vessel is designed to be wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility concerns.

How crowded is the tour?
The maximum group size is 100, which keeps it lively but not overwhelming.

What should I wear?
Dress very warmly with layers— Arctic nights can be cold, especially when outside on the decks.

Can I cancel if the weather forecast looks poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In the end, this Tromsø catamaran cruise offers an enjoyable blend of comfort, education, and scenic beauty. While Aurora sightings can’t be guaranteed, the experience’s relaxed atmosphere and expert guides make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a cozy Arctic adventure and a chance—however small—to witness nature’s most dazzling light show.