This Cruise Promises Aurora Views or a Free Second Sailing 🛳️

A Promise You Can Count On

Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list moment for many travelers, but nature doesn’t always cooperate. That’s why Hurtigruten, one of Norway’s most trusted cruise lines, offers a straightforward guarantee. Book a qualifying voyage between late September and the end of March, and if the aurora doesn’t show up, you’ll be invited back for a second cruise at no extra cost.

It’s called the Northern Lights Promise. If the lights don’t appear during your trip (and the ship’s officers confirm it), you’ll get a 6- or 7-day return voyage the following season, free of charge.

Why Hurtigruten Is So Confident

Hurtigruten’s ships travel directly through the Auroral Zone, where the chance of spotting the lights is highest. These vessels also adjust course to avoid cloudy skies when possible, giving passengers a better shot at clear conditions.

Onboard, you can opt in to aurora alerts that notify your cabin anytime the lights appear. That way, you don’t have to stay up all night watching the sky. When the show starts, you’ll know.

How the Guarantee Works

To be eligible, you need to book a Norwegian coastal voyage of at least 11 days during the official aurora season, which runs from September 20 to March 31. If no sighting occurs during your cruise, you’ll be offered a free Original Coastal Express trip of 6 or 7 days in an inside cabin with meals included. You’ll have 28 days after your return to claim it, and upgrades are available for an added fee, depending on availability.

Flights, excursions, and onboard extras aren’t included, but the offer still gives you a no-risk shot at catching one of the world’s most stunning natural phenomena.

Featured Cruises to Consider

There are plenty of itineraries that qualify, including scenic sailings with astronomy themes, rail connections through Lapland, and even stays in glass igloos. A few highlights:

• Savour the Northern Lights – North
Oslo to Helsinki, 14 days with a stop in a glass igloo hotel

• Astronomy Voyage – 15 days with lectures and stargazing guided by professional astronomers

• Follow the Northern Lights – Norway to Finland
17 days combining a coastal cruise and scenic rail journey

Prices vary by season and package, but many sailings are discounted or include extras like onboard credit.

Why It’s Worth Booking Now

Hurtigruten’s Northern Lights Promise is valid through March 2027, but cabins fill up fast, especially on popular itineraries. Booking early gives you better prices and a wider choice of routes and departure dates.

Whether the aurora dances across the sky or not, you’ll still explore Norway’s breathtaking coastline, visit charming ports, and experience the magic of winter in the Arctic. And if the lights don't show? You’ll have a second chance waiting for you.

FAQ: Hurtigruten’s Northern Lights Promise

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights on these cruises?


The aurora season runs from September 20 to March 31, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest along the Norwegian coast.

Which cruises are eligible for the Northern Lights Promise?

Any Hurtigruten Norwegian coastal voyage of 11 days or longer during aurora season qualifies, including routes on the Coastal Express and North Cape Line.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?


If the ship’s officers confirm that no sightings occurred, you’ll receive a free 6- or 7-day return cruise the following season. Meals are included, and upgrades are available at an extra cost.

Do I have to stay up all night watching the sky?


No. You can opt in to cabin alerts, and the crew will announce any sightings, day or night, so you never miss a chance.

What’s not included in the free cruise?


Flights, excursions, transfers, and onboard extras are not included. The free cruise covers your cabin and meals only.

How do I claim my free cruise?


You’ll need to submit your claim within 28 days of returning from your original trip. Hurtigruten will offer a selection of departure dates for your return voyage.