Northern Lights
Have you always wanted to see the Northern Lights in Alaska? We have developed a guide to help you pick the cruise that will give you the best chances at seeing this amazing natural phenomenon.
Picture this scenario: you’ve booked an Alaskan cruise with us, CruiseExperts.com and you’re aboard the beautiful Holland America Line ship. All of the sudden you look up at the sky and see this unbelievable burst of greenish-yellow, blue and even bright red in the atmosphere. This gorgeous light show is what is known as the Aurora Borealis or more commonly referred to as the Northern Lights.
Few people ever have the opportunity to view the Aurora Borealis, but you can when you take an Alaska cruise during certain times of the year. The sky needs to be dark in order to see the lights and during the peak of the summer it can stay light up to 20 hours a day.
That is why, if you’re booking a cruise based on the Best Time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, we advise you to do so in May or September. In early May the sun sets between 10:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. and in September anywhere between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. This time is also when the weather is mild and the skies are clearest.
Other factors to keep in mind, the Aurora Borealis is easiest seen around the spring and fall equinox (September 22 and March 22). The display is usually brighter during a new moon and the furthest you travel north the easier it will be to see them.Remember, the clearer and darker the skies the better chance you have to see these glorious lights.
However, don’t expect the Northern Lights to appear the minute there’s no more sunlight. You’re more likely to see these illuminations approximately one-and-a-half hours after sunset. More specifically auroral activity is likely to take place between 12:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. in September and May. If you can stay awake, head out onto the deck of your luxury Alaska cruise liner at 2:30 a.m., as this could very well be the best time to see the Aurora Borealis.
Of course, this is simply meant to be a guide when booking your trip to Alaska. Mother nature is completely unpredictable, unfortunately we can not guarantee that you will see the Aurora Borealis. The good news is, whether you reserve your vacation for September, May or July, you’re bound to have a wonderful time. If you have any questions, contact us at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784) or visit our website, www.CruiseExperts.com.
For more information about Alaska Cruises please refer to the links below.
Alaska Cruise Passport Information
Passport Information Skagway Excursions During your Alaska Cruise
Things to Do in Ketchikan During Your Alaska Cruise
Best Things to Do in Whittier on an Alaskan Cruise