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The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere. This collision releases energy in the form of vibrant, dancing lights that can be seen in the polar regions. Alaska’s northern location makes it an ideal destination to witness this natural wonder. The Alaska adventure cruising season begins in April and runs into October. If you are considering a land extension to Denali National Park, the season is even shorter, beginning in early June and ending in early September.
Silversea Cruises Arctic & Greenland Cruise
Alaska’s magnetic pull is undeniable, drawing adventurous travelers eager to explore its vast wilderness and rugged landscapes. More than 25 years ago, it was also the launching pad for UnCruise Adventures, which started with a single yacht in Alaska. Today, UnCruise’s Alaska expeditions are renowned for non-stop action, adventure, and exploration.
Other Viewing Options
While science and planning enhance your chances, there’s always a touch of magic in every aurora sighting. Aurora Borealis (also known as the Northern Lights) are magical bands of neon green light that spontaneously burst and dance in the sky. Specifically, it occurs within the Northern Lights zone (at latitudes 65 to 72 degrees). While we can’t guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights on your cruisetour, we can promise you’ll walk away with a deep appreciation for Alaska’s rugged wilderness, flora, fauna, and rich history. In Iceland, you’ll stop in Akureyri and overnight in the capital city, Reykjavik. Discover the wonders of Iceland’s nature by hiking along snow-capped mountains, marveling at enormous waterfalls, and exploring gurgling fields of Icelandic lava.
Anchorage: Point Woronzof
Its popularity among northern lights seekers has a lot to do with its accessibility. Good vantage points in the vicinity include Cleary Summit, about 20 miles from Fairbanks, which is easy to get to and offers parking and a solid view of the horizon. When planning a trip to see the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Alaska, choosing the right cruise can greatly enhance your viewing experience.
"But you can prepare as soon as you board the ship by scouting out the darkest spot outside, and up top on the ship." That may be away from the ship stairways and public rooms. Read on for our comprehensive guide on how to choose the best northern lights cruise for you. Those wanting to maximize their chances should head for the more remote northern villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory or to Prudhoe Bay and Utqiaġvik in the extreme north. Remember, the key to a successful Northern Lights experience is to be prepared and adaptable. Pack warm clothing to stay comfortable in the cold, bring the right camera equipment to capture the beauty, and consider accessories that enhance your viewing experience.
Where to See Northern Lights: 8 Best Spots for Aurora Borealis Viewing - Reader's Digest
Where to See Northern Lights: 8 Best Spots for Aurora Borealis Viewing.
Posted: Wed, 20 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
These 14-day itineraries cruise from Iceland to Greenland and back from September into early October. And if they don't show, well, you still get to explore Iceland's Westfjords and Greenland's eastern shores — and that's a worthwhile journey in itself. The first stretch of the paved road leading to Eklutna Lake in Chugach State Park climbs about 600 feet in elevation and offers several safe places to park (and turn around) with a dark view of the northern sky.
of the Best Northern Lights Cruises
This voyage begins in Fairbanks, Alaska, with a 4-day land tour that provides opportunities to view the northern lights right off the bat. It is said that the aurora borealis appear in the Fairbanks area on average, an incredible 243 nights per year . What better way to begin a dream vacation than by witnessing natures greatest light show. Considering the cruise line is named after the atmospheric phenomenon, it should come as no surprise that it offers a northern lights itinerary.
Fairbanks
New for 2022, the organization has also released a comprehensive aurora map and guide. The map—available digitally or in print—highlights locations for optimal aurora viewing and includes scientific details about the phenomenon, as well as tips on photographing the Northern Lights. Remember that seeing these lights doesn't involve a cruise director flipping on a switch. Witnessing the northern lights in their prime requires clear and dark skies, sometimes late-night viewing hours, enough solar activity for the colors to appear and a big dose of luck. Keep that in mind before you place all your cruise vacation hopes on this one experience. If you're committed to booking a cruise to Alaska, you can increase your chances of seeing the northern lights by choosing to go as early or late in the cruise season as possible.
The best time to see Northern Lights in Alaska is when daylight slips into a seasonal slumber and the darkened skies blanket the city below. While many guests head to the Great Land in hopes of seeing this cosmic treasure, conditions often get in the way. An unobstructed view is a rarity, but that’s what makes it all the more special if you do have a chance to see this phenomenon. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise. An Alaskan cruise with the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights is an extraordinary adventure that combines the rugged beauty of Alaska’s wilderness with the ethereal display of the Aurora Borealis.
Bridgett Quinn Weber, an advisor with Cruise Specialists who works with expedition cruises offered the advice below. Glimpsing the Northern Lights in all their mystical and sky-transforming glory is one of those bucket-list life experiences that many world travelers often wait years to see. You can also visit the Iñupiat Heritage Center to learn about bowhead whale hunting and traditional crafts.
This voyage has the potential to stack successive nights of northern lights appearances one after the other. This wayside along the Seward Highway southeast of Anchorage offers a stunning view of the Kenai Mountains and the vast tidal flats of the Turnagain Arm fiord. Known as one of the best places to watch for bore tides and beluga whales during the day, the point is situated around the corner from Anchorage’s urban glow. As a result, Beluga Point can deliver a grand aurora, especially when the display has a full-sky forecast. Here are a few examples of 2022 and 2023 itineraries that offer northern lights-themed cruises.
From mid-November through March, you can check into a lodge or look for the lights each night as you try a different activity, like ice fishing or dogsledding. And if you’re on an aurora quest from mid-August to mid-September, (Fall) there’s still time to enjoy summer activities, like visiting Denali National Park or taking a glacier cruise. The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural light display predominantly seen in high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic. They result from charged particles from the sun colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere, producing colorful displays of green, pink, purple, red, and blue lights.
Early May and late September both offer significantly longer hours of darkness than mid-summer months, giving you a better chance of seeing the phenomenon on a clear night. Keep in mind that some smaller cruise lines, such as Uncruise Adventures, start their Alaska cruises in April. Additional benefits to cruising during the shoulder season are lower prices and smaller crowds. Fairbanks sits just below the main auroral band, offering dark skies, minimal light pollution, and clear views of the night sky - all of which make the area a sweet spot for northern lights viewing.
The Northern Lights can appear anywhere in the sky, so it’s not strictly about choosing a side. However, finding a spot with minimal light interference from the ship is crucial. Choosing the right cruise, preparing adequately, and embracing all the adventures en route ensures not just a glimpse of this celestial marvel but a comprehensive, enriching travel experience. Remember, while all these destinations provide potential sightings of the Northern Lights, the natural phenomenon remains unpredictable.
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