Can You See the Aurora Borealis on an Alaskan Cruise?

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, an Alaskan cruise might be just what you need. And if you’re a fan of natural wonders, the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, might be on your bucket list. But can you see this stunning display of lights on an Alaskan cruise?

The answer is yes, you can! Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, and some cruise lines offer Aurora Borealis viewing as part of their itinerary. If you’re interested in witnessing this natural phenomenon, here’s what you need to know.

When to Go

The Aurora Borealis is visible in Alaska from September to April, but the best time to see it is from December to March when the nights are longest. During this time, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher, and the displays tend to be more vibrant and frequent.

Where to Go

The best place to see the Northern Lights in Alaska is far away from city lights, where there is no light pollution. Some popular spots are Fairbanks, Anchorage, and Denali National Park. However, if you’re on a cruise, you might be limited to certain locations.

Some cruise itineraries include stops in places like Juneau, Ketchikan, or Skagway, which are not the best places to see the Northern Lights. However, some cruise lines offer Aurora Borealis viewing tours as a shore excursion. These tours take you to a location away from the city where you have a better chance of seeing the lights.

What to Expect

Seeing the Northern Lights is a unique experience, and it’s hard to predict exactly what you’ll see. However, there are a few things you can expect. The lights can appear as a faint glow or bright ribbons of green, purple, or red dancing in the sky.

The lights are caused by solar particles interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field, and the display can last from a few minutes to several hours. To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s best to choose a cruise that offers Aurora Borealis viewing as part of its itinerary.

Which Cruise Lines Offer Aurora Borealis Viewing?

Several cruise lines offer Aurora Borealis viewing tours as part of their Alaska itineraries. Here are a few examples:

Holland America Line

This cruise line offers a Northern Lights and Stars tour in Juneau, which takes you to a remote location to view the lights. The tour also includes a visit to an observatory to see stars and galaxies up close.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers Aurora Borealis viewing tours as part of its winter cruises. These tours take you to a prime viewing location, away from city lights, to witness the Northern Lights.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers an Aurora Borealis experience in Fairbanks, which includes a visit to the Museum of the North, a dog sledding tour, and Northern Lights viewing from a heated cabin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re planning an Alaskan cruise and want to see the Aurora Borealis, it’s possible! The best time to go is from December to March, and you should choose a cruise that offers Aurora Borealis viewing tours as part of its itinerary. With a little bit of planning, you can witness this incredible natural wonder and make memories that will last a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska is a city located in the Interior region, surrounded by beautiful mountains, rivers, and forests. As the second-largest city in Alaska, it is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the beauty of the wilderness state. In addition to being the gateway to Denali National Park, Fairbanks is also known for its vibrant arts scene, gold rush history, and the Aurora Borealis. Here is an insider’s guide to the city of Fairbanks that will help you make the most of your visit.

Local Attractions

Fairbanks is home to many exciting attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. One of the biggest attractions in the area is the Alaska Pipeline, a massive pipeline that stretches over 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. Visitors can take a tour of the pipeline and see how oil is transported across the state.

The Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center is another popular attraction, which showcases the unique history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Interior Alaska. The center houses interactive exhibits, art galleries, and a theater, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s history.

The Pioneer Park is yet another attraction that is worth exploring. Located on the Chena River, this park is home to dozens of historical buildings and monuments, as well as a mini-golf course, a train ride, and numerous dining options.

Dining Spots

Fairbanks is known for its local cuisine, and there are many dining spots you must visit while you’re in the city. For a unique dining experience, try the Pump House Restaurant & Saloon, where you can enjoy steaks, prime rib, and other local seafood while overlooking the Chena River.

Lavelle’s Bistro is another popular dining spot known for its farm-to-table fare and creative cocktails. Here, you’ll find a range of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, as well as a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

If you’re looking for something quick and casual, head to the Bakery Restaurant. This classic diner-style establishment serves delicious breakfast fare, sandwiches, and soups, as well as their famous cinnamon rolls.

Cultural Experiences

Fairbanks is rich in culture, with a range of cultural experiences you won’t want to miss. One unique option is the Chena Indian Village Tour, where you can learn about traditional Athabascan culture, see how they have adapted to modern living, and enjoy a traditional dance performance.

If you’re interested in contemporary art or music, Fairbanks has plenty of cultural events throughout the year. Check out the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival, which offers performances, workshops, and classes, or attend the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra’s annual season.

You can also explore the University of Alaska Museum of the North, where you’ll find exhibits that showcase art, history, and people of the region. The museum is a great place to see artifacts that highlight Alaska’s unique cultural heritage.

Local History

Fairbanks has a rich history as a gold rush town, and you can still see remnants of this past throughout the city. Visit the Gold Dredge 8, where you can take a tour of a massive gold dredge, learn about the history of the industry and even try your hand at panning for gold.

The Fairbanks Community Museum is also worth visiting to learn more about the city’s history. Here, you’ll find exhibits that showcase everything from early fur trading to modern oil exploration.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Looking to discover some of the lesser-known attractions in Fairbanks? Check out the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a nature reserve that is home to over 200 species of birds and other wildlife. The refuge is also a great place for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing.

Another lesser-known attraction worth exploring is the Riverboat Discovery, where you can take a leisurely cruise along the Chena and Tanana Rivers. The boat is also equipped with a replica of a traditional Athabascan fish camp, where you’ll learn how the Athabascan people historically lived on the river.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to explore its natural beauty, learn about Alaska’s cultural heritage, or sample its unique cuisine, Fairbanks has something for everyone. Be sure to add this vibrant city to your Alaska itinerary and use this insider’s guide to help you plan your visit.