Will You See Northern Lights on Alaska Cruise?

If you’re planning an Alaska cruise, one of the most incredible experiences you can have is to witness the northern lights, also known as aurora borealis. It’s a natural light show that occurs in the northern hemisphere, leaving travelers absolutely spellbound. But will you be able to see the northern lights on an Alaska cruise? In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

Understanding the Northern Lights

Before we dive into how and where to see the northern lights, it’s essential to understand what causes this natural phenomenon. The northern lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with the earth’s atmosphere. This collision produces a beautiful display of lights that can vary in color, ranging from green and pink to red and blue.

What’s the Best Season to See Northern Lights on an Alaska Cruise?

The best time to witness the northern lights on an Alaska cruise is during the winter months, from October to March. The reason is that the darkness is required to see the northern lights, and during the winter months, Alaska experiences longer nights than days, which means more opportunities to witness the lights.

What’s the Best Time of Day to See Northern Lights on an Alaska Cruise?

The northern lights are visible at all hours, but they are most active during the middle of the night, typically between 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. So, if you’re planning to see the lights, you might want to stay up late or set an alarm to wake up in the middle of the night to catch the show.

Where to See Northern Lights on an Alaska Cruise?

When it comes to Alaska, the northern lights can be seen in different locations, but there are some places that provide better opportunities than others. Here are some of the best places to see the northern lights on an Alaska cruise:

1. Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is considered one of the best places to see the northern lights in Alaska because of its location in the “aurora oval.” This means that Fairbanks is located under the aurora oval, which is where the northern lights are most active, making it a prime spot for aurora viewing.

2. Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is another excellent spot to witness the northern lights on an Alaska cruise. The city is located in southeast Alaska, and its dark skies make it an ideal location for aurora viewing.

3. Sitka, Alaska

Sitka is a charming town located on Baranof Island, and it’s an excellent spot to see the northern lights on an Alaska cruise. With its position under the aurora oval, Sitka offers a high probability of seeing the lights.

Tips for Seeing Northern Lights on an Alaska Cruise

Here are some tips to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights on an Alaska cruise:

1. Choose the right ship

Before you book your Alaska cruise, make sure to research the cruise lines’ offerings. Look for a cruise that offers an itinerary that’s specifically geared towards aurora viewing, and choose a ship with a deck that has unobstructed views of the sky.

2. Check the weather forecast

Always keep an eye on the weather forecast before and during your Alaska cruise. Clear skies are essential for aurora viewing, so try to plan your viewing on nights with clear weather conditions.

3. Bring warm clothing

The temperature in Alaska during the winter months can drop below freezing, so make sure to bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, and thermal underwear to stay comfortable during aurora viewing sessions.

4. Bring a good camera

Seeing the northern lights on your Alaska cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you’ll want to capture the moment. Bring a good camera with a tripod to take photographs of the show.

The Bottom Line

Witnessing the northern lights on an Alaska cruise is a surreal and awe-inspiring experience that you won’t forget. To maximize your chances of seeing the lights, choose the right ship, check the weather forecast, dress warmly, and bring a good camera. Remember, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to see them, but with a little bit of planning, you might witness one of nature’s most incredible shows.

An Insider’s Guide to Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage is a city with an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife, making it an attractive destination for tourists. However, there is more to Anchorage than just breathtaking landscapes. Anchorage is also a city with a rich history, culture, and cuisine that are waiting to be explored. Here’s our insider’s guide to Anchorage.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While Anchorage is home to popular tourist destinations like the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and the Anchorage Museum, there are other hidden gems for visitors to explore. For example, the Anchorage Market and Festival is a local market that offers a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Other local attractions include the Alaska Native Heritage Center, a living museum where visitors can experience the history and culture of Alaska’s indigenous people, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, which is home to rescued and orphaned animals from Alaska.

Dining Spots: A Taste of Alaska

Anchorage’s cuisine is a reflection of its surroundings, with seafood, game meats, and locally sourced produce taking center stage. If you want to try traditional Alaskan cuisine, then head to the Sourdough Mining Company, where you can try reindeer and elk burgers, halibut, and king crab. The Snow City Cafe is another popular spot that serves breakfast all day, every day. Their signature dish is the crab benedict, which uses locally sourced Dungeness crab.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, and Traditions

One of the cultural highlights of Anchorage is the Fur Rendezvous Festival, which takes place annually in late February to early March. The festival celebrates Alaska’s fur trapping heritage and includes events like sled dog races, snowshoe softball, and the famous blanket toss. The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts are also great places to experience music and art in Anchorage.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Anchorage was founded in 1915 as a railroad construction port for the Alaska Railroad. One of the more interesting stories from Anchorage’s past is the story of the Good Friday Earthquake. In 1964, a 9.2 magnitude earthquake hit Anchorage, causing widespread damage and loss of life. Today, visitors can see the effect the earthquake had on the city by visiting the Earthquake Park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Your Own Adventure

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Anchorage, then consider taking a flightseeing tour over the Alaska Range or taking a helicopter tour to a glacier. You can also go dog sledding, take a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm, or go on a wildlife viewing tour to see bears or moose in their natural habitats.

In conclusion, Anchorage is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of Alaska or immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history. By following this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Anchorage, Alaska.