Meet the team: The dazzling magic of a Northern Lights Cruise

A Saga Destination Experience expert explains why dancing lights in the night sky are just part of the unforgettable moments on Saga’s Northern Lights and Arctic Vistas cruise.

By Lesley Bellew

At the top of most winter bucket-list cruises is a Northern Lights cruise to see the Aurora Borealis dance in the sky.

Sailing into the Arctic Circle is the best place for a chance to witness this thrilling, spectacular night-time phenomenon and Spirit of Discovery’s 17-night ‘Northern Lights and Arctic Vistas’ cruise sails from Portsmouth on 20 February, 2027. Here, Saga’s Destination Experience Executive Simon Giles reveals what to expect from an unforgettable Northern Lights voyage – plus the amazing shore experiences available, from dog sledding to meeting the Sami people, seeing reindeers and visiting an Ice Hotel.

Why would you recommend a Northern Lights cruise?

A winter cruise into the Arctic Circle feels like a real adventure, heading into an other-worldly, snowy kingdom. Of course, the opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis adds to the magic!

For me, the best cruise itineraries are those which make it possible to reach destinations you would not otherwise reach. That is certainly the case on a cruise to Northern Norway and there is no better way to experience the harsh but beautiful winter than from the comfort of a toasty warm, boutique cruise ship.

Where are guests most likely to see the Northern Lights?

Over the last few years, some of our best Northern Lights sightings have been from onboard the ship. Spirit of Discovery will spend four nights cruising inside the Arctic Circle so there is a good chance of a decent light show on at least one night, especially at sea with less light pollution.

This gives everyone onboard the opportunity to see the aurora without having to spend hours outside: guests can head back into the warmth whenever they like.

What clothes do guests need to bring?

Not only is Spirit of Discovery an all-inclusive ship but we also provide every guest with a complimentary winter jacket which is theirs to keep. These insulated jackets are perfect for keeping out the cold.

I always encourage guests to take an “onion approach” to dressing with multiple layers of clothing that can easily be removed when visiting inside venues.

Strong shoes, an insulated hat and gloves are essential, and I also recommend lightweight thermal underwear.

There is no luggage restriction on our no-fly cruises so guests can pack as much as they like!

Shoe grips are provided to fit onto existing footwear and Nordic walking poles are available to borrow.

What is your best Northern Lights cruise memory?

Firstly, it was the excitement and anticipation around the ship with everyone wondering when THAT moment will happen.

However, the first glimpse of a glow in the sky is something I will never forget. I remember my first sighting like it was yesterday. What began as a small green flicker in the sky spread into an incredible show of dancing lights which took my breath away.

And when everyone had seen the lights, for days there was such an incredible buzz around the ship with everyone sharing their stories and favourite photos.

When are the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights?

While the ship is cruising inside the Arctic Circle. The captain and his team on the bridge will keep a look out for a sign of the aurora, ready to alert our guests as soon as it makes an appearance.

This allows guests to enjoy their evening in the comfort and if the announcement comes, it’s a short walk back to the cabin to wrap up warm and head out on deck.

What else can guests expect to experience on a Northern Lights cruise?

It is not only about after-dark experiences. The daytime activities in Norway are truly special and I highly recommend a dogsledding ride for an exhilarating experience. A musher guide will be in control as a pack of enthusiastic huskies whisk you through spectacular snow-covered scenery.

An equally enjoyable, but far more gentle activity, is a reindeer sled ride, traditionally operated by native Sami people. These excursions have the bonus of learning about the Sami way of life and traditions which are still upheld today.

For something different, guests can strap on a pair of snowshoes for a walking experience through the arctic landscape. By distributing your weight, the snowshoes allow you to walk on top of the snow instead of wading through it. You will perhaps feel like you are walking in the footsteps of historic Arctic explorers and it’s a wonderful way to experience the remote beauty of the Norwegian winter.

In Alta, guests can the visit Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel which is re-built every year and features the most incredible ice sculptures.

We also visit Honningsvåg for an included excursion to the North Cape with views over the northern-most point of Europe. On the return leg, the ship calls into Flåm where guests can board the historic Flåm railway, one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. The track winds up from the fjord through the Flåm Valley into a winter wonderland, passing frozen waterfalls along the way.

Are there any sea days?

Yes, there will be several sea days. I always think of our ocean ships as destinations in themselves so this gives guests plenty of time to really enjoy Spirit of Discovery.

They can treat themselves to some pampering in The Spa where there is free use of the hydro-pool, sauna and steam room.

There’s a gym and fitness classes as well as craft sessions, lectures and theatre shows.

Quizzes and dance classes are also very social while there is always a Formal Night where everyone can dress up and enjoy pre-dinner drinks and dance into the late hours.

Dining is always a treat with a choice of venues including specialty restaurants at no extra charge. Saga prides itself on sourcing the best quality produce and wines, plus the service is exceptional. In fact, guests say our efficient, friendly crew really make all the difference to their cruise. They feel part of a very special family!

Do guests need a certain level of fitness for this cruise?

While many of the activities require a certain level of fitness and mobility, our programme of included excursions will always provide a more accessible option. They allow you to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your coach before making a stop to experience a special viewpoint or local attraction.

And finally – what are you most excited about for Saga Cruises in 2027?

There is a lot to look forward to in 2027, the 30th anniversary of Saga Cruises, but Spirit of Adventure’s voyage to South America is a standout sailing. Our guests can discover the incredible history, culture and nature of the continent from Rio’s iconic Christ the Redeemer to the resident penguins of the Falkland Islands, Chilean Glaciers and ancient Peru.

The 73-night Grand Voyage to South America departs on 7 January, 2027.

I am also excited that we will be returning to Greenland. This is another destination which is best experienced on a cruise – sailing through the spectacular Prince Christian Sound, seeing icebergs and glaciers, visiting tiny and welcoming communities and experiencing the unspoilt nature.

Spirit of Discovery’s 19-night cruise departs from Dover on 27 July, 2027.