This Winter Cruise Offered So Much More Than Just Northern Lights

Forbes

01-04-2025

Dog sledding is a popular excursion on winter cruises in Norway.
James Robinson
Once considered a niche pursuit, a Norway cruise to the Arctic region in winter has become a booming trend in travel, fueled by increased solar activity, the likelihood of Northern Lights sightings, and the viral spread of breathtaking images online.
But there was far more to this Norwegian winter cruise than long, chilly nights spent gazing skyward with crossed fingers.
By day, Northern Norway revealed a different kind of magic: blindingly bright snowfields, frozen waterfalls, and a low golden sun casting dramatic light across the landscape.
From dog sledding across snow-covered valleys to gathering around a fire to hear stories of Sámi culture, this late-winter cruise offered a true Arctic adventure.
Such experiences come at an additional cost—but they brought the north to life in vivid, unexpected ways—and ultimately proved even more memorable than the aurora itself.
The 12-night itinerary from Southampton to Northern Norway took place in mid-March aboard Aurora, P&O Cruises' classic, adults-only ship, known for its traditional design and relaxed atmosphere.
'Aurora' is the smallest cruise ship in the P&O Cruises fleet.
P&O Cruises
Unlike many typical cruises even in Norway, this voyage included three overnight or late-night port calls—a thoughtful decision to maximize the chances of spotting aurora, either from the ship or on dedicated overland tours.
The highlight was two consecutive nights in Alta, one of Norway's northernmost cities and a prime destination for aurora hunters.
Although there are limited attractions in its center, Alta serves as a gateway to the Arctic wilderness, offering a wide range of authentic outdoor experiences.
Racing through the Arctic wilderness on a dog sled is an assault on the senses: the sharp scent of snow and fur, the soft swish of the sled over packed powder, the sting of cold air on your cheeks, and the excited yelps of huskies echoing through the silence.
The setting sun cast a golden light across the deep, fresh snow during a dog sledding adventure in Northern Norway.
David Nikel
While dog sledding is available year-round—often with wheeled carts outside of winter—nothing compares to gliding across fresh snowfall under a crisp blue sky.
As it turned out, March was an ideal time to try dog sledding in Northern Norway. There was still plenty of snow and the returning sun painted the landscapes in a beautiful golden light.
For an even more immersive experience, self-mushing is absolutely worth the upgrade. The dogs may know exactly where they're going, but it's up to you to handle the braking and balance—something that adds just enough challenge to make it feel like a true Arctic adventure.
After the ride, guests were invited to warm up around a fire, sip hot coffee and listen to stories from the mushers.
The winner of the 600km Finnmarksløpet dog sled race crosses the finish line in Alta.
David Nikel
On this trip, we were fortunate enough to be in Alta during Finnmarksløpet, Europe's longest dog sled race.
The otherwise unassuming town center buzzed with excitement as the winner of the 600-kilometer race crossed the finish line, marked by an impressive ice sculpture park—an unforgettable moment that added even more meaning to an already extraordinary day.
While lacking the adrenaline rush of dog sledding, the reindeer sled ride at Máze Sámi Camp—an hour south of Alta—was no less enjoyable.
In fact, the slower pace offered something different entirely—a peaceful, almost meditative glide through the snow-covered landscape, allowing us to truly take in our surroundings. Even the reindeer seemed to enjoy the experience.
Both passengers and drivers enjoyed the reindeer sled ride through Northern Norway's Arctic wilderness.
David Nikel
Getting to Máze was part of the fun. The drive from Alta passed through the dramatic Alta Canyon, where frozen waterfalls clung to the cliffs and snow-laden trees lined the winding road, creating a postcard-worthy scene.
Sámi hosts shared stories, traditions, and a warm sense of humor. After the reindeer ride, we tried our hand at lassoing—harder than it looks—and gathered inside a traditional lavvu for some storytelling. Listening to tales of Sámi life, mythology, and history was one of the most meaningful parts of the trip.
In a Norway cruise packed with standout moments, this quiet encounter with Sámi culture stood out for the sense of connection it offered to a people who have called this harsh yet beautiful landscape home for generations.
Long before Aurora even crossed the Arctic Circle, the ship called at Åndalsnes—a small town nestled among Norway's dramatic fjords and snow-covered peaks that's fast becoming a popular cruise ship destination.
It proved far more than just a pit-stop on the way to the Arctic, delivering a generous appetizer of the winter fun to come.
This stunning winter view of the mountains, river and valley awaited visitors on the Romsdal Gondola in Åndalsnes.
David Nikel
Many guests opted for the Golden Train, a special charter service along Norway's scenic Rauma Railway.
But for me, the highlight was the Romsdal Gondola. This modern cable car glides effortlessly up the mountainside, offering sweeping views of the Romsdal Alps, valley and fjord below.
Most of the photos you'll find online showcase this view in summer, but the landscape is arguably even more spectacular at this time of year. A pristine blanket of snow transformed the scene into a true winter fairytale.
At the summit, the cozy restaurant Eggen offered the perfect place to warm up and sample local specialties, such as a rich, flavorful fish soup. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the sweeping views, while the striking Scandinavian architecture provided welcome shelter from the biting wind.
'Trollveggen' or 'The Troll's Wall' is an imposing sight at any time of year.
David Nikel
Elsewhere in the Åndalsnes region, the dramatic cliff face Trollveggen (the Troll's Wall) was just a short bus ride away. Europe's tallest vertical cliff face—infamous for claiming the lives of numerous climbers and BASE jumpers—looked especially imposing in its winter coat, cloaked in ice and shadow.
With scenery like this, it's easy to understand how Norway's troll myths took shape.
While sightings from the ship itself were limited—just a few fleeting glimpses through breaks in the clouds while docked in Alta—those who joined organized excursions had far better luck.
Successful tours included a snowmobile adventure from the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel and a Northern Lights evening at Camp Alta, both designed to take guests away from city lights and in search of clear skies. Guests organizing their own independent tours also struck it lucky.
Although it's possible to catch the aurora from a cruise ship in Northern Norway, joining a dedicated land-based tour significantly improves your chances.
The Northern Lights dance in the sky above Alta in Northern Norway.
David Nikel
Not only do such excursions take you to darker, more remote locations, but they also offer the flexibility to chase the clearest skies when the weather turns unpredictable.
Factor in the cost of at least a couple of excursions into your winter cruise budget, and you'll come home with far more than just photos of the sky—you'll leave with unforgettable memories of Norway's wild winter landscapes and the rich culture of the far north.
P&O Cruises offer several Northern Lights itineraries in 2026, including a similar 12-night voyage on Aurora in March 2026. Fares for the trip, which includes overnight stops in both Alta and Tromsø, start from £1,399 (approximately $1,800) per person.
Savings can be made by booking Northern Lights cruises at other times, but March offers a sweet spot—longer days for excursions, more stable weather, and a high chance of aurora sightings.
It's the ideal time to experience Northern Norway in all its dramatic, late-winter beauty.