Question 1

What's The Best Time of Year To See The Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

The season for the aurora in Tromso runs from September into April with peak activity in the depths of winter (January - March),

Question 2

Do I need to book a tour, or can I see the Northern Lights from the city?

Accepted Answer

You might get lucky in Tromsø itself, especially on a clear night by the water, but light pollution makes it less reliable. A tour gets you out of the city into darker skies — and the big buses often head to several different locations depending on the weather.

Question 3

How long does a Northern Lights bus trip last?

Accepted Answer

Most tours run around 6–8 hours. Be prepared for a late night — buses often leave Tromsø around 6–7pm and return after midnight.

Question 4

What should I wear on a Northern Lights trip?

Accepted Answer

Layers are key. Think thermals, a good down or insulated jacket, hat, scarf, gloves, and warm boots. You’ll be standing around in sub-zero temperatures, so dress warmer than you think you’ll need.

Question 5

Can you really see the Northern Lights with the naked eye, or do you need a camera?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can see them with your eyes — though sometimes they appear more as greenish wisps than the bright streaks you see in photos. Long-exposure cameras bring out the colours dramatically. While I tried to take photos on my phone, my pictures didn't do what I saw justice. The file of pictures and videos sent by Dropbox link in the morning and trip report, showing exactly where we went, was the perfect souvenir of our trip to Tromso. And all included in the price of the trip,

Question 6

What happens if we don’t see anything?

Accepted Answer

Most operators don’t guarantee a sighting, since the aurora is a natural phenomenon. On this trip there was an offer of a second trip if the lights didn't appear. Check the policy on your Northern Lights Tour before booking.

Question 7

Are the big bus tours worth it compared to smaller groups?

Accepted Answer

They’re good value if you’re on a budget and don’t mind sharing the experience with more people. Smaller minibus or private tours are more flexible, but they cost a lot more. In practice, our 'big bus' was parked up in similar locations to the smaller buses and I think we were a lot more comfortable too on the bigger bus. It's possible experiences may vary, depending on how hard it is to find the lights on any particular night.

Question 8

How much does a Northern Lights bus tour cost?

Accepted Answer

Around €100–€150 per person is typical for a big-bus trip. Smaller group tours can be double that.

Question 9

When is the best time to see orcas and humpbacks in Tromsø?

Accepted Answer

The whales usually follow the herring, which come into the fjords from late October to mid-January. Outside those months, you won’t see them — so plan your trip for winter.

Question 10

Do you always see whales on the tour?

Accepted Answer

No one can guarantee a sighting. That said, Tromsø has some of the most reliable whale-watching in the world when the herring are in, and most trips do see something.

Question 11

What’s a “silent” catamaran and why choose it?

Accepted Answer

Instead of using noisy engines, the boat runs on electric propulsion while near the whales. It’s quieter, better for the environment, and doesn’t disturb the animals as much.

Question 12

How cold is it on board?

Accepted Answer

Standing on deck can feel freezing, especially with the wind chill, so wrap up as if you were heading out for the Northern Lights. The bonus is there’s usually a warm indoor lounge to retreat to when you’ve had enough fresh air.

Question 13

Will I get seasick?

Accepted Answer

The fjords are generally calmer than the open sea, but it depends on the weather. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring tablets or wristbands just in case.

Question 14

How long does the tour last?

Accepted Answer

Most silent catamaran trips run 4–6 hours, giving plenty of time to get out into the fjords, watch the whales, and come back without rushing.

Question 15

Is it worth doing a boat trip instead of a bus tour to see whales from land?

Accepted Answer

Yes - from land you’ll be lucky to see more than a distant fin. On the water you get a much closer (but still respectful) view, and the silence of the catamaran makes it feel special.

Question 16

How much does a silent catamaran whale trip cost?

Accepted Answer

Expect to pay around €120–€150 per person. It’s pricier than a bus tour, but you’re paying for the boat, the crew, and the chance of getting close to the whales in comfort.

Question 17

Do I need to book in advance?

Accepted Answer

Yes - whale trips are popular and the season is short. Tours often sell out, especially at weekends and around Christmas/New Year, so it’s best to reserve before you arrive in Tromsø.