Best Time To Cruise Alaska To See The Northern Lights

When planning to witness the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise, it's crucial to pick the right time. The best time to see these celestial wonders is during the transition from daylight to night, when the city below is embraced by darkened skies. While many visitors travel to the Great Land in anticipation of this cosmic spectacle, there are factors that can obstruct the view. An unobstructed sight of the Northern Lights is relatively rare, which makes it even more remarkable when you do have the opportunity to witness this phenomenon. We’ll provide you with comprehensive information on how to see the Northern Lights during your Alaska cruise.

Understanding the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights

You may be wondering about the Northern Lights, also referred to as the aurora borealis. These are the captivating lights that gracefully color Alaska's skies with shades of seafoam green, fluorescent yellow, and vibrant fuchsia. While they may seem otherworldly, their origins are rooted in collisions between gases in our Earth's atmosphere and those in the Sun's atmosphere. Solar winds that encircle the planet create distinct patterns, which can manifest as rippling currents or dancing rays of light.

When to Catch the Northern Lights

When you're planning to witness the Northern Lights in Alaska, it's important to know when and where to maximize your chances. The aurora borealis is undeniably one of the most sought-after attractions in this region, but it's not always guaranteed. The prime time for viewing these captivating lights during an Alaska cruise is September. This month offers longer periods of darkness, making it more likely to spot the dancing colors in the night sky, with the best observation hours between 12:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. However, bear in mind that favorable weather conditions, such as clear, cloudless skies, are crucial for a successful viewing experience. While the peak season to witness the Northern Lights is in winter, a late September cruise still provides a promising opportunity to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon.

Capturing the Aurora Borealis on Camera

If you're eager to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights, it's advisable to bring along a high-quality camera. Many guests find it beneficial to also have a tripod, a remote control, and extra batteries for a smooth photography experience. Utilizing a sturdy tripod will help stabilize your camera for long exposure shots, which are ideal for capturing the movement and colors of the Northern Lights. Experimenting with different shutter speeds, ISO settings, and aperture values will enable you to find the optimal settings for your specific location and lighting conditions. Lastly, be patient and prepared to spend time outdoors during the night, as the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon that can be unpredictable. With proper planning, equipment, and a dash of luck, you can capture awe-inspiring images of the Northern Lights that will serve as a lasting reminder of this incredible natural spectacle.

Do cruise tours improve my chances of witnessing the Northern Lights?

Participating in cruise tours in Alaska can indeed increase your likelihood of seeing the Aurora Borealis. These tours take you to destinations such as Fairbanks and other inland areas, which typically have clearer skies compared to the Inside Passage where cruise ships navigate. While it is possible to catch a glimpse of the lights from Denali National Park and Preserve during the viewing season, your chances improve significantly when you venture further north to Fairbanks and beyond.

The tourism industry in Fairbanks proudly asserts that if you spend a minimum of three nights in the area between late August and late April, your likelihood of witnessing the aurora borealis exceeds 90%, assuming you actively engage in late evening aurora-spotting endeavors.

Conclusion

With the optimal viewing period in September and prime hours between 12:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., you can increase your chances of experiencing this celestial wonder. Remember, clear skies are essential for a successful observation. When you're ready to book your Alaskan voyage, consider Cruisebound, the best platform for booking cruises online and finding the best cruise deals.