Winter in Tromsø is Arctic nature at its most dramatic: the polar night, northern lights over snow-capped mountains, and fjords lying still in the blue winter light. And one of the finest things you can do here is to experience it from the sea – far from the city lights, aboard a warm, historic wooden boat.
Aurora season from late September to late March
During these months the nights are dark enough for the northern lights to show at their best. Out on the fjord you are surrounded by darkness on every side, and should the sky wake up, you’ll see it reflected in the water. To learn more about when and how, read our guide to the northern lights by boat – or join a Northern Lights Dinner Cruise.
Polar night and blue light
In midwinter, from late November to mid-January, the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon in Tromsø. It gives a long, blue half-light in the middle of the day that is unique to Northern Norway – and a calm over the landscape you feel best from the water.
Still winter fjords from the deck
Hermes II is an old, unhurried wooden boat, and winter suits her. Instead of speed you get time to take in the snow-capped mountains, the sound of the sea and the story of the boat – with a heated saloon to retreat into when you need to warm up.
Dress for Arctic winter
It’s colder at sea than on land, so dress warmly and in layers – wool next to the skin, windproof on the outside, a hat and gloves. The saloon on board is heated, so you can move between deck and shelter.
Booking
Tours depart from the quay by Kystens hus in central Tromsø. You book directly on our website: choose a date in the calendar and your ticket arrives by email.
👉 See all tours and available departures
