Electric Northern Lights Cruise

When it comes to chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø, many travelers dream of the perfect blend of comfort, scenery, and a bit of luck. The Electric Northern Lights Cruise by Brim Explorer offers just that—a chance to see the aurora in a relaxed, well-equipped setting without sacrificing comfort. Our review pulls from genuine feedback and the details available to give you an honest picture of what to expect.

One thing we love about this experience is its warm indoor lounge, which makes waiting for the aurora much more pleasant than standing outside in freezing temperatures. The included snacks and Wi-Fi are thoughtful touches that enhance the journey. Plus, the knowledgeable crew, like Tobias and others, really make a difference with their helpful guidance and local insights.

However, it’s worth noting that, like many aurora tours, weather conditions can influence your chances of seeing the lights. The experience relies heavily on clear skies, which aren’t always guaranteed. Still, for those who enjoy a leisurely, scenic boat ride with a chance at a natural spectacle, this tour is well worth considering.

The Electric Northern Lights Cruise suits travelers looking for a comfortable, social, and reliable way to experience Tromsø’s famous auroras—especially if you appreciate good amenities and informative guides.

Key Points

• Comfortable Experience: The heated lounge and cozy boat make waiting for the lights much more manageable.
• Good Value: For around $119, you get snacks, Wi-Fi, a scenic cruise, and potential aurora sightings.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Staff like Tobias provide helpful commentary and make the trip engaging.
• Weather Dependence: Clear skies are essential, and the tour offers a full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
• Ideal for First-Timers: The relaxed pace and indoor comfort make this perfect for those new to aurora hunting.
• Limited in Sightings: As with all northern lights tours, there’s no guarantee of a sighting, but the experience remains rewarding.

The Experience: What You’ll Encounter on the Cruise

Meeting at Brim Explorer Tromsø

Your adventure begins at the Brim Explorer meeting point in Tromsø at 7:00 pm. The location, on Kaigata 6, is near public transportation—making it easy to reach. The boat itself is modern, electric-powered, and designed to maximize comfort. With a group size capped at 100 travelers, it feels intimate enough to enjoy some good conversation but still lively.

Setting Sail and the Scenic Fjord Tour

Once onboard, you’ll notice the quiet, eco-friendly electric boat feels sleek and modern. The cruise takes you around Tromsø Island, offering beautiful views of the cityscape, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains. This part of the experience is not just about the lights but also appreciating the stunning Arctic scenery under night skies.

Many reviewers, such as Paola_O, mention how beautiful the boat is and how the guided commentary adds a lot to the trip. The crew is praised for being friendly, helpful, and full of insights about Tromsø and local folklore.

Waiting Indoors and Snacking

A major highlight for many is the heated lounge. Instead of braving the cold outside, you stay warm in cozy interiors equipped with Wi-Fi, which is perfect for sharing photos and updates. The included soup and bread are described as simple yet tasty, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Janet_F remarks that the staff was very helpful and knowledgeable, which enhances the overall experience.

Aurora Hunting and Spotting the Lights

The main event is, of course, catching the Northern Lights. The crew actively monitors local forecasts to find the best spots to maximize your chances. Jeremy_E’s review mentions they managed to see the aurora after a cautious start, emphasizing how the guides are dedicated to helping guests see the lights, even in low-chance conditions.

However, weather still plays a significant role. Some guests, like Daniela_W, had disappointing nights under cloud cover or bad weather, which is a common risk for aurora tours. The tour does offer full refunds if weather conditions prevent sightings, so that’s a reassuring policy.

Sharing the Experience

With onboard Wi-Fi, guests frequently share photos in real time. Many reviews praise how helpful this feature is—photo opportunities are a big part of the appeal. You can also enjoy the calm, peaceful environment while waiting, which contrasts sharply with more hectic land-based hunts.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Indoor comfort: The heated lounge and onboard facilities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms are a real plus, especially in cold Arctic weather.
• Good value for money: The tour includes snacks, Wi-Fi, and scenic cruising, making it a well-rounded experience.
• Informative guides: The crew’s local knowledge and helpfulness boost the overall experience.
• Scenic route: The cruise offers beautiful views of Tromsø and its fjords, making the journey enjoyable even if the auroras stay hidden.

Cons

• Weather dependence: Cloud cover and poor weather can prevent sightings, which is out of their control.
• Potential boredom: Some reviews mention the cruise’s slow pace could be less exciting if you’ve already seen northern lights before.
• Limited duration: About 3.5 hours might feel short for serious aurora hunters, especially if the lights are elusive.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike land-based aurora hunts, this boat cruise provides a relaxed, scenic environment with the chance to see the lights without freezing outside. The quiet electric boat is eco-friendly, and the comfortable lounge ensures you’re not just waiting in the cold—an important factor for most travelers.

The local guides stand out, with reviewers like Paola_O praising the crew as “simply the best” and Tobias doing an “amazing job.” Their knowledge adds depth to the experience, turning a potentially frustrating night into an educational and memorable outing.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just under $120 per person, this tour offers a lot—scenic cruising, snacks, Wi-Fi, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights. Considering the cost of private tours or land-based excursions, it’s a reasonable option. Plus, the refund policy if the weather doesn’t cooperate offers peace of mind.

For first-time visitors or those who value comfort and informative guides, this cruise delivers solid value. However, if you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or insist on a guaranteed sighting, you might want to consider land tours or multiple bookings.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, low-stress environment to try spotting the auroras. It’s especially suited to those new to Northern Lights hunting or those who prefer indoor warmth and amenities over rugged outdoor pursuits. Families, couples, or anyone a little wary of cold weather will find this a gentle, scenic introduction to Tromsø’s winter magic.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Electric Northern Lights Cruise

Can I cancel this tour for a full refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled later, the ticket cost is not refunded.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour’s relaxed pace and indoor comforts make it accessible.

What happens if we don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a full refund if poor weather prevents sightings. Even if the lights don’t appear, you’ll enjoy the scenic cruise and amenities.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including cruising, waiting, and potentially spotting the aurora.

Are snacks included?
Yes, simple snacks like soup and bread are provided, adding comfort and convenience.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, guests can share photos instantly with the onboard Wi-Fi, which many reviewers appreciated.

Final Thoughts

The Electric Northern Lights Cruise by Brim Explorer offers a cozy, scenic, and informative way to experience Tromsø’s famous auroras. Its heated lounge, friendly staff, and included amenities make it a popular choice for first-timers and those wanting a more comfortable aurora hunt.

While weather remains a gamble, the tour’s flexibility and refund policy help mitigate that risk. For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise with a good chance of seeing the lights—and don’t mind a bit of luck—this experience is a solid pick.

If you’re after a low-stress, well-equipped way to chase the Northern Lights, this tour deserves a spot on your Tromsø bucket list.