TheNorthern Lights is one of the world’s most fascinating natural phenomena, transforming the Arctic sky into a unique spectacle of dancing lights. To admire it in its full splendor, one must travel to the city of Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands or the North Cape in the Arctic Circle. Bergen in Norway is the ideal port from which to depart to the Great North. From here, in fact, ships sail from Norway along the Arctic routes. Thanks to the Norled and Fjord Line companies, you can easily reach Bergen by ferry from various locations in western Norway.
Ferry routes to Bergen in Norway
These ferry lines connect coastal towns and villages to Bergen, Norway ‘s maritime heart and an ideal starting point for reaching the Northern Lights:
- Vik – Bergen (Norled)
- Selje – Bergen (Norled)
- Sogndal – Bergen (Norled)
- Lavik – Bergen (Norled)
- Askvoll – Bergen (Norled)
- Stavanger – Bergen (Fjord Line)
These regional connections are convenient not only for the people of Norway, but also for travelers who want to travel by sea, admiring the spectacular fjords and coastline before embarking for the North.
Why Bergen is the gateway to the northern lights
Bergen is not far enough north to see the Northern Lights on a regular basis, but it is the starting port for the famous coastal routes operated by Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages, which go all the way up to Kirkenes via Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands, and the North Cape, i.e., the best areas to experience the aurora.
Basically, Norled and Fjord Line’s regional routes take you to Bergen, and from there you can board one of the large ships that will take you straight under the Arctic skies.
- Also read our article On the Port of Bergen and ferries to Norway’s Fjords.
When to leave to see the northern lights
The best time is from late September to late March, with the darkest and longest nights. Ideal hours are between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m., peaking around midnight.
The most recommended months are October, November, February and March, when the sky is often clearest.
Slow journey through the fjords and lights of the North
Reaching Bergen by ferry is a fascinating experience in itself: the fjords, mountains, and small villages overlooking the sea offer views that anticipate the beauty of the North. From there, the next step is to set sail along the Arctic coast, chasing the bright trails of the Northern Lights.
Book ferries to Bergen in Norway with Ferryfinder
Do you want to experience the magic of the Northern Lights from Norway? With Ferryfinder you can find out all the regional ferry routes to Bergen and plan your route to the Great North. The crossing starts from the fjord, but the real show awaits you under the Arctic skies.
Book your route to Bergen now and begin the journey that will take you to the Northern Lights.
Quick guide to the journey to the Northern Lights
Where to start
- By ferry with Norled and Fjord Line to Bergen (from Stavanger, Selje, Sogndal, Vik, Balestrand, Askvoll, Lavik and other locations on the west coast).
Where to go
- From Bergen depart Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages’ coastal cruises heading north: Tromsø, Lofoten Islands, North Cape, Kirkenes.
When to travel
- Late September to late March.
- Best time: 9 pm – 2 am.
- Recommended months: October, November, February, March.
Practical advice
- In the open sea you have less light pollution and a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
