12 GREAT WAYS TO SEE THE LIGHT(S)

TAKE A SILENT CRUISE

Havila Voyages is so convinced that its passengers will see the aurora on its 12-night journeys, it has launched the promise of another cruise for free if they don’t. Powered by electric batteries, vessels glide silently through the water, as guests recline on chairs set below a glass roof indoors. Off ship, optional excursions include king crab fishing in a frozen fjord, dog-sledding in the Arctic wilderness or snowmobiling across the North Cape Plateau. Another optional tour includes a stop in Svolaer, in the Lofoten archipelago, to visit traditional red rorbuer cabins and dine at a Viking banquet in a long house. Best Served Scandinavia (0207

664 2241; best-served.co.uk) offers a 12 day round-trip voyage (Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen) from £1,555pp, full-board (including flights and transfers. There is availability throughout January

SCOUR THE SKY AT NIGHT

High above the Arctic Circle, right below the aurora oval, Tromso is an easy base for reasonably priced hotels and leisure attractions. Stay at the waterfront Clarion Collection Hotel With, near the Polar Museum and the Northern Lights Planetarium. Hunt for the lights on a guided night-time excursion outside the city and fill remaining time with ice fishing or a horse-drawn sleigh ride around the city.

Inntravel (01653 617001; inntravel.co.uk) offers three nights from £940pp

(two sharing), including B&B accommodation, flights and an excursion. Available from November 1 to December 18 and January 2 to March 31