The aurora reflected in flat black fjord water with snow mountains on both sides, from a boat you can run away from cloud and…The aurora reflected in flat black fjord water with snow mountains on both sides, from a boat you can run away from cloud and light pollution, which is why it beats any land-based tour. In the same season the herring bring orcas and humpbacks into the same fjords. Tromsø has been the launch point for Arctic exploration since the 19th century, Amundsen and Nansen recruited crews here, and the Northern Lights Observatory was founded in 1928. The city sits under the auroral oval, meaning displays occur on most clear nights in season rather than as rare events. Anchorage: Excellent sheltered fjord anchoring and full-service harbours, the Arctic's most practical cruising base. Hazards: No site-specific hazards noted, brief normally. Plus