royal family tour nz

The Royal Family NZ Tour 2021

Opera House , Wellington

29/04/2021 - 29/04/2021

Parris Goebel presents The Royal Family Dance Crew touring New Zealand for the South Island for first time. The Royal Family have performed in sold out shows all over Asia, Europe, USA & Australia. The Royal Family dancers have appeared in music videos reaching over 10 Billion Views. The Royal Family have been crowned Mega Crew World Champions 3 years in a row at the world hip hop champs. Don’t miss your chance to see one of the most successful and highest recognized dance crews in the world perform live and direct in your city.

Choreography by Parris Goebel.

Lead Tour Choreographers: Cullen Neale, Isla Potini & Teesha Taulepa

56 Dancers form the Royal Family Company in the show dancing out of the Palace Dance Studio in Auckland

Lighting: Cullen Neale & NJL Productions

Video Production: Parris Goebel, Cullen Neale & Taktix Films

Music Compilation: Cullen Neale

Hiphop , Dance ,

Strut, limbs flurry and snap, torsos undulate

Review by Lyne Pringle 30th Apr 2021

The call comes from Brett Goebel – yes father of the very famous Parris Goebel and chief wrangler and producer of the Royal Family – just a couple of hours before the show that, he can find me a ticket to their sold-out-one-night-only performance at the State Opera House in Wellington.

 I arrive, a hip-hop rookie, panting and a little late. The place is jam packed and the high-pitched squeals from a mostly young, with parents, audience. Brett Goebel is the MC for the evening and there is no doubt about his mana and status in this context.

Thus begins my initiation into the passionate, full tilt, 120%, dance competition meets music video world of hip hop dance. Morphing from the realm of street dance cypher where dancers take a challenge to each other, these performers take their challenge out to us in the audience. The mega crew, 56 Dancers form the Royal Family Company dancing out of the Palace Dance Studio in Auckland, are formidable. Their unison impeccable, every move imbued with deliberate execution, the intensity of their focus is powerful, bordering on intimidating. They strut, limbs flurry and snap, torsos undulate, legs swivel, pelvises twerk. It is as if the crowd is wired to every change in dynamic. Each lighting change, and choreographic shift, each pelvic thrust elicits shrieks – the noise in deafening! It is a raucous night with one setting – FULL ON!

The woman are strong, take no prisoners, strident and staunch, whilst the men flirt in the androgenic realm. There is a curious representation of sexuality, I wonder how this lands with the young viewers.

The eye travels to certain dancers who exude an X factor and I am sure the audience is playing favorites whilst appreciating the whole. Soloists cleverly pop out of chorus action. Facial expressions are feral and constantly changing, from snarl to smile, to wide open to pout. Suddenly there is a pause and nuanced detail in a head move or a hand gesture. Costumes are used cleverly, right down to fluorescent finger nails. A more lyrical piece by the men in white shirts a welcome change of pace.

 Parris Goebel (with lead tour choreographers: Cullen Neale, Isla Potini & Teesha Taulepa) is the choreographer for a series of dances that display exceptional choreographic craft with waves of dancers moving on and off stage, progressing with lightening swift accents to the front of the stage before being replaced by the next wave.  Recognizable moves are repeated in endless iterations, rhythms are exceptional, there is artistic genius at play here. No wonder Parris Goebel is working with big names like Justin Beiber, Rihanna, Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez (last year’s superbowl) and more.

 Each dance, some re-runs of winning sets from the World Hip Hop champs, is interspersed with video footage from overseas gigs and made for film dance routines. They also are tightly crafted and compelling.

 The  finale is the routine from the video for Justin Bieber’s song Sorry which has had a whooping 3.4 billion hits on You Tube!. 

The alumni, former members now with highly successful careers overseas, come onto the video to offer encouragement to the young fans in the audience: chase your dreams, have a strong work ethic, be kind, express yourself. Good values to impart. Everybody leaves buzzing, smiling, ears ringing.

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King charles plans to visit new zealand in biggest-ever tour around the world.

King Charles III. Photo: JANE BARLOW / AFP

King Charles is planning to visit New Zealand as part of the royal family's biggest-ever series of tours around the world to commence his reign.

The trips will involve two years of international travel aimed at "extending a hand of friendship and support", royal sources told the British Mirror.

New Zealand, Australia and a number of Commonwealth realms in the Caribbean are top of the monarch's priority list, the Mirror reported.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were also understood to be aboard in a "major support role" as the royals start a new era after Queen Elizabeth's passing.

The King is also expected to undertake a number of solo trips, both at home and overseas.

This would allow the Queen Consort to undertake more engagements for her personal projects, the Mirror said.

A royal source told the Mirror : "The King and his family are keen to hit the ground running in these crucial first few months and years of his reign.

"He certainly wants to carry on the long-held mantra from his late mother of being seen to be believed, and is very keen to get out and meet as many people as possible."

In the 1970s, the Queen crammed in 52 Commonwealth visits and 21 trips to other countries to mark her 25th jubilee. Sources told the Mirror the King could undertake just as many trips.

The King last visited New Zealand in 2019. Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen

The King has reportedly opened discussions with his chief advisers over visits to major British realms including Australia and Canada "as soon as possible".

He has also raised the importance of visiting the 14 other nations where he is king.

Government officials in New South Wales this week revealed plans for a "much-anticipated" royal tour in 2024 to coincide with the 200th anniversary of democracy in Australia.

However, sources suggested Prince William and Kate had also previously discussed plans for a tour Downunder in spring 2023.

* This story originally appeared in The New Zealand Herald.

Copyright © 2022 , Radio New Zealand

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Royal family shares throwback photo from 1970 New Zealand tour

Princess Anne, Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles during their tour of New Zealand in 1970. Photo / Getty Images

Fifty years before it became the site of anti-mandate protests, the steps of Parliament in Wellington were host to the Queen and members of the royal family as they toured the country in 1970.

A historic image of Her Majesty, her late husband Prince Philip, a young Prince Charles and Princess Anne all standing on Parliament's steps, flanked by thrilled Kiwi fans, has been shared to Instagram, collecting over 75,000 likes.

The caption reads: "The Queen is joined by The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales and The Princess Royal on the steps of the Parliament Building in Wellington, New Zealand following the State Opening of Parliament."

Part of the countdown to the Queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend in June, the black and white image is one of 70 that has been chosen to represent a year of the Queen's seven-decade reign.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)

The Queen is the first British Royal to reach a Platinum Jubilee, having ascended the throne on February 6, 1952.

READ MORE: • The Queen as you've never seen her before: Candid 1953 home movie shot in New Zealand surfaces

Her family's time in New Zealand in 1970 was scheduled for the bicentenary of Captain Cook's 1770 expedition to Australia. Part of their tour included a visit to Ship Cove in Marlborough to watch a reenactment of Cook's landing there, from the Endeavour.

The family also took in a sea lion performance at the Marine Parade Pool in Napier, viewed a model train in Picton and met Hori Paki who was 104 and believed to be New Zealand's oldest man at the time.

The Queen first visited New Zealand in the summer of 1953-1954, embarking on a 38-day tour that took her and her husband, Prince Philip, to 46 towns or cities and 110 functions, with three-quarters of the country estimated to have spotted a royal wave.

In 1963, on Waitangi Day the royal couple sailed into the Bay of Islands on the royal yacht Britannia, visiting ports around the country, including Nelson, from which the Duke - whose flagship Duke of Edinburgh Award programme helped thousands of young people master valuable life skills - visited the Outward Bound School at Anakiwa.

The Queen and Duke, along with Charles and Anne, were back seven years later for the James Cook bicentenary, where they debuted the royal "walkabout".

The royal couple would return for the Commonwealth Games in Christchurch four years later, three years after that to mark the Queen's Silver Jubilee - thought by some to have come closest to matching the excitement of a quarter of a century earlier - and, in 1981, a short visit followed a Commonwealth Heads of Government conference over the ditch.

It might've been brief, but the 1981 tour left the country with the endearing memory of Ginette McDonald's Lyn of Tawa addressing the royals directly at the Royal Variety Performance.

The next most prominent visit came in 1990, when New Zealand marked 150 years since the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Auckland hosted the Commonwealth Games, with the Queen, Duke and their son Prince Edward in attendance.

The last New Zealand visit by the pair was in 2002, with the only glitch relating to an errant Daimler.

The Daimler, only used for visits by head of state, suffered a flat battery.

As the royal couple waited on their now stationary Australia-bound aircraft, airport workers had the ignominious task of pushing the incapacitated car out of the way.

• Additional reporting Cherie Howie

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The Royal Family presents THE VHS TAPES

BNZ Theatre at Due Drop Events Centre , 770 Great South Rd, Manukau City, Auckland

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• Sat 13 May 2023, 7:00pm

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The Royal Family presents The VHS Tapes

Returning from a sold-out tour in Europe at the end of 2022 they are coming back with an entire new show. The dancers have found a box of old VHS tapes and start watching all the past old artists sing and dance. Come and enjoy world class choreography accompanied with sounds of The Royal Family Choir. You won't be able to sit still in your seats so come along for a great night of entertainment. Crowns Up...

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Reveal Never-Before-Seen Moments from Colombia Tour in New Video (Exclusive)

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex salsa danced, drummed and showed off their Spanish-speaking skills in the South American country

Stephanie Petit is a Royals Editor, Writer and Reporter at PEOPLE.

Meghan Markle  and  Prince Harry are looking back at their recent visit to Colombia !

In a new video shared exclusively with PEOPLE on August 23, previously unseen moments from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's visit to the South American country are unveiled. Harry, 39, and Meghan, 43, visited Bogotá, Cartagena, and Cali alongside Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez from August 15 through August 19.

The video captures Meghan and Harry immersing themselves in Colombia's community and culture during their four-day visit, from engaging with locals to showcasing their salsa skills.

PEOPLE can also exclusively reveal that the couple's Archewell Foundation is announcing three major contributions to support education, culture and community well-being in the areas they visited.

Eric Charbonneau/Archewell Foundation via Getty

New drumming sets are being donated to Escuela Tambores de Cabildo in Cartagena. This contribution celebrates Afro-Colombian cultural heritage and supports the school's growing enrollment.

In San Basilio de Palenque, the Foundation will invest in critical needs for the community, which carry such deep historical and cultural significance. The Foundation will help provide local children with a secure environment to explore, learn and connect.

The Archewell Foundation is also supporting the expansion of the socio-emotional Gym program at Colegio La Giralda. This initiative, which promotes emotional resilience, conflict resolution, and peace, highlights the Foundation's commitment to social-emotional learning and its impact on building stronger communities.

Harry and Meghan began their trip in Bogota on Aug. 15 with an official welcome from the vice president over coffee, tea and traditional pan de bono (Colombian cheese bread).

The couple's jam-packed first day included an Insight Session with local students at Colegio Cultura Popular, hosted by The Archewell Foundation. They engaged in discussions about the digital world and its societal impact and even took a few selfie breaks during recess. The day also included a lively cultural performance with vividly costumed dancers. Later that evening, they participated in the Responsible Digital Future Summit at the Universidad EAN, one of the top-ranking universities in Latin America. Hosted by The Office of the Vice President of Colombia, in alliance with The Archewell Foundation and Luminate, the event brought together a diverse group of thought leaders, experts, activists, and community members who are united by a shared vision of fostering a healthier and more ethical digital landscape.

RAUL ARBOLEDA/AFP via Getty

On Aug. 16, the pair's second day in the country's capital, the Duchess and Duchess of Sussex  visited a local kindergarten class , where they worked on puzzles and displayed their Spanish-speaking skills. Harry asked students their names and ages in the language, while Meghan brought up their 5-year-old son,  Prince Archie , telling a student in the language, "You’re the same age as my son, Archie!" (The pair are also parents to a 3-year-old daughter,  Princess Lilibet .)

Later in the day, they attended a luncheon hosted by Vice President Márquez and  met with Colombia's Invictus Games athletes , where Prince Harry joined a volleyball game.

Moving to Cartagena on Aug. 17, Prince Harry and Meghan visited Escuela Tambores de Cabildo, a local drum school working to preserve the art form of traditional African drumming.

Founder Rafael Ramos said, "I love seeing Meghan’s big, big smile. I can tell she’s excited!"

They also visited the historic village of  San Basilio de Palenque , which was established as the first free African town in the Americas in 1619. There, Meghan expressed she was "so honored" to visit, noting the community’s “incredible history," while Harry described it as an "incredibly moving experience."

Eric Charbonneau/Archewell Foundation via Getty Images

The couple spent the final day of their trip in Cali, where Meghan took the stage for a panel focused on highlighting and uplifting Afro-Colombian women. There, she  removed her earpiece to help with translations and greeted the audience in Spanish , miming wiping sweat from her forehead as she finished her remarks and continued the presentation mainly in English.

At one point during the panel, during which Meghan spoke about how daughter Lili has already "found her voice," she walked to the side of the stage so she could  adjust a fan to face the panelists and cool them down. As she returned to her seat, Meghan said in Spanish, "Women helping women."

Continuing their visit to the salsa capital of the world, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex displayed their salsa dancing skills during an afternoon at the Unidad Recreativa El Vallado with young people from Cali. Prince Harry twirled Meghan around the dance floor, where the couple shared a quick kiss between moves, and they also took turns dancing with other partners during the event.

Their last appearance came at the Petronio Music Festival in Cali , celebrating Afro-Colombian music and dance. On stage, Meghan told the crowd, "Your country is so beautiful!” and translated her husband's remarks from English to Spanish for the audience.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage?  Sign up for our free Royals newsletter  to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

In a statement shared on sussex.com , Meghan and Prince Harry expressed "their deepest gratitude to all event organizers, Vice President Francia Márquez and the entire Colombian community for their incredible hospitality and an unforgettable trip."

The funding of the couple’s trip was the result of a collective effort, according to Vice President Márquez . The Duke and Duchess of Sussex financed their trip and that of their work team with their own resources. The events held in the various places visited were co-financed with international cooperation and philanthropy resources that were added generously to this visit. The Ministry of Equality and Equity and the Vice Presidency guaranteed the technical requirements, mobility and participation of young people, women and communities.

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Top 10 spring activities in the North Island

Hamilton Gardens, Waikato

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Daffodils in Waipukurau, Hawke's Bay

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As spring sweeps across the North Island, Aotearoa New Zealand bursts into a kaleidoscope of colour and life. The air is crisp, the landscapes are vibrant, and every corner of the North Island invites you to explore.

1. Experience wildlife and nature at its best

Whale watching in Auckland, Auckland

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Taniwha Daffodils, Hawke's Bay

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Common Dolphins at play in the Hauraki, New Zealand

Spring is prime time to witness Aotearoa New Zealand’s incredible wildlife. For a sea adventure, go whale watching in the Hauraki Gulf —rich with marine life during the spring months (September - November). Don't miss the dazzling Taniwha Daffodils (opens in new window) in Waikato, a stunning floral display that signals the arrival of warmer weather.

Explore nature and wildlife

2. Explore blooms in spring

By bobprangnell

Visit Blossom Valley (opens in new window) in Wellington , where pastel-colored blossoms create a dreamlike setting . Hamilton Gardens offers a world-class display of international-themed gardens perfect for a spring stroll.

Discover gardens

3. Discover the wonders of natural hot springs

Hells Gate, Rotorua

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Polynesian Spa, New Zealand

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Waikite Valley Hot Pools, Rotorua

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Hot Water Beach, Coromandel

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Take a relaxing dip in the geothermal hot pools of Rotorua . The bubbling pools and steaming vents provide a soothing experience amidst beautiful springtime views .

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to the secluded Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula , where you can dig your own hot pool at low tide.

Relax in hot pools

4. Cycle through scenic landscapes on a Great Ride

Timber Trail, Ruapehu

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From the coastal beauty of the Hauraki Rail Trail to the forested paths of the Timber Trail , these trails showcase incredible scenic experiences. Discover the unique charm of the North Island on two wheels and feel the crisp spring air as you pedal through diverse terrains.

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5. Paddle through pristine waters

Canoeing safari, Whanganui

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Whanganui river, New Zealand

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Spring is a peaceful time to kayak rivers and lakes in Aotearoa New Zealand. Paddle down the Whanganui River , one of the Great Walks by canoe, and explore the magnificent natural beauty of its surroundings.

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6. Do a Great Walk in full bloom

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For picturesque beaches and forested paths, visit the Te Araroa Trail sections in the North Island, while the Tongariro Northern Circuit takes you through volcanic terrain and alpine meadows.

For a true adventure, tackle the Lake Waikaremoana Track surrounded by blooming native flora.

Explore Great Walks of New Zealand

7.Enjoy family-friendly fun

Te Papa , Wellington

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Family at Zealandia, Wellington

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Take the kids to National parks , easy walking trails , or adventure parks scattered across the North Island. Visit interactive museums like Te Papa in Wellington , or enjoy a leisurely bike ride on one of North Island's many family-friendly cycle trails.

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8. Explore National parks

Egmont National Park, Taranaki

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Experience an otherworldly landscape hiking in the Tongariro National Park., Taupō

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Aotearoa New Zealand’s national parks are a haven for outdoor lovers, and spring provides fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes. Explore the lush forests of Egmont National Park or the stunning coastline of Te Urewera . The volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park are particularly breathtaking in spring.

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9. Step Into Middle‑earth™

Hobbiton™, Waikato

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Visit the iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit during spring, when the lush green hills of Hobbiton are at their most stunning. Wander through the famous Shire, enjoy a tour of the film sets, and relive your favorite moments from these beloved movies. 

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10. Celebrate spring festivals

Whitianga Oceans Festival, Coromandel

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Dive into the Whitianga Oceans Festival (opens in new window) on the Coromandel Peninsula , where coastal vibes meet seafood delights. Visit Central Hawke’s Bay for the Spring Fling Festival (opens in new window) , filled with local culture, markets, and outdoor fun. 

Explore events in New Zealand

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Oasis reunion tour 2025: How to get tickets to see Noel and Liam in Manchester, London and Dublin

‘the guns have fallen silent. the stars have aligned’ the band tweeted, article bookmarked.

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Noel and Liam Gallagher have put their long-running feud behind them, as a huge Oasis tour has been announced for 2025 .

The storied rock band will play stadium shows in Manchester, London, Edinburgh and Dublin, with gigs outside Europe to be added at a later date.

Their reunion announcement comes right before the 30-year anniversary of Definitely Maybe , the band’s record-breaking debut album. Next year, meanwhile, will mark the 30th anniversary of their follow-up, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, one of the biggest-selling LPs by a British act of all time.

A statement from the band said: “The guns have fallen silent. The stars have aligned. The great wait is over. Come see. It will not be televised.”

“Oasis today end years of feverish speculation with the confirmation of a long awaited run of UK and Ireland shows forming the domestic leg of their OASIS LIVE 25 world tour,” a press release about the reunion said.

“Oasis will hit Cardiff, Manchester, London, Edinburgh and Dublin in the summer of 2025. Their only shows in Europe next year, this will be one of the biggest live moments and hottest tickets of the decade.

“The Oasis live experience is unlike anything else. The roar that greets them as they step on stage. A set full of wall-to-wall classics. The spine-tingling sensation of being in a crowd singing back every word. And especially the charisma, spark and intensity that only comes when Liam and Noel Gallagher are on-stage together.”

Here’s everything we know about how to get tickets

Tickets for the UK tour dates will go on sale at 9am on Saturday 31 August and be available from ticketmaster.co.uk , gigsandtours.com , and seetickets.com . Dublin tickets will available from 8am that same day from www.ticketmaster.ie .

A pre-sale ballot will take place on Friday 30 August. To register, fans must enter a ballot that closes by 7pm on Wednesday 28 August. Here’s how to enter.

The shows announced so far are as follows:

4 July – Cardiff, Principality Stadium

5 July – Cardiff, Principality Stadium

11 July – Manchester, Heaton Park

12 July – Manchester, Heaton Park

19 July – Manchester, Heaton Park

20 July – Manchester, Heaton Park

25 July – London, Wembley Stadium

26 July – London, Wembley Stadium

AUGUST 2025

2 August – London, Wembley Stadium

3 August – London, Wembley Stadium

8 August – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

9 August – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

16 August – Dublin, Croke Park

17 August – Dublin, Croke Park

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The 9 best northern lights alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Consider one of these trips for a chance to see this mesmerizing natural wonder.

The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

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There's no other experience on Earth quite like witnessing the northern lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, this spellbinding phenomenon – when brilliant hues of green, yellow and purple dance across the night sky – is visible in Alaska from late August to late April. Clear, dark evenings away from the ambient light of cities provide prime viewing opportunities.

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis – especially locations in the Interior and Arctic regions, such as Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik (Barrow) and Nome. Fairbanks is regarded as a top location due to its position directly under the auroral oval, a ring-shaped area in the far north where aurora activity is generally concentrated. The Southcentral region of Alaska, where you'll find Anchorage, Talkeetna and the Mat-Su Valley, also offers basecamps for northern lights viewing.

If you're hoping to see the magic aboard an Alaska cruise in 2024 or 2025, then you just might be in luck. Experts predict the next few seasons will be particularly good for northern lights sightings, due to increased solar activity. While seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed, your best chance of seeing them is during these high-activity solar cycles, which occur about every 11 years.

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When to take a cruise to view the northern lights

The Alaska cruise season falls between May and September, with a few cruise lines extending the season from April to October.

Holland America Line recommends booking a cruise or cruisetour (a combined sea and land package) during the autumnal equinox, or the official start of autumn, which falls around Sept. 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. Disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field are more likely around the autumn and spring equinoxes, which could increase your chances of seeing the aurora. For the best views, Holland America advises heading to higher ground in Anchorage , to vantage points like Glen Alps, the Knit River Valley and Point Woronzof.

Princess Cruises also suggests booking your vacation in the fall. September is an ideal month to watch for the spectacle in the sky as the nights start getting longer and darker. The elusive display is most likely to appear on crystal-clear evenings between midnight and 4 a.m. While you can see incredible light shows in Anchorage, consider an extended tour of Fairbanks or the Interior that takes you away from light pollution (such as to Denali National Park & Preserve).

U.S. News has compiled a list of the nine best cruises and cruisetours to give you the optimal chance of viewing these whimsical lights in the sky, with a focus on sailings around the autumnal equinox in 2024 and later dates in September 2025. We've also included an early sailing in April, before the end of the aurora season. (Keep in mind: Many of these trips and itineraries are also available on other dates during the season. Cruise fares were accurate at the time of publication.)

Holland America Line

Princess cruises, celebrity cruises, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international.

Thierry Guenez | Courtesy of Holland America Line

9-Day Denali: Tour D8l

This nine-day land and sea tour on Nieuw Amsterdam includes an opportunity to search for the northern lights in Fairbanks, one of the best places to see them in Alaska (and in the world). Holland America offers a four-hour aurora borealis viewing tour outside the city in a yurt; it operates between the last week of August and mid-September.

If you'd like more options, there's no shortage of tour operators in town that can take you on a northern lights adventure in Fairbanks. You can even fly into town early to stay in the wilderness in an igloo with clear views of the night sky at Borealis Basecamp, located less than 30 miles from Fairbanks. Be sure to notify your hotel that you'd like a wake-up call or a knock on the door if the northern lights are on display.

You'll have more opportunities to see the aurora when you head to Denali National Park & Preserve for a stay at Holland America 's exclusive 60-acre McKinley Chalet Resort, located near the entrance to the park. After a full day exploring the park by ATV or a bucket list flightseeing adventure over Denali, you'll have another chance to see the colorful light display in Alaska's wilderness after midnight. The rest of the cruisetour itinerary includes scenic cruising days, with one spent in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. You'll also call on Juneau , Skagway and Ketchikan before disembarking in Vancouver .

14-Day Denali: Tour D3c

This 14-day adventure includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord, with stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Whittier and Seward. You'll then have nearly a week on land in Anchorage, Denali National Park & Preserve and Fairbanks to go aurora hunting. If you spend an extra night or two in Fairbanks at the end of the trip, you'll be in town for the autumnal equinox, maximizing your northern lights viewing opportunities.

With the extra time in town, plan to book the Arctic Circle Air Adventure with Northern Alaska Tour Company. This unforgettable journey takes you on a flight over the Yukon River and Brooks Range, just east of the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve. You'll then land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the community of Coldfoot and receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate before your return flight to Fairbanks.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Northbound

If you're interested in a cruise-only option and would prefer to arrange the land portion independently, consider this seven-day voyage on Nieuw Amsterdam. The itinerary includes three scenic cruising days, with one day in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, and calls on the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Whittier, which sits roughly 60 miles south of Anchorage.

From Whittier, there are many options to transfer to Anchorage (by rail or by road), including the iconic Glacier Discovery Train. Plan to stay a few evenings in Anchorage with a multiday guided aurora tour, or reserve a spot on an evening outing in search of the northern lights.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

11-Day Denali Explorer – Tour DA4

This 11-day cruisetour begins with a seven-night voyage embarking from Vancouver on Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The itinerary includes three sea days, two of which are dedicated to scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord. You'll make stops in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Anchorage (Whittier) before disembarking to depart for the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge via the line's direct-to-the-wilderness rail service.

Spending three nights at the lodge – located just outside the entrance to the park – in mid-September will offer excellent opportunities for aurora viewing. Keep your fingers crossed for high solar activity and clear, dark skies. Throughout your trip, learn photography tips to capture the mesmerizing display through Princess' North to Alaska Program. After your stay in Denali, you'll take a motor coach to Anchorage and stay overnight in a hotel there to finish up your voyage.

10-Day On Your Own – Tour BBX

The 10-Day On Your Own cruisetour with Princess Cruises begins with three nights on land, including overnights in Fairbanks, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. While at the Mt. McKinley resort, be sure to check out the lodge's treehouse. Designed by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," this vantage point offers impressive views of Denali – the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet above sea level.

Before heading off to bed, get an update on aurora activity from the tracker on your smartphone, especially if you have clear skies that night; the app My Aurora Forecast & Alerts has excellent reviews. Request a wake-up call to have the Princess lodge staff call your room if the dazzling bands of light begin to dance in the sky. The next day, after traveling to Whittier by motor coach, you'll embark on your cruise to Vancouver aboard Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess.

The voyage from Whittier includes three sea days for relaxing activities on board the ship, with two days of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier and in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. During your time in Glacier Bay, park rangers will board the ship to offer commentary about this captivating wilderness area's pristine glaciers and abundant wildlife. Younger cruisers and teens will also appreciate learning about this spectacular place through the Junior Ranger program, which features interactive games, activities and presentations. (All cruise ships visiting the park participate in this program with the National Park Service.) Ports of call for the rest of the journey include Icy Strait Point or Skagway (depending on the cruise), then Juneau and Ketchikan. The voyage ends in Vancouver.

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

The Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour

Celebrity's pre-cruise national parks adventure takes guests on a wildlife viewing quest to destinations in the north and the Interior where you can watch for the aurora. The 12-night trip begins in Fairbanks with a free day to explore.

Consider a trip to the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which features exhibits on Arctic dinosaurs, diverse wildlife, Alaska Native cultures and 2,000 years of Alaska art. You could also visit the impressive collection of antique cars and clothing at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, or take a walk with the reindeer into the woods at Running Reindeer Ranch. The second day in town includes a Riverboat Discovery ride and a tour of the city, as part of the cruisetour.

On the third day, you'll board the Wilderness Express (a glass-domed railcar) for the ride to Denali. Then, you'll embark on the Tundra Wilderness Tour in search of the park's grizzly bears, moose, Dall sheep and other wildlife. Be sure to put your name on the list before bedtime to get a wake-up call for aurora activity. You'll also have one evening in Anchorage, where you can arrange for a northern lights tour, and one night in Seward before setting sail on Celebrity Summit the next morning. Highlights of the voyage include cruising Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage as well as stopping in Juneau, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. You'll disembark in Vancouver.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

13-Day Denali Explorer – Pre-Cruise Cruisetour

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-day pre-cruise adventure begins with overnights in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage, where you'll have the best chances to view the northern lights. Other highlights for the first part of the trip include a deluxe dome car rail journey from Talkeetna to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad and a private tour to an Iditarod sled dog musher's kennel. You'll also have plenty of time in Denali National Park to book a flightseeing tour, go whitewater rafting, or take a hike with a park ranger to look for bears, moose, Dall sheep, wolves and other local wildlife before starting your cruise in Seattle .

Norwegian Encore will call on Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan (Ward Cove) in Alaska. The Mill at Ward Cove near Ketchikan is a newly built cruise ship port that serves as a jumping-off point for outdoor activities in the Tongass National Forest, from hiking and biking to kayaking and sea cycling. You can even pick up souvenirs, grab a bite to eat and sample a cold Alaska brew at the mill. The cruise itinerary also includes one day at sea and a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, before you disembark in Seattle.

7-Night Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Consider this seven-day cruise on Norwegian Bliss if you prefer to travel early in the spring and take your chances at catching the northern lights toward the end of aurora season, which falls around April 21. This round-trip itinerary from Seattle is one of the earliest sailings of the year to visit the Great Land and features two sea days, with one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. You'll also visit Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan (Ward Cove) and Victoria before disembarking in Seattle.

Juneau will offer one of the best opportunities during the cruise for seeing the northern lights, although chances are dependent on the weather and solar activity. There are several apps and websites with real-time updates for aurora tracking, including My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. If the skies are clear in the evening and the forecast looks promising, ask guest relations if there's a sign-up sheet to get a call or a knock on the door in the event of aurora activity.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

12 Night Mountain Panorama Adventure Cruisetour 5B (Pre Tour)

This 12-night cruisetour with Royal Caribbean International begins with an overnight in Anchorage before boarding the Wilderness Express, where you'll have a glass-domed rail car for the journey to Talkeetna. The quirky community of Talkeetna is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Alaska town of Cicely in the 1990s show "Northern Exposure." It's also an excellent base for chasing the aurora – especially at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where you'll be staying.

After an overnight at the lodge, your tour moves on to Denali, where you can search for wildlife by day and look for the aurora at night. Another evening on land at Hotel Alyeska in the remote town of Girdwood affords more opportunities to chase the finnicky lights before heading to Seward to board your ship, Radiance of the Seas .

Ports of call on this voyage include Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. There are also two days of scenic cruising through Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver. While there are plenty of activities, dining venues, bars and lounges on board to keep you entertained all night long, be sure to save up enough energy to wake up in the middle of the night should you get a call to see the magical natural wonder that is the northern lights.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• The Best Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Alaska Shore Excursions

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Colombia trip was heavily criticized, but it's part of a winning strategy

• Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited Colombia at the invitation of Vice President Francia Márquez.
• The trip marked their second international tour of 2024.
• Harry and Meghan have long made clear that championing international causes is a passion for them.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wrapped up their latest international trip on Sunday.

The couple went to Colombia at the invitation of the nation's vice president, Francia Márquez, and they spoke at the Responsible Digital Future Summit at Universidad Ean on August 15.

Their visit to Colombia marked their second international tour of the year, following their trip to Nigeria in May.

Harry and Meghan received backlash for both trips in UK tabloids, with some outlets questioning why the couple were going on trips that looked a lot like royal tours despite stepping back as working royals in 2020.

But looking back at their time as working royals together and their individual lives highlights that international service trips are nothing unusual for Harry or Meghan.

Representatives for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Harry and Meghan have a long history of international work

The royal commentator Kristen Meinzer told Business Insider that international trips with a service focus weren't new for Harry or Meghan.

As a member of the royal family, Harry spent his entire life accompanying his parents on royal tours, and as an adult he served in the British Army, which also took him around the globe. He is also the founding patron of the Invictus Games , a biennial athletic competition that has been hosted by six countries so far.

Meanwhile, Meghan studied international relations at Northwestern in addition to theater, and she worked with global organizations like World Vision , One Young World , and even the United Nations before she became a royal.

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"Before they were even together, they both had a passion for charity and philanthropy and making goodwill visits to other countries," Meinzer said. "It's something that Harry was trained to do his whole life."

"And I think it's interesting that when other people like George Clooney or Beyoncé do the same kind of thing, they aren't raked over the coals," Meinzer said of Harry and Meghan's international advocacy.

As working royals, Harry and Meghan went on multiple royal tours together, where they flexed their ability to connect with communities in other countries.

For instance, Harry said it was "effortless" for Meghan to connect with locals on their 2018 royal tour of Australia, and they both appeared more relaxed during their 2019 tour of Africa compared with other royals on similar trips.

As they revealed in their docuseries "Harry & Meghan," the Duke and Duchess of Sussex hoped they could continue serving as working royals outside the UK by relocating to a commonwealth nation like New Zealand, South Africa, or Canada instead of stepping down in 2020.

"We thought it would be good to give ourselves some breathing space, but also we were really passionate about continuing our work throughout the Commonwealth, to support the Queen," Harry said on the series.

Harry said their 2019 move to South Africa was scrapped after details of the plan were published in The Times . Subsequently, Harry's email proposal to move to Canada was leaked to The Sun in January 2020. A day after the story was published, Harry and Meghan announced they were stepping back as senior royals .

By June 2020, the two had settled in Montecito, California, where they now raise their two children.

These trips aren't designed to promote the Commonwealth, but they do serve a purpose

When they went on international trips together as working royals, Harry and Meghan were ambassadors for the Commonwealth. Today, they promote causes they are passionate about when they visit.

"I think that something else that's a little bit off about the narrative is a lot of the tabloid media is trying to depict them as like, 'Oh, they're just trying to pretend they're still royal,'" Meinzer said. "But they're actually going to these places upon invitation."

For instance, Márquez invited Harry and Meghan to Colombia to discuss how to create a "healthier and more ethical digital landscape," as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex shared on their website , and they visited Nigeria in May because the country has expressed interest in hosting the Invictus Games .

"They're not doing anything that is inflammatory by accepting invitations to raise the public awareness of certain causes," Meinzer added. "It's just a nonissue."

Despite the tabloid criticism of their international trips, the visits offer a new path for Harry and Meghan, who have struggled to find long-term momentum in their media ventures.

Indeed, Evan Nierman, the CEO and founder of the global PR firm Red Banyan , told BI that the couple's tell-alls about the royal family — including their Netflix series and Harry's memoir, "Spare" — no longer packed the same punch .

But international diplomacy is Meghan and Harry's bread and butter. Whether the UK tabloid press agrees, leaning into a skillset and a passion they both have is the right move for them.

Correction: August 29, 2024 — An earlier version of this story incorrectly described Prince Harry's military service. He served in the British Army, not the Royal Air Force. The story was also updated to clarify that the Invictus Games are held biennially, not yearly.

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