The first night we were booked, they texted around 7pm to say that the current weather forecast of clouds could make it unlikely and asked if we wanted to go the next night instead - we said yes. We did hear that they still got to see them that night after all! And we ended up dealing with some clouds our night as well. Glad for the communication and option for going that night or another night.
Our driver picked us up around 9:45pm - told us we were 1 of 3 vans that night and we waited in North Pole to meet up with the other vans. I didn't realize how far out we'd be going in order to see them the first time, a 2+ hour drive, which sounded like it was normal and not just due to the clouds. We stopped at the first location (a campground) and saw hints of them in pictures before the clouds came in. They had us get back in the vans and then we stopped at a second location (a pull off on the side of the road) and were able to see them very clearly in our pictures! They had two cameras set up to take our pictures and one of the guides was very enthusiastic about making sure you had some great ones (not quite the case with the other guide). The pictures turned out amazing!!
The second stop was super windy, so we didn't end up getting a campfire, but we didn't need it and ended up not wanting any snacks or drinks at 2:30am.
There are pros and cons with going on a tour like this with multiple vans. It was great to have two cameras and different guides to take them. However, it means longer waiting times since it's a larger group. Especially when it was time to go home, our van was ready to go and we sat there for an additional 20 minutes until the other vans were ready and then also stopped for a bathroom break on the way home than no one in our van wanted.
I think our guide could have done a better job setting expectations and in general talking about the Northern Lights on our drive. Some people on the tour were upset that they "didn't see them" because they couldn't see them with their eyes and didn't know/realize that you could see them on the camera (I don't think they had phones that could take pictures of them either). Our driver was also super tired and ran over the rumble strips so many times on our drive back, to the point where we questioned if he should have been driving.
Ultimately I'm really glad we were able to see the Northern Lights because we definitely needed the professionals to find and see them! I do think the price was too high for the experience we had with our guide.
Одговор домаћина
Oct 2024
Thank you once again for sharing your thoughts. We truly value your feedback and are committed to enhancing our guest experience. We understand the importance of clear communication and will make sure our descriptions are more detailed regarding group sizes and transportation arrangements.
Regarding our drivers, it's crucial for us to ensure they provide the best service possible. Our upcoming training sessions will focus on building stronger guest relationships and enhancing the overall tour experience.
We strive to offer unique and memorable aurora experiences, and we're thrilled that you were able to witness them with us. Your successful night reinforces our dedication to seeking out the best viewing opportunities, even if it means going the extra mile.
We hope to welcome you on another tour soon, and we're confident your next experience will be even better. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us achieve that goal. Safe travels!