Kopar Fine Dining Dinner and Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik

Experience Reykjavik’s Hidden Gems: Fine Dining and the Northern Lights in One Evening

Planning an evening in Reykjavik that combines the best of Iceland’s culinary scene with a chance to see the Northern Lights? The “Kopar Fine Dining Dinner and Northern Lights Cruise” offers a unique two-in-one experience, costing around $199 for roughly five hours of memorable adventure. You start with an exquisite 6-course meal at the acclaimed restaurant Kopar, located in the lively Old Harbour district, and then hop onto a boat in search of the elusive aurora borealis.

What we love about this tour is how it maximizes your evening — combining the deliciousness of Icelandic ingredients with the thrill of a boat cruise in chilly waters. The dinner, praised for its fresh, innovative dishes like smoked arctic char and rack of lamb, is a real highlight, especially if you’re a foodie eager to sample local flavors. The cruise offers a peaceful way to enjoy the night sky and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights without the crowds. Plus, warm coveralls keep you comfortable in the cold, which makes all the difference when you’re out on the water in winter.

One thing to keep in mind is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights, which can depend heavily on weather conditions and solar activity — so seeing the lights isn’t guaranteed. The boat only ventures about half a mile into the harbor, which some might find limiting if they’ve read about more extensive excursions further into open sea. This might make it less suitable for those expecting a long, scenic voyage or a guaranteed display of aurora.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy gastronomy and unique experiences in one package — especially those who are open to a bit of luck when it comes to Northern Lights viewing. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with a small group and appreciate the charm of a personalized, intimate experience.

Key Points

• Gourmet Icelandic Cuisine: A 6-course “Adventure Menu” at Kopar offers a delicious taste of local ingredients.
• Two-in-One Experience: Combines fine dining with a Northern Lights cruise, maximizing your evening.
• Good Chance of Aurora Viewing: While not guaranteed, the boat offers a better shot at seeing the lights away from city lights.
• Comfort and Convenience: Warm coveralls are provided, and the group size is small for more personalized attention.
• Authentic Settings: Kopar’s location in the Old Harbour provides a scenic backdrop for your meal.
• Mixed Reviews on the Cruise: While some loved the cruise and the views, others felt the short trip limited the Aurora experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Kopar in the Old Harbour

Your evening kicks off at Kopar, situated conveniently in Reykjavík’s bustling Old Harbour. The restaurant has earned praise for its delicious, innovative dishes and friendly service. Several reviewers highlight their enjoyment of the adventure tasting menu, which includes dishes like rock lobster soup, smoked arctic char, goose breast, and rack of lamb. One guest called it “the best meal ever,” emphasizing the quality and freshness of the ingredients.

The restaurant’s location offers lovely harbor views, especially if you manage to secure a window seat. Many travelers note that the service is attentive and accommodating, even for those with dietary restrictions, like vegans or vegetarians — a thoughtful touch for diverse groups. The portion sizes are generous enough that many end up with leftovers, so bringing a take-away box might be wise.

The Dinner Itself: A Culinary Highlight

The 6-course adventure menu is a big draw for food lovers. Several reviews mention the freshness of the ingredients and how each dish offers a new taste experience. The food’s presentation and flavor complexity make it a memorable meal. One guest called it “way too much food,” but in a good way, as it felt like a true Icelandic feast.

Some reviews mention minor hiccups, such as undercooked lamb or fatty cuts, but overall, the consensus is that the quality of the food and service far outweigh any small issues. It’s clear that Kopar aims to deliver a high-end, memorable dining experience that captures Iceland’s culinary spirit.

Transition to the Northern Lights Cruise

After dinner, you’ll walk just a few minutes to the Special Tours Ticket Office at Geirsgata 11 to check in and prepare for the boat cruise. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, and the boat is equipped with warm coveralls to help you battle the cold — a real plus in winter.

The boat departs from the harbor and takes you into the waters just beyond the city’s light pollution, increasing your chances of catching the aurora if the sky cooperates. Onboard, there’s commentary and a video, providing insights into the Northern Lights and Icelandic nature, making it more than just a boat ride.

The Northern Lights: A Game of Chance

The reviews reveal a variety of experiences here. Several travelers appreciated the personalized service and informative guides, with some lucky enough to see the Aurora — glowing, dancing lights that make the effort worthwhile. One reviewer mentioned the “truly beautiful” sight, describing it as an “amazing experience.” Others, however, cautioned that bad weather, such as clouds or rain, can spoil the show or prevent it altogether.

A common theme is that the cruise only ventures about half a mile into the harbor — some felt this limited their viewing potential. While this short trip is more comfortable and less choppy, it might not satisfy those seeking a longer, more adventurous Aurora chase. Still, the promise that you can return for free if you don’t see the lights on your first attempt is a thoughtful gesture.

Reviews on Value and Experience

Many guests consider this tour worth the price, especially given the combination of fine dining and a chance at seeing the Northern Lights. The small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures a more personal experience. Those who saw the lights were thrilled, describing the experience as “beyond amazing,” while others appreciated the excellent food and the comfortable boat.

Some reviews, however, express disappointment when the Aurora doesn’t show up, which is a reminder that seeing the lights is not guaranteed. The unpredictability of the natural phenomenon is part of the adventure, and patience or a bit of luck can make or break your evening.

Practical Considerations

• Dress warmly: Even with coveralls, temperatures can drop in the boat or outside.
• Book in advance: The tour is small, with just six spots, and reviewers recommend reserving early, especially in peak seasons.
• Confirm reservations: There’s a note that you must confirm your dinner reservation after booking, so plan to follow up.
• Timing: It’s a five-hour experience, so be prepared for a full evening, and consider if long travel or early mornings fit your schedule.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a combination of Icelandic cuisine and aurora hunting in one evening. Foodies will appreciate the high-quality, thoughtfully prepared meal, while adventure seekers might find the boat cruise a cozy, less intimidating way to glimpse the Northern Lights.

It’s perfect for those traveling in winter months, ready to brave the cold and hoping for that magical night sky show. Small groups mean more personalized service, but it also means quick sellouts—so booking early is a good idea. If you’re someone who values authentic local dishes and prefers a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, this tour should be on your list. Just remember, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon — stunning but unpredictable.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Dinner at Kopar

The journey begins in the heart of Reykjavik’s harbor district at Kopar, a restaurant lauded for its delicious, innovative approach to Icelandic cuisine. The Adventure Menu features six courses, carefully crafted to highlight Iceland’s flavors. Dishes like rock lobster soup and blueberry-cured salmon showcase local ingredients with a modern twist, offering a culinary adventure that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, with one describing it as “the most amazing and delicious meal ever.” The atmosphere is relaxed yet upscale, with many guests noting their window seats overlooking the harbor, creating a picturesque dining setting.

The small group dinner experience

With a maximum of six diners, the experience feels personalized. Service is attentive, and many guests comment on the friendly staff and great views. The portion sizes are generous, and the menu offers enough variety to satisfy different tastes. For some, the adventure menu is surprisingly filling — one guest even needed a takeaway box.

Transitioning to the Cruise

After the meal, you’ll walk just a minute or two to the Special Tours ticket office, where you check in for your boat trip. The boat departs from Geirsgata and is equipped with warm coveralls to protect against the chill. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, providing a comfortable, intimate setting to watch the sky.

The boat ride and Aurora hunting

Once aboard, you’re given commentary and a chance to relax as the boat quietly moves into the harbor’s waters, just beyond the city’s light pollution. Several reviewers emphasize the informative guides and enjoyable onboard atmosphere.

While the cruise only ventures about half a mile into the harbor, many find this a manageable balance of comfort and opportunity. The chance to see the Northern Lights depends on the weather and solar activity, but the boat’s location increases your odds compared to staying in Reykjavik.

Reviewing the Aurora experience

The reviews reveal a mixed bag — some travelers see the lights and describe it as “beyond amazing,” while others leave disappointed due to cloudy skies or rain. One guest mentioned that if the lights don’t appear, you can hold onto your ticket and go out again for free, which adds some reassurance.

An authentic, memorable evening

Despite the natural unpredictability, many guests agree that the combination of exceptional food and the potential for a spectacular sky show makes this experience worthwhile. The small group setting and personalized service elevate the trip, making it feel special rather than touristy.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is best suited for travelers who:

• Appreciate local Icelandic cuisine and want to try an array of thoughtfully prepared dishes.
• Are interested in nature and Aurora Borealis viewing, but understand that seeing the lights is not guaranteed.
• Prefer small-group experiences rather than large tour buses or crowded excursions.
• Seek authentic, intimate settings with scenic views and personalized service.
• Are prepared for cold weather and are willing to dress accordingly for an outdoor boat trip.
• Want a balanced night that combines culinary delights with a chance to see one of Iceland’s most famous natural phenomena.

If you’re after a relaxed yet adventurous evening, with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights while dining on Icelandic specialties, this tour offers a distinctive way to spend your evening in Reykjavík.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, the restaurant offers options for vegans and non-vegans, and many reviews mention accommodating dietary needs. Confirm your restrictions after booking.

How long does the entire experience last?
It spans approximately five hours, starting with dinner at Kopar, followed by the boat cruise. Expect to be out in the evening and into the night.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While many guests do get lucky, the Aurora’s visibility depends on weather and solar activity. The cruise increases your chances compared to staying on land.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly — layers, thermal clothing, and waterproof outerwear are recommended. Coveralls are provided on the boat, but additional warm clothing is advised.

Is the boat trip comfortable?
Most reviews say yes. The boat is spacious, clean, and has onboard commentary. The provided coveralls help keep you cozy.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

How do I confirm my dinner reservation at Kopar?
You should contact the tour provider’s reception team at [email protected] after booking to finalize your reservation.

Is this tour good for children?
Most travelers recommend it for most age groups, but small children should be prepared for cold weather and boat conditions.

What if the weather is bad on the night of the cruise?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the cost, and is it worth it?
At $199, including six courses and a cruise, many find it good value considering the quality of the food and the unique experience. It’s a memorable way to spend an evening in Reykjavik, especially if you’re a foodie or Aurora enthusiast.

In short, the Kopar Fine Dining Dinner and Northern Lights Cruise combines Icelandic culinary excellence with the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights in a cozy, intimate setting. While the Aurora is never guaranteed, many leave with incredible memories of both the meal and the sky. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a blend of gourmet food and natural wonder, especially if you’re traveling in winter and looking for a small-group experience that’s both authentic and special.