Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Northern Lights Combo Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to combine Iceland’s marine wildlife with the magic of the Northern Lights, this 6-hour combo tour is a fine choice. Starting in Reykjavik, you’ll venture out onto Faxaflói Bay for a whale-watching cruise during daylight, then return after dark to chase the elusive Northern Lights. It’s a straightforward, well-organized experience that appeals to travelers eager to see both the ocean’s giants and the sky’s spectacle.

What we particularly like about this tour is the diverse experience it offers—seeing Minke and Humpback whales up close in their natural habitat and then cozying up in heated cabins while waiting for the aurora borealis. Plus, the knowledgeable guides are genuinely enthusiastic, making the whole trip more engaging. On the downside, the Northern Lights viewing depends heavily on weather conditions, so it isn’t a guaranteed sighting. Still, for the price, it’s a solid way to maximize your Iceland adventure, especially if you’re short on time or want a hassle-free way to combine two iconic experiences.

This tour suits nature lovers, families, and independent travelers who appreciate a mix of wildlife and celestial beauty. It’s also good for those who prefer a guided experience with reliable safety measures and insider knowledge. If you’re hoping to see whales and the Northern Lights in a single day, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Nature: Spot whales, dolphins, and marine mammals in their natural environment.
• Versatile Experience: Combines daytime whale watching with an evening Northern Lights hunt.
• Comfort & Convenience: Heated indoor cabins, WiFi, and warm overalls make it comfortable even in cold weather.
• Expert Guides: Passionate guides provide engaging commentary and increase your chances of sightings.
• Weather Dependency: Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions, so flexibility might be needed.
• Value for Money: The tour offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, with options for rebooking if no wildlife is seen.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Whale & Lights Tour

Starting Point & Logistics

The adventure kicks off at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, with check-in happening at the Special Tours office. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended, giving you time to meet your fellow travelers and get ready for the day ahead. The tour is operated by Reykjavik Sailors, a reputable provider known for professional guides and environmentally conscious practices.

Since the tour lasts about 6 hours, you’ll want to plan your day around the scheduled start times, which vary. The itinerary includes a 3-hour whale-watching cruise, a 5-hour break in Reykjavik (perfect for lunch or a quick exploration), and a 2-hour Northern Lights cruise in the evening.

Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay

The core of this experience is the 3-hour whale-watching cruise. Departing from the harbor, you’ll sail into Faxaflói Bay, a prime habitat for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. The boat is equipped with heated indoor cabins, toilets, and WiFi, which make the trip comfortable regardless of weather.

During the cruise, you might see Minke whales, Humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. Many travelers highlight the chance to see playful dolphins and hear the guides’ informative commentary—adding depth and context to what you’re observing. One reviewer, Annika, appreciated the guide Rebekka’s passion, making the experience unforgettable, especially when spotting friendly dolphins and humpback whales.

The possibility of seeing marine mammals feeding or breaching is what makes this excursion exciting. Several reviews mention how lucky some travelers were to witness feeding behaviors or whale breaches, which are brief but spectacular moments that leave you with lasting memories. The tour includes a free ticket if no sightings occur, so you can try again on a different day—adding peace of mind.

Break in Reykjavik

After the whale cruise, there’s a 5-hour break. This is your chance to explore Reykjavik, grab a meal, or relax before the evening activity. Since the tour doesn’t include food, you might want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy a local café or restaurant. This downtime also helps you recharge for the second part of the experience—an outdoor adventure in the dark.

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Northern Lights Search

As night falls, you’ll board a 2-hour cruise designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The boat is equipped with heated indoor cabins and an outdoor deck where you can stand under the stars, bundled up in warm overalls provided by the tour. Many reviews mention the comfort of the heated cabins, especially helpful if the aurora is faint or the weather turns chilly.

On a clear night, this cruise can be mesmerizing. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the guides are experienced at finding the best spots and times. Emma, one reviewer, noted that her group was fortunate to see the Aurora after a clear night, describing it as another fantastic experience.

Additional Comforts and Considerations

The tour provides warm flotation overalls, which many travelers find essential, especially when standing outside at night. There’s WiFi onboard, so you can share your sightings or stay connected. For those prone to seasickness, complimentary tablets are available—a considerate touch.

The entire experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What Makes it a Good Value

For around $197 per person, this tour packs in a lot—wildlife sightings, scenic views, time on the water, and a chance to witness the Aurora Borealis. The inclusion of free rebooking if no whales are seen adds value, reducing the risk of disappointment.

While food isn’t included, you can purchase snacks onboard or bring your own. The tour’s focus on environmental responsibility—sharing boats with partners to reduce ecological impact—is also a plus for eco-conscious travelers.

The Experience in Practice

Several reviews highlight the expert guides and their passionate explanations, significantly enhancing the experience. Vicky Leonard called it a “brilliant tour,” and Pamela appreciated seeing whales and seals, emphasizing the helpfulness of the crew.

Emma’s review captures the magic: “We saw humpbacks and dolphins, and the Northern Lights—an absolute highlight of our trip.” Such comments underline the authenticity of the experience and the possibility of memorable sightings when conditions cooperate.

Considerations and Tips

• Weather can be unpredictable—come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing and layers.
• Expect that Northern Lights sightings depend on weather and solar activity; patience is key.
• The break in Reykjavik offers flexibility, but you may want to plan your meals ahead or explore local eateries.
• The size of the boat isn’t specified, but tours like this generally accommodate small to medium groups, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This combo tour is perfect for adventurous travelers interested in nature and wildlife, especially those short on time but eager to experience both whale watching and Northern Lights. It’s especially suited for families and solo travelers who want a guided, safe, and comfortable outing.

If your main goal is guaranteed sightings, be aware that the Northern Lights depend heavily on the weather, but the whale watching has a reassurance policy with the free rebook option. The comfortable amenities and informative guides make it an experience worth considering, particularly if you’re interested in a balanced, well-rounded look at Iceland’s natural beauty.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You receive a 2.5-3-hour whale-watching cruise, a 2-3-hour Northern Lights cruise, warm flotation overalls, WiFi, heated indoor cabins, toilets, and guides. If no whales are spotted, you get a free rebooking.

How long is the entire experience?
The total duration is about 6 hours, including the whale cruise, break in Reykjavik, and the Northern Lights cruise.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, dress in weather-appropriate clothing—layers, waterproofs, and warm attire—especially for the outdoor night cruise.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. Clear, dark nights give the best chances, but it’s not guaranteed.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What if I don’t see any whales or the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a free ticket to try again if no marine mammals are seen, and guides will do their best to help you view the Aurora if conditions allow.

Are food and drinks available onboard?
No, but you can purchase food and drinks during the break or bring your own.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik whale watching and Northern Lights combo cruise offers a rich, balanced experience at a reasonable price. You’ll appreciate the expert guides, the comfort onboard, and the chance to see marine wildlife and possibly the aurora borealis in a single day. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to maximize their Icelandic adventure without overcomplicating logistics or breaking the bank.

While the Aurora isn’t always guaranteed, the whale-watching is often a highlight, with many travelers noting their excitement at spotting humpbacks and dolphins. The flexible rebooking policy adds peace of mind, making it a smart pick for travelers seeking a satisfying, authentic experience with a good dose of Icelandic natural wonder.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply eager to soak up Iceland’s atmospheric charm, this tour provides a memorable day at sea — with the promise of wildlife and sky magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: