From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Boat Cruise
Location: Western Region, Iceland
Country: Iceland
Rating: 3.9/5 (79 reviews)
Price: $98 per person
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Supplier: Reykjavik Sailors
A Quick Look at the Experience
Picture setting out from Reykjavik’s harbor at Geirsgata 11, leaving the city’s glow behind as you head into the dark waters of Faxaflói Bay. For just under two hours, you get a chance to witness one of nature’s most enchanting displays—the Northern Lights—away from the light pollution of the city. Your guides, whose expertise and friendly approach come through in reviews, will share stories and insights about this natural phenomenon, making the experience both atmospheric and educational.
What we love about this tour? First, the quality of the guides—they’re known for their friendly, helpful attitude, and many reviews emphasize how they go beyond just pointing out the lights to teach about their folklore and science. Second, the comfort and practicality: warm flotation overalls, heated indoor cabins, and free WiFi make the outing enjoyable even if the lights don’t cooperate.
One potential drawback? The Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable. If the sky refuses to put on the show, your ticket remains valid for a free reschedule. This flexibility is great, but it means you might find yourself waiting in the cold or on a boat without a sighting—something to keep in mind if expecting a guaranteed display.
This tour suits travelers who value authenticity and comfort. If you’re eager for a cozy, informative experience with a high chance of seeing the Aurora, this cruise could be a good fit. It’s especially well-loved by those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a bit of luck in witnessing the lights.
Key Points
- Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to help with photography and camera settings.
- Comfort & Warmth: Warm overalls, heated indoor cabins, and refreshments keep you cozy, even in Iceland’s cold winter nights.
- Flexible Rescheduling: No sighting? You can rebook for free, making the experience less stressful.
- Unpredictable Phenomenon: The Northern Lights depend on weather and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed.
- Authentic Experience: Being on a boat away from city lights offers a more genuine, immersive experience.
- Mixed Reviews on Sightings: While some travelers report spectacular displays, others see only faint lights or none at all—patience may be needed.
An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Boat Cruise
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Setting Off from Reykjavik
The tour begins at Geirsgata 11, a central meeting point in Reykjavik’s harbor area. It’s recommended to arrive about 30 minutes early to check in and get ready. The boat departs from a location that offers good views of the bay, and many reviews mention the excitement of leaving the city behind, with the water providing a serene setting away from artificial lights.
The Journey and the Boat
The cruise lasts around 2 hours, during which you’ll be sailing out into Faxaflói Bay. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with heated indoor cabins—a real plus considering how cold Icelandic nights can be—plus toilet facilities. Many reviewers highlight the friendly staff and the warm, waterproof overalls provided, which are a big help in keeping warm during outside viewing.
The Viewing Experience
Out on the deck, you’re exposed to Iceland’s crisp night air, but the overalls, along with blankets, make it bearable. The darkness and open water are ideal for spotting the Aurora, and many guests report catching glimpses even before the boat has stopped. One reviewer mentioned, “Hadn’t even stopped and could see them with the naked eye.” That’s a testament to how good the conditions can be when the Aurora makes an appearance.
However, it’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are unpredictable. Even with the best conditions, sightings can vary from faint glows to full, dancing curtains. Several guests noted that while they didn’t see the lights strongly or at all, the guides kept the mood light and offered extra trips for free if no lights appeared on the scheduled night.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Guides & Education
Many reviews rave about the guides—Lucas, among others, is singled out for his helpfulness and humor. They’re more than just spotters; they share stories and folklore about the Aurora, helping you appreciate it in context. They also assist with camera settings to help you capture the moments, which is invaluable given how tricky it can be to photograph the Northern Lights.
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Snacks, Refreshments, and Extras
Onboard, you can purchase food and drinks, but these are not included in the base price. For those who need a warm drink or snack, the boat offers options, and the complimentary WiFi allows you to share your experience or check the sky conditions. If the lights don’t appear, many are happy to rebook without extra charge, which adds value to the overall experience.
Review Insights and Experiences
While the average rating is 3.9, many reviews highlight the positive aspects—the friendly staff, the warmth of the gear, and the breathtaking star gazing. Even those who didn’t see the Aurora report that the night sky, starry views, and the overall experience were worthwhile. One traveler summed it up as “absolutely amazing,” especially when lucky enough to witness the lights in full dance.
Some reviews mention minor issues, like navigation problems or wet seats, but these are overshadowed by the overall friendliness and professionalism of the crew. The option to reschedule for free is a smart move, given the reliance on weather and solar activity.
The Price & Value
At $98 per person, this tour offers a reasonably priced way to experience the Northern Lights from the water — a perspective that’s more intimate than land-based viewing. The inclusion of warm overalls and the free rebooking policy enhances the value, especially since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon that can’t be guaranteed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is well-suited for adventurers and nature lovers who don’t mind the gamble of seeing the Aurora. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guides with local knowledge and want a comfortable, cozy experience. If you’re keen on photography, you’ll find the guides’ help invaluable. However, if you’re very sensitive to cold, be prepared with appropriate clothing, even with the provided gear.
Travelers looking for a relaxing, authentic experience outside the city lights will enjoy this trip. Those expecting a guaranteed show should keep their expectations realistic—weather and solar activity play a big role. But even in low-light conditions or with no sighting, many guests found the trip worthwhile thanks to the scenery, star gazing, and friendly staff.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For an affordable, well-organized, and authentic way to chase the Northern Lights from Reykjavik, this boat cruise offers a lot. The experience’s success depends largely on the weather and skies, but the guides’ knowledge and friendliness create a warm, educational atmosphere that enhances the outing. The warm gear, indoor facilities, and free rebooking make it a practical choice for travelers seeking comfort and flexibility.
If you’re eager to add a spectacular sky show to your Iceland trip and don’t mind the unpredictability, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable if you want the unique perspective of seeing the Aurora from the water, away from city lights, with guides who genuinely care about sharing this natural wonder.
For those who want more certainty, consider combining this with land-based options or planning your trip during the peak Northern Lights season with multiple attempts. But overall, this tour offers a memorable, authentic experience that many travelers cherish, even if the lights choose to stay shy.
FAQs
What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sky and the water.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Geirsgata 11, a central location in Reykjavik’s harbor area. Arrive about 30 minutes early to check in.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. You can buy snacks and hot beverages, but they’re not included in the ticket price.
Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. The tour provides warm flotation overalls, but layering with thermal clothes is recommended.
Can I rebook if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Absolutely. The ticket includes a free rebooking if no lights are visible, allowing you to try again without extra charge.
Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is available, so you can share your experience or check other sky conditions during the trip.
Will I see the Northern Lights every night?
Not necessarily. The Aurora depends on solar activity and weather. Many reviews mention no lights were seen on certain nights, but guides often offer a second chance.
How many people are on the boat?
While not specified, reviews suggest the boat can accommodate a group size that allows for social distancing and comfortable viewing.
Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience’s nature and the need for warmth suggest it’s best suited for older children and adults who can handle outdoor cold conditions.
In all, this cruise offers a combination of nature, comfort, and expert guidance, making it a memorable way to chase the elusive Northern Lights from Reykjavik, especially if you’re flexible and prepared for a bit of luck.
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