Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise

Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise — A Practical Guide to Iceland’s Nighttime Spectacle

Imagine cruising into the dark waters of Faxaflói Bay on a cozy boat, with the possibility of witnessing one of nature’s most extraordinary displays — the Northern Lights. This tour, offered for around $108 per person and lasting about 2.5 hours, combines comfort, information, and adventure, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience.

What we especially like about this cruise is how it balances spectacle and comfort. The heated lounge offers a warm refuge if the weather turns chilly, and the expert guide keeps everyone well-informed, heightening anticipation and understanding of this natural phenomenon. Plus, the views of Reykjavík at night, softly lit and shimmering, add a charming urban contrast to the raw wilderness of the bay.

One thing to keep in mind is that seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed — nature doesn’t always cooperate. The weather forecast and clear skies are key, and even with the best planning, the lights can remain elusive. It’s also worth noting that photographing the lights from a boat can be tricky, especially if conditions are not ideal, which might disappoint those hoping to capture perfect images.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate guided, comfortable experiences, who enjoy a bit of education along with the chance to see the Aurora Borealis, and who are okay with the possibility of rescheduling if the weather doesn’t cooperate. If you’re eager for a relaxed, well-organized outing that combines natural beauty with local expertise, this cruise will fit the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable experience with heated lounge, blankets, and warm overalls.
• Expert naturalist guides enhance the experience with valuable insights.
• The sighting guarantee offers a chance to try again if the lights aren’t visible.
• The tour provides a beautiful backdrop of Reykjavík lit up at night.
• Weather-dependent, so clear skies are crucial for success.
• Suitable for those who prefer a small, guided cruise over solitary viewing.

A Close Look at the Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

Starting at the Reykjavík Old Harbour, the tour kicks off with an informative talk. This overview sets the stage, explaining what the Northern Lights are and how they appear, which helps build anticipation. You’ll then board the Elding II, a boat docked just steps from the meeting point, making it easy to find and minimizing travel time.

Once aboard, the crew provides warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets, ensuring you stay cozy despite the cold Icelandic evening. The boat features a heated lounge where you can relax, sip on light refreshments, or simply enjoy the vistas from the viewing platform wrapped in warm gear. If the weather permits, the crew encourages guests to step outside, wrapping up in provided overalls, to get the best chance of witnessing the dancing lights.

The guides play a vital role, not only in calling out once the Aurora begins but also in sharing fascinating facts about the phenomenon. Their knowledge adds depth to the experience, turning what could be a simple sky show into a memorable lesson about Iceland’s natural environment.

The Search for the Northern Lights

The main event is, of course, waiting for the lights to appear. The boat’s location in Faxaflói Bay offers unobstructed views away from city lights, increasing the odds. When the lights do start dancing across the sky, you’ll see swirling patterns, shifting colors, and dramatic shapes. Several reviews mention how spectacular and beautiful the display can be, especially on clear nights.

However, it’s important to realize that Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so visibility depends heavily on weather conditions and solar activity. The sighting guarantee reassures guests that if the lights don’t make an appearance, they can join another cruise free of charge, which adds a layer of value and peace of mind.

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The Authentic Experience

Many travelers appreciate the local expertise. Guides tend to be knowledgeable and helpful, assisting with camera settings and providing interesting commentary. One reviewer even noted that the guide helped adapt their camera to capture the lights better, which can be a real bonus if you’re hoping to get photos.

The experience’s length is just enough — long enough to increase chances of seeing the Aurora, but not so long that it becomes tiring, especially since you’re on a boat in cold weather. The cost includes all the gear and guidance, making it a good value considering the effort and scenic beauty involved.

What Reviewers Say

The reviews highlight the tour’s strengths: knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value. Many mention the warm gear and friendly crew making the experience comfortable. For example, one traveler said, “The Northern Lights were super beautiful and the tour guide was great!” Another appreciated the warm suits and blankets that made the cold bearable.

A few guests noted the uncertainty of seeing the lights, which is an inherent risk with Aurora viewing. Still, the flexibility of rescheduling and the professionalism of the crew add to the overall positive impression.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Dress warmly and in layers, as even with overalls and blankets, it can get chilly outside.
• Be prepared for photography challenges; a steady hand and patience are helpful.
• Check the weather forecast beforehand and consider rescheduling if skies are predicted to be cloudy.
• Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress and to enjoy the briefing.
• To maximize your chances, consider going with an open mind and patience — Aurora sightings can be unpredictable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comfortable, guided experience in search of the Northern Lights, this cruise offers a strong balance of convenience, education, and natural beauty. The expert guides and sighting guarantee make it a reassuring choice, especially if you’re new to Aurora watching.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, enjoy being out on the water, and are okay with the possibility of rescheduling if weather conditions aren’t perfect. The warm gear and indoor lounge ensure you won’t be left freezing in the dark, which is a real plus in Iceland’s cold winter nights.

While not a guaranteed sighting every time, many guests leave feeling they experienced something truly special, thanks to the combination of scenic views, expert commentary, and the chance to witness nature’s own light show. For those who want to combine adventure with comfort and a touch of education, this cruise ticks many boxes—making it one of the more reliable options for seeing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, providing ample time to get out on the water and scan the sky for Aurora activity.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers warm overalls, raincoats, blankets, and a naturalist guide who enhances your understanding of the lights. A sighting guarantee is also included.

Can I go if I’m worried about the cold?
Yes. The tour provides warm overalls, blankets, and access to a heated lounge. These features help keep cold at bay, but dressing warmly is still recommended.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a sighting guarantee. If the lights don’t appear, you can join another cruise for free within two years, giving you another shot at witnessing this natural wonder.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the experience’s comfort-focused setup suggests it could be suitable for families, especially those prepared for cold weather and with patience for Aurora sightings.

Do I need to bring my camera?
While cameras can capture the lights, they can be tricky to photograph from a boat, especially if conditions aren’t ideal. The guides may help you with camera settings, but it’s more about experiencing the moment than capturing perfect photos.

Are there any additional costs?
Not on the boat. Other refreshments are not included but can be purchased onboard if desired.

Is hotel pickup available?
Pickup is not included in the standard price but can be arranged at an extra charge, making it more convenient if you don’t want to walk to the meeting point.

Final Word

The Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic way to chase the Aurora Borealis. It combines expert guidance, comfortable amenities, and spectacular scenery, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to experience Iceland’s most famous natural display without sacrificing comfort. While the lights aren’t guaranteed, the organized approach and overall experience make it a reliable choice for travelers looking to add a bit of magic to their Iceland trip.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this cruise provides a relaxed yet immersive look at one of the world’s most awe-inspiring phenomena, all from the comfort of a warmly-equipped boat in the dark waters near Reykjavik.

You can check availability for your dates here: