Whale Watching and Northern Lights Half-Day Combo Tour

Experience the best of Iceland’s natural wonders on this unique half-day combo tour that combines whale watching in Reykjavik’s harbor with a Northern Lights viewing experience. For about six hours, you’ll set sail on a comfortable boat equipped with heated cabins, indoor toilets, and Wi-Fi, giving you a cozy base to enjoy two of Iceland’s most iconic spectacles. With a price of $176 per person, it’s an adventure that’s both memorable and flexible, as rebooking is available if the elusive Northern Lights decide to skip town.**

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of daytime marine wildlife and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights at night — a true Icelandic dual experience. Plus, the guides and crew consistently receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip more enriching. A potential consideration? The nature of the Northern Lights means sightings can’t be guaranteed, so patience and luck play a role.

This experience suits travelers who love wildlife, are eager to see the Aurora Borealis, and appreciate comfort during their adventures. It’s especially ideal if you prefer a sea-based excursion rather than interior land-based tours, and if you’re looking for a flexible, well-organized outing that can be rescheduled if weather isn’t cooperating.

Key Points

• Dual Experience: Combines whale watching during the day with Northern Lights viewing at night.
• Flexible Rebooking: If you don’t see the lights, you can reschedule without extra charge.
• Comfort & Convenience: Heated cabins, Wi-Fi, indoor toilets, and warm overalls enhance comfort.
• Wildlife Encounters: Likely to see whales, harbor porpoises, and dolphins.
• Weather Dependent: Sightings of whales and Northern Lights are not guaranteed; weather can impact visibility.
• Ideal for: Those who want an authentic, sea-based Iceland experience with the chance to see both marine life and celestial phenomena.

Exploring the Details of the Whale Watching and Northern Lights Combo Tour

Setting the Scene: Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, a lively harbor area easy to reach by public transportation or a short walk from the city center. The total time commitment is roughly 6 hours, with the daytime whale watching lasting around 2-3.5 hours, and the evening Northern Lights trip taking about 2-3 hours. The split schedule means you get to enjoy a full day of Icelandic coast and sky, divided into two well-paced segments.

Why this tour stands out

Unlike many northern lights excursions that favor inland locations or bus-based tours, this one sails out into the North Atlantic, providing a sea-level perspective on the natural world. The boat features viewing platforms for unobstructed whale sightings, as well as heated indoor cabins, making it feasible to stay warm during the often chilly Icelandic weather. Plus, the Wi-Fi onboard is a thoughtful touch — now you can share your experiences or check the weather updates in real time.

The whale watching experience

The core of the daytime activity is whale spotting. Many reviewers highlight how lucky they felt to see whales close to the harbor, in calmer waters. Mae_H noted, “We were pretty lucky and able to see whales near the harbor in calmer waters,” which underlines the possibility of good sightings without venturing too far out. The crew’s expert guides provide commentary about the marine animals, adding an educational layer to the adventure.

A common highlight is the chance to see harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins, aside from the larger whales like humpbacks. Some travelers, like Andrew_H, mention witnessing a whale breach, an unforgettable moment that’s rare and exciting. With complimentary motion sickness tablets available and warm flotation overalls provided, the tour is designed to keep you comfortable even if the sea gets a little rough.

The Northern Lights segment

As evening approaches, you’ll prepare for the second part of the tour, where the goal is to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The crew and guides are praised for their helpfulness, especially guides like Jonathan, who is noted for being knowledgeable and helpful with cameras. Although weather conditions can affect the likelihood of a sighting, the tour offers rescheduling options — a major plus for those nervous about missing out.

While the lights aren’t guaranteed, many reviews recount successful sightings, often described as a soft green hue dancing across the sky. Roser_g called it “an experience very beautiful,” and even those who didn’t see the full spectrum appreciated the effort made to find the lights.

What makes this tour worthwhile

• The combination of marine and celestial experiences makes it a well-rounded adventure.
• The quality of guides and crew shines through; they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to enhance your experience.
• The comfort features—heated cabins, Wi-Fi, and warm overalls—mean you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than battling the cold.
• Having free rebooking if you miss the Northern Lights is a thoughtful touch, especially since the phenomenon depends on weather and solar activity.

Some considerations

The main caveat is that neither whale sightings nor the Northern Lights are guaranteed. Several reviews mention how nature can be unpredictable, with some guests disappointed by the absence of the aurora or less-than-stellar whale encounters. However, with good weather, chances are high, and the professional crew and flexible rescheduling help manage expectations.

On top of that, onboard snacks and beverages are sold separately, so if you’re hungry, bring some treats or plan to buy during the trip. The boat can get crowded, especially on deck, so if you’re particular about viewing space, arriving early or dressing warmly for outdoor viewing is recommended.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Stop 1: Geirsgata 11

This starting point is convenient and lively, in the heart of Reykjavik’s harbor area. Here you’ll board a boat equipped for comfort and wildlife observation. The day-boat is designed for maximum viewing potential, with multiple viewing platforms and heated cabins.

Whale Watching: 2-3.5 hours

This part of the tour focuses on locating and observing whales and marine mammals in their natural habitat. Many guests report luck in spotting whales close to the harbor in calmer waters, making for a less stressful and more intimate encounter. Guides provide informative commentary on the animals, enhancing the experience beyond just seeing the creatures.

Shore Break & Preparation

After the daytime trip, you’ll have some free time ashore to warm up, grab a quick bite, or get ready for the evening. This pause is ideal for adjusting clothing or checking the weather forecast for the northern lights.

Northern Lights Viewing: 2-3 hours

In the evening, the focus shifts skyward. The boat departs again, this time aiming to find the best clear patches for spotting the Aurora. The crew’s local knowledge and weather monitoring improve your chances of a sighting, but remember, it’s not a certainty. The tour’s rescheduling policy offers peace of mind—if the lights don’t appear, you can go again later, free of charge.

Ending Point

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a full day of Icelandic nature from sea level and under the night sky. It’s a compact, well-organized experience that packs in a lot of authentic Icelandic scenery.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew. Andrew_H called the trip “very well organized,” and highlighted how lucky they felt to witness a whale breach — an extraordinary moment. Others, like Susan_L, loved how they managed to see a humpback whale and the Northern Lights, calling it “a bucket list worthy trip.”

The comfort features also receive high marks. Mae_H appreciated the complimentary motion sickness tablets, which can be a real lifesaver on choppier days. The warm overalls and heated cabins make the experience much more enjoyable, especially during colder months.

However, some reviews mention crowded decks or missed sightings. Vernisha_F enjoyed the whale watching but noted that the boat was a little packed, making it harder to see whales clearly at times. Meanwhile, Daphene_N expressed disappointment about booking issues but recognized that weather can cause cancellations or no-shows.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to settle in and choose your viewing spots.
• Dress in warm, layered clothing — even with overalls, Iceland’s wind and water can chill you.
• Bring a camera and a tripod if you want to capture the Northern Lights, as guides often help with camera settings.
• Remember, sightings can’t be guaranteed — be patient and keep an open mind.
• Consider purchasing snacks or beverages onboard if you get hungry, as they’re sold separately.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, ask about motion sickness tablets — they’re complimentary.
• Check the daily schedule online before your trip, especially if weather conditions risk cancellations.
• The group size can be as many as 198 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere but also the possibility of some crowding.

Final Thoughts

This Whale Watching and Northern Lights half-day combo offers a well-rounded Icelandic experience, blending marine wildlife with celestial beauty. With friendly guides, comfortable amenities, and the flexibility of rebooking, it appeals to travelers who want a bit of everything from their Iceland visit. While nature’s unpredictability means no guarantees, the positive reviews and enthusiastic feedback suggest this is a reliable, worthwhile choice.

If you’re excited by the idea of seeing whales in their natural environment and hope to catch the Northern Lights, this tour strikes a good balance of adventure, comfort, and value. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences with knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with a bit of chance. For travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day with multiple highlights, this combo tour deserves a spot on your Iceland itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What should I wear during the tour?
Good footwear and warm clothing are recommended. The tour provides warm overalls, but layering is key, especially for the evening Northern Lights trip.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
Not necessarily. Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they cannot be guaranteed. The tour offers rescheduling if needed.

What if I don’t see any whales?
The tour includes a free ticket to join again if no whales are spotted, so you have a second chance.

Are food or drinks available onboard?
Snacks and beverages are sold separately, so consider bringing your own or purchasing during the trip.

How long is the whale watching trip?
It lasts about 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on conditions, with a focus on marine life sightings in calmer waters.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The specific accessibility features aren’t detailed, but the boat has heated cabins and toilets, which is helpful.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 198 travelers, so expect a lively environment but also some crowding on deck.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 63 days in advance. For the best chance at clear skies and good sightings, consider booking early, especially in peak seasons.

To sum it up, this tour offers a distinctive way to experience Iceland’s natural charms from the water, combining the thrill of whale sightings with the magical hope of witnessing the Northern Lights. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers who value comfort, knowledgeable guides, and authentic wildlife encounters. Just keep in mind the element of chance — nature doesn’t always cooperate, but the memories you make will be worth it.