From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Sightseeing Cruise

Seeing the Northern Lights has long been a bucket-list experience for travelers heading to Iceland, and a Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik offers a unique way to witness this natural phenomenon. This 2-hour boat trip takes you away from city lights, into the quieter waters along Iceland’s coast, where the chances of catching a glimpse of the aurora are much higher.

What makes this experience stand out is the chance to combine stunning ocean views, star-gazing, and the thrill of hunting for the Aurora—all from the comfort of a well-equipped vessel. The boats are cozy, warm blankets are provided, and the knowledgeable guides do their best to keep everyone hopeful even if the lights are shy.

A possible consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—they’re a natural event, after all. While the tour offers the chance to rebook if you don’t see the aurora, it’s worth keeping an open mind and understanding that sighting isn’t guaranteed.

This experience suits those who appreciate a relaxed, scenic outing with a focus on nature’s spectacle, especially if you’re eager to avoid crowded viewing spots and prefer the comfort of a boat with insider guidance.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat experience with inside lounges, outdoor decks, and blankets
• Expert guides who are informative and keep hope alive for sightings
• Good value for money, with options to rebook if the aurora isn’t visible
• Flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay later
• Stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik, mountains, stars, and possibly the Aurora
• Weather-dependent: sightings are not guaranteed, but reschedules are possible

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Cruise

Setting Off from Reykjavik — The Journey Begins

The tour departs from the Old Harbour House, located at Aegisgardur 2, 101 Reykjavík. Check-in is straightforward—simply scan your QR code at the self-service kiosk 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. The boat, named Amelia Rose, is praised for its beautiful, cozy interior and accessible outdoor decks, making it comfortable whether you prefer to stay inside or brave the cool night air.

Once aboard, you’re greeted by a friendly crew who are not only professional but also eager to share their knowledge. Many reviewers highlight the guides’ helpfulness—notably, guides like Steingreimur and Hólmar, who are praised for their informative attitude and friendly manner. They’re great at keeping everyone hopeful, especially when the skies are cloudy or the lights are elusive.

The boat’s layout offers a good balance: indoor lounges provide warmth when needed, while upper decks give unobstructed views of the sky and water. Many travelers mention how the warm blankets provided are a thoughtful touch, turning the experience into a cozy adventure despite the chilly weather.

The Voyage Into Quieter Waters

As the boat moves away from Reykjavik’s city lights into the calmer waters, the skyline begins to fade, and the sky opens up. This part of the journey is often highlighted as peaceful and almost meditative—the calming sounds of the ocean and the quiet anticipation make for a special atmosphere. Reviewers often mention how the distance from the city helps improve the chances of seeing the Aurora, as light pollution is significantly reduced.

Waiting for the Aurora — The Big Moment

The main event is, of course, waiting for the Northern Lights to appear and dance. According to reviews, the timing varies, but many end up seeing a glimpse of the aurora within the first 20 minutes of leaving the harbor—sometimes even earlier. One reviewer described the experience as “mind-blowing,” with the lights “dancing in a green shadow across the entire sky,” while another noted how their guide kept spirits high, even when the lights were faint or shy.

Guides like Steingreimur and Hólmar are praised for their extensive knowledge about the science and lore behind the aurora, often giving helpful tips on how to capture the best photos or simply understanding what you’re seeing.

The Experience of Star-Gazing and Mountain Views

While the main goal is to see the Aurora, this cruise offers much more. You’ll gaze into a star-studded sky, often with a full moon or clear night, creating an almost surreal backdrop. The mountains in the distance lend a majestic, untouched feel to the landscape, making the entire experience feel like a mini adventure into Iceland’s wild side.

Some reviews mention that even if the lights don’t show, the view of the mountains, starry sky, and peaceful ocean makes the trip worthwhile. One traveler appreciated the “beautiful evening under a full moon,” which turned the experience into a memorable, scenic night even without the aurora.

The Return and Reflection

After approximately two hours, the boat heads back to the harbor. Many guests note how the return trip is reflective and calm, with a sense of satisfaction—regardless of whether the aurora appeared. The crew often shares tips for future trips, and some travelers mention how they felt impressed by the professionalism and safety standards.

Authenticity and Realistic Expectations

It’s important to note that light sightings are not guaranteed—this is nature’s show, after all. One reviewer pointed out that “viewings are not guaranteed,” but appreciated that if you don’t see the lights, you can rebook for free. Several mentioned that even with no sighting, the warmth, comfort, and informative guides made the trip worthwhile.

The cruise’s price of $102 per person is considered reasonable, especially given the included blankets, Wi-Fi, and the expert guidance. Compared to longer or more crowded land-based tours, this offers a balanced mix of comfort and adventure.

The Value of This Experience

Many reviews focus on how well-organized and professional the trip is. For example, guests appreciated the well-equipped boat, friendly staff, and scenic routes. The ability to rebook or reschedule if the weather isn’t cooperating adds peace of mind, making this a low-stakes investment in one of Iceland’s most desired natural spectacles.

Most travelers felt that the combination of comfort, expert guides, and the chance to catch the Aurora made this experience a worthwhile addition to their Iceland itinerary. The opportunity to see the lights with the naked eye or capture stunning photographs is invaluable, but even those who didn’t see the aurora report that they enjoyed the peaceful, scenic voyage.

How to Maximize Your Chances

Reviewers suggest choosing a clear night with low moonlight, wearing warm clothing, and bringing your camera with a tripod if you’re keen on photos. The guides often give helpful advice, and being outside where the lights are most vivid increases your odds.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who value comfort and expert guidance. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, scenic experience with the flexibility to rebook if the weather looks poor. It also appeals to those who enjoy star-gazing and mountain views along with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights in a tranquil setting.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise offers a combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and comfort that many travelers will appreciate. While sightings are not guaranteed, the professional crew, cozy boat environment, and the chance to see the aurora dance over Iceland’s mountains and ocean make it a solid choice for aurora chasers wanting a more relaxed, scenic adventure.

Priced at $102, it offers good value—especially considering the flexible rebooking policy and included amenities like blankets and Wi-Fi. It’s a great match for those who want a low-pressure experience with high chances of witnessing Iceland’s most iconic natural light show, all from the warm confines of a boat.

If you’re prepared for some patience and a little luck, this cruise could become one of your most memorable Icelandic experiences.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own blankets? No, blankets are provided onboard, ensuring you stay warm while waiting outside for the lights.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the Northern Lights? Yes, the tour offers a free rebooking if the aurora isn’t visible during your scheduled trip.

What is the duration of the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and watch for the lights.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip? Yes, free Wi-Fi is included, so you can share your experience or keep in touch.

Where do I meet for the tour? Check-in is at the Old Harbour House, Aegisgardur 2, 101 Reykjavík, 30 minutes before departure.

Are drinks available on the boat? Yes, drinks are available for purchase, but they are not included in the price.

What should I wear? Dress warmly with comfortable shoes—layers are recommended, as it can get quite cold outside even on a warm day.

In essence, this Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik delivers a memorable, comfortable, and scenic way to chase the aurora. Whether you’re lucky enough to see the lights flicker or simply enjoy the starry night over icy mountains, it’s an experience worth considering for your Iceland trip.