Reykjavik: Northern Lights Yacht Tour

Reykjavik: Northern Lights Yacht Tour Review — An Authentic Arctic Experience

Watching the northern lights dancing across Iceland’s winter sky is a bucket-list moment for many travelers, and this yacht tour in Reykjavik offers a distinctive way to witness the celestial spectacle. Instead of the usual bus or car chase, you’ll board a sleek vessel that sails into the Faxafloi Bay, away from city lights, providing a more immersive, intimate experience. With a rating of 4.3 out of 5 from nearly 900 reviews, this tour clearly hits the right notes for most visitors — but as with all natural phenomena, sighting the aurora isn’t guaranteed.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of comfort and adventure. The yacht’s three panoramic decks mean every passenger can get a perfect view, whether they prefer to stand outside or stay cozy inside the lounge. Plus, the added touches like warm blankets, Wi-Fi, and a well-stocked bar make the two-hour trip feel special without feeling rushed. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the unpredictability of the northern lights themselves — some nights might be cloudy or inactive, so patience and flexibility are key.

This tour is ideal for those who want a high-quality, relaxed, and scenic experience. It suits travelers who appreciate a blend of natural beauty with comfort, and who prefer avoiding crowded land-based tours. If you’re prepared for cold weather, love photography, and don’t mind the chance that you might not see the lights, it’s a compelling choice for an memorable Icelandic night.

Key Points

• Panoramic Views: Three decks ensure everyone can enjoy unobstructed sights of the aurora borealis.
• Comfortable Atmosphere: Inside lounge with bar, blankets, and cozy seating options.
• Expert Guidance: Guides share information about the lights and the Icelandic environment, enhancing the experience.
• Flexible Booking: Options for hotel pickup and free rebooking if the lights don’t show.
• Natural Uncertainty: Viewing isn’t guaranteed — weather and aurora activity depend on natural conditions.
• Value for Money: At $124 per person, the experience offers a comfortable, scenic, and memorable way to see the lights, especially considering the included amenities.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Check-in

The adventure kicks off at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, where you’ll check in about 30 minutes before departure. The check-in process is straightforward — just scan your QR code at a self-service kiosk, making it hassle-free after a day of sightseeing. If you’ve booked the optional hotel pickup, your transportation will begin earlier, easing the logistics of arriving on time.

The Boarding and Setting Sail

Once onboard, you’ll be greeted by the friendly crew and captain, who are often praised for their professionalism and attentiveness. The yacht itself has a charming, historic feel — some reviews note they kept original staterooms from when it was first built, adding a touch of maritime character.

Sailing out from the harbor, you’ll traverse Faxafloi Bay, skimming past small islands and along the coast of Reykjavik. This journey alone offers fantastic views of the city’s lights fading into the darkness and is a calming prelude before the main event — the aurora hunt.

The Viewing Experience

The yacht’s three panoramic decks are designed for perfect Northern Lights spotting. You’ll have plenty of space to stand outside under the night sky or stay warm inside, where a cozy lounge and bar await. Many reviewers highlight the comfortable atmosphere inside, especially if the weather turns too cold or windy.

While outside, you’ll be able to admire the celestial display in real-time, with many captures showing the dancing ribbons of green, pink, and white lights. As one reviewer put it, “Within 40 minutes, we saw the lights — and the guide was so excited, describing it as the best display he’s seen in a year.” This enthusiasm is contagious and adds to the magic.

Inside Comfort and Amenities

Inside the lounge, you’ll find warm blankets and Wi-Fi, making it easier to share photos or simply relax. The bar offers drinks for purchase, with hot chocolate, wine, or beers available to keep you warm and hydrated. Some reviews rave about the hot chocolate with Baileys, especially on the cold nights.

The Guides and Crew

Guides play a crucial role in making this tour enjoyable. Many guests mention guides like Julian and Torry, who are both praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and attentiveness. They provide insights into the science of the aurora, Icelandic culture, and the local environment, often sharing interesting stories along the way.

Rebooking and Weather Flexibility

A standout feature is the rebooking policy — if you don’t see the lights on your first try, you can often reschedule for free. Several reviews mention rebooking was quick and hassle-free, which relieves some of the disappointment if clouds obscure the view.

The Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately two hours, with start times varying based on availability. Travelers are advised to check the schedule beforehand and arrive early for check-in. The timing often aligns with the best aurora viewing hours — late evening into the early morning — but as some reviews note, weather can change quickly in Iceland, affecting the chances of seeing the lights.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $124 per person, this cruise offers good value, considering the included amenities and the chance to escape city lights for a more immersive experience. The combination of scenic vistas, expert guides, cozy interiors, and the thrill of potentially witnessing the northern lights makes it a worthwhile investment for many travelers.

Why It’s a Good Deal

• You’re getting a comfortable, all-weather vessel with multiple viewing decks.
• The knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of what you’re seeing.
• Flexible rebooking options reduce risk, especially in unpredictable Icelandic weather.
• The included Wi-Fi and blankets improve comfort, particularly in the cold.

Potential Downsides

• No guarantee of seeing the lights — it’s a natural phenomenon after all.
• The weather can be harsh — wind, rain, and cold are part of the package, so come prepared.
• Drinks and souvenirs are not included, so expect additional costs if you want extras.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous, comfort-seeking travelers who want a stylish way to see the northern lights. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy scenic boat rides, panoramic views, and the company of a knowledgeable guide. It suits those who don’t mind the cold and are flexible about the unpredictability of the aurora — especially since rebooking options are available. It’s also excellent for families with kids, thanks to the relaxed environment and onboard amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No, sightings depend on weather conditions and aurora activity. The tour offers rebooking options if the lights aren’t visible.

What should I bring?
Pack warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and a camera. The boat provides blankets, but layering is essential in Iceland’s cold weather.

Can I stay inside the yacht if I get cold?
Yes, the yacht has a lounge area with a bar where you can relax indoors while still enjoying views through the panoramic windows.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, drinks can be purchased at the bar, including hot chocolate, wine, or beer.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
Optional pickup is available from Reykjavík hotels, which simplifies logistics and saves you from walking to the harbor.

How do I check in?
Check-in is 30 minutes before departure at the Old Harbour House — scan your QR code at the self-service kiosk for quick access.

What if I want to rebook?
You can rebook for free if you don’t see the lights initially, making it less stressful if conditions aren’t perfect.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Northern Lights Yacht Tour offers a cozy, scenic, and adventure-filled way to chase the aurora in Iceland. It balances comfort, expert guidance, and spectacular views, making it a memorable experience regardless of whether the lights put on a full show. The flexible rebooking policy and onboard amenities add extra value, especially for those wary of the unpredictable weather or who simply want a relaxed, premium way to enjoy Iceland’s night sky.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and informative northern lights experience that feels both adventurous and luxurious. If you’re prepared for cold weather, open to a bit of natural luck, and want insider insights along the way, this cruise is a strong contender for your Iceland itinerary.

Happy aurora hunting, and may the lights be ever in your favor!