Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik

Seeing the Northern Lights is often high on travelers’ bucket lists, and Iceland offers arguably one of the best chances to witness this spectacular natural display. The Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik provides a unique vantage point—out on the water—away from city lights, with the added thrill of being on a boat under the starry Icelandic sky. Priced at around $106 per person and lasting roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes, this tour combines comfort with chances of awe-inspiring sights.

What we really love about this experience is the combination of outdoor viewing decks and indoor comfort. Having the option to step outside and watch the aurora dance across the sky, while also being able to retreat inside for warmth or a quick snack, is a big plus. That said, one consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—they aren’t guaranteed every night, and weather can be a challenge, especially during winter.

This tour is ideal for those who want to combine a maritime adventure with the chance to see the Northern Lights. If you’re comfortable with colder nights and enjoy being out on the water, this is a memorable way to experience one of nature’s most stunning displays.

Key Points

• Unique vantage point: Viewing the Aurora Borealis from a boat offers a different perspective compared to land-based sightings.
• Comfort and convenience: Heated indoor cabins, WiFi, and flotation overalls make the trip more enjoyable despite the cold.
• Weather dependency: Sightings are not guaranteed; tours may be canceled due to poor weather conditions.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable staff and guides enhance the experience with insights about the Northern Lights.
• Flexible rebooking policy: In case of no sighting, you receive a free ticket to join again.
• Additional amenities: Drinks and snacks are available for purchase, and free WiFi keeps you connected.

The Experience Breakdown

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, a location that’s near public transportation, making it relatively easy for most travelers to reach. It’s advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to check in and gear up. The meeting point can be somewhat tricky to locate at night, as some reviews mention confusion with directions, so we recommend reviewing the provided instructions carefully or using the Google Maps link sent in your reminder email.

Boarding and Facilities

Once onboard, you’ll find the boat well-equipped for a comfortable voyage. The vessel offers three outdoor decks, perfect for unobstructed views of the sky, and heated indoor cabins with toilets. Warm flotation overalls are provided, which are essential given the often freezing temperatures; reviewers have emphasized how crucial these are to stay warm during the cruise. Free WiFi and a friendly crew further improve the experience, making it less about just waiting in the cold and more about enjoying the environment.

The Journey and Viewing Experience

The cruise typically lasts 2 to 3 hours, which gives ample time to escape city lights and find a good spot under the sky. The boat drifts away from Reykjavik, often to calmer waters, where the horizon is clear, and the chances of seeing the Aurora increase.

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that seeing the Northern Lights depends heavily on weather and solar activity. Some guests have been fortunate enough to witness spectacular displays, with “dancing lights” and “shooting stars” crossing the sky. One reviewer described the Aurora as “an incredible show of nature,” with colors bursting across the sky in bursts and bursts.

However, not everyone is so lucky. Several reviews mention cancellations due to bad weather, snow, or rough seas, which is a common challenge in Iceland’s winter months. It’s reassuring to know that if the lights don’t appear, the tour offers a free rebooking for another night—so patience and flexibility are key.

Guides and Customer Service

Guides on this tour are described as knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share insights about the Northern Lights and Icelandic nature. They keep passengers informed, entertain with stories, and handle the unpredictable nature of the auroras with professionalism. Some reviews highlight how staff stayed out to ensure everyone got a chance to see the lights, even if the initial sighting was faint.

Additional Amenities

Food and beverage options on board are limited to snacks and drinks for purchase. Reviewers note that the boat can sometimes feel like a “floating cafeteria,” especially if the lights don’t materialize, which might not appeal to everyone. Still, the warmth from the onboard facilities and the overall experience balances this out.

Cost and Value

At $106 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the unique experience it offers. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a chance to see one of Earth’s most mesmerizing phenomena in a special setting. Given the possibility of rebooking if the auroras don’t appear, many consider this a worthwhile investment in their Icelandic adventure.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Dress warmly and in layers—thermal underwear, waterproof jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy footwear are recommended. The provided flotation overalls add an extra layer of protection, but the cold can still be biting, especially when standing outside on the decks. Bringing a camera is a good idea, but keep in mind that capturing the Aurora can be tricky; a tripod and extra batteries will help.

While the average group size is about 198 travelers, most reviews describe a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The experience is largely dependent on weather conditions, which are, unfortunately, outside the tour’s control.

Timing-wise, the tour runs at night, so be prepared for late evenings, especially in winter. Checking the daily diary on the tour provider’s website for updates about weather or schedule changes is a smart move.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviews echo the excitement and awe of seeing the Northern Lights, with some describing the experience as “worth the cold” and “a bucket list moment.” The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling elevate the experience—one reviewer said they learned a lot about the Aurora Borealis’s science and myths, enhancing the visual spectacle.

Others mention logistical hiccups, like confusion over the meeting point or cancellations due to weather, which underscores the importance of flexible plans and realistic expectations. The good news is that the tour’s rebooking policy helps mitigate disappointment, and the warm gear provided makes the experience more comfortable.

The Sum Up

The Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers an engaging way to chase the elusive auroras, with the advantage of being on the water, away from city lights. It combines practical amenities—heated cabins, WiFi, flotation suits—with the chance to witness a natural wonder in a uniquely Icelandic setting.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are patient, prepared for cold nights, and eager to combine a maritime adventure with the thrill of spotting the Aurora Borealis. For those with flexible schedules or a love for outdoor experiences, this cruise can provide unforgettable memories, especially if luck is on your side.

While weather and luck play significant roles, the professional guides and the overall comfort of the boat make this a worthwhile addition to your Iceland itinerary. Remember, if the lights don’t show up one night, your ticket remains valid for a future outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s ideal for those comfortable with cold weather and boat travel. Extra care is advised for anyone with mobility issues, given some uneven surfaces and the need to dress warmly.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 2 to 3 hours, giving plenty of time to find a good viewing spot and hopefully catch the lights dancing in the sky.

What should I wear?
Layer up with thermal underwear, waterproof jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes. The provided flotation suits are a must-have to stay warm outside.

Can I purchase drinks or snacks on board?
Yes, drinks and snacks are available for purchase, though some reviews describe the interior as feeling like a “floating cafeteria” if the lights aren’t visible.

What happens if the Northern Lights don’t appear?
The tour offers a free ticket to join again on a future night, making it less risky if weather conditions aren’t favorable.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Geirsgata 11, near Reykjavik’s city center. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is provided, which is useful if you want to share photos or stay connected during your trip.

How far from Reykjavik city center is the departure point?
It’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely; a camera is recommended, especially one with manual settings or a tripod, to capture the Aurora. Keep batteries warm as cold temperatures drain them quickly.

In essence, this cruise offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most captivating displays. While not every night guarantees a sighting, the knowledgeable guides, warm gear, and unique water-based perspective make it a memorable option for your Iceland trip.