Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik Including Photos

Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik Including Photos: An Honest Review

If you’re heading to Reykjavik during the Northern Lights season, chances are you’re eyeing a way to witness this spectacular natural display. The Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers a popular option — a boat ride into Faxaflói Bay with hopes of catching Aurora Borealis above the still waters. It’s a tour that’s praised for its knowledgeable guides, cozy amenities, and the chance to see the lights from the water, which many consider a more intimate experience than land-based tours.

One thing we love about this cruise is how well it balances comfort and adventure. The fact that warm thermal overalls are provided means you can focus on the sky, not the cold, and the chances of seeing the lights are enhanced by the tour’s flexibility with rebooking if nothing shows up. On the flip side, a potential consideration is weather dependency; clouds, wind, or rain can mean no Aurora sighting, which is frustrating but honestly unavoidable given the nature of the experience.

This tour fits best for travelers who love a relaxed, guided experience with a good shot at seeing one of nature’s most elusive phenomena. If you’re after a comfortable, well-organized outing that offers extra value like free re-tries and photos, this cruise could be just what you need. But if a cramped boat or less-than-ideal conditions could spoil your mood, it’s worth noting that not every trip delivers the Aurora — a risk you take with all outdoor Northern Lights adventures.

Key Points

• Comfortable Experience: Thermal overalls, heated indoor seating, and warm blankets keep you cozy despite the cold.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share myths, scientific insights, and photography tips, making the experience educational and fun.
• Good Value: The tour includes a free rebook if no lights are seen, plus complimentary photos and WiFi onboard.
• Weather-dependent: Aurora sightings are not guaranteed; cancellations due to poor weather may lead to alternative options such as a bus tour.
• Additional Perks: A 10% discount ticket to the Aurora Reykjavik Museum is included.
• Group Size & Timing: With a maximum of 198 travelers, it’s a social yet manageable group, typically departing around 9 PM for about 2.5 hours.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting and Getting Onboard

Most travelers meet at Special Tours Geirsgata 11, right in Reykjavik’s city center. The pickup process is straightforward if you’ve booked hotel transfers, which are available for an extra fee. The tour starts in the evening, around 9 PM — prime time for Aurora watching. The boat itself is well-equipped with heated indoor seating, WiFi, and plenty of space for movement, which many reviews highlight as a major plus. It’s clear the crew has thought about how to keep guests comfortable amid the chilly Icelandic night.

The Voyage Out into Faxaflói Bay

Once onboard, you’re handed thermal overalls — available for children and adults — and encouraged to get comfortable. The boat’s size varies; some reviews mention a spacious boat with lots of seating, especially on the lower deck, which is perfect for viewing. The crew, often praised as friendly and helpful, offers photography guidance, which is a real boon since many guests want to capture the Aurora’s fleeting beauty.

Waiting for the Lights

This part can be a test of patience. The guide shares mythologies and scientific facts about the Aurora, helping to pass the time and deepen your appreciation. On a clear, dark night, the anticipation builds as everyone scans the sky. When the lights do appear, it’s described as “amazing,” “dancing,” or “spectacular” — a true once-in-a-lifetime type of moment for most.

Some reviews noted that the lights appeared shortly after the cruise began, with helpful crew giving tips for taking photos. Others, like LesleyAnne, appreciated the flexibility: “If you get the chance to book this boat trip, I highly recommend it. We were offered free re-entry after a cloud cover robbed us of the lights the first time, and I’m so glad we returned.”

What If No Lights Appear?

This is a crucial point. The tour’s rebooking policy is a significant advantage — if you don’t see the Aurora, you get a free ticket to try again. It’s a reassuring feature for cautious travelers. Several reviews share stories of no sightings but still feeling the experience was worthwhile due to the warmth, amenities, and professionalism of the crew.

Food, Drinks, and Photography

While snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, most guests mention the hot drinks and blankets as enough to keep warm while staring skyward. The onboard crew is happy to assist with photography, helping guests capture the best shots amid the dark sky, which many appreciate. Some reviews suggest bringing larger weather suits or extra layers, especially if you’re prone to feeling cold or if the weather turns windy.

Returning to Shore

The tour typically ends around 11:30 PM, with an option for hotel drop-off if booked. The whole experience feels hassle-free, especially with WiFi and the comfort of indoor seating, making it easier to relax after a chilly but magical night.

Analyzing the Value

For roughly $103 per person, the cruise offers quite a bit of value. The inclusion of thermal overalls, the chance to rebook if no lights are seen, and free photos make it competitive compared to land-based tours, especially considering the added comfort and flexibility. The 10% discount to the Aurora Reykjavik Museum is a nice bonus, providing a cultural supplement to your night of sky-watching.

However, travelers should be aware that the Northern Lights are inherently unpredictable, and cloudy or stormy nights can mean no sighting despite the best efforts of the crew. But, many reviews emphasize that the staff’s honesty and professionalism make the experience worthwhile even when the Aurora refuses to appear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who value comfort, guidance, and a higher chance of seeing the Aurora. If you prefer a relaxed, well-organized outing with the option to re-try, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want to avoid the hassle of driving or enduring long land-based searches in cold conditions.

It’s also ideal for those who appreciate professional photography assistance and the chance to learn more about the Aurora’s science and myths. But, if you’re someone who gets seasick easily or is very particular about boat size and facilities, it’s worth researching the specific vessel to ensure it meets your standards.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers a comfortable, educational, and generally reliable way to experience one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena. The combination of warm gear, expert guides, and the possibility of rebooking if no lights appear makes it an attractive option for many visitors.

While weather and sky conditions can always thwart Aurora sightings, the crew’s transparency and the inclusive extras — like photos and museum discounts — add real value to the experience. For those seeking a relaxed, guided adventure in search of the Northern Lights, this cruise hits many of the right notes.

In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, expert guidance, and a good shot at seeing the Aurora from the water. It’s not a gamble if you’re prepared for the unpredictable weather, and the flexibility on rebooking makes it a trustworthy choice. With a bit of luck and clear skies, you might find yourself witnessing one of the most breathtaking displays nature has to offer.

FAQ

What is included in this Northern Lights cruise?
You get thermal overalls (including children’s sizes), heated indoor seating, WiFi, and complimentary photos. If no lights are seen, you can rebook for free.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel transfers can be added for an additional fee, making the experience more seamless.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, usually starting around 9 PM and ending around 11:30 PM.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather makes it impossible to see the lights, the tour may be canceled, or a backup option like a Northern Lights by Bus might be offered instead.

Will I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, Aurora sightings depend on atmospheric conditions, cloud cover, and solar activity. The tour offers rebooking options if no lights are visible.

What size is the boat?
Groups can be up to 198 travelers, with many reviews describing the boat as spacious and well-equipped.

Are refreshments available?
Snacks and drinks can be purchased onboard, but most guests find the hot drinks and blankets provided enough for warmth.

Is photography assistance provided?
Yes, crew members can help with taking photos, and many reviews mention helpful tips for capturing the Aurora.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At around $103, it’s a good value considering the amenities, rebooking policy, and included extras, especially given the unpredictability of seeing the Aurora.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Northern Lights Cruise in Reykjavik. It’s a comfortable, guided way to chase the Aurora, especially if you love a bit of reassurance and extra value in your adventure.