Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik

Watching the mesmerizing dance of the Aurora Borealis is a bucket-list experience for many travelers visiting Iceland. While most chase these stunning lights from the comfort of a car or a heated viewing spot on land, this yacht cruise offers a fresh, engaging perspective—sailing out into the calm waters of Faxaflói Bay to see the Northern Lights unfold over the open sea.

What we especially love about this experience is how close you can get to nature’s spectacle, combined with the comfort of onboard amenities like Wi-Fi, a bar, and heated indoor spaces. But, of course, the Northern Lights are unpredictable, and weather conditions can make or break the show. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, wildlife watching, and appreciate the chance to see Reykjavik from the water.

Key Points

• Uninterrupted Views: The yacht sets sail from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour to escape city lights, offering a better chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.
• Wildlife Encounters: Along the way, chances are high to see whales, dolphins, porpoises, and possibly orcas, with guides experienced in spotting marine life.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat features multiple levels, heated indoor areas, blankets, Wi-Fi, and a bar, making it comfortable even in Iceland’s chilly nights.
• Flexible Rebooking: If the Northern Lights don’t appear, you’ll have the option to rebook another night at no extra cost, within three years.
• Weather Dependency: As with all outdoor natural phenomena, sightings aren’t guaranteed—so patience and a little luck are part of the package.
• Group Size: Limited to 125 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger land-based tours.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, a lively hub filled with boats, cafes, and local charm. Once onboard the yacht, the adventure begins as you cruise among small islands in Faxaflói Bay, a location chosen specifically for its potential to provide dark skies away from city light pollution. Many travelers have noted that this setting offers a much more immersive experience than being stuck in a car or crowded viewing area.

While sailing, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Reykjavik’s colorful coastline, with the city gradually fading into the distance, leaving only your boat, the night sky, and hopefully, the dancing northern lights. This route is also prime for wildlife spotting—most common sightings include minke and humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Reviewers mention that guides are highly experienced in marine life spotting, often catching glimpses of whales or orcas, which adds a special layer to the journey.

The crew is praised for their knowledge and professionalism, with some reviews noting guides like “very knowledgeable” and dedicated to making sure everyone leaves with a smile. They often share insights about the marine life, local history, and what to expect when photographing the Aurora Borealis.

The boat itself is designed for comfort—it has three levels with ample space for walking around, plus indoor areas heated and equipped with blankets. Many guests appreciate the cozy environment where you can wait for the lights to appear without freezing or feeling cramped. The onboard Wi-Fi is a nice touch, allowing travelers to upload live photos or message friends, making the experience shareable in real time.

Once the Northern Lights make an appearance, you’ll be able to watch from the observation deck, often with a drink from the onboard bar in hand. Some reviewers mention that the staff is attentive, giving updates about the Aurora activity and helping travelers capture the moment with photography tips.

The Search for the Aurora Borealis

The core objective of this tour is clear: uninterrupted views of the Aurora. Guides monitor weather and auroral activity closely, and they work hard to position the boat in optimal spots for the best chance of sightings. However, as one guest pointed out, “you aren’t always guaranteed to see the northern lights,” which is an honest assessment. If the lights do not appear during your scheduled trip, you will be offered a chance to rejoin another tour at no extra cost—valid for up to three years.

This flexibility is appreciated by many, especially given the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights. Several reviews highlight that staff consistently keep travelers updated on aurora activity, often giving heads-up when the lights are visible or expected to appear.

Wildlife Watching & Scenic Views

While the main draw is the Aurora Borealis, many guests find the wildlife sightings equally memorable. The tour offers a chance to see whales, dolphins, porpoises, and sometimes orcas—a memorable addition to any trip. Reviews mention that guides are skilled at spotting these creatures, and many guests appreciate the opportunity to combine wildlife watching with the aurora hunt.

The scenic views of Reykjavik’s coastline, contrasted against the dark waters and open sky, create a peaceful, almost surreal atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “We got to see the lights and it was very nice being able to sit inside and warm while we waited for the crew to tell us when it was visible.” This balance of comfort and adventure is a recurring theme among positive reviews.

Onboard Amenities & Comfort

The yacht’s interior is described as clean, spacious, and well-maintained. Many travelers compliment the staff for their friendliness and helpfulness. The boat provides blankets and heating, making the wait comfortable, even in the cold Icelandic night.

The onboard Wi-Fi is a thoughtful addition, allowing travelers to share live updates or upload photos instantly. For those interested in capturing the Aurora, some guests report that the crew offers helpful photography tips—definitely a bonus if you’re eager to get that perfect shot.

The Experience in Practice: Pros & Cons

Pros:
– Dedicated guides who are highly experienced in whale and Aurora spotting
– The combination of wildlife and Northern Lights makes this tour stand out
– Comfortable environment with indoor heated spaces, blankets, and a bar
– The option to rebook if the Aurora doesn’t appear adds value
– Smaller group size (limited to 125 travelers) ensures a more personalized feel

Cons:
– The main drawback is the nature of Aurora viewing—it’s never guaranteed, and weather can always interfere
– Some reviews mention that the boat doesn’t always go far enough from the harbor for optimal viewing, though guides try their best
– Occasional issues with check-in or seating arrangements have been noted, but these seem minor compared to the overall experience

Pricing & Value

At $94 per person, this tour offers a good balance of experience, comfort, and chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Considering what’s included—wildlife encounters, onboard amenities, and the flexibility to rebook—it’s a competitive price in Reykjavik’s tour scene. Many reviews suggest that the experience delivers value, especially when you consider the memorable wildlife sightings and the comfort provided.

For travelers who want a more immersive, all-in-one adventure—combining wildlife, scenic views, and aurora hunting—this cruise is a solid choice. The fact that you can rejoin another night free of charge if conditions aren’t ideal is a bonus, reducing the risk of disappointment.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed, comfortable environment while seeking a genuine chance to see the Northern Lights. If you’re an animal lover, the wildlife sightings add an extra layer of excitement. It’s also ideal for those who value expert guidance and want to avoid the uncertainty of land-based aurora viewing.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to weather conditions or want guaranteed sightings, it’s worth noting that the Aurora is a natural display, and sightings cannot be promised. This experience is better suited for flexible, adventurous travelers who enjoy combining wildlife, scenic boat rides, and the hope of a magical Northern Lights show.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, wait for the lights, and possibly spot wildlife.

What are the meeting points?
The tour begins at Old Harbour House, Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel if weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise itself, wildlife spotting, onboard Wi-Fi, blankets, and access to indoor heated areas. Bar drinks are available for purchase.

Is the experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals, and those with mobility issues should check with the provider beforehand.

Will I see the Northern Lights every time?
Not necessarily. The tour depends on weather and aurora activity, which are unpredictable. Guides work to position the boat for the best chances.

What if I don’t see the lights?
You’ll be offered a free chance to rejoin the tour on another night within three years, increasing your chances to catch the Aurora Borealis.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik offers a charming, well-organized way to chase one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. With knowledgeable guides, wildlife encounters, and the comfort of onboard amenities, it provides a memorable experience—even if the Northern Lights decide to play hide and seek.

It’s perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially those who appreciate marine wildlife and scenic views. While the natural unpredictability of the Aurora means it’s not guaranteed, the flexibility to rebook makes it a risk worth taking. This tour balances value, comfort, and the chance for some truly breathtaking moments under the Icelandic sky.