Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise

This Reykjavik-based Northern Lights cruise offers an exciting way to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. For around two and a half hours, you’ll cruise into Faxaflói Bay, searching for the shimmering, dancing lights that make Iceland so special. It’s a tour that combines the thrill of outdoor adventure with comfort, thanks to heated lounges, warm overalls, and expert guidance.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances the awe of the spectacle with practical comforts. The boat’s heated lounge and warm gear mean you won’t suffer from the cold — a common concern when chasing the Northern Lights on a boat. That said, it’s worth noting that capturing perfect photos of the lights from a moving boat can be tricky, which is something to keep in mind if photography is your main goal. This tour is perfect for those who want a reliable, well-organized chance to see the Northern Lights with knowledgeable guides and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Comfortable experience with heated lounges, warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets
• Expert guides provide informative commentary and help with camera settings
• Sighting guarantee offers a free try again if the lights don’t appear
• Flexible booking options allow for cancellations or rescheduling
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of comfort and authentic natural beauty
• Weather-dependent — the lights are never guaranteed, but the crew checks forecasts carefully

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Northern Lights Cruise

The adventure begins in Reykjavik Harbour, where you meet at the Elding Whale Watching boat docked at Ægisgarður 5. The process is straightforward: exchange your voucher at the ticket office and step aboard. Once on deck, you’re greeted with warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets, ensuring you’re prepared for Iceland’s chilly evenings. The boat, Elding II, features a cozy heated lounge where you can relax with light refreshments or step outside onto the viewing platform wrapped in the supplied gear.

Before departure, the crew offers an informative talk, providing context about the Northern Lights, how they form, and the best ways to photograph them. You’ll also have access to visual aids like time-lapse videos and images, which help set expectations and build anticipation. The guide, often described as knowledgeable and friendly, will stay engaged throughout, giving updates on potential sightings and weather conditions.

Once underway, the captain navigates into Faxaflói Bay, away from the bright city lights. Here, the darkness creates the perfect backdrop for the Aurora Borealis to dance across the sky. The crew constantly monitors weather conditions and forecasts, actively checking the likelihood of a good display. If the Northern Lights do appear, your guide will call out to gather everyone’s attention, pointing out the colors and shapes swirling overhead. As one reviewer noted, the lights can sometimes start even before you leave the harbor, adding an element of surprise.

The Experience on Board

Expect a relaxed environment, often with smaller groups, where you can enjoy the feeling of being out on the ocean. Many travelers appreciate the comfort of the heated cabin, especially when temperatures dip. Several reviews mention the crew’s attentiveness in helping with camera settings to improve photo chances, though capturing photos from a boat isn’t always guaranteed to be perfect.

The boat also features a bar with reasonably priced drinks and snacks, making the journey more enjoyable. As the lights dance across the sky, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to marvel at the swirling, shimmering colors—greens, pinks, purples, and reds—playing out in front of you.

How the Tour Balances Value and Experience

Priced at $108 per person, this cruise offers a reasonable way to chase the Northern Lights without the often hefty cost of private tours or longer excursions. What makes it worth considering is the included amenities: warm overalls, raincoats, blankets, and the presence of a naturalist guide. The sighting guarantee — meaning if you don’t see the lights, you can try again for free — adds peace of mind, especially in Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Several reviews highlight the tour’s good value, with many customers mentioning that the crew’s efforts to check weather conditions and adapt accordingly significantly enhance the experience. Even those who don’t get a clear view report positive experiences, thanks to the professionalism and attentiveness of the team. For instance, one guest appreciated being rescheduled when the weather was unfavorable, which shows the provider’s commitment to a quality experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with a decent chance of seeing the Northern Lights, without the hassle of independent searches on icy roads or lengthy overland trips. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided commentary and want to learn more about this natural phenomenon from experts.

If you’re someone who values warm gear and cozy environments after hearing how cold and uncomfortable Aurora hunts can be, then this tour hits the mark. It also fits well for travelers with limited time in Reykjavik, as it’s a relatively short, straightforward outing that provides a unique perspective of the city’s surroundings.

However, if your primary goal is photography, be aware that capturing the lights from a moving boat is challenging. Several reviews mention blurry shots due to movement, so if snapping perfect photos is your focus, you might want to consider other options or be prepared with professional equipment and patience.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise from Elding Adventure at Sea offers a well-rounded, dependable way to chase the auroras. Its key strengths lie in expert guidance, thoughtful amenities, and the chance to see the lights in a comfortable setting. The inclusion of warm gear and a sighting guarantee makes it an attractive choice for travelers who want peace of mind and comfort during their Iceland adventure.

While the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights means there’s no 100% certainty, this tour’s careful weather checks and flexible rescheduling policies significantly boost your chances of a sighting. The experience of seeing those swirling lights dance across the dark sky, set against Reykjavik’s illuminated skyline in the background, will linger long after the trip ends.

This tour is especially valuable for casual travelers or families looking for an accessible, enjoyable way to experience the Aurora Borealis without the extremes of cold or long waits. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate informative guides and a cozy environment, ensuring a memorable night regardless of whether the lights put on their full show.

In sum, if you’re in Reykjavik and eager to see the Northern Lights with a good chance of success and comfort, this cruise is a solid pick. Just remember to keep expectations realistic, dress warmly, and enjoy the magic of Iceland’s night sky.

FAQ

How long is the Northern Lights Cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the experience and hopefully catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is available for an extra charge. Most guests meet directly at the Elding Whale Watching boat in Reykjavík Old Harbour.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is recommended, and the tour provides overalls, raincoats, and blankets to help you stay comfortable while outside. Dress in layers, as it can get quite cold at night.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a sighting guarantee. If the lights don’t appear, you are eligible for a free try again, or you can reschedule your tour for another night.

Is photography easy on this tour?
While you’re encouraged to try, capturing the lights from a moving boat can be challenging. Many reviews mention blurry photos due to boat movement, so if photography is your priority, bring a good camera and be prepared for some trial and error.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The provider also offers the flexibility to reschedule if weather conditions are unfavorable.

The Reykjavík Northern Lights Cruise offers a solid, enjoyable chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular sights in comfort. It’s a well-organized outing that balances expert guidance, good value, and authentic Icelandic landscapes—making it a journey worth considering during your visit to Reykjavik.