Reykjavik: Northern Lights Motor Yacht Cruise

Imagine gliding smoothly across the dark waters of Faxaflói Bay, with the city lights fading behind you and the sky above starting to dance with brilliant colors. That’s what you get with the Reykjavik Northern Lights Motor Yacht Cruise—an experience that promises the thrill of spotting the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of a well-equipped yacht. This tour by Harpa Yachts combines scenic coastline views, expert guidance, and a chance to see one of nature’s most captivating displays.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with comfort. You’re not just bundled up on a land tour; instead, you’re floating on the water, away from the city lights, with cozy blankets and hot drinks at your fingertips. Plus, the chance to see landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager from a different perspective adds a special touch. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the weather—cloud cover can interfere with Northern Lights visibility, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, scenic, and relaxed way to chase the Northern Lights. If you’re someone who appreciates a guided experience with knowledgeable crew members and doesn’t mind being out on the water for a couple of hours, this is a top pick. But if you’re after a guaranteed sighting or tend to get seasick easily, you might want to prepare accordingly or explore land-based options.

Key Points

• Comfortable yacht experience offers a scenic and relaxed way to see the Aurora Borealis.
• Expert crew and knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the lights and surroundings.
• Limited group size (35 on MY Harpa, 95 on MY Amelia Rose) ensures a more personal atmosphere.
• Weather conditions can affect visibility; being flexible helps improve chances.
• Additional amenities like warm blankets, Wi-Fi, and hot drinks make the experience more enjoyable.
• This tour balances adventure and comfort, perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, less crowded Northern Lights experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Northern Lights Yacht Cruise

Setting the Scene: The Journey Begins at Reykjavik Old Harbor

Starting at Ægisardur 5G, the check-in process is straightforward, with many reviewers noting the ease of getting aboard. The tour typically lasts around 2.5 hours, with a flexible schedule depending on availability—so be sure to check the start times for your preferred night. Once on board, you’ll find indoor seating for comfort and outdoor decks for the best views, which is crucial when trying to catch the Aurora.

The Vessel: Comfort on the Water

Harpa Yachts offers two ships: the MY Harpa (up to 35 passengers) and the MY Amelia Rose (up to 95 passengers). Both are described as cozy and well-maintained, with inside areas that shield you from the wind and cold. Reviewers consistently mention the warm blankets provided, a small but significant touch that keeps you comfortable while waiting for the lights to dance overhead.

The boats are described as clean, comfortable, and equipped with Wi-Fi and refreshments. The latter is particularly welcomed on chilly nights—hot drinks like tea or coffee, and snacks, are available at the onboard bar, adding a social element to the experience.

The Route: Scenic Coastline and Landmarks

As the yacht departs into Faxaflói Bay, the crew guides you past landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall, whose glass façade reflects the city lights, and the Sun Voyager statue, a reminder of Iceland’s seafaring roots. The boat’s stability makes photography much easier—reviewers say that capturing the Northern Lights from a steady platform significantly enhances the experience.

The crew also navigates around Viðey Island, home to Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower (visible October 9 to December 8), which adds a poetic layer to the trip. The journey provides a unique perspective on Reykjavik, showcasing its skyline, coastline, and iconic structures from the water.

The Main Event: Chasing the Aurora Borealis

The ultimate goal is to see the Northern Lights—a phenomenon that’s highly dependent on weather conditions and solar activity. Guides are praised for their knowledge and efforts to maximize your chances. They keep passengers updated on the likelihood of Aurora activity and share interesting facts about the lights and Iceland’s night sky.

Because the tour is designed to sidestep city light pollution, you’ll be in a prime position to witness the Aurora if conditions are right. Several reviewers have remarked on the beauty and magic of seeing the lights dance overhead, sometimes just as the boat is returning to harbor. A few guests mentioned that weather was a factor—cloud cover or light rain can hinder the view, but the crew’s flexibility and willingness to rebook or try again are appreciated.

Authentic Experiences and Helpful Details

One reviewer praised Seamus at the Old Harbour House for helping rebook a second trip when the lights weren’t visible on the first night, highlighting the friendly, accommodating service. Others noted that the crew, including Captain Einar, explained the science behind the Aurora, making the experience educational as well as awe-inspiring.

The small group size, especially on MY Harpa, means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. This intimacy enhances the overall enjoyment, allowing guests to ask questions and share the experience more comfortably. Plus, the warm blankets and cozy inside seating make it easier to wait patiently, especially on colder nights.

Price and Value: Is it Worth It?

At around $95 per person, this tour offers fair value, particularly considering the amenities and the intimate experience. The inclusion of warm blankets, Wi-Fi, hot drinks, and knowledgeable guides elevates it beyond a simple boat ride. Several reviewers mentioned that, despite some weather-related uncertainties, the overall experience felt like good value, especially as it combines sightseeing, comfort, and the chance to see a rare natural display.

A few guests did comment on the price feeling a bit high, but many felt it was justified given the quality of the boat, the professionalism of the crew, and the unforgettable memories created. If you’re lucky enough to see the Aurora, you’ll find that the cost is a small price for a night of magic and storytelling.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: Layers, hats, and gloves are essential, as you’ll be outside for parts of the trip.
• Check the weather forecast: Cloud cover can block the Northern Lights, so flexibility is helpful.
• Book in advance: Tours can fill up, especially during peak Northern Lights season.
• Be patient: Aurora activity is unpredictable; sometimes you’ll wait for hours, but many reviewers say it’s worth it.
• Consider rebooking: Some guests mentioned that the operator is willing to rebook or offer a second chance if the lights don’t appear initially.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a balance of comfort, scenery, and a chance to see the Northern Lights in a more exclusive setting. It’s great for those who appreciate detailed guides, small groups, and amenities like blankets and hot drinks. If you prefer a scenic experience with less crowded conditions and are comfortable on the water, this tour will suit you well.

However, if your main priority is a guaranteed sighting or if you tend to get seasick, you might want to weigh those factors before booking. The success of the Aurora sighting depends heavily on weather and solar activity, making it an experience of patience and luck.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with scheduled start times depending on availability.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The meeting point is Ægisardur 5G in Reykjavik Old Harbor, a straightforward check-in location.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof outerwear are recommended as you’ll be outside at times.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is offered, which is handy for sharing photos or checking messages.

Are hot drinks included?
Yes, hot beverages like tea and coffee are available at the onboard bar, along with other refreshments.

What size are the boats?
The MY Harpa accommodates up to 35 passengers, while the MY Amelia Rose can carry up to 95 guests.

Can I see the Northern Lights from inside?
Yes, indoor seating is available, but for the best views, many guests prefer to stand outside on the decks.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
Some reviewers have been rebooked for free or offered a second trip if the lights don’t appear during the first outing.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for all ages, but young children should be prepared for outdoor conditions and the boat environment.

How do weather conditions affect the tour?
Cloud cover, rain, or wind can impact visibility. Flexibility and patience greatly improve your chances of seeing the Aurora.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Northern Lights Motor Yacht Cruise offers a distinctive way to marvel at the Aurora Borealis. It combines the thrill of being on the water with the comfort of modern amenities, making it a good choice for those who value a relaxed, intimate experience. The knowledgeable crew, scenic routes, and cozy details like blankets and hot drinks turn a potentially cold and uncertain endeavor into a memorable adventure.

While the Northern Lights are naturally unpredictable, many guests leave with incredible stories and photos thanks to the expertly guided efforts and prime vantage point. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a more personal, scenic, and comfortable way to chase the Lights, and who are okay with the possibility of variable weather. If you’re looking for a smooth, well-organized trip with a good chance of a celestial show, this yacht cruise is a top contender.

To sum it up, this experience balances scenic beauty, comfort, and expert guidance, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a relaxed yet memorable way to see the Northern Lights. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate quality amenities, smaller groups, and a knowledgeable crew. Keep in mind that good weather and patience are key—if you’re lucky, you’ll leave with extraordinary memories of Iceland’s night sky.