Whale Watching and Northern Lights Half-Day Combo Tour

Discover the magic of Iceland with the Whale Watching and Northern Lights Half-Day Combo Tour. This unique experience sets itself apart by offering a dual adventure: you get the chance to see marine giants like whales during daylight hours, then, if luck is on your side, witness the elusive Northern Lights in the evening. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in a single day.

What we really love about this tour is its flexibility. If the Northern Lights don’t make an appearance, you are entitled to rebook without extra charge—an important perk given how unpredictable nature can be. Plus, the boat’s amenities like heated cabins, Wi-Fi, and free Wi-Fi onboard make the journey comfortable enough to relax and enjoy the spectacular views. The only potential drawback? The tour’s success depends on weather and wildlife activity, which means sightings are not guaranteed, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a mix of wildlife, scenic sea views, and the thrill of possibly witnessing the Northern Lights. It suits travelers with an adventurous spirit, an interest in marine life, and those eager to experience Iceland’s natural marvels all in one go.

Key Points

• Combine two unforgettable Iceland experiences: whale watching during the day and a chance to see the Northern Lights at night.
• Flexible rebooking policy: if you don’t see the lights, you can reschedule your Northern Lights experience at no extra cost.
• Comfortable onboard amenities: heated cabins, free Wi-Fi, toilets, and warm overalls ensure a cozy journey.
• Wildlife sightings: you might encounter whales, harbor porpoises, or white-beaked dolphins, making this a wildlife enthusiast’s dream.
• Weather-dependent: sightings of whales and the Northern Lights are not guaranteed; nature always has the final say.
• Booking well in advance: with an average 63 days in advance, this tour is popular among travelers wanting a well-organized experience.

An in-depth look at the Whale Watching and Northern Lights Combo Tour

How the tour is structured

This half-day experience spans around 6 hours total, split into two parts: daytime whale watching, followed by an evening Northern Lights outing. The entire journey begins at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, a location close to public transit, making it fairly accessible for most travelers.

The first part of your adventure involves a 2-3.5 hour whale watching cruise during daylight hours. Here, the focus is on marine life, with chances to see whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. The boat is equipped with viewing platforms, and guided commentary enhances the experience—some guides, like the one mentioned in reviews, are praised for their knowledge and ability to point out exactly what you’re looking at.

Once back ashore, you’ll have access to free time to prepare for the evening’s Northern Lights segment. This can include changing into warm clothing, grabbing a bite to eat, or just relaxing before heading back out.

The second part begins in the evening, lasting 2-3 hours, with the hope of catching the Aurora Borealis. Guides like Jonathan are singled out for their helpfulness, especially with camera tips and explaining the phenomenon. While the Northern Lights are not always guaranteed, the tour’s flexible rebooking policy means you can try again on another night if conditions are poor.

What makes the boat special?

The vessel used for this tour is designed for comfort and viewing. It has heated indoor cabins and toilets, making it suitable for Iceland’s chilly weather. The warm flotation overalls provided are a thoughtful touch—keeping you warm and dry as you stand on the deck. Free Wi-Fi onboard means you can share photos or check weather updates in real-time.

The marine wildlife experience

Several reviews praise the quality of whale sightings. Some travelers, like Mae_H, mention that they were lucky enough to see whales close to the harbor in calmer waters, emphasizing the value of being near Reykjavik rather than venturing far offshore. Others recall witnessing a rare whale breach, which is a spectacular sight. The possibility of seeing harbor porpoises or dolphins adds to the excitement, especially for those who love marine wildlife.

Northern Lights viewing: a bonus or a gamble?

The Northern Lights component is part of the appeal, though reviewers like Philip_R note that weather can sometimes interfere. While some have been lucky enough to see the aurora shimmering in a faint green hue, others have experienced cancellations due to poor conditions. The tour’s policy to reschedule without extra cost offers some reassurance, but it’s essential to keep expectations flexible.

What’s included and what’s not?

Included are professional guides, warm overalls, Wi-Fi, heated cabins, and toilets. Complimentary seasickness tablets are available, which is helpful given that even calmer waters can cause discomfort.

Extras like snacks and beverages are sold on board, so bringing your own might be wise if you’re hungry or particular about drinks. Pickup is available but at an extra charge, so check your options if you prefer door-to-door service.

How about the price and value?

At $176 per person, the tour offers good value considering the combination of activities, onboard amenities, and the chance to see both whales and, hopefully, the Northern Lights. The reviews suggest that many find the experience worthwhile, especially with guides who enhance the trip’s enjoyment with their knowledge and friendly attitude.

The guides and crew

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable and friendly crew, from guides providing detailed whale identification to those like Jonathan, who helped with photography tips during the Aurora segment. Their professionalism and enthusiasm significantly boost the overall experience.

Practical tips

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to get ready and avoid missing the departure.
• Dress in warm, layered clothing, and don’t forget your camera.
• Consider booking in advance—this tour is popular, averaging 63 days in advance—so secure your spot early.
• Be prepared for the possibility of no sightings or cancellations, and view this as part of the adventure.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

If you’re after a practical, well-organized experience that combines marine wildlife and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour checks many boxes. The flexibility to reschedule if the lights don’t appear is particularly attractive, and the onboard amenities ensure comfort even in Iceland’s sometimes harsh weather.

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to maximize their time in Reykjavik. It’s suitable for travelers of most ages, especially those who appreciate guided insights and the camaraderie of a small group. Keep in mind, since sightings depend heavily on weather and wildlife activity, it’s best approached with a flexible mindset and a sense of adventure.

Who should consider this tour?

Travelers looking for a unique way to experience Iceland’s natural wonders will find this combo tour rewarding. It’s especially good for those who want more than just sightseeing from land and love the idea of being out on the water. If your trip aligns with whale migration seasons or winter months when the Northern Lights are most active, you’ll have an even better chance of creating memories to last a lifetime.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical and exciting way to combine two of Iceland’s best natural spectacles—whales and the Northern Lights—while enjoying a comfortable, well-supported journey. Perfectly suited for those who value authentic experiences, good value, and a touch of luck.

FAQ

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, many travelers, including those in reviews, report seeing whales, harbor porpoises, and dolphins. Sightings depend on weather and wildlife activity, but the boat is designed for good viewing.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
You can rebook your Northern Lights tour at no additional cost if the lights are not visible during your scheduled trip. This flexibility helps manage expectations since aurora sightings are weather-dependent.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The whale watching cruise lasts approximately 2-3.5 hours, and the Northern Lights outing takes about 2-3 hours, totaling around 6 hours including transfer and prep time.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is designed for most travelers and includes heated indoor cabins and toilets. However, check with the provider for specific accessibility concerns.

Are food and drinks included?
No, snacks and beverages are sold on board. It’s advisable to bring your own if desired.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layered clothing, and consider waterproof gear and good footwear. Warm overalls are provided, but layers help ensure comfort.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included but can be arranged at an extra charge. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transit.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?
If weather conditions prevent the tour from running, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund for the activity.

In summary, this Whale Watching and Northern Lights Combo Tour in Reykjavik offers a practical, exciting way to experience Iceland’s marine life and, hopefully, its famous auroras. With friendly guides, good onboard facilities, and the opportunity to reschedule if luck isn’t on your side, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a memorable, nature-filled half-day.