Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Northern Lights Combo Cruise

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s stunning natural displays, a whale watching and Northern Lights tour like this one from Reykjavik is often high on the list. We’ve taken a close look at what this experience offers, and honestly, it looks like a fantastic way to spend a day and evening in Iceland—if you’re into wildlife, starry skies, or simply want a memorable adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines two iconic Icelandic experiences—seeing whales in their natural environment and chasing the elusive Northern Lights—all on one seamless day-long journey. The fact that guides are experienced and passionate definitely adds a layer of trust and interest. That said, it’s worth noting that weather can be unpredictable, and Northern Lights sightings aren’t guaranteed every night, which is something to keep in mind.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate being out on the water, enjoy wildlife encounters, and are flexible with their plans. If you’re someone who loves to combine nature with a touch of adventure, then this experience could be just right. It’s also a solid choice if you want a well-organized, value-packed outing that covers the highlights of Iceland’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Two-in-one experience: Combines whale watching during the day with a Northern Lights cruise at night.
• Wildlife sightings: Potential to see minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
• Comfortable on board: Heated indoor cabins, WiFi, and warm flotation overalls make the journey cozy.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with informative commentary.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reschedule if weather isn’t favorable.
• Good value: Includes a full day of activities at around $197, with a chance to rejoin if no sightings occur.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What This Tour Entails

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins at Geirsgata 11, a good, central starting point in Reykjavik. Arriving about 30 minutes early ensures you’re ready for the check-in process and the initial excitement. From there, the whale watching cruise kicks off and lasts around 3 hours. Expect to sail into Faxaflói bay, where the chances of spotting whales and other marine animals are highest.

This part of the trip is all about encountering nature in the wild. You might see minke whales, humpbacks, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins, as many guests have reported wonderful sightings. As one reviewer noted, “We were very lucky today and saw some playful and friendly dolphins as well as two humpback whales!” That sense of being in the ocean with these giants is hard to beat.

Once the daytime cruise wraps up, you get a substantial 5-hour break in Reykjavik to rest, grab a bite, or explore if you wish. The tour then resumes with a 2-hour Northern Lights cruise in the evening. This part is more relaxed but equally magical. You can stay inside in the heated cabin or step outside in warm overalls to gaze at the sky and star patterns, waiting for the Aurora Borealis to show itself. Many reviews mention how awe-inspiring the Northern Lights can be when they appear, lighting up the night with streaks of green and purple.

The Experience Onboard

On both cruises, comfort is prioritized. The heated indoor cabins and toilets are a thoughtful touch, especially in Iceland’s chilly weather. The availability of WiFi onboard might surprise some, allowing you to share photos or just stay connected. The warm flotation overalls provided are appreciated on the Northern Lights cruise, ensuring you can look at the stars without shivering.

Wildlife Encounters

Guests have reported excellent chances of seeing whales and dolphins. One reviewer mentioned, “We saw playful dolphins and humpbacks—our guide was very passionate and made the tour unforgettable.” Having expert guides who can explain the animals’ behaviors and answer questions adds a lot of value to the experience. It elevates it from just a boat ride to an educational adventure.

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Weather and Sightings: The Big Unknown

Of course, Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. As one traveler recounted, the Northern Lights tour was canceled due to bad weather, but they appreciated the option to reschedule or get a refund. This is an important point: while the chances of sightings are good, they’re never guaranteed. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the Northern Lights dancing above you, but if not, the tour policy allows you to rebook, which is fair.

Price and Value

At $197 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering it packs both daytime and nighttime experiences into one outing. You get a full morning of whale watching, a longer break in the city, and then an evening Northern Lights cruise. The inclusion of warm clothing and WiFi adds comfort, and the option to rejoin for free if no sightings makes it a lower-risk adventure.

Many guests, based on reviews, found it worth the price. One said, “Brilliant tour, lucky enough to see humpbacks,” highlighting how sightings can make the experience stand out. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see whales, seals, and the Northern Lights—all in one day.

What’s the Overall Experience Like?

This tour is designed to provide a balanced, immersive encounter with Iceland’s marine wildlife and night sky. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about experiencing nature’s marvels in a comfortable setting. The guides seem to take passion in their work, which makes the trip more engaging. Guests often describe their guides as helpful, entertaining, and full of information, enhancing the experience.

The wildlife sightings tend to be quite good, with travelers often seeing multiple whale species and playful dolphins. The Northern Lights portion, while weather-dependent, can be breathtaking when conditions cooperate. Many reviews echo this sentiment, with comments like “the Northern Lights lighting up the sky was unforgettable.”

However, it’s worth mentioning that bad weather can lead to cancellations, especially for the Northern Lights component. But the flexibility of the booking policy means you won’t be left high and dry—rescheduling or refunds are available, which makes booking a bit stress-free.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly: Even with provided overalls, layers help. Iceland can be chilly, especially at night.
• Arrive early: Check-in at Geirsgata 11 half an hour before departure to avoid stress.
• Bring a camera: The scenery and wildlife are camera-worthy, especially if the Northern Lights make an appearance.
• Be flexible: Weather can change plans, so keeping an open mind is best.
• Consider your health: Seasickness tablets are available, and if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to take them.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re eager to see whales in the wild and experience the Northern Lights in one trip, this stands out as a solid option. It’s particularly suitable if you’re okay with limited guarantees but value the opportunity to rejoin if no sightings happen. The tour’s organized nature and comfort features make it friendly for those who prefer a hassle-free adventure without sacrificing the chance for authentic wildlife encounters.

While not specifically tailored for families or children, it’s a trip that most travelers with an interest in nature and wildlife will appreciate. It’s quite suitable for those who enjoy being on the water, nature lovers, or even photographers looking for those perfect shots of whales and Aurora.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable if I want to see the Northern Lights?
Yes. The tour includes a 2-3 hour Northern Lights cruise, offering a chance to see the Aurora Borealis. Keep in mind, sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so it’s not guaranteed.

What if I don’t see any whales or the Northern Lights?
Don’t worry. The tour offers a free rejoin ticket if sightings are missed due to weather or other factors, so you can try again on another night.

How long is each part of the tour?
The whale watching cruise lasts about 3 hours, and the Northern Lights cruise takes around 2 hours. You then have a 5-hour break in Reykjavik between the two.

Are the facilities onboard comfortable?
Absolutely. The boat is equipped with heated cabins, toilets, free WiFi, and warm flotation overalls—making it comfortable even in cold conditions.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. The provided overalls help keep you warm, but layering is always wise.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is also an option if conditions aren’t favorable.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

Final Thoughts

This combined whale watching and Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s natural wonders. You get the thrill of spotting whales in the daylight, the chance to relax and explore Reykjavik during your break, and the potential to witness the Northern Lights dance above you in the evening.

While weather can sometimes mess with plans, the flexible booking policy and overall organization make this a low-stakes choice for travelers wanting a memorable, nature-centered experience. It’s especially suited for those who value knowledgeable guides, comfort onboard, and the thrill of wildlife and sky watching in one trip.

If your goal is to connect with Iceland’s marine life and night skies in a single day without breaking the bank, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to dress warmly, stay flexible, and enjoy the moments that nature will surely provide.

Happy exploring, and may your Iceland adventure be filled with whales and northern lights!

You can check availability for your dates here: