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The 8 Best Sailing Experiences in Reykjavik
Reykjavik isn’t just about its fiery volcanoes and hauntingly beautiful landscapes—it’s also a prime spot for marine adventures. Thanks to its location on Faxaflói Bay, you can comfortably combine city sightseeing with whale watching, northern lights, and even dolphin trips. What makes Reykjavik special is how accessible these experiences are—many tours depart right from the Old Harbor, and the options range from luxurious yachts to cozy motorboats. We especially like the Reykjavík: Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht for its comfort and expert commentary, which makes whale sightings feel like a true marine safari.
Our list covers a variety of sailing experiences: from whale and dolphin cruises to spectacular northern lights tours. Each offers its own flavor—some focus on wildlife spotting, others on catching the aurora borealis—so you can choose based on your interests, budget, and time. Whether you’re keen to see humpbacks and dolphins on a 3-hour yacht cruise or chase the northern lights on a stylish boat, Reykjavik’s waters promise memorable moments. Let’s explore the best options.
1. Reykjavík: Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht
At number 1, this luxurious whale watching cruise combines comfort with a high chance of seeing incredible marine mammals. The Amelia Rose yacht is equipped with triple panoramic decks, so you’ll have plenty of space and vantage points for wildlife spotting. The tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $99 per person, making it a good value for the quality of experience.
What sets this trip apart is its focus on marine life education. The onboard guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often sharing details about dolphins, porpoises, and humpback whales. Many reviews emphasize how smooth and beautiful the ride is, with some travelers noting they saw minke whales and humpbacks, while others enjoyed close encounters with dolphins. The yacht’s comfort and the flexible viewing decks make it easy to find the best spot for wildlife sightings. Plus, relaxing in the onboard bar and lounge provides a cozy break from the cold.
Bottom line: If you want a well-reviewed, comfortable experience with expert guides and a good chance of seeing whales in style, this cruise deserves your consideration.
2. Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik
Ranked just slightly below the top, this spacious yacht tour for $88 offers a classic whale watching adventure from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. The vessel features panoramic viewing windows, perfect for catching sightings of minke and humpback whales, and maybe even orcas. The trip lasts about 3 hours and is praised for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic route.
What makes this experience stand out is the commitment to customer satisfaction—if no whales are spotted, you’ll get a free return cruise. Many reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable the crew is, with some travelers saying they saw dolphins, puffins, and whales in a single trip. The boat departs from the vibrant Old Harbor, providing views of Reykjavik’s landmarks such as Harpa Concert Hall before heading into Faxaflói Bay.
This tour is excellent for families and first-time whale watchers because it emphasizes learning and offers a risk-free second trip.
Bottom line: For around $88, you get a dependable whale watching experience with an excellent chance of sightings and a customer-friendly policy if the whales don’t cooperate.
3. Reykjavik: Northern Lights Yacht Tour
Next up, this 2-hour cruise for $124 combines the magic of the Northern Lights with the comfort of a yacht. Departing from the Old Harbor, you’ll cruise to areas with minimal light pollution, giving you the best chance to see the aurora borealis dancing across the sky. The tour includes three panoramic decks, so you can choose the best spot — inside or outside — depending on how cold it gets.
This experience is especially popular because many travelers report seeing the lights, even after uncertain weather conditions. The reviews highlight how the friendly staff and cozy interior make the trip pleasant, and some mention how the guide’s stories add a layer of entertainment to the spectacle. With a 2-hour duration, it’s a quick yet immersive way to witness one of Iceland’s most celebrated phenomena.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to see the northern lights from a boat and prefer comfort, this cruise offers a memorable, well-rated option.
4. Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise
At number 4, this 3-hour yacht trip for $96.14 is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to see both whales and dolphins. Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, this cruise emphasizes an up-close experience with Dolphins and whales, often including puffins in summer. The vessel is large, comfortable, and provides excellent observation decks.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on learning about the local marine life from onboard guides. Several reviews mention the live photos shared during the trip and how the team actively helps guests spot animals. Despite some trips having no whales due to seasonality, many travelers still enjoy the scenic coastline, with sightings of killer whales and humpbacks being common. The onboard Wi-Fi also allows sharing pictures instantly.
Bottom line: This tour offers a relaxed, wildlife-focused cruise that’s ideal for nature lovers willing to spend 3 hours on the water. The chance to see both whales and dolphins makes it a favorite for families and curious travelers.
5. Reykjavik: Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Yacht Cruise
For those seeking a more personalized experience, this 3-hour motor yacht offers intimate wildlife encounters for $95. The observation deck allows for sweeping views of the coastline and small islands near Reykjavik. It’s a great pick if you want flexibility and a cozy atmosphere.
This trip shines because of its focus on wildlife diversity, with many reviews praising the friendly crew and their helpful whale and dolphin spotting tips. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and want a chance to see puffins in summer. The tour’s value is high, considering the personalized nature and the two free rebookings if no wildlife is seen.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a more intimate cruise with a strong wildlife focus, especially if they love birdwatching too.
6. Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik
Coming in at number 6, this 2-hour cruise for $94 offers another excellent way to chase the aurora borealis. Departing from Old Harbor, the yacht heads into Faxaflói Bay, with possibilities to see whales and dolphins along the way. The boat features both indoor warmth and outdoor decks, so you can enjoy the lights whether it’s cold or clear.
The reviews praise how the crew keeps everyone informed and the boat’s comfortable interior. Many travelers mention they saw the northern lights dancing across the sky, with some even capturing photos of dancing auroras. The tour emphasizes flexibility—if no lights are visible, you’re entitled to attend another trip free of charge.
Bottom line: For a dependable, well-reviewed northern lights experience that balances comfort with adventure, this cruise is a top pick.
7. Reykjavik: Northern Lights Motor Yacht Cruise
Ranked at 7, this 2.5-hour cruise for $95 offers a comfortable way to see the Northern Lights. Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, the yacht travels into Faxaflói Bay, passing landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall along the way. The trip is praised for its relaxed atmosphere and the ability to watch the lights from inside or outside.
Many reviews highlight the helpful crew and the excellent chances of witnessing the aurora. Some passengers appreciated how the guide kept spirits high even on cloudy nights, and many captured fantastic photos. The tour’s moderate length makes it ideal for travelers who want a quick but impactful experience.
Bottom line: If you seek a cozy, well-reviewed northern lights cruise with good chances of sightings, this tour hits the mark.
8. Northern Lights Yacht Cruise
Finally, the most affordable and flexible option, this $99.61 cruise offers a 2-3 hour journey to see the aurora borealis. The trip departs from the Reykjavik waterfront, with the chance to see Reykjavik’s coastline, Videy Island, and Faxaflói Bay. You can even warm up in the onboard café or wrap yourself in blankets on deck. If the lights don’t appear, you can join a free additional trip.
Travelers love the personalized experience and the chance to see the Northern Lights from a boat, which often provides better visibility than land-based tours. Many reviews mention how the crew helped with camera settings to capture the Lights, making this a favorite for those wanting a less crowded and more unique way to witness the phenomenon.
Bottom line: For a flexible, budget-friendly northern lights tour with the added thrill of being at sea, this cruise offers a memorable experience.
How to Choose Your Reykjavik Sailing Experience
Choosing among these sailing experiences depends on your interests, budget, and travel style. If wildlife is your priority, tours like the Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht and the Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise are solid choices, especially for their comfort and wildlife diversity. For those chasing the aurora borealis, the Northern Lights Yacht Tour or the Northern Lights Yacht Cruise provide excellent opportunities, balancing scenic beauty with practicality.
Budget travelers should consider the Northern Lights Yacht Cruise, which offers a flexible, affordable option with the chance to rejoin if the lights don’t cooperate. If luxury and comfort are important, the Reykjavík: Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht shines with its elegant setting and expert guides.
Booking early is wise, especially for the northern lights trips, which are weather-dependent and popular during peak seasons. Check availability and consider your preferred style—whether that’s wildlife-focused, scenic, or a combination of both—and enjoy Reykjavik’s waters for a truly unique experience.
Reykjavik’s sailing experiences offer a fantastic way to see marine life, the northern lights, and Reykjavik from the water. Whether you’re on a luxury yacht searching for whales, a cozy boat chasing the aurora, or a smaller vessel exploring wildlife, there’s something for every traveler. Now’s the time to pick your adventure and set sail for the North Atlantic’s best-kept secrets.