Winter Whale Watching & Northern Lights Cruise | Combo from Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of a winter trip to Iceland, this Winter Whale Watching & Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers an intriguing mix of daytime and evening adventures. This tour isn’t just about ticking off two popular activities; it’s about experiencing the essence of Icelandic winter — watching majestic whales in their natural habitat and then, under the right conditions, hunting for the elusive Northern Lights.

What we really like about this experience is how well it balances excitement and comfort. First, the whale watching promises to be a mesmerizing encounter with humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, and porpoises — and the fact that sightings are guaranteed or you can come back free is a solid reassurance. Second, the Northern Lights cruise takes you away from Reykjavik’s city glow, giving you a better shot at witnessing those glowing ribbons dancing across the winter sky.

One potential drawback? The experience hinges heavily on weather conditions — Iceland’s winter weather can be unpredictable, and there’s always a chance the Northern Lights or whale sightings might be missed. Still, the tour’s flexible policies and the chance to try again make it a pretty decent gamble. This combo is ideal for travelers who want a full day of diverse Icelandic adventure without the hassle of booking separate tours.

If you’re someone who loves wildlife, brilliant night skies, and doesn’t mind bundling up, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suitable for those interested in nature, photography, or simply wanting a taste of Iceland’s winter magic.

Key Points

• Sightings are guaranteed or you can return for free, reducing risk if weather is tricky.
• Two tours in one day offers a good value for the price of $170.
• Warm overalls and blankets are provided, helping you stay comfortable on chilly waters.
• Learn from friendly guides who share knowledge about wildlife and the aurora.
• Option for pickups and drop-offs in Reykjavik for added convenience.
• Weather-dependent experience — be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellations.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

This combined tour begins at the Elding Whale Watching office located in Ægisgarður, right in Reykjavik’s heart. The meeting spot is convenient, near public transportation, and the tour is designed to be manageable in length — around 5 hours total, with about three hours dedicated to whale watching and two hours for the Northern Lights cruise.

If you choose to upgrade, pickup and drop-off options in Reykjavik are available, which simplifies logistics, especially in winter when navigating the city can be trickier. Without this upgrade, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point, but it’s not far from central Reykjavik.

The Whale Watching Adventure

The first part of your day is on the water, where you’ll board a vessel for the classic whale watching tour. The goal here? Spot humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, and porpoises in Faxafloi Bay, a prime feeding ground. Most travelers find this segment to be the highlight, thanks to the chance to see whales breaching or doing their characteristic fluke dives.

The reviews speak volumes: one traveler mentioned, “We set off on a 3-hour whale watching trip and managed to spot a whale not far from the harbor. It was fantastic to experience the sighting in the whales’ natural environment.” That proximity to the whales gives the experience a very authentic feel, and seeing these gentle giants in the wild is truly special.

The crew’s role is pivotal here. According to reviews, they’re knowledgeable and helpful, sharing facts about the wildlife and making the experience more engaging. This adds value, especially if you’re curious about the animals you’re watching.

The Guarantee and Re-try Policy

A major plus? If you don’t see whales on your first trip, you can come back for free. This takes some of the pressure off and underscores the confidence the tour providers have in their ability to find marine life. It’s a smart move, especially considering that weather and whale activity can be unpredictable.

Transition to the Northern Lights Cruise

As the sun sets, your adventure continues with the Northern Lights cruise. Unlike land-based aurora hunts, this vessel takes you away from city lights, providing a better chance to see those shimmering green streaks across the sky.

The experience is immersive. You’re out at sea, with the dark sky overhead and the cold winter air around you. The crew provides live commentary in English, explaining what you’re seeing and sharing insights about the aurora borealis.

Many reviewers, like Erika, appreciated how warm overalls and blankets kept them comfortable during the chilly cruise. Seeing even a “green streak of the northern lights” has been described as a “magical moment,” and it’s clear that the experience, though weather-dependent, can be truly awe-inspiring.

What the Tour Includes and What’s Not

This combo covers two separate excursions: the whale watching (about 3 hours) and the northern lights cruise (around 2 hours). Both include use of warm overalls and blankets, which are crucial in Iceland’s winter. Photos taken by the crew are provided if available, giving you a nice souvenir of your experience.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard, so if you’re hungry or want to keep warm with a hot drink, be prepared for that extra expense.

Cost and Value

At $170 per person, this tour packs a lot into one day. When you consider that it includes two excursions, the sighting guarantee, warm gear, and expert commentary, the value becomes clear. It’s a practical choice if you want to maximize your Icelandic winter experience without booking multiple tours.

Weather Considerations

Iceland’s winter weather can be unpredictable, and the Northern Lights are never 100% guaranteed even under perfect conditions. Several reviews noted rescheduling due to weather, but the tour’s flexible policies—like offering a free try again—are helpful. It’s a reminder to stay flexible and keep an eye on the forecast.

Tour Size and Group Dynamics

With a maximum of 150 travelers, this tour isn’t intimate but remains manageable. Larger groups are typical for popular activities like whale watching, but the crew works hard to ensure everyone gets a good view and experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of wildlife and celestial wonders. It’s perfect if you’re curious about marine life, love the idea of chasing the Northern Lights from the water, or simply want a well-organized day of adventure. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, it offers a shared experience that’s bound to be memorable.

However, if you’re particularly sensitive to cold or weather, keep in mind that conditions can vary. Also, for those with limited time in Reykjavik, this concentrated activity day maximizes your chances of seeing key Icelandic highlights.

Final Thoughts

The Winter Whale Watching & Northern Lights Cruise provides a well-rounded Icelandic winter experience. The combination of watching whales in their natural habitat and then heading out on the sea at night to hunt for the aurora makes for an engaging, scenic day. The included warm gear and knowledgeable guides make it accessible even for those new to Arctic waters.

While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s flexible policies and the chance to try again make it a smart pick for travelers eager to see Iceland’s wildlife and sky magic. For those who love nature, photography, or just want a memorable story to tell, this tour delivers an authentic taste of Iceland’s winter charm.

If you’re looking for a practical, fun-filled day that balances adventure with comfort, this combo tour might just be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Do I need to bring my own warm gear?
No, warm overalls and blankets are provided, which helps keep the chill at bay during the boat trips.

Can I upgrade for pickups and drop-offs?
Yes, there’s an option to include transportation within Reykjavik, which can make logistics easier, especially in winter.

What if I don’t see whales or the Northern Lights?
The tour guarantees sightings or offers a free return trip. Weather or wildlife activity can be unpredictable, but this policy helps ease concerns.

How long are the tours?
The whale watching lasts about 3 hours, and the Northern Lights cruise around 2 hours, totaling roughly 5 hours.

Is food available on board?
Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased on the vessel, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 13 must wear life vests during the boat trips, and the experience is generally suitable for most ages, provided they’re comfortable on boats.

Are there any age or physical restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have specific health concerns or mobility issues, it’s best to check with the operator.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
Winter months offer a good chance for both whale sightings and the Northern Lights, but remember that both are weather-dependent.

How crowded does it get?
With a maximum of 150 travelers, it’s a relatively busy tour but still manageable, especially with multiple departures and good crew assistance.

Can I see the Northern Lights from land instead?
Yes, but the cruise takes you away from city lights, improving your chances of seeing the aurora in a darker setting.

This tour offers a compelling blend of Icelandic nature — whales by day and auroras by night. It’s a solid choice if you want a full, well-organized day packed with memorable moments in Reykjavik’s winter landscape.