Iceland Super Saver: Northern Lights Cruise plus Whale-Watching Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and looking to see some of the country’s most incredible natural sights, this Iceland Super Saver tour could be just what you need. It combines two classic excursions—Northern Lights cruise and whale watching—giving you a chance to witness celestial phenomena and marine life all in one package.

What we love about this experience is how it offers expert-guided stories and insights that help you truly appreciate what you’re seeing, along with the convenience of hotel pickup (if you choose). Plus, the inclusion of warm coveralls and Wi-Fi means comfort and connectivity are part of the deal.

That said, it’s worth noting that sightings aren’t guaranteed—a common reality for wildlife and celestial tours—so patience and a bit of luck are involved. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to combine multiple Icelandic highlights without complicating logistics, and those who enjoy a bit of adventure on the water.

Key Points

• Two tours in one: Experience both the Northern Lights and whale watching, often on the same day or separately.
• Guided expert commentary: Guides share myths, facts, and insights that enrich the experience.
• Comfort-focused: Warm thermal coveralls, heated indoor seating, and Wi-Fi keep travelers comfortable on chilly nights.
• Chance to see marine life: Expect to spot whales, porpoises, seals, and dolphins—though sightings depend on conditions.
• Flexible scheduling: Tours can be booked on the same day or spread across your trip.
• Good value: At $184.16, it offers a combined experience without breaking the bank, especially with the ticket for a free re-try if no sightings.

What to Expect from the Tour

This combo experience offers a good balance of adventure and education. You’ll start your evening with a Northern Lights cruise, leaving Reykjavik’s Old Harbour at either 9 or 10 pm depending on the time of year. The boat departs into Faxaflói Bay, with guides explaining the science and folklore behind the Aurora Borealis.

Remember, Northern Lights displays are unpredictable—they depend on magnetic activity and clear skies. Some reviews mention cancellations due to weather or sea conditions, which are outside the tour operator’s control. But if you’re lucky, you’ll witness the dance of colorful lights shimmering across the sky—a truly unforgettable sight.

The boat itself is equipped with heated indoor seating and thermal coveralls (including children’s sizes), so you stay cozy even in the cold. Many travelers appreciate the Wi-Fi onboard—a small but useful touch when you’re trying to share those magical moments in real time.

Next, you’ll be taken on a whale-watching cruise that lasts about 3.5 hours. Departing again from the Old Harbour, this tour ventures into Faxaflói Bay, home to a variety of marine mammals. Your chances of spotting whales—like humpbacks and minkes—are good, but as many reviews point out, sightings are sometimes hit or miss due to weather or the animals’ natural behavior.

On this trip, guides do a great job of sharing knowledge about the marine creatures, making the experience more meaningful whether or not you see a whale. Some guests have been thrilled to see dolphins and harbor porpoises, and even seals. The boat’s indoor heated areas allow for comfort, and the sea sickness tablets are available if needed—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to motion sickness.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Northern Lights Cruise

Departure: Reykjavik Old Harbour at 9 or 10 pm (season-dependent).
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours.
Highlights:
– Spectacular celestial display if the weather cooperates.
– Guided commentary on the Aurora Borealis, myths, and scientific explanations.
– Warm attire provided, making it feasible even in Iceland’s chilly evenings.
– Wi-Fi onboard allows sharing your experience instantly.

What travelers say:
Many reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable, sharing interesting myths and facts that enhance the awe of the Aurora display. Some, like Elaine, who didn’t see the Northern Lights, still enjoyed the seals and dolphins they encountered during the whale trip. Others, like Helen and Jim, were lucky enough to see dancing lights and called it a fantastic night.

Whale Watching

Departure: Same location, usually an hour or so after the Northern Lights cruise, or on a separate day if preferred.
Duration: About 3.5 hours.
Highlights:
– Expect to see humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins.
– Expert guides share insights about the marine life—and sometimes they’re quite entertaining.
– Wildlife sightings depend on conditions, but even without whales, many guests enjoy following dolphins or seals.
– The boat features heated indoor areas for comfort and offers complimentary sea sickness tablets.

What travelers say:
Many reviews emphasize the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, with comments like “Shes got mad whale watching spotting skillZ,” and “The whales must really like her,” pointing to the importance of a good guide in making the experience memorable. Some guests, unfortunately, didn’t see whales and even felt unwell, but the tour company’s offer to revisit free of charge is a thoughtful touch.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $184.16 per person, this package offers a cost-effective way to tick two major Icelandic experiences off your list. When you consider the guided insights, warm gear, Wi-Fi, and the fact that you can try again for free if you don’t see anything, the value becomes clearer.

Of course, as with all wildlife and celestial tours, sightings aren’t guaranteed. Several reviews mention cancellations or weather-related issues, which are just part of nature’s unpredictability. But the flexibility to reschedule or get a full refund if the tour is canceled helps ease some concerns.

The hotel pickup is optional and costs extra, but it’s quite convenient if you’re staying outside the harbor area. The meeting point in Reykjavik is easy to find at Geirsgata 11, and most travelers will find that the group size of around 198 people keeps things manageable without feeling crowded.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurers who love water-based excursions, and those eager to see Iceland’s night sky or marine life without multiple bookings. It’s suitable for travelers of most ages, especially since the warm gear and indoor comfort make it accessible even in winter.

People who enjoy learning from guides who share stories and facts will appreciate the guided commentary. If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights, just remember the nature of the phenomenon means sightings aren’t guaranteed—patience is key.

Those traveling on a budget will find this combined tour offers good value compared to booking separate trips. If you’re someone who appreciates coverage of two major Icelandic attractions in one trip, this is a practical choice.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothes?
While the tour provides thermal coveralls and insulated indoor seating, dressing warmly—layers, hats, gloves—is always recommended in Iceland’s chilly evenings.

Can I choose to do the tours on different days?
Yes. You can book the Northern Lights cruise and whale-watching tour on separate days during your stay.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a free ticket to try again if no lights are visible on your scheduled night, which is a nice reassurance given the unpredictable nature of the aurora.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews praise the guides for being extremely informative and engaging, especially when sharing myths and facts about the Northern Lights and marine life.

What is the group size?
The tours can accommodate up to 198 travelers, which balances a lively group with enough space to enjoy the experience.

Is hotel pickup included?
It’s an optional extra at 1100 ISK per person per trip. Many find it convenient, but you can also meet at the designated point easily.

What should I do if I feel seasick?
Sea sickness tablets are included and available on board. It’s advised to take precautions if you’re prone to motion sickness.

What kind of marine animals might I see?
Humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and even white-beaked dolphins. Sightings vary, but guides do their best to locate wildlife.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, thermal coveralls are available in children’s sizes, so families can comfortably participate.

Final Thoughts

This Iceland Super Saver tour is a solid pick for travelers wanting to combine night sky marvels with marine wildlife in one manageable outing. It’s especially well-suited for those who value guides with good storytelling, appreciate warm comfort gear, and are open to the unpredictability of nature.

While sightings of whales and the Northern Lights are not always guaranteed, the quality of guides, the comfort features, and the value for money make it a worthwhile addition to a trip to Reykjavik. Whether you end up marveling at the Aurora or just enjoying the boat ride filled with dolphins and seals, this experience offers a genuine taste of Iceland’s natural beauty.

For those who love a bit of adventure and are flexible with their expectations, this tour provides memorable moments that are worth the effort—especially when Mother Nature cooperates.

Additional Information

• Booking and Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Weather Dependency: Tours are subject to weather conditions, with cancellations offered if conditions are poor.
• Provider: Special Tours Iceland, known for their professional and well-regarded service.

Take this opportunity to enjoy Iceland’s stunning landscapes and natural phenomena—remember, sometimes the magic is in the moment, regardless of whether you see the lights or a whale.