New Year’s Eve Reykjavík Cruise

A Practical Look at the New Year’s Eve Reykjavík Cruise

If you’re considering ringing in the new year in Iceland, the New Year’s Eve Reykjavík Cruise offers a unique way to celebrate. While I haven’t taken this cruise myself, I’ve gathered plenty of info to give you a clear picture of what to expect. The idea of enjoying fireworks from the water, with panoramic views of Reykjavik’s skyline, sounds pretty magical—especially if you’re after a memorable way to mark the occasion.

What I like about this experience is its combination of scenic vantage points and the chance to see Northern Lights if the skies are clear—a real bonus for Iceland. Plus, the onboard Wi-Fi and the Champagne toast make it feel like a special celebration. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the inside space is limited, and some guests have found it a bit cold or crowded, especially when trying to watch fireworks outside.

This cruise is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic way to celebrate New Year’s Eve—especially if you’re open to being on the water during winter. It isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a private or quiet experience, but if you enjoy lively celebrations with great views, it could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Scenic vantage point for fireworks and city views from the water
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights if conditions permit
• Limited indoor space, so dress warmly and plan accordingly
• Includes a Champagne toast just before midnight
• Onboard Wi-Fi helps you stay connected amid the celebration
• Takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, a manageable length for a festive evening

What the Experience Is All About

The New Year’s Eve Reykjavík Cruise is designed to give you a different perspective on the city’s fireworks and skyline. Starting at 10:30 pm from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, the boat embarks on a roughly 2.5-hour journey around Faxaflói Bay. The cruise is a relatively short but intense celebration, perfect for those who want to avoid the chaos of city streets while still enjoying the spectacle.

As you set sail, you’ll get sweeping views of Reykjavik from three panoramic decks. The Old Harbour, along with landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall, serve as stunning backdrops to your evening. The building’s glass facade, inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscape, is especially photogenic, and you’ll get plenty of chances to snap photos of the illuminated shoreline.

Across the bay, you’ll pass Engey and Lundey Islands—not inhabited, but each adding to the scenic tapestry—and perhaps catch a glimpse of the distant Snæfellsjökull volcano on clear nights. The boat’s design allows you to stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi, so sharing your experience or just scrolling through social media while floating among these islands is easy.

The Highlights of the Tour

Fireworks and Champagne: The main event is, of course, the fireworks display at midnight. The boat provides a glass of Champagne just before the countdown, letting you toast the new year with a scenic backdrop. Guests have found the view from the water to be extraordinary—an angle that’s hard to replicate on land.

Potential Aurora Sightings: If luck’s on your side and the skies are clear, there’s a chance to see the Northern Lights. This isn’t guaranteed, but it’s an exciting bonus for those visiting during the winter months.

Landmark Views: You’ll see key Reykjavik sights like the Harpa Hall and the Old Harbour, which look particularly charming lit up at night. The cruise offers a different perspective—gliding past these iconic spots while celebrating.

Space to Move and Socialize: The reviews indicate that there’s plenty of room to move around, with some guests mentioning that the atmosphere feels festive and lively. However, one guest found the inside space limited and felt it was cold and crowded when trying to watch fireworks from inside. So, be prepared for outdoor viewing and dress warmly.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Old Harbour: You’ll gather here at Ægisgarður 5b in Reykjavík, ready to sail at 10:30 pm. The departure time is perfect for catching the fireworks as they start to light up the sky at midnight.

Sailing the Bay: The boat leaves the harbor and heads towards the small islands. First stop is Faxaflói Bay, where the scenery is stunning—especially if the weather is clear. On this part, you’ll see the coast of Reykjavík and possibly some of the islands known for their seabird colonies.

Passing Harpa and the City Skyline: As you sail along, you’ll get a panoramic view of Reykjavik’s skyline, illuminated and breathtaking from the water. Stop by Harpa, whose glass facade reflects the fireworks and city lights, creating wonderful photo opportunities.

Island Visits: The boat passes Engey and Lundey, small islands with puffins and no permanent residents, adding to the scenic charm of the cruise. If the weather cooperates, you might get some crisp, clear shots of the islands under a starry sky.

Return and Fireworks Viewing: As midnight approaches, everyone gathers outside to watch the fireworks light up the sky. The Champagne toast is a bright spot in the celebration, and then the boat heads back to the harbor after the display ends.

What Some Travelers Say

The reviews give us a well-rounded picture. One guest called it a “wonderful New Year’s Eve excursion,” mentioning they saw the Northern Lights and appreciated the space to move around the boat. That’s a rare bonus and makes this cruise stand out.

However, another review was less enthusiastic, criticizing the lack of indoor space and the cold wind outside. They recommended avoiding the activity if you’re sensitive to cold or prefer a more comfortable, private experience.

Another guest summed it up as a “great experience,” highlighting the short ride and fantastic views of Reykjavik’s skyline, which suggests the cruise’s main appeal lies in its scenic vantage point and fireworks display rather than comfort or luxury.

Pricing and Value

At $149 per person, this cruise isn’t the cheapest way to celebrate New Year’s in Reykjavik, but it’s fairly priced considering the unique experience of viewing fireworks from the water and the included Champagne toast. It’s a short, festive celebration—roughly 2.5 hours—that offers a different perspective than land-based fireworks.

Keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent—poor weather could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable time outside in cold conditions. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before is helpful if weather looks uncooperative, ensuring you don’t lose your money.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Dress warmly: Expect to spend time outside, watching fireworks and taking photos, so layer up with waterproof outerwear, hats, and gloves.
• Arrive early: Being at the meeting point by 10:15 pm guarantees smooth boarding, especially in busy holiday times.
• Bring your phone or camera: You’ll want to capture the fireworks and stunning views, but make sure devices are protected from the cold and wind.
• Be aware of limited indoor space: If you prefer to stay inside, be prepared for a potentially crowded, chilly environment.
• Weather considerations: If the forecast looks stormy or very cold, consider whether this outdoor celebration suits you or if you’d prefer other ways to ring in the new year.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This cruise fits travelers who are looking for a unique, scenic way to celebrate New Year’s Eve, especially those who love being on or near the water and enjoy spectacular fireworks displays. It’s perfect if you’re open to some outdoor elements and want to combine city sights with the thrill of a boat ride.

It’s less suited for those seeking a private or very comfortable experience, or for travelers sensitive to cold and wind. If a cozy indoor celebration or a quiet night is your idea of a perfect New Year, you might want to explore land-based options instead.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
The tour is open to most travelers, but keep in mind the outdoor environment and cold weather—dress children warmly.

Can I see the fireworks from inside the boat?
Most viewing of fireworks will be outside; indoor space is limited and may be crowded. It’s best to watch from outside if possible.

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 10:30 pm from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour.

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, wrapping up shortly after midnight.

Is it weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather could cause cancellations or reduced outdoor viewing. You can cancel for a full refund if the experience is canceled due to weather.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes a glass of Champagne before midnight and access to panoramic decks and Wi-Fi onboard.

How crowded does it get?
The maximum number of travelers is 125, so it can get lively but not overly cramped if you arrive early.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, onboard Wi-Fi helps you stay connected during the celebration.

In the end, the New Year’s Eve Reykjavík Cruise offers a different way to welcome the new year, blending scenic city views with the excitement of fireworks from the water. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, stunning visuals, and don’t mind bundling up for the outdoors. Just remember that weather can influence your experience, so be prepared and go with an open mind.