Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik

If you’re thinking about seeing the Northern Lights during your Iceland trip, a boat trip might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But this Yacht Cruise from Reykjavik offers a unique way to chase the aurora borealis — from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. Since it’s a relatively short, two-hour journey, it’s perfect if you’re after a quick yet special experience.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the thrill of wildlife spotting, beautiful coastlines, and the chance for some incredible sky displays — all in one. Plus, the onboard Wi-Fi and warm drinks make it a practical choice, especially on chilly Icelandic evenings.

Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that catching the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed. Weather, cloud cover, and solar activity all play a part, so some nights might be better than others. If you’re flexible and eager for a different perspective on Iceland’s natural beauty, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with the possibility of repeat attempts if the lights don’t cooperate.

Key Points

• Unique setting: View the Aurora Borealis from a cozy yacht, not just on land.
• Wildlife sightings: Expect to see whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
• Weather-dependent: Aurora sightings depend on clear skies; no guarantees.
• Flexible re-booking: If no lights appear, you can try again on another day.
• Comfort amenities: Inside the boat, there’s heating, blankets, and a bar.
• Small group size: Up to 125 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi onboard allows you to share your adventure instantly.

An Overview of the Experience

When thinking about a Northern Lights tour in Reykjavik, most people picture chasing the sky in a car, sometimes venturing far into the countryside or away from city lights. But this yacht cruise offers a different kind of adventure. Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, the boat sets sail across Faxaflói Bay, passing small islands and the scenic coastline. As you drift away from the city’s glow, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase, especially in areas with minimal light pollution.

The journey is designed not just for Aurora viewing but also for wildlife enthusiasts. Along the way, there’s a good chance to spot whales, humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Some lucky guests have even seen orcas, which adds an extra layer of excitement. The experienced crew is skilled at spotting these creatures and is eager to share their knowledge, making the ride more engaging.

The Departure Point and Meeting Details

Your adventure begins at the Old Harbour House in Reykjavik, a central spot that’s easy to reach via public transport or a short walk. After check-in, you’ll board the yacht, which can comfortably hold up to 125 travelers. The crew often provides blankets and heating to keep everyone cozy during the cruise, especially since Icelandic nights can be cold. The onboard bar is available if you’d like a drink, and many reviews highlight the friendly staff and the comfort of the vessel.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, the boat begins its journey by sailing among small islands in the Bay, offering a scenic view of the city’s coastline. This is a good moment to settle in, take some photos, and get a sense of the local waters. The crew frequently updates guests about the likelihood of Northern Lights sightings and shares interesting facts about the area.

As the boat moves further from the city lights to an area with less pollution, your chances of witnessing the aurora increase. The crew is highly experienced at positioning the yacht for optimal viewing, based on real-time weather and sky conditions. During the wait, you can enjoy the warm indoor space, share the experience with fellow travelers, or simply gaze up at the sky.

A common complaint from some guests is that the boat may not always go very far from the harbor, which can impact the visibility of the Northern Lights. However, many reviews praise the crew’s efforts to find the best spot possible, and some guests have noted that the boat can stay out for up to two hours, giving plenty of opportunity for a sighting.

Wildlife sightings are an integral part of the experience. Many guests report seeing whales, dolphins, and porpoises during the cruise. The crew’s expertise in spotting marine life is often highlighted as a key feature that elevates the tour beyond just Aurora chasing.

What’s Included in the Tour

For roughly $94 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You get about two hours aboard a comfortable yacht, with the chance to see the Northern Lights away from the city’s glow. The onboard Wi-Fi means you can share the moments instantly, and the bar allows you to enjoy a drink while waiting. Plus, blankets and heating keep everyone warm, which is crucial given Iceland’s chilly evenings.

Another significant perk is the option to rebook if the Northern Lights don’t show up on your scheduled night. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who want a second shot at witnessing this spectacular natural display — and many reviews confirm that the tour staff is accommodating about rescheduling.

The Realities of Aurora Viewing

Many travelers express that Northern Lights sightings are unpredictable. Weather is the biggest factor — cloud cover, wind, and even the activity of the sun all influence whether you’ll see the lights. Some reviews mention nights when the Aurora was faint or not visible at all, but most agree that the crew does their best to find clear skies.

A few guests have voiced frustration about the boat not venturing far enough from the harbor or remaining stationary for too long in one spot, making sightings difficult. It’s worth noting that safety and weather conditions naturally limit how far the boat can go, and the crew often adjusts their position based on real-time forecasts.

What Guests Say

Positive feedback often highlights the knowledgeable guides and the warmth inside the boat, which counteracts the cold night air. Guests also love the insider tips on how to photograph the Aurora, which can turn a fleeting display into stunning memories. Many reviewers have been lucky enough to see the Northern Lights in all their glory, describing it as a magical, unforgettable experience.

On the flip side, some reviews note the disappointment of no sightings, which is part of nature’s unpredictability. However, the tour’s policy of offering a second chance or a full refund for cancellations due to weather shows the effort to make things right.

The Price and Its Value

At $94 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the experience you get: wildlife sightings, beautiful coastlines, the chance to see the Northern Lights, and the onboard comforts. When you compare it to land-based tours, the yacht offers a more intimate and flexible environment.

The inclusion of amenities like Wi-Fi, bar, blankets, and the option to rebook makes it a solid value, especially if you’re keen on avoiding long drives or crowded buses. The group size cap of 125 travelers ensures it doesn’t feel overly crowded, but it’s still enough to create a lively, social atmosphere.

Summing It Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Northern Lights Yacht Cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a different perspective of Iceland’s natural beauty. It appeals to those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed experience rather than a long land-based chase, with the bonus of wildlife encounters. It’s perfect if you value comfort, onboard amenities, and the chance to capture photos with some guidance.

However, if you’re set on seeing the Northern Lights at all costs, remember that sightings are never 100% guaranteed. Being flexible and understanding that weather and aurora activity are outside the crew’s control is key.

For families or travelers with children, the cruise’s comfortable setting and shorter duration could be appealing, but always check if your kids are comfortable with the cold and the boat environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel this tour if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure. If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily. Seeing the Aurora depends on weather and solar activity, which are beyond the crew’s control. However, the crew does their best to reposition the boat for optimal viewing.

Is the tour suitable for people who get cold easily?
Most guests find the onboard heating, blankets, and indoor spaces sufficient. But if you’re very sensitive to cold, bring extra layers.

How long does the cruise last?
It’s approximately two hours, offering a quick but potentially rewarding experience.

Are there wildlife sightings during the cruise?
Yes, many guests report seeing whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The crew is experienced at spotting marine life along the way.

What are the facilities onboard?
There’s a bar for drinks, heating, blankets, and ample space for sitting or walking around, providing a comfortable environment despite the outdoor chill.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, the tour offers the opportunity to join another attempt within three years, giving you a second shot at witnessing the aurora.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik offers a memorable way to experience Iceland’s natural phenomena. It’s a well-organized, comfortable trip that combines wildlife encounters and the thrill of Aurora hunting. While sightings depend on luck and weather, many travelers find the journey itself rewarding — with friendly staff, cozy amenities, and stunning coastal views.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate a more intimate, relaxed setting and are okay with the inherent unpredictability of chasing the Northern Lights. If you’re looking for a different way to see this incredible sky show and enjoy some marine life, it’s worth considering. Just go with a flexible mindset, and you might find yourself lucky enough to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Remember: Always check the weather forecast, dress warmly, and have your camera ready. Even if the lights don’t make an appearance, the experience of being out on the water in Iceland’s dramatic landscape is still a win.