Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise

If you’re dreaming of catching that elusive, shimmering display of the Northern Lights, a Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavík is a pretty popular way to try your luck. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on what travelers say, it’s an experience that’s equal parts breathtaking and, let’s be honest, a little unpredictable. Still, it’s one of those tours that can really make your trip memorable—and the chance to see nature’s own light show from a boat out in Faxaflói Bay? That’s hard to beat.

What we love about this tour is how well it combines comfort with the adventure of chasing the Aurora. First, the expert guides and crew seem genuinely committed to giving you a good shot at seeing the lights, which is comforting given how weather-dependent this experience is. Second, the warm clothing and blankets provided on board are a thoughtful touch—nothing kills the vibe faster than cold fingers and toes when you’re waiting for a show that might not come. The only thing to keep in mind? The lights aren’t guaranteed, and capturing them on camera from a boat can be tricky, so don’t expect perfect photos every time.

This tour is best suited for those who are flexible and understand that nature doesn’t follow a schedule. If you’re okay with the possibility of a cloudy night or not seeing the lights at all, and you’re mainly looking for a peaceful, scenic experience with knowledgeable guides, then this cruise could be perfect. It’s also a comfortable way to enjoy Reykjavik’s surroundings without the hassle of driving or complex arrangements, especially for those who prefer a relaxed, guided outing.

Key Points

• Weather is everything: The Northern Lights depend heavily on clear skies, and the tour adapts accordingly by offering free reschedules if conditions aren’t right.
• Expert guidance matters: Guides keep you informed and help with camera settings, increasing your chances of capturing good photos.
• Comfort is prioritized: Warm overalls, blankets, and a heated lounge create a cozy environment despite the cold night.
• Scenic views of Reykjavík: The experience offers beautiful nighttime views of the city lit up against the dark bay.
• Intentional but uncertain: No guarantee to see the Aurora, but a sighting guarantee means you can try again for free.
• Good value for what you get: For $108, you’re getting a well-organized, guided experience with plenty of amenities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: Setting the Scene

From the moment you arrive at the Reykjavík Old Harbour, you get a sense of the organized and friendly atmosphere. The meeting point is straightforward—just look for the Elding Whale Watching boat docked at Ægisgarður 5. The tour begins with an informative talk, where guides share insights about the Aurora and what influences their appearance. You’ll also find info boards and videos to get you excited ahead of departure.

Boarding the Elding II

Once on board, the ship feels quite comfortable. There’s a heated lounge area where you can sit and relax with light refreshments—Icelandic snacks and drinks aren’t included, so bring your own if you want extra treats. For those eager to see the lights, the outdoor viewing platform is the place to be, and the crew ensures everyone is wrapped up in the warm overalls and blankets provided. Some reviews mention that these overalls are essential, especially as it can get quite chilly out on the deck.

Sailing into Faxaflói Bay

As the boat departs into the darkness of Faxaflói Bay, it’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience. The boat is not overly large, so it’s easy to move around to find a good spot for viewing. The captain and guides keep a close eye on the weather, checking forecasts constantly to maximize your chance of spotting the Aurora. Many reviewers mention that the crew’s attentiveness and expertise help make a potentially frustrating night much more enjoyable. As one reviewer noted, “they adjusted my camera settings and helped us all with tips to photograph the lights,” which is a thoughtful touch.

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The Northern Lights Show

On clear nights with good conditions, the lights can start swirling and dancing across the sky, often before you even leave the harbor. When the Aurora appears, it’s described as a brilliant, dynamic display of colors and patterns—swirling greens, subtle pinks, and sometimes even more dramatic hues. However, some reviews remind us that the lights can be faint or move quickly, which makes capturing photos a challenge. One reviewer said, “the lights weren’t super strong, and the moving boat made my pics blurry, but I was still happy to see them,” highlighting how unpredictable the phenomenon can be.

The Realities of Watching from a Boat

If you’re picturing the perfect snapshot of the Aurora, keep in mind that photographing from a boat isn’t as easy as it sounds. The gentle rocking of the vessel, combined with low light and sometimes quick-moving displays, can make taking clear photos tricky. The guides are helpful but don’t promise perfect images—your focus should be on the experience and the moment.

What If the Lights Don’t Show?

This is an important point. Since the Northern Lights are a natural display, they don’t always appear when you want them to. The tour does offer a sighting guarantee, meaning if you don’t see the Lights, they will let you try again for free. Several reviews mention this flexibility as a huge plus; it takes the pressure off and makes the experience more relaxing, especially if you’re traveling during a longer stay with multiple opportunities to go out again.

The Value of the Tour

At $108 per person, this cruise falls into a reasonable price range for a guided, outdoor experience with extras like warm gear and expert guidance. The value is especially evident if the Northern Lights put on a good show—many reviewers feel it’s worth every penny. Plus, the fact that they’re flexible with rescheduling if weather isn’t cooperating adds extra peace of mind.

You’re not just paying for the chance to see the Aurora—you’re paying for comfort, expert advice, and a scenic voyage out into the darkness, away from the bright city lights. For many travelers, that combination makes the experience worthwhile, even if the lights aren’t as intense as hoped.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, guided experience with a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. It’s well-suited for those who prioritize comfort and want knowledgeable guides to help maximize their chances. If you’re okay with the possibility of not seeing the Aurora, but still want to enjoy the scenery and the thrill of the chase, this tour is a solid pick.

It’s also a good option for anyone who prefers a group experience with amenities like warm overalls and blankets included. Since the tour departs from Reykjavik’s harbor, you avoid the hassle of self-driving in potentially icy conditions. Keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent, so flexibility helps.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with departure times varying. Check availability for specific start times.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included, but it can be arranged at an extra charge. The meeting point is at the Elding Whale Watching boat in Reykjavik Old Harbour.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential. The tour provides overalls, raincoats, and blankets to keep you comfortable during the viewing.

Can I take photos of the Northern Lights from the boat?
While it’s possible, it can be challenging due to boat movement and low light conditions. Guides can help with camera settings, but don’t expect professional-quality shots every time.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
The tour offers a sighting guarantee. If you don’t see the lights, you can try again for free on another night.

Is this suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the experience involves being on a boat in cold weather, so it’s probably better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle the conditions comfortably.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavík Northern Lights cruise offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to pursue one of Iceland’s most iconic natural phenomena. You’ll benefit from knowledgeable guides, cozy gear, and beautiful nighttime views of Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay. While the unpredictability of the Aurora means it’s not a guarantee, the flexible rescheduling policy and the effort put into making guests comfortable make it a smart choice for travelers who value a stress-free experience.

If you’re someone who’s excited to chase the Lights and doesn’t mind the occasional cloudy night, this tour is likely to give you a memorable adventure. Even if the Aurora doesn’t put on a spectacular display, the journey and the atmosphere make it worth considering. For those who want a balanced mix of comfort, expert guidance, and scenic beauty, this cruise could be just the ticket.

Remember, patience and flexibility are key when chasing the Northern Lights—so dress warmly, keep your expectations realistic, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Reykjavík’s night sky.

You can check availability for your dates here: