Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik

The Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik offers a unique way to witness the aurora borealis, departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor for around $94 per person. This 2-hour tour takes place on a comfortable yacht that can hold up to 125 travelers, making it an intimate yet well-organized experience. Unlike the typical car chase for the northern lights, this cruise provides uninterrupted views from the water, often accompanied by sightings of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The boat’s onboard Wi-Fi allows guests to upload live photos, and a ticket for a future attempt is included if the lights are not visible during the tour.

This tour is suitable for those who appreciate a relaxed, scenic adventure with a focus on wildlife and natural beauty. Weather conditions can influence visibility, and the tour may be postponed or result in no sighting, but the professional crew strives to give every guest a rewarding experience. It is ideal for adventurers, nature buffs, and photo enthusiasts eager for an authentic northern lights outing on the water.

Key Points

• Uninterrupted northern lights viewing from a luxurious yacht in Reykjavik
• Whale and dolphin sightings often included during the journey
• Flexible rebooking option if the lights are not visible, valid for up to three years
• Onboard Wi-Fi keeps you connected and allows live photo uploads
• Tour departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and lasts about 2 hours
• Most travelers can participate, with service animals allowed

Starting Point in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour

The tour begins at the Old Harbour House, located at Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík. The meeting process is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same location, making logistics simple for travelers. The boat’s location provides great views of Reykjavik’s coastline and the chance to see local water wildlife during the cruise.

The check-in process is clear, and the group size is capped at 125 travelers to ensure comfort and safety. The tour is designed to fit into a short window of approximately 2 hours, fitting well into most travel plans.

What the Yacht Looks Like and Its Comfort Features

Guests enjoy ample space both inside and outside the yacht, which is praised for being clean and spacious. The vessel offers multiple levels, allowing for seated or standing options, and is equipped with heating and blankets to combat Iceland’s chilly evenings. A bar onboard serves warm drinks to keep everyone cozy as they wait for the lights to appear.

Many reviews highlight the pleasant atmosphere onboard, with friendly and knowledgeable staff guiding the experience. The interior is described as comfortable, making it easier to relax while waiting for the aurora to dance across the sky.

The Route: From Reykjavik’s Old Harbor to the Islands

Once underway, the yacht sails across Faxaflói Bay, passing small islands that add charm to the scenery. This route offers a fantastic view of Reykjavik’s coastline and the surrounding waters, giving guests a chance to spot whales and marine wildlife.

The boat’s captain and crew use expertise to choose the best spots for viewing the northern lights, aiming to escape light pollution from the city. The sailing distance depends on weather and safety considerations, but the overall goal is to find dark, open areas ideal for aurora spotting.

Wildlife Encounters During the Cruise

Aside from the aurora, the most common wildlife sightings include minke whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. There is also a possibility of seeing orcas (killer whales), along with other marine species. The experienced crew actively hunts for these animals, enhancing the overall experience beyond just the lights.

Guests often find the marine wildlife sightings to be a highlight of the trip, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening. The professional team is committed to making wildlife encounters as memorable as possible.

Onboard Experience: Comfort, Connectivity, and Knowledge Sharing

The interior of the yacht is praised for being warm and spacious, allowing guests to sit comfortably while waiting. The onboard Wi-Fi helps guests share live photos and stay connected during the cruise. Many reviews mention detailed explanations from crew members about the northern lights and the local area, enriching the experience.

Guests are encouraged to capture photos of the aurora, and guides often offer tips for photography. The friendly staff are well-versed in what to look for and communicate updates about the lights regularly.

The Experience of Waiting for the Aurora

While seeing the northern lights is not guaranteed, the crew does its best to keep passengers informed and adjust the boat’s position to optimize chances. If the aurora does not appear, guests receive a complimentary ticket for a future tour, valid for up to three years.

Many reviews commend the professional attitude of the staff, especially when tours are postponed due to weather changes. The warmth of the boat and the comfortable environment make waiting more tolerable, even in cold conditions.

Weather and Visibility Factors

Since the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings depend heavily on weather conditions. The tour operates based on detailed weather assessments to prioritize guest safety and maximize viewing opportunities. Rough seas or poor weather may lead to postponements or canceled sightings.

The tours are designed to be flexible; if the lights are not visible, guests can rebook or receive a full refund if canceled due to adverse weather. This policy helps manage expectations and ensures a risk-mitigated experience.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Criticisms

The major praise goes to the knowledgeable guides, comfortable boat environment, and beautiful views. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly staff who share insights about the aurora and help with photography.

On the flip side, some disappointments relate to weather conditions and perceived limitations of how far the boat ventures from the harbor. A few reviews mention no sightings despite attempts, and some find the location insufficient for spectacular viewing.

The rebooking policy is appreciated, allowing guests to try again if the lights are missed. The experience is rated 4.1 out of 5, reflecting generally positive impressions, with room for improvement in predictability.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful if weather conditions look unfavorable. If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is provided.

Since the average booking time is 55 days in advance, travelers are encouraged to reserve early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons for the northern lights.

Reykjavik’s Night Sky and Best Viewing Conditions

While the yacht provides an excellent vantage point, the best chances for seeing the northern lights are on clear, dark nights with minimal light pollution. The crew actively seeks optimal locations, but visibility can vary based on solar activity and weather.

Guests are advised to dress warmly and prepare for cold evenings, even with the heating and blankets provided onboard. The experience is as much about enjoying the scenic boat ride as it is about aurora viewing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

The Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik offers a relaxing, scenic, and often wildlife-rich way to experience the aurora borealis. The professional crew, comfortable vessel, and live Wi-Fi make it a convenient choice for those wanting a personalized, water-based viewing.

While the unpredictability of the northern lights means sightings are not guaranteed, the rebooking policy and expert guidance help set the right expectations. This tour is especially suitable for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a cozy, scenic adventure on Iceland’s waters.

The main limitations are the reliance on weather and the possibility of fewer sightings if conditions are unfavorable. However, many guests walk away with beautiful photos and memories of a peaceful evening at sea. For travelers willing to wait patiently and dress warmly, this cruise offers a distinctive and memorable way to chase the northern lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cruise last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, specifically Old Harbour House at Ægisgarður 2.

Can I see whales during the cruise?
Yes, whale sightings like minke and humpback whales are common, along with dolphins and porpoises.

What happens if I don’t see the northern lights?
Guests receive a ticket for a future tour, valid for up to three years.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed.

What’s included onboard?
Guests enjoy warm drinks, blankets, and Wi-Fi to upload photos.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, as evenings can be cold, despite the heating and blankets.

How does weather affect the tour?
Tours depend on favorable weather; rough seas or cloudy skies can lead to cancellations or no sightings.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 125 travelers.

How early should I book?
Booking around 55 days in advance is typical, especially in peak northern lights season.

What makes this tour different from land-based options?
Sailing on a yacht offers unobstructed views over the water, often with wildlife encounters and the chance to escape light pollution from the city.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, the crew provides tips for photography, and the onboard Wi-Fi helps with live sharing.

The Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik blends the thrill of wildlife sightings with the magic of the aurora borealis, all from the comfort of a cozy vessel. It’s an experience that balances adventure, scenery, and relaxation, appealing most to those who enjoy nature, photography, and seaside excursions.