Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik Including Photos

The Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers an engaging way to witness the aurora borealis from the serene waters of Faxaflói Bay. Priced at $103.18 per person and lasting about 2 hours 30 minutes, this tour is ideal for those who want to combine the thrill of stargazing with the comfort of a boat ride. The tour departs from Special Tours Geirsgata 11, with options for hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off. One of its standout features is the use of warm thermal overalls—including children’s sizes—to keep you cozy even in Iceland’s chilly nights.

While weather can influence the success of sightings, the tour offers a free ticket to try again if the Northern Lights are not visible during your initial cruise. The experience is enhanced by complimentary photos taken on every trip, and the onboard crew is praised for their helpfulness and knowledge. This tour suits those eager for a relaxed, informative, and comfortable way to chase the aurora, though travelers should be prepared for the possibility of a cloudy night or no sighting.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $103.18, lasting 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Location: Starts at Special Tours Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, Iceland.
• Includes thermal overalls and free photos of the tour.
• Weather dependent: Sightings are not guaranteed, but a free re-booking policy helps manage expectations.
• Hot drinks available for purchase, and warm coveralls are provided for comfort.
• Additional options: Hotel pickup/drop-off and food/drink can be arranged for an extra fee.

The Start Point at Special Tours Geirsgata 11

The tour begins at Special Tours Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, a convenient location near public transportation. This makes it straightforward to reach, whether you’re staying in the city center or nearby. The meeting point is well-organized, and the crew greets guests warmly, ready to set out into Faxaflói Bay for the night sky adventure. The group size is limited to 198 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with ample space on the boat.

What the Boat Cruise Offers in Faxaflói Bay

This tour takes place on a comfortable sightseeing boat that cruises out into the still waters of Faxaflói Bay. The bay’s calm waters are particularly suitable for stargazing and aurora spotting. The boat provides heated indoor seating and WiFi, allowing travelers to relax regardless of outdoor conditions. The thermal overalls are handed out to keep everyone warm and dry, making the experience enjoyable even in Iceland’s cool climate.

Learning About the Aurora Borealis with Expert Guides

The guides on this tour are well-regarded for their knowledge and storytelling. They explain the scientific explanations behind the Aurora Borealis, along with some myths and legends associated with this natural display. The guides also assist with photography tips, helping travelers capture the elusive lights. Their attentiveness and ability to provide informative commentary are frequently praised in reviews.

The Chance to See the Northern Lights

The main goal is to witness the aurora borealis dancing across the sky. Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings depend heavily on weather conditions. If cloud cover or poor weather prevents viewing, the tour offers a free ticket to re-try on another night, sometimes even years later. This policy reassures participants that they have a fair chance of seeing the lights during their visit.

Hot Drinks, Warm Coveralls, and Onboard Amenities

While food and drink are not included, you can purchase hot beverages onboard if desired. The complimentary warm coveralls are a highlight, providing extra warmth and comfort during outdoor viewing. Many reviews mention that the boat is warm and comfortable, even when the outside temperature drops. The crew is available to assist with photography, making it easier to capture the aurora when it appears.

Photographs and the Special Tours App

Every tour includes professional photos taken during the trip, which are available for free download afterward. This is a nice touch, allowing you to relive the experience or share your sightings with friends. The tour also introduces a new Special Tours App that offers information in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese, enhancing the experience for international guests.

The Impact of Weather and Sightings Experience

Weather plays a critical role in the success of aurora sightings. Clear, cold nights with little moonlight increase the chances of a good display. Some reviews mention cloud cover, rain, or windy conditions that limit visibility or make the experience less enjoyable. Notably, if the weather is unfavorable, the tour can be canceled, or travelers can be offered a Northern Lights by Bus tour instead, which is similarly priced.

Customer Feedback on Comfort and Crew

Many reviews highlight the friendly and helpful crew, praising their knowledge and willingness to assist with photography. The comfort of the boat is also a common theme, with many travelers feeling the warmth and seating arrangements are adequate. However, a few notice that some boats may be small or cramped, and in rare cases, the weatherproof suits are recommended to go larger for better comfort.

The Possibility of Multiple Attempts

Thanks to the free re-booking policy, travelers who do not see the Northern Lights on their first trip can often try again at no extra cost. One reviewer notes that the lights appeared on the second attempt, making this a practical choice for those willing to be patient. The policy is valid for multiple years, offering flexibility for future visits.

Comparing the Boat Tour to Other Options

This boat-based experience distinguishes itself by offering a calm water environment and warm indoor seating, unlike land or snowmobile excursions. However, some reviews express a wish for the boat to go further out or faster for better sightings or excitement. The small boat size and shaky conditions during windy nights** can make the experience less comfortable for some.

Handling Disappointments and Customer Support

While many travelers see the lights and enjoy the trip, some have faced disappointing nights with no aurora sightings. The tour’s refund and rebooking policy helps mitigate frustration, but experiences can vary due to unpredictable weather. An incident involving poorly maintained facilities was noted in a negative review, emphasizing the importance of well-maintained equipment and clear communication from the crew.

The Sum Up: A Practical Choiсe for Aurora Enthusiasts

The Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers a relaxed, informative, and scenic way to chase the aurora borealis. The warm thermal overalls, free photos, and knowledgeable guides combine to create a comfortable viewing experience, even in Iceland’s chilly nights. The re-booking policy provides reassurance for travelers hoping to catch the lights, making this tour a good option for those with flexible schedules and patience.

However, visitors should be prepared for the uncertainty of weather conditions and potential no-sightings. The tour suits those who prefer a comfortable boat environment over land-based options and are willing to try multiple nights if needed. This experience balances value for money with the thrill of witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular displays, provided the weather aligns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights Cruise suitable for children?
Yes, thermal overalls are available in children’s sizes, making it family-friendly. The 2.5-hour duration is appropriate for most ages.

What should I wear for the cruise?
Bring warm clothing and be prepared for cold outdoor temperatures. The tour supplies thermal overalls to help, but layering is recommended.

Can I get a refund if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
You can receive a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. If the weather obscures the lights, a free rebooking is offered, which can be used in future years.

Are food and drinks available onboard?
No, food and drink are not included but can be purchased during the cruise. Hot beverages are available for sale, and hot drinks are also optional to bring along.

How does the rebooking policy work?
If the lights are not visible during your trip, you receive a free ticket to try again, valid for multiple years. This offers hope for a successful sighting on a future attempt.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach without a car.

What if weather conditions are poor on the scheduled night?
The tour can be canceled or replaced with an Aurora by Bus tour at no extra cost, depending on sea and weather conditions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made 62 days in advance on average, due to high demand for this popular experience.

Can I add hotel transfers?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available for an additional fee, providing added convenience.

What distinguishes this tour from land-based aurora trips?
The calm waters of Faxaflói Bay and the cozy onboard amenities make this a comfortable alternative to land or snowmobile tours, especially in cold weather.