Kopar Fine Dining Dinner and Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik

The Kopar Fine Dining Dinner and Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik offers a unique combination of Icelandic culinary excellence and the thrill of witnessing the Northern Lights. For $199, this 5-hour tour departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, starting with a six-course gourmet meal at Kopar, followed by a 2.5-hour boat cruise in search of the Aurora Borealis. The tour is designed for those who want to enjoy a memorable evening that blends fine dining with the natural wonder of Iceland’s skies, though it’s worth noting that seeing the lights depends heavily on weather conditions.

This experience is ideal for food lovers looking to indulge in Icelandic cuisine and those eager for a chance to spot the Northern Lights from the water. The tour’s small group size, with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensures a more personalized atmosphere. Warm coveralls are provided onboard to help keep participants cozy—an important detail given Iceland’s chilly evenings. While the dinner quality receives high praise, some reviews note that the boat’s limited distance into the harbor may impact Aurora sightings on cloudy nights.

Key Points

• Includes a 6-course dinner at Kopar, a highly-rated Reykjavik restaurant
• Evening tour lasts approximately five hours, combining dining and Northern Lights viewing
• Boat cruise lasts 2.5 hours, with warm coveralls provided for comfort
• Small group size of up to 6 travelers allows for a more intimate experience
• Good chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis, weather permitting
• Optional to purchase drinks at Kopar, with no included beverages in the tour price

Dining at Kopar: Icelandic Flavors with a View

The tour kicks off at Kopar, located in the Old Harbour area of Reykjavik. Known for its spectacular views of the marina, Kopar offers a 6-course Adventure Menu that features dishes like rock lobster soup, smoked arctic char, goose breast with pumpkin seeds, lightly salted cod, and rack of lamb. Guests consistently praise the freshness and quality of the ingredients, as well as the attentive service.

Many reviews mention the generous portions, with some guests feeling they have too much food, even needing a take-away box. The ambiance at Kopar is described as relaxed yet elegant, making it a fitting start to an Icelandic evening. Drinks are available for purchase, but they are not included in the package, so plan accordingly if you want to enjoy a beverage with your meal.

Confirming Your Reservation and Planning

To secure your dinner reservation, it’s necessary to contact the tour provider at [email protected] or call +3545608800. While most travelers find the process smooth, some reviews highlight challenges with booking, emphasizing the importance of confirming your reservation ahead of time to avoid misunderstandings.

The meeting point for the tour is Kopar at Geirsgata 3. After dinner, guests walk about a minute to the Special Tours Ticket Office at Geirsgata 11 to check in for the Northern Lights by Boat. The timing allows for a leisurely dinner before heading out onto the water, with the tour ending back at the original meeting point.

The Northern Lights Boat Cruise: Water-based Aurora Hunting

The cruise departs from Reykjavik’s harbor and lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Participants are provided with warm coveralls to combat Iceland’s chilly evenings, which are essential given the outdoor nature of the experience. This cruise offers a good chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis, as it takes you beyond the harbor’s light pollution, into the darker waters where the sky’s display can be more vivid.

The guide onboard offers commentary and videos to help guests understand the Northern Lights phenomenon, adding an educational component to the experience. The boat itself is described as spacious and clean, with some reviews noting the comfort of the vessel and the informative explanations from crew members.

However, some reviews point out that cloud cover and weather conditions can significantly impact the likelihood of a successful Aurora sighting. The boat’s limited distance into the harbor on some nights may reduce visibility if the skies are cloudy, but the tour offers the option to reschedule or return for free if the Aurora is not seen on the first outing.

Warm Coveralls and Comfort on the Water

A key feature of this tour is the inclusion of warm coveralls, which helps participants stay cozy despite the cold. This is particularly appreciated on nights with chilly breezes or choppy waters. The onboard commentary and video presentations enhance the experience, making it both informative and visually engaging, even if the Aurora Borealis does not materialize.

Guests are encouraged to dress warmly and prepare for outdoor viewing. While the boat offers some protection from wind, the open-air nature of the cruise means that proper clothing is essential for comfort during the entire trip.

Weather and Aurora Visibility Considerations

The success of viewing the Northern Lights depends heavily on weather conditions. The tour is dependent on clear skies, and cloudy or rainy nights diminish the chances of seeing the Aurora. Some reviews describe disappointing nights due to cloud cover, especially when the boat remains close to the harbor.

In cases where Aurora activity is not visible, the tour offers the option to return for free or reschedule. This flexibility is appreciated by many, though it’s important to understand that Auroras are inherently unpredictable and dependent on natural factors beyond the guide’s control.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience that allows for more interaction with guides and less crowded conditions. The small group size enhances comfort and allows for a more relaxed viewing environment.

The duration of the entire experience is approximately five hours, starting with dinner at Kopar and concluding with the boat cruise. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Participants should dress warmly and confirm their dinner reservation in advance to avoid any issues. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most physical requirements being minimal, though those sensitive to cold should be prepared.

Value and Overall Experience

Many guests find the food at Kopar to be exceptionally good, with some calling it the best meal they’ve ever had. The quality of the ingredients and presentation contribute to a memorable dining experience. The boat cruise adds a sensational element to the evening, especially when the Northern Lights appear.

While the chance to see the Aurora is not guaranteed, the quality of the dining and the educational nature of the cruise make this a valuable package. The small group size and warm coveralls help create a comfortable, personal experience.

The main limitations are weather-dependent Aurora sightings and potential booking challenges. Some reviews mention cancellations or difficulties with reservations, so early confirmation is recommended.

Kopar Fine Dining and Aurora: Who Will Love It?

This tour is best suited for foodies who want to indulge in Icelandic cuisine and have a romantic or intimate experience. It’s equally appealing for those interested in the Northern Lights but who understand the natural unpredictability of Aurora sightings.

Travelers who enjoy small-group tours and comfortable boat rides will appreciate the personalized atmosphere. If you’re looking for a blend of gourmet dining and Aurora hunting in a single evening, this package offers a well-rounded experience—though patience and flexible expectations about the Aurora are key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights cruise guaranteed?
No, the Aurora Borealis depends on weather conditions, especially clear skies. The cruise offers the option to return for free if the lights are not visible on the first outing.

What should I wear on the boat?
Warm coveralls are provided, but it’s advisable to dress in layers, with warm clothing, hats, and gloves for optimal comfort during outdoor viewing.

How long is the dinner at Kopar?
The dinner at Kopar lasts approximately 3 hours, starting with the 6-course meal from the Adventure Menu.

Can I purchase drinks at Kopar?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase at the restaurant, but they are not included in the tour price.

What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate experience.

How do I confirm my dinner reservation?
Reservations must be confirmed by contacting [email protected] or calling +3545608800 after booking to ensure your spot at Kopar.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not refundable, and the tour depends on good weather for the Aurora viewing.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility concerns should consider the outdoor nature of the boat cruise and the cold weather.

How do I find the meeting point?
The tour begins at Kopar, Geirsgata 3, and ends back at the same location, which is near public transportation.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of gourmet dining with a Northern Lights cruise and the personalized experience due to the small group size are key features that distinguish this offering.