Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour

The Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour offers a unique way to witness Iceland’s famous auroras. Priced at $102 per person, this 2.5-hour excursion departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and takes you into the North Atlantic for a chance to see the Northern Lights from the water. The tour uses luxurious boats, either the Rósin or Andrea, providing a cozy setting to enjoy the night sky.

What makes this tour stand out is its strategic location: it sets sail just 5 minutes from the city centre, heading 15-30 minutes out into the ocean, away from city lights, for optimal aurora viewing. The experience is highly dependent on weather conditions, with cancellations possible if the weather turns unfavorable. However, if the skies stay clear, this adventure offers excellent chances to see the lights, with the added benefit of free rebooking if no sighting occurs during your first trip.

Key Points

• Official Departure Point: Reykjavik Old Harbour, easily accessible and close to the city.
• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts 2.5 hours, with specific start times based on availability.
• Weather-dependent: Sightings rely heavily on weather conditions; cloudy or windy weather may cancel or alter the experience.
• Warm Comfort: Warm overalls are included, and the boat features heated indoor seating to keep guests comfortable.
• Additional Perks: Free photos of the tour are downloadable afterward, and guests are guaranteed a second trip if the lights are not seen initially.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations made for guests with mobility needs, including side-door access for viewing.

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Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour to the North Atlantic

This tour begins at Reykjavik Old Harbour, a convenient and scenic starting point in the city. From here, the boat departs for a twenty-minute journey out into the open ocean, offering views of the mountains, city lights, and the coastline of Iceland. During the ride, the atmosphere is relaxed, with indoor seating and WiFi available, making it a comfortable environment to anticipate the auroras.

The route is designed to take guests away from light pollution, positioning the boat within 15-30 minutes of the coast for optimal Northern Lights visibility. The proximity to the coastline ensures a good balance of comfort and exposure to the dark skies required for aurora viewing.

Inside the Luxurious Boats Rósin and Andrea

Both boats, Rósin and Andrea, are equipped to provide a cozy environment during the 2-hour search for the Northern Lights. The heated indoor seating area offers a warm refuge, with WiFi so you can share your experience or check the Aurora forecast. Guests are supplied with warm overalls, including children’s sizes, to stay warm against the cold Arctic air.

The boats are designed for comfort and safety, with experienced guides leading the trip. The guides are well-versed in the local weather patterns and Aurora forecasts, helping guests interpret what they see and offering insights into the natural phenomenon.

Viewing the Aurora Borealis from the Ocean

The main draw of this tour is the chance to see the Northern Lights over the North Atlantic Ocean, away from city lights. The ideal viewing window is 15-30 minutes from the coast, where the darkness enhances the shimmering ribbons of green, as well as occasional shooting stars.

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of the guides and the beautiful scenery. One review mentions that even when the lights are faint or elusive, the peaceful atmosphere, full moon, and surrounding mountains make the experience memorable. If the Northern Lights are not visible, guests receive a complimentary ticket to try again on another night.

Weather Risks and Alternative Options

Since the Northern Lights are highly dependent on weather, the tour can be canceled if conditions are too windy or cloudy. When this happens, guests are offered a small private bus tour on land to hunt for the Aurora, which may be less effective but still offers hope of a sighting.

The tour’s flexibility allows for a second trip at no extra cost if the lights are not seen initially, making the experience less risky for those eager to catch the spectacle.

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The Experience of Seeing the Northern Lights from the Water

Many reviews celebrate the unique perspective of viewing the Aurora from the ocean. The dark, open water combined with views of mountains and city lights creates a stunning backdrop. The calm sea and quiet environment contribute to a peaceful exploration of the night sky.

Guests appreciate that the crew and guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The sea sickness tablets offered on board are highlighted as a useful addition, especially for those prone to seasickness, ensuring everyone can focus on the natural display.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Guests are advised to wear warm clothing, including thermal layers and the jackets and overalls provided. Since weather can be freezing cold, especially during winter, thermal wear and warm footwear are recommended.

The indoor heated area offers a comfortable environment, but for the best viewing, it’s recommended to step outside when the guides signal that the Aurora might be visible. The photo service, with free downloads available, allows guests to take home images of their experience.

The Guides and Their Role in the Tour

Throughout the trip, knowledgeable guides lead the way, providing explanations about the Aurora Borealis and Icelandic nature. They are praised for their friendly attitude and ability to answer questions, making the experience informative as well as visually stunning.

If the Aurora does not appear, the guides’ honest communication about the unpredictability of nature helps set realistic expectations, and their efforts to keep guests engaged are appreciated.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

This tour is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations such as side-door entry to ensure all guests can enjoy the experience. Children’s sizes of warm overalls are included, making it suitable for families with young children.

The indoor heated seating ensures comfort for all ages, and the friendly, experienced guides are attentive to the needs of different guests, creating an inclusive environment.

Price and Value Analysis

At $102 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience with warm clothing, indoor comfort, and free photos. The second-trip ticket provides peace of mind, especially given the unpredictable nature of the Aurora.

While outdoor viewing is weather-dependent, the flexibility and professionalism of the crew, combined with the stunning scenery and the chance to see the Northern Lights from the water, make this a valuable option for those seeking a memorable Icelandic adventure.

Summary of What Sets This Tour Apart

This Northern Lights boat tour combines the excitement of sailing into the North Atlantic with the chance to see the Aurora from a comfortable, well-equipped boat. The tour’s location just minutes from Reykjavik makes it convenient, and warm overalls ensure guests stay comfortable in the cold.

The flexibility in scheduling a second attempt if no lights are seen, along with expert guides and free photos, enhance the overall value. It is suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who are eager for a relaxing, scenic experience that offers a special perspective on Iceland’s natural wonder.

Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour – FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $102 covers warm overalls, heated indoor seating, WiFi, free photos, an experienced guide, and a ticket for a second trip if no Aurora is seen initially.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Reykjavik Old Harbour, a short 5-minute trip from the city center, with a meeting point at the harbor.

What should I wear for the trip?
Guests are advised to wear warm clothing, including thermal layers. The tour provides warm overalls, but layering is recommended due to the cold weather, especially during winter.

Can I see the Northern Lights from the boat?
Yes, the tour is designed to optimize Aurora viewing from the ocean, about 15-30 minutes away from the coast. Sightings depend on weather conditions.

What happens if the weather is too windy or cloudy?
If weather conditions prevent the trip, guests are offered a private bus tour on land, or a second trip free of charge if the lights are not seen during the first ride.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible with side-door entry and accommodations for guests with mobility needs.

What if I don’t see the Aurora on my first trip?
Guests receive a complimentary ticket for a future tour, ensuring the opportunity to try again when conditions improve.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is 2.5 hours, including boarding, sailing, and viewing time, with starting times varying based on availability.

Can children participate?
Yes, children’s sizes of warm overalls are included, making the tour family-friendly and suitable for guests of all ages.

This Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour offers a practical, scenic, and comfortable way to seek out Iceland’s iconic auroras. With expert guides, flexible rebooking, and beautiful views, it promises a memorable experience, weather permitting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby