Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour with Photos

Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour with Photos

A serene journey to witness the auroras from the ocean

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Iceland, a boat tour departing from Reykjavik offers a unique perspective. Unlike land-based viewing, being on the water provides a clear, unobstructed view of the sky, with the added bonus of stunning scenery—mountains, city lights, and the vast North Atlantic.

This particular tour, priced at $102 per person, is praised for its well-organized nature, comfortable boats, and knowledgeable guides. We love the idea of escaping the city’s light pollution and heading into the open sea, where the chances of seeing the auroras are significantly increased.

One thing to consider, however, is the reliance on weather conditions—the tour’s success hinges on clear skies and calm seas, and if the weather doesn’t cooperate, your chances of seeing the lights diminish. This tour is best suited for those who want a comfortable, scenic, and potentially more intimate Northern Lights experience rather than a hectic chase.

Whether you’re visiting Iceland for the first time or are a seasoned traveler eager for a different vantage point, this tour seems ideal for anyone craving a memorable, photo-worthy encounter with the aurora borealis in a cozy, guided setting.

Good To Know

• Ideal location for aurora viewing: 15-30 minutes away from city lights.
• Comfortable boats and warm overalls ensure a cozy experience despite Iceland’s chill.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with knowledge and assistance.
• Photos and videos included help preserve your memories of this magical moment.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, allowing for weather-dependent planning.
• Additional value includes Wi-Fi, an exhibition entry, and a complimentary drink.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Reykjavik Old Harbour, just a quick 5-minute drive or walk from the city center. This strategic location makes it quite accessible whether you’re staying downtown or nearby. The boats used—Rósin or Andrea—are described as luxurious, offering stability and comfort that’ll keep you warm and relaxed during the 2.5-hour adventure.

From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the attentive service and the thoughtful inclusion of warm overalls in children’s sizes, which is great considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The provision of Wi-Fi onboard is a nice touch, especially if you want to share your experience or keep your friends updated during the trip.

The Voyage Out to the Viewing Spot

Within 15-30 minutes, the boat reaches a prime spot away from the city lights—the perfect location to hunt for the Northern Lights. As you leave behind Reykjavik’s skyline, expect to be greeted with stunning views of coastal mountains and the softly glowing city lights reflecting off the water.

Guests mention that the smooth sailing and professional crew make this part of the trip enjoyable. The guides provide commentary about the local landscape and aurora forecasts, helping you understand what to look for and increasing your chances of a sighting.

Aurora Hunting and the Scenic Backdrop

Once in position, the real magic begins. The sky’s display of the Northern Lights is entirely unpredictable, but the advantage of being on the water is that you’re less likely to face obstructed views caused by land formations or light pollution.

The guides keep a close eye on the sky and are quick to inform guests if the lights appear, often taking photos and videos to document the moment. We’ve heard from reviews that guides like Morgan praised the knowledgeable guide and overall well-organized nature of the trip.

Some travelers have experienced nights where no auroras were visible; however, the tour offers a complimentary ticket to try again if the lights don’t show during your scheduled trip. This thoughtful policy shows their confidence in nature’s unpredictability and their commitment to customer satisfaction.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Scenic Return and Additional Highlights

As the tour concludes, you’ll head back toward Reykjavik, with ample opportunities to take in the beautiful coastline and mountain vistas along the way. Many guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to reflect on the experience with fellow travelers.

While the main focus is the Northern Lights, the photos and videos provided act as lasting keepsakes, capturing the natural wonder you may have missed witnessing in person.

Practical Aspects

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with specific start times available depending on the season and weather. It’s wise to check availability before booking, especially during peak Northern Lights season (September to March).

Price and Value

At $102 per person, the trip offers a great balance between comfort, accessibility, and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. Compared to land-based tours, the water offers a more unobstructed view, and the inclusion of warm overalls, Wi-Fi, a Northern Lights video, and a complimentary drink adds significant value.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The success of the tour heavily depends on weather conditions. If weather prevents the trip, guests are contacted, and the tour can be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

This flexibility allows travelers to plan confidently, knowing they won’t lose money if conditions aren’t favorable.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests like Morgan highlight the well-organized nature and praise the guide’s expertise, which makes a big difference in a night of uncertain sky conditions. Another reviewer appreciated the guide’s efforts even when no lights were visible, noting that the bus alternative was offered as a backup, showcasing the provider’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

The stunning views of mountains and city lights, combined with the chance to see the auroras from the water, is often described as magical and something they will never forget.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort and scenic views over a more hurried chase. If you enjoy being on the water, appreciate the chance to photograph the Aurora Borealis, and want a relaxed, guided experience, this trip is a strong choice.

It’s perfect for visitors who want to combine Iceland’s natural beauty with a cozy, social atmosphere—especially those who might feel overwhelmed by land-based northern lights tours or are looking for an added element of adventure.

While it may not guarantee a sighting every night, the tour’s flexible policy and high-quality experience make it a worthwhile investment for most travelers.

Final Words

This Reykjavik Northern Lights boat tour offers a combination of comfort, expert guidance, and scenic beauty that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The chance to spot the auroras from the calm waters of the North Atlantic, with the backdrop of mountains and city lights, makes for a truly memorable experience.

The inclusion of warm overalls, Wi-Fi, photos, and a flexible booking policy add to the overall value, especially given the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights. The small group setting and skilled guides ensure you’re well taken care of, regardless of the night’s natural display.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and photo-friendly Northern Lights adventure, this tour deserves serious consideration. Just remember to check the weather forecast and be prepared for Iceland’s brisk maritime air.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts 2.5 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Reykjavik Old Harbour and returns to the same location.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided tour, warm overalls (including children’s sizes), Wi-Fi, a Northern Lights video, exhibit entry to the Whales of Iceland, and a complimentary drink.

Can I cancel if weather conditions aren’t favorable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if we don’t see the Northern Lights?
If the lights don’t appear during your trip, you will be offered a complimentary ticket to try again on another night.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

How is the experience for children?
Children are welcomed, and warm overalls are available in their size, making it comfortable for young travelers to enjoy the outing.

What should I bring or wear?
Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes. The provided overalls help, but layers are recommended given Iceland’s chill.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and the chance for a memorable Northern Lights encounter. Its balance of comfort, value, and authentic Icelandic adventure makes it a top pick for travelers seeking a special night out on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: