Northern Lights Boat Tour Reykjavik - Image 1
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Northern Lights Boat Tour Reykjavik

4.3
·1k reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Chase the magical Northern Lights and encounter whales on an unforgettable boat tour from Reykjavik's harbor.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

September - April evenings

Prime time for aurora sightings

CrowdMedium
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Northern Lights Boat Tour Reykjavik - Image 1

Northern Lights Boat Tour Reykjavik

Best Time

September - April evenings

Prime time for aurora sightings

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Chase the magical Northern Lights and encounter whales on an unforgettable boat tour from Reykjavik's harbor.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"An amazing time with friendly crew, spotting humpback whales and dolphins up close!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Aurora Forecasts

Success depends on clear skies & solar activity. Use aurora forecast apps! :iphone:

Warm Gear is Essential

Tours often provide suits, but layer up! Hats & gloves are a must. :cloud:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Northern Lights Dance

Northern Lights Dance

Off the coast of Reykjavik

Witness the magical aurora borealis paint the night sky with vibrant colors from the unique vantage point of a boat.

Instagram
Whale and Dolphin Sightings

Whale and Dolphin Sightings

Reykjavik's surrounding waters

Encounter majestic humpback whales, playful dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat.

TikTok
Puffin Encounters (Seasonal)

Puffin Encounters (Seasonal)

Near Reykjavik's islands

During summer months, spot charming puffins nesting on nearby islands from the comfort of your vessel.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Aurora

Seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed. While boat tours from Reykjavik offer a chance to escape city light pollution, success depends heavily on solar activity and clear skies. Check aurora forecasts and be prepared for a potential second attempt if the first is unsuccessful. Instagram

Dress for Icelandic Elements

Reykjavik's waters can be chilly and unpredictable. Many boat tours provide warm overalls, but layering is key. Bring waterproof outer layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy, non-slip shoes. TikTok

Best Times

When
September - April evenings
Why
Prime time for aurora sightings
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings/afternoons
Why
Best for puffin and whale watching
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is why I always say, “you need to go whale watching in Iceland”! 🐋🥹 all you need to do is walk down to Reykjavik Harbour, use my code: “ASASTEINARS” for 10% off and book with @specialtours 🚤 and Bammm few hours later you can say hello to the humpbacks 😄 and puffins, and minke whales and dolphins. So yeahhh go do it, ok byeeee 😄 #whalewatching #puffins #humpbackwhales
@asasteinars
159.9K likes • 2.2M views

Check Aurora Forecasts

Success depends on clear skies & solar activity. Use aurora forecast apps! Instagram :iphone:

Warm Gear is Essential

Tours often provide suits, but layer up! Hats & gloves are a must. TikTok :cloud:

Want to see Puffins and Whales in the captial of Iceland? Get 10% off if you book with Special Tours and use the code: “ASASTEINARS” 🐋🐧 #Iceland #puffins #whales
@asasteinars
25.7K likes • 302.7K views
Have you seen the northern lights? This was such a fun experience! I highly recommend booking a boat tour with @specialtours if you want to see them! Getting out of the lights in the city will help you see them so much brighter if they come out 😍 And the tour starts right in the city center and they also offer pick-up service 🙌🏼 (not sponsored) . #northernlights #aurora #auroraborealis #boat #bo...
snaesa
139 likes • 5.4K views

Binoculars Enhance Viewing

Great for spotting distant wildlife, but photos may not do it justice. Reddit :binoculars:

Consider a Second Trip

If lights are faint, some tours offer a free second chance. Instagram :ticket:

Went northern lights hunting by boat with @specialtours in Reykjavik. Did I catch the northern lights? Currently solo traveling in Iceland for my birthday trip. 🇮🇸 Follow for more food, fun, and travel adventures! 💕 #northernlights #northernlightsiceland #icelandtrip #reykjavik #northernlightshunting #visiticeland #solotraveler #solotravelerwoman #boattour #solofemaletraveler #realphdfoodie ...
realphdfoodie
117 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Aurora Forecasts

Success depends on clear skies & solar activity. Use aurora forecast apps! Instagram :iphone:

Warm Gear is Essential

Tours often provide suits, but layer up! Hats & gloves are a must. TikTok :cloud:

Binoculars Enhance Viewing

Great for spotting distant wildlife, but photos may not do it justice. Reddit :binoculars:

Consider a Second Trip

If lights are faint, some tours offer a free second chance. Instagram :ticket:

Book in Advance

Popular tours fill up, especially during peak season. TikTok :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Northern Lights boat tours from Reykjavik for the chance to see the aurora and marine life, with many highlighting the friendly and informative crew. The provision of warm overalls is a significant plus. However, aurora sightings are never guaranteed, and some guests experienced rough seas or found communication with guides difficult.

"Booked a tour and had an amazing time. The staff and crew were friendly and very helpful. They have suits on board for the cold and rain. They also have refreshments. Our guide Celina was was very informative and helped us spot many humpback whales as well as white beak dolphins. We were able to watch the whales feeding and got very close to one as it surfaced right beside the ship. Would definitely recommend for any tour!!"

Brian Proctor

"I did the puffin tour! The Laos up was quick and the bait was nice and cute. Our guide was very knowledgeable about puffins! She was funny and nice! Answered all our questions and knew a lot about what the puffins might do next. Our boat driver was also funny! I really appreciated that they made sure to follow coast guard rules for boating near these amazing animals! They gave us binoculars to use and it was great! Unless you have a really good camera I recommend taking a few photos and then putting your phone away because your photos will not be as good as seeing them in person. You can struggle to put up binoculars in front of your camera lens like I did but wouldn’t recommend lmao. I would say go on this tour! It was great!"

Hailey McCain

"I did the puffin tour and it was a great experience. Although we didn’t get to step foot on the island we got to view them from a close distance. The commentator was very funny and he was very nice. If you’re feeling brave you can sit on the very top of the boat. All in all I recommend this trip for sure."

Cody Roxie234

What People Like

Friendly and helpful crew
Chance to see whales/dolphins
Warm overalls provided

What People Dislike

Aurora not always visible
Rough sea conditions
Guide audio issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Most Northern Lights boat tours depart directly from Reykjavik Harbour. Many companies, like Special Tours, offer convenient pick-up services from your accommodation or nearby designated points within the city center. Instagram It's usually a short walk from most hotels in downtown Reykjavik. TikTok

Yes, there are parking facilities available near Reykjavik Harbour. However, parking can be limited and may incur fees. If you're staying in the city center, walking or using public transport is often more convenient. TikTok

Absolutely. Taxis are readily available in Reykjavik and can take you directly to the harbour. This is a good option if you're on a tighter schedule or prefer direct transport. TikTok

The journey from Reykjavik Harbour to the prime Northern Lights viewing spots typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the tour operator and sea conditions. Reddit

While Reykjavik has a public bus system, it might not be the most direct route to the harbour for all tour departures. Checking local bus routes and schedules is recommended if you plan to use public transport. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online directly from tour operators' websites, such as Special Tours,TikTokInstagram or through various third-party booking platforms. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. TikTok

Prices vary depending on the operator and the type of tour (e.g., standard boat vs. luxury yacht). Expect to pay anywhere from $70 to $150 USD per person. Some tours offer discounts with promo codes. TikTok

The best time to see the Northern Lights is generally from September to April, when the nights are longest and darkest. Instagram However, sightings are never guaranteed. Instagram

Most tours are suitable for all ages, but it's always best to check with the specific tour operator. Children often have reduced fares. TikTok

Many tour operators offer a complimentary second trip if you don't see the aurora on your first attempt, provided you meet certain conditions. Always clarify this policy when booking. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect to sail out of the city to escape light pollution. Guides will share information about the aurora and local folklore. While the primary goal is aurora viewing, you might also spot whales or dolphins. InstagramReddit

Yes, it can get very cold on the water, especially at night. Most tours provide warm, waterproof overalls. It's crucial to wear warm layers underneath, including a hat and gloves. TikTok

Yes, but capturing good photos can be challenging due to low light and boat movement. Tripods are generally not practical on a moving boat. Many recommend enjoying the view with your eyes first. InstagramReddit

Most larger tour boats have restrooms. Some offer refreshments and snacks for purchase, while others may include them in the ticket price. Check with your operator. Reddit

Some tours offer motion sickness medication, but it's best to bring your own if you're prone to seasickness. Avoid heavy meals before the tour and stay hydrated. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Use a wide-angle lens, manual focus set to infinity, and a high ISO (1600-6400). Experiment with shutter speeds from 5-20 seconds. A tripod is ideal but difficult on a boat; try bracing your camera. Instagram

While possible, capturing great shots from a moving boat in low light is challenging. Many visitors find it more rewarding to experience the aurora visually and rely on their phone cameras for casual snaps. Reddit

Keep your camera in its bag until you're on deck. When bringing it inside, let it acclimate slowly to avoid condensation. Wiping with a microfiber cloth is essential. :camerawithflash:

You can capture the ethereal glow and colors of the aurora. Photos might show the vastness of the sky and the silhouette of the boat. Don't expect sharp, detailed shots of the landscape. Instagram

Hold your camera steady by bracing yourself against the boat. Use image stabilization if available. Focus on capturing the movement and colors of the aurora rather than perfect sharpness. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

A Northern Lights boat tour from Reykjavik can be an exciting adventure for families, but consider the age of your children. While many tours welcome kids, the cold and potential for rough seas might be challenging for very young ones. Tours often provide warm overalls, which can make the experience more comfortable. TikTok The chance to see whales and dolphins can be a huge draw for kids, potentially making the aurora secondary. TikTokReddit Ensure the tour operator has a good safety record and offers amenities like restrooms. Booking a daytime whale or puffin tour might be a more relaxed option for younger children if aurora viewing is too much of a gamble. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, a Northern Lights boat tour presents a unique challenge and opportunity. The primary goal is capturing the aurora, which requires manual camera settings, a sturdy tripod (though difficult on a moving boat), and patience. Instagram Many photographers find it rewarding to capture the aurora's glow against the dark sea and the silhouette of the boat. Instagram However, be prepared for the limitations of a moving platform and low light. Some opt for a luxury yacht tour which might offer more stability and better amenities for photographers. Reddit Don't forget to also capture any wildlife sightings – whales and puffins can make for incredible shots! TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While Northern Lights boat tours in Reykjavik can be an investment, there are ways to make them more budget-friendly. Look for tours that offer promo codes or discounts, as seen with Special Tours. TikTok+1 Compare prices across different operators, as they can vary significantly. Opting for a standard boat tour rather than a luxury yacht will also save money. Reddit Remember to factor in the potential for a free second trip if you don't see the lights, which adds value. Instagram Pack your own snacks and drinks if the tour doesn't include them to save on onboard purchases. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Maximizing Your Northern Lights Chances

Seeing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) is a bucket-list experience, but it's inherently unpredictable. Success on a Northern Lights boat tour from Reykjavik hinges on several factors. Firstly, solar activity plays a crucial role; check aurora forecast websites and apps for predictions. Secondly, clear skies are non-negotiable. Clouds will obscure the view entirely. Many tours understand this and offer a complimentary second trip if the aurora doesn't appear on your scheduled night, so inquire about this policy when booking. Instagram

Being out on the water offers a distinct advantage: escaping city light pollution. Reykjavik, like any urban center, emits light that can dim the aurora's visibility. Sailing a few miles offshore significantly enhances your chances of seeing a more vibrant display. Guides on these tours are often knowledgeable about aurora behavior and will point out the best viewing directions. Instagram Remember, patience is key; sometimes the lights appear gradually, other times they burst forth suddenly. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters: Beyond the Aurora

While the Northern Lights boat tour is primarily for aurora hunting, Reykjavik's waters are rich with marine life, offering a fantastic bonus. During the whale watching season, which typically runs from April to October, you have a good chance of spotting humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins. TikTok Guides are skilled at locating these magnificent creatures and will often bring the boat closer for optimal viewing, ensuring they maintain a safe and respectful distance. Reddit

For those visiting during the summer months (roughly May to August), the tours can also become puffin watching excursions. These charming seabirds nest on islands near Reykjavik, and boat tours provide an excellent vantage point to observe them. TikTok Even if the aurora is shy, the possibility of seeing whales breach or puffins dive can make the trip worthwhile. Many tours provide binoculars to enhance your viewing experience. Reddit

Comfort and Preparation for the Cold

Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable, and a boat tour in Reykjavik means facing the elements head-on. While the thrill of seeing the aurora or whales is high, staying warm and comfortable is paramount to enjoying the experience. Most reputable tour operators, like Special Tours, provide warm, waterproof overalls designed for the harsh conditions. TikTok These are essential for staying dry and protected from the wind chill. However, it's crucial to layer effectively underneath. Think thermal base layers, a fleece mid-layer, and warm socks. Don't forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf – extremities lose heat quickly. TikTok

Beyond clothing, consider bringing a waterproof bag for your electronics and valuables. If you are prone to seasickness, consult your doctor about medication and take it before boarding. Some boats offer snacks and hot drinks for purchase, which can be a welcome comfort. Reddit Ultimately, being well-prepared for the cold will allow you to focus on the magic unfolding above and around you, rather than shivering.