
Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik
Traveler rating
4.3/5
Based on 76 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik worth booking?
Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik is a 2-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $86 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 76 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 4.3/5 (76)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $86 per person
Hunting the northern lights on the North Atlantic Ocean is an amazing experience. Sailing away from the coastline of Reykjavik, and seeing the Aurora Borealis out on the water, with beautiful, snow-capped mountains in the distance is something to remember forever. Please check-in at our sales office at Aegisgardur 5b, 101 Reykjavík (Sea Trips Reykjavik) at the old harbor 30 minutes before departure. Please note The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and unpredictable, so remember to bring patience and optimism with you. If the northern lights are not seen on your tour, we do not offer refunds, but instead, give our passengers a complimentary ticket to use another day. Weather is a big factor for the tour, and we may have to cancel the tour.
What you get
About this experience
Hunting the northern lights on the North Atlantic Ocean is an amazing experience. Sailing away from the coastline of Reykjavik, and seeing the Aurora Borealis out on the water, with beautiful, snow-capped mountains in the distance is something to remember forever. Please check-in at our sales office at Aegisgardur 5b, 101 Reykjavík (Sea Trips Reykjavik) at the old harbor 30 minutes before departure. Please note The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and unpredictable, so remember to bring patience and optimism with you. If the northern lights are not seen on your tour, we do not offer refunds, but instead, give our passengers a complimentary ticket to use another day. Weather is a big factor for the tour, and we may have to cancel the tour.
What's included
Included
- Panoramic views
- On-board WiFi
- All Fees and Taxes
- Drinks and snacks are available for purchase
- Professional guides
- Spacious observation decks
- On-board restrooms
What you'll see and do
Old Harbour
The ship sets sails from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and during your journey, you’ll sail among the small islands in the Faxaflói Bay, as well as along the coast of Reykjavík, providing you with a fantastic view of the city as you search for the wildlife in the water. The most common sights are minke and humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. However, there is always a chance to spot a few orcas (also known as killer whales) as well as a wealth of other species. The professional team onboard is very experienced in spotting whales and is dedicated to making sure their passengers leave with a smile!
Pass by without stopping
Faxafloi bay is situated on its southern shore. From Reykjavik it is possible to see the peninsula of Akranes in the northeast and even the Snæfellsjökull at a distance of about 120 km (75 mi). This bay has few islands and the ones it does have are close to land, in particular contrast to the bay directly north of it, Breiðafjörður, which has the most islands of any bay in Iceland.
Pass by without stopping
Reykjavik
Reykjavik, on the coast of Iceland, is a unique and colorful city that will make you want to take a picture in the evening.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Reykjavik
We are located at the Reykjavík Old Harbour close to the city's center. It is the main port of departure for whale watching and northern lights tours. *Please arrive at the meeting point 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 50 minutes before departure.
Ends at
We are located at the Reykjavík Old Harbour close to the city's center. It is the main port of departure for whale watching and northern lights tours. *Please arrive at the meeting point 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
Options you can book
Northern Lights by Boat
Northern Lights Boat Cruise + Reykjavík Pickup & Drop-Off
Reykjavík Pickup & Drop-Off: Includes pickup and drop-off at eligible central Reykjavík hotels and official bus stops. A pickup location is required.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Iceland Discover
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 73 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
73 verified traveler reviews for Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Icelandic wonders
The tour was amazing. The boat was gorgeous and the host/tour guide was spectacular. 10/10. Highly recommend. We were lucky enough to catch the northern lights
via Viator
Excellent
Excellent but remember to wrap up warm!
via Tripadvisor
Great way to see Northern Lights!
This was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Iceland! Seeing the Northern Lights from the boat was an unforgettable experience. The views were absolutely breathtaking, and being out on the water under the night sky made it feel even more magical. 💚💙 The crew was friendly, helpful, and made the entire experience enjoyable and relaxing. We were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, and it was something I’ll never forget! If you’re visiting Iceland, I highly recommend taking a Northern Lights boat tour. It’s an incredible way to experience this natural wonder!
via Viator
Northern lights
Comfortable ship Went into whale fjord and waited a while We were lucky enough to see plenty as it was a clear night
via Tripadvisor
Disappointed
There is a good chance that you won’t see anything. Cruise should have been canceled as they were pretty sure we wouldn’t see anything as it was totally cloud covered. Would not waste my money Again on this
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $86 to $113
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 27
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Iceland Discover, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.6.
See everything Iceland Discover runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.
How much does Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik cost?
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Prices start at $86 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.
Is Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 76 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik?
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Around 27 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?
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On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Reykjavik?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik?
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Included: Panoramic views; On-board WiFi; All Fees and Taxes; Drinks and snacks are available for purchase; and Professional guides. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 84 listed pickup locations in and around Reykjavik. Be ready about 50 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik?
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Across 76 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, the guide. The views and photo stops come up again and again.
What booking options are available for Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Northern Lights by Boat, Northern Lights Boat Cruise + Reykjavík Pickup & Drop-Off. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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