Northern Lights Boat Tour

A Northern Lights boat tour offers an extraordinary experience—gliding across serene Arctic waters beneath a canvas of stars, awaiting nature’s most spectacular light show. As the boat ventures further from the city, the darkness deepens, amplifying the brilliance of the Aurora Borealis as it dances across the sky in waves of green, purple, and pink. 

With expert guides on board to share insights into the science and legends behind the lights, this journey offers stunning visuals and a sense of connection to the natural world. The vessel has cozy blankets and a warm indoor area to keep guests comfortable waiting for the lights.

Perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable night on the water, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime. Book your spot now to reserve your place in one of nature’s most thrilling spectacles.

Tour Highlights

• Witness the Northern Lights from the boat under a starlit Arctic sky.
• Enjoy views of the Reykjavik skyline as you leave city lights behind.
• Marvel at vibrant Aurora colors with insights from expert guides.
• Experience a Northern Lights multimedia show on board.
• Relax with cozy blankets and a warm indoor area for a memorable night.

What’s Included

• Two-hour Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik's Old Harbour.
• Insightful guides sharing Northern Lights knowledge.
• 10-minute Northern Lights multimedia show.
• Heated indoor lounge with restrooms.
• Convenient departure from Ægisgarður pier in the Old Harbour.
• Optional hotel or guesthouse pick-up.

What’s Not Included

• Meals and beverages (available for purchase onboard)
• Personal warm clothing (recommended to dress warmly)
• Gratuities for guides and crew (optional)
• Travel Insurance
• Hotel drop-off after the tour

Tour Itinerary

Check-In and Pre-Tour Briefing

Duration: 15 minutes

Begin your evening at the Whale Watching Centre, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. After a brief introduction, enjoy a 10-minute multimedia show about the Northern Lights, which will provide background and build excitement for the night ahead.

Departure and Scenic Cruise

Duration: Approximately two hours

Board the boat and set sail from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, leaving the city lights behind. The open-top viewing decks offer prime spots for witnessing the Northern Lights, while the gentle glide over Arctic waters adds to the tranquility of the experience.

Northern Lights Viewing

Duration: Varies based on Aurora activity

As darkness deepens, enjoy unobstructed views of the Aurora Borealis. Expert guides share insights into the science and folklore surrounding the lights and are on hand to answer questions, making this a captivating experience. Waves of green, purple, and pink light up the sky as you witness this awe-inspiring natural display.

Indoor Lounge and Breaks

Duration: As needed throughout the tour\

Take breaks in the heated indoor lounge, where you can warm up with cozy blankets and enjoy a relaxed setting between sightings. This comfortable space allows you to recharge as you wait for more Aurora appearances.

Return to Reykjavik

After an unforgettable evening of Northern Lights sightings, the boat returns to Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, marking the end of the tour. If conditions are unfavorable for viewing, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to rejoin the tour on another night.

Accessibility 

• Wheelchair accessible for guests with mobility needs.
• Special assistance is available on request.
• Heated indoor lounge with restrooms for comfort.
• Guides provide insights and answer questions.

Important Information

• Dress in warm, layered clothing and wear sturdy shoes to ensure comfort and safety while navigating the deck in cold conditions.
• Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Aurora Borealis, and consider packing snacks and drinks, as refreshments may not be available onboard.
• The Northern Lights Cruise departs from Ægisgarður pier in the Old Harbour, where the Elding Adventure at Sea ticket office is located.
• Passengers not opting for hotel or guest house pick-up must arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
• If no Northern Lights are visible during the tour, guests will receive a complimentary ticket for free to join the tour again.
• Our partners operate this tour.
• The tour may be canceled due to weather or sea conditions.
• Restrooms are available on board.

Additional Information 

• Tours are subject to favorable weather conditions; sightings of the Northern Lights are not guaranteed. We may cancel the tour if conditions are unfavorable. See our terms and conditions for details.
• If the boat tour is canceled but Aurora conditions are favorable, we will provide a bus tour and allow you to join the boat tour the next available day, even if you see the lights on the bus.
• Join either tour and do not see the Northern Lights. You will receive a complimentary ticket for the next available tour, valid indefinitely for your next visit to Iceland!

Meeting Points

• Departure Location: The Northern Lights Cruise departs from Ægisgarður pier in Reykjavik's Old Harbour at the Elding Adventure at Sea ticket office.
• Arrival Time: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure if not using hotel pick-up.
• Hotel Pick-Up: Hotel or guest house pick-up services are available for added convenience.

Note: The tour may be canceled due to weather and sea conditions.

Cancellation Policy

To receive a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What causes the northern lights?

Ans: The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are caused by interactions between the Earth's atmosphere and charged particles from the sun. These collisions emit light, visible in polar regions, and can vary in color and intensity based on the type of gas involved and the level of solar activity.

Q: Is Iceland a good place to see the northern lights?

Ans: Yes, Iceland is one of the best locations to view the northern lights due to its high latitude, minimal light pollution, and long, dark winters. The optimal months for aurora viewing are from October to March, when the nights are the longest.

Q: When is the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland?

Ans: The northern lights can be seen in Iceland from September to April, with the peak season from mid-September to mid-April. The chances are higher during these months due to the extended hours of darkness and frequent clear skies.

Q: What should I wear on a Northern Lights tour in Iceland?

Ans: Dressing warmly is crucial due to the cold, often windy conditions. To stay comfortable while waiting for the lights to appear, it's recommended to wear thermal layers, a windproof jacket, insulated pants, warm boots, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves.

Q: What are the chances of seeing the northern lights on a tour in Iceland?

Ans: While the appearance of the northern lights can never be guaranteed due to their unpredictable nature, the likelihood increases with proper planning around real-time solar activity and weather forecasts. Many tour operators offer repeat tours free of charge if the lights are not visible on the initial outing.