Reykjavík: Northern Lights Cruise

Soar into the celestial realm with Reykjavík's Northern Lights Cruise, an enchanting journey that unveils the captivating dance of the Aurora Borealis. But what else can this cruise offer?

Reykjavik’s Northern Lights Cruise is a captivating opportunity to witness the ethereal dance of the Aurora Borealis. Departing from the city’s harbor, this 2.5-hour excursion takes travelers into the heart of Faxaflói Bay, where the celestial display unfolds against the backdrop of the Icelandic capital’s skyline. With a flexible booking policy and a sighting guarantee, this experience caters to adventurers seeking to enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of nature’s light show. But the real question remains – what else can this cruise offer?

Key Points

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  • 2.5-hour Northern Lights Cruise departing from Reykjavík Old Harbour, offering views of the Aurora Borealis and the city’s skyline.
  • Live English-speaking guide, warm overalls, blankets, and refreshments provided to enhance the cruise experience.
  • Flexible booking option with no upfront payment, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a sighting guarantee.
  • Heated lounge and viewing platform on the cruise ship for optimal visibility of the Northern Lights.
  • Tips for capturing the best photographs of the Aurora Borealis, including using a tripod and adjusting camera settings.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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This 2.5-hour Northern Lights Cruise in Reykjavík allows visitors to admire the ethereal Aurora Borealis and the city’s illuminated skyline.

The cruise departs from Reykjavík Old Harbour in Faxaflói Bay and features a live English-speaking guide. Guests will be provided with warm overalls, raincoats, blankets, and refreshments to stay comfortable during the excursion.

Departs from Reykjavík Old Harbour, with a live English-speaking guide and warm attire to ensure comfort during the Northern Lights viewing excursion.

The experience includes an informative talk before boarding, as well as time-lapse videos and information boards to enhance the journey.

The cruise offers a viewing platform for optimal visibility of the Northern Lights, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Booking Information

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Travelers can reserve their Northern Lights Cruise in Reykjavík with a flexible booking option – no upfront payment is required.

This tour also offers:

  • Free Cancellation: Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

  • Sighting Guarantee: If the Northern Lights aren’t seen, guests can rebook the tour for free.

  • No Risk Reservation: By allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later, there’s no financial commitment until the day of the tour.

This booking flexibility and risk-free policy provide peace of mind for those interested in this unique Reykjavík experience.

Experience Highlights

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The Northern Lights Cruise in Reykjavík offers travelers the opportunity to admire the ethereal Aurora Borealis and the city’s illuminated skyline. Before boarding, guests receive an informative talk and can view time-lapse videos and information boards to learn more. Once on the heated lounge, they’ll have access to a viewing platform for optimal visibility. The cruise experience features:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Live English-speaking Guide | Provides insights throughout the tour |

| Warm Overalls & Blankets | Keeps guests comfortable in the open air |

| Refreshments | Available on board |

| Viewing Platform | Offers unobstructed views of the sky |

Customer Reviews and Ratings

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With a mixed bag of experiences, the Northern Lights Cruise in Reykjavík has garnered an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 99 reviews.

While the tour guide received a solid 4/5 rating, the transportation was praised with a 4.7/5 score. The value for money was also well-received, earning a 4/5 rating.

However, some guests expressed disappointment at not seeing the Northern Lights, though they appreciated the crew’s support and the overall experience.

The unpredictable nature of the natural phenomenon poses challenges, particularly for those focused on photography from the moving boat.

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Nature’s Unpredictability

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Because the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, their appearance can’t be guaranteed. Weather conditions, cloud cover, and solar activity all play a role in their visibility.

While the tour operators do their best to increase the chances of seeing the lights, guests should be prepared that the lights may not appear as desired.

Tour operators work hard to maximize aurora sightings, but guests should be prepared the lights may not appear as hoped.

Despite this, the cruise offers a unique experience to admire Reykjavík’s illuminated skyline and enjoy the cozy onboard amenities.

While photographing the lights from a moving boat can be challenging, the crew provides useful tips to maximize the chances of capturing the elusive aurora.

Photography Tips

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Capturing the elusive Northern Lights from a moving boat can prove challenging. While the swaying vessel and distant lights may create a mesmerizing scene, it can be difficult to capture the Aurora’s intricate dance on camera.

Here are some photography tips to keep in mind:

  • Tripod or stabilizer is essential to avoid blurry shots

  • Use a wider aperture and slower shutter speed to let in more light

  • Adjust ISO settings for the best balance between noise and exposure

Ultimately, focusing on the experience rather than the perfect photograph may lead to a more fulfilling and memorable Northern Lights cruise.

Meeting Point

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The Elding Whale Watching boat, located at Ægisgarður 5 in 101 Reykjavík, serves as the designated meeting point for the Northern Lights cruise.

Guests should arrive at the meeting point at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to check-in and ensure a smooth start to the excursion.

The boat provides a convenient and easily accessible location for participants to gather before embarking on their Northern Lights adventure.

Arriving promptly allows ample time to get settled and prepare for the 2.5-hour cruise in Faxaflói Bay.

What to Expect

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Guests can expect an immersive Northern Lights experience aboard the comfortable and well-equipped Elding Whale Watching boat. The journey provides:

  • An informative talk before boarding, giving guests insights into the natural phenomenon and tips for spotting the elusive lights.

  • A heated lounge and outdoor viewing platform, ensuring comfort and optimal visibility during the cruise.

  • Time-lapse videos and information boards that enhance the educational aspect of the experience, allowing guests to deepen their understanding of the Northern Lights.

Despite the unpredictability of nature, the crew is committed to supporting guests and offering a memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on board. The tour provides warm overalls, raincoats, blankets, and refreshments as part of the experience.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

There’s no age limit for the Northern Lights cruise. Children of all ages are welcome, though parents should ensure their kids are properly dressed for the weather conditions. The tour’s heated lounge and blankets make it suitable for families.

How Warm Are the Overalls and Raincoats Provided?

The overalls and raincoats provided are designed to keep guests warm and dry. They’re well-insulated and weatherproof, ensuring a comfortable experience even in Iceland’s chilly conditions during the Northern Lights cruise.

Can I Leave the Boat During the Cruise?

Passengers cannot leave the boat during the cruise. The Northern Lights Cruise is a closed excursion, and guests are expected to remain on board for the duration of the 2.5-hour tour. Disembarking is not permitted.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities on the Boat?

Yes, the boat has restroom facilities available for passengers to use during the cruise. Guests can access the onboard restrooms as needed throughout the 2.5-hour excursion for their comfort and convenience.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavík Northern Lights Cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis against the backdrop of the city’s skyline. With a flexible booking policy, comfortable amenities, and an expert guide, it’s a risk-free way to experience one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour is a must-do in Reykjavík.

You can check availability for your dates here: