Reykjavik: 2-Hour Northern Lights by Boat With Backup Plan

Experiencing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list item for many travelers. This 2-hour boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor offers a chance to witness the stunning auroras up close. With knowledgeable guides, wheelchair accessibility, and a backup plan, the tour ensures an unforgettable evening regardless of weather conditions. But the real question is: what captivating sights and surprises await those who embark on this enchanting journey?

Key Points

• This 2-hour Northern Lights by Boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor starts at $75.99 per person and is conducted in English with wheelchair accessibility.
• The tour offers a backup experience at the Whales of Iceland Museum if the northern lights are not visible, with a guided tour, interactive exhibits, and a Northern Lights photography session.
• Customers can choose the "Reserve now & pay later" option and benefit from a flexible weather policy for tour adjustments.
• The backup experience includes a 25-minute video about marine mammals and a complimentary Northern Lights-themed cocktail.
• The tour has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and the good value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The experience offers a 2-hour Northern Lights by Boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, priced from $75.99 per person.

The tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible. Guests can reserve their spot without immediate payment and receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

If the northern lights aren’t visible due to cloud cover, a backup experience at the Whales of Iceland Museum is provided, including a guided tour, interactive exhibits, and a complimentary Northern Lights-themed cocktail.

Booking and Payment

Guests can reserve their spot for the Northern Lights by Boat tour without immediate payment, securing their place beforehand.

This "reserve now & pay later" option allows travelers to lock in their experience without the need for an upfront booking fee.

Plus, the tour has a flexible weather policy. If the northern lights aren’t visible due to cloud cover, a backup experience at the Whales of Iceland Museum is provided.

This includes a guided tour, interactive exhibits, and a complimentary northern lights-themed cocktail, ensuring guests enjoy an engaging experience regardless of the weather.

Backup Experience

If the northern lights tour is postponed due to poor weather conditions, guests will visit the Whales of Iceland Museum as an alternative activity.

The museum tour includes a guided tour, full-sized whale models, and interactive technology. Guests will also watch a 25-minute video and receive a Northern Lights-themed cocktail.

Plus, a 10-minute Northern Lights photography session is available on-site, providing an opportunity to learn tips and tricks for capturing the elusive aurora.

This backup experience ensures that guests still enjoy an engaging and educational activity, even if the original northern lights tour is canceled.

Tour Highlights

Experienced guides share scientific facts, stories, and myths about the northern lights as the boat sails into Faxaflói Bay, the ideal viewing location.

The tour highlights include:

1. A guided tour led by knowledgeable experts who provide insights into the mesmerizing aurora borealis.

2. Sailing to Faxaflói Bay, a prime spot for optimal northern lights viewing, ensuring guests have the best chance of witnessing the ethereal display.

3. A private tour option at the Whales of Iceland Museum if weather conditions prevent outdoor viewing, complete with a photography workshop and a complimentary Northern Lights-themed cocktail.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Feedback

According to reviews, travelers were generally pleased with their experience on the Northern Lights by Boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. The tour received an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 49 reviews.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable guides, who shared scientific facts, stories, and myths about the northern lights. The transportation was also well-received, with a 4.3 out of 5 rating.

Customers felt the tour offered good value for money, rating it 4 out of 5. Even when the northern lights weren’t visible due to weather, travelers enjoyed the backup plan, which included a visit to the Whales of Iceland Museum and a photography workshop.

Exploring the Northern Lights

Although the northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that can be elusive, the 2-hour Northern Lights by Boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor offers an opportunity to witness this captivating display.

The tour’s highlights include:

1. Sailing into Faxaflói Bay for optimal viewing conditions.

2. An expert guide sharing scientific facts, stories, and myths about the northern lights.

3. A backup plan that provides a guided tour of the Whales of Iceland Museum, a photography workshop, and a complimentary Northern Lights-themed cocktail.

This tour ensures a memorable experience, even if the northern lights remain hidden.

The Whales of Iceland Museum

If the northern lights tour is postponed, guests will visit the Whales of Iceland Museum.

The museum offers a guided tour, showcasing full-sized whale models and interactive technology. Visitors can watch a 25-minute video providing insights into the marine mammals.

Visitors can explore the museum’s guided tour, which showcases full-sized whale models and interactive technology, along with a 25-minute video about marine mammals.

Plus, a 10-minute Northern Lights photography session is available on-site, and guests receive a complimentary Northern Lights-themed cocktail.

The museum experience serves as an engaging backup plan, allowing visitors to learn about Iceland’s remarkable whales and enjoy interactive elements, even if the northern lights aren’t visible during their tour.

Photography Workshop

As part of the backup experience, a 10-minute Northern Lights photography session is available on-site at the Whales of Iceland Museum.

This interactive workshop offers guests the opportunity to:

1. Learn tips and techniques from a professional photographer for capturing the ethereal Aurora Borealis.

2. Experiment with camera settings and compositions to produce stunning Northern Lights photographs.

3. Receive personalized guidance and feedback to enhance their photography skills.

The complimentary session provides a unique and memorable experience, ensuring guests leave with more than just cherished memories from their tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear for the Boat Tour?

For the boat tour, it’s best to dress warmly in layers. Wear thermal base layers, a warm jacket, and waterproof outerwear. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and comfortable, non-slip shoes to stay cozy and prepared for the elements.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though parental supervision is advised for younger participants. This boat tour is suitable for families with children.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the boat tour. However, the tour operator does not provide any eating or drinking amenities, so guests must bring their own supplies.

How Many People Are Typically on the Boat Tour?

The boat tour typically accommodates small groups, with an average of 20-30 passengers. Group sizes may vary based on demand and the size of the boat used for the excursion.

Is There a Way to Track the Northern Lights Forecast?

The northern lights forecast can be tracked through several online resources, such as the Icelandic Met Office or Aurora Forecast, which provide real-time updates on predicted aurora activity and visibility conditions.

The Sum Up

This boat tour offers an unforgettable Northern Lights experience from Reykjavik’s harbor. With knowledgeable guides, a backup museum visit, and a Northern Lights-themed cocktail, it ensures an engaging evening no matter the weather. At just $75.99 per person, it’s a unique and affordable way to witness the breathtaking natural spectacle of the auroras.

You can check availability for your dates here: