Reykjavik’s whale watching and northern lights combo cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness Iceland’s natural wonders. For 6 hours, adventurers can spot whales in Faxaflói bay before searching the skies for the mesmerizing northern lights. With knowledgeable guides, responsible tourism practices, and an affordable price tag, this tour provides an unforgettable Icelandic experience. What makes this combo cruise so appealing, and why might it be the perfect addition to your Reykjavik itinerary?
Key Points
- A 6-hour combo tour in Reykjavik that includes a 3-hour whale watching cruise and a 2-3 hour northern lights search cruise.
- The tour departs from Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik and is wheelchair accessible.
- Guests have a chance to spot various whale species and witness the captivating northern lights during the two activities.
- Complimentary seasickness tablets, warm flotation overalls, and knowledgeable guides are provided for both the whale watching and northern lights cruises.
- The tour operator follows responsible tourism practices, such as using shared boats, proper waste management, and adhering to wildlife viewing guidelines.
Tour Overview
The tour is called "Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Northern Lights Combo Cruise" and it’s priced from $189.23 per person.
It lasts 6 hours, including 3 hours of whale watching and 2-3 hours of northern lights viewing. The tour departs from Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik and is wheelchair accessible.
Customers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The tour provides informative commentary from experienced guides, complimentary seasickness tablets, and warm flotation overalls.
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Itinerary
The tour begins at the Special Tours office located at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, where customers check in for the experience. After a brief introduction, participants embark on a whale watching cruise in the Faxaflói bay. Over the course of 3 hours, they have the opportunity to spot marine wildlife such as minke whales, humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. Following the whale watching, there is a 5-hour break before the evening northern lights cruise.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Whale Watching | 3 hours |
| Break | 5 hours |
| Northern Lights Search | 2-3 hours |
The northern lights tour takes guests out to sea in search of the elusive aurora borealis, with knowledgeable guides providing commentary throughout the experience.
Whale Watching Experience
After the introductory check-in at the Special Tours office, participants embark on an exhilarating 3-hour whale watching cruise in the Faxaflói bay.
The knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary as the boat navigates the waters, offering the best chances of spotting marine wildlife. Guests can expect to see a variety of whales, including minke whales and humpback whales, as well as harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins.
The scenic views of the surrounding mountains and islands create a breathtaking backdrop for this unforgettable experience. Complimentary seasickness tablets and warm flotation overalls ensure maximum comfort throughout the journey.
Northern Lights Search
Following the 3-hour whale watching cruise, participants embark on a 2-3 hour evening search for the elusive Northern Lights.
Aboard a comfortable boat, guests scan the night sky for the shimmering green, pink, and purple hues of the Aurora Borealis. An experienced guide provides commentary, sharing information about the science behind this natural phenomenon.
With luck, the tour will time the cruise perfectly, allowing guests to witness the captivating light display. Complimentary warm overalls keep everyone cozy as they marvel at the celestial show.
The tour concludes in Reykjavik, capping off an unforgettable day of wildlife and natural wonders.
More Great Tours NearbyGuide and Transportation Quality
According to customer reviews, the tour guides on this Reykjavik whale watching and northern lights cruise receive high praise. Reviewers describe the guides as passionate and informative, providing engaging commentary throughout the excursion.
The transportation also earns excellent ratings, with customers appreciating the comfortable and well-maintained boats. One reviewer mentioned their delight at the guides’ efforts to minimize environmental impact by utilizing shared vessels.
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Value for Money
Based on customer reviews, the Reykjavik whale watching and northern lights cruise appears to deliver reasonable value for the money. At $189.23 per person, the 6-hour experience provides a comprehensive itinerary, including whale watching and the northern lights search. While not the cheapest option, the tour’s quality is reflected in the 4.1/5 value rating. Customers highlight seeing whales and the northern lights as highlights, indicating the activities meet expectations. The provided equipment and informative guides further enhance the experience. The tour seems to strike a balance between affordability and memorable encounters.
| Factors | Rating |
|———|——–|
| Overall | 4.1/5 |
| Price | Fair |
| Value | Good |
What to Expect
The Reykjavik whale watching and northern lights cruise offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Guests can expect:
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Close encounters with majestic whales like minke and humpback in their natural habitat within Faxaflói bay.
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Stunning scenery of the mountains and islands surrounding Reykjavik during the breaks between activities.
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A cozy evening cruise to search for the mesmerizing Northern Lights, complemented by informative commentary from experienced guides.
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Practical amenities like complimentary seasickness tablets and warm flotation overalls to ensure a comfortable journey.
Responsible Tourism Practices
To minimize the environmental impact of its operations, the company conducts the tours on shared boats. This approach reduces the carbon footprint and ensures more efficient resource utilization. Plus, the company has implemented the following responsible tourism practices:
| Practice | Description | Benefit |
| — | — | — |
| Waste Management | Proper disposal and recycling of waste generated during tours. | Reduces environmental pollution. |
| Energy Conservation | Use of energy-efficient equipment and practices on the vessels. | Lowers greenhouse gas emissions. |
| Wildlife Protection | Adherence to guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing. | Ensures the well-being of marine life. |
| Community Engagement | Collaboration with local stakeholders and businesses. | Supports the local economy and promotes sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s generally suitable for all ages, though young children may find the long durations challenging. Guests should consider their child’s interests and ability to sit through the activities.
Are Beverages and Snacks Provided During the Tour?
Beverages and snacks are not provided during the tour. Passengers are responsible for bringing their own refreshments. However, warm flotation overalls are complimentary to help keep guests comfortable throughout the whale watching and northern lights cruise.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s advisable to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or recommendations regarding outside beverages and snacks.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. However, guests can book additional tours or activities separately if they want to extend their time in the area. The standard 6-hour combo tour can’t be lengthened.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point From My Hotel?
The starting point is at Geirsgata 11, the Special Tours office. Guests can easily reach the meeting place by taking a short walk, bus, or taxi from their hotel in downtown Reykjavik. Directions and transportation options are provided upon booking.
The Sum Up
The Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Northern Lights Combo Cruise offers an unforgettable Icelandic adventure. Combining a whale watching tour and Northern Lights search, this 6-hour excursion provides excellent value for money. With knowledgeable guides and a commitment to responsible tourism, it’s a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts seeking a magical experience.
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