Northern Lights by Boat with a Backup Plan from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

Northern Lights by Boat with a Backup Plan from Reykjavik

Active

(50 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour for an evening chasing the beautiful northern lights. Your expert guide will tell you all about the science behind the lights, share stories & legends and answer all of your questions about this fantastic natural phenomenon.

Northern Lights are dependent on correct weather conditions, so whenever the forecast does not look good we have an alternative activity planned for you! Join us at the Whales of Iceland Exhibition where you will join a guided tour, watch a northern lights video, enjoy a welcome drink and have a Q&A session with your guide. This alternative option always begins at 21:00.

Please note that it's never guaranteed the lights will appear on the tour. If you don't see them, you will receive a ticket to try again. Once you join the boat tour, your ticket has been fully utilized and cannot be used to enter the exhibition.

Please note that this tour is non-refundable, as an adventure is guaranteed regardless of weather conditions.

Available options

Reykjavik: 2 Hour Northern Lights Boat Tour

Backup plan

What's included

As part of the back-up plan, a short Northern Lights photography workshop at Whales of Iceland

Alternative activity: entry, Northern Lights drink, short film & guided tour of Whales of Iceland

Pictures taken on every boat tour, available to download free of charge

Guaranteed alternative activity if the weather is not suitable for northern lights

Use of warm overalls, free wi-fi, restrooms & snack bar on board the Northern Lights boat tour

Free ticket to join the boat tour on the next available date if conditions are not suitable to sail

Detailed itinerary

Join our Northern Lights by Boat tour, sailing out into Faxaflói Bay to search for the beautiful aurora borealis. If conditions are not suitable to see the northern lights you are automatically signed up for an alternative activity

What's not included

Food and drink is not included but can be purchased on board

Hotel transfers are not included but can be added for an additional cost directly with supplier.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please check in at the Special Tours ticket office to exchange your voucher for the boarding pass.

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits