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Sail out from Reykjavík Harbor on this Northern Lights boat tour to observe the aurora borealis dance above the ocean waves!
The boat deck makes for a refreshing and romantic atmosphere to watch the natural light show. Our expert guides on board are knowledgeable about all things aurora borealis and are on hand to answer any questions, alongside our very own Northern Lights video inside. We do everything we can to make your time on board the vessel comfortable, complete with overalls should you get cold, and a cozy café to buy warming drinks.
The Northern Lights in Iceland are a phenomenon simply out of this world. Out on the waves in the North Atlantic, you’ll have a chance to spy on the aurora borealis as it dances its timeless dance. Spirit yourself away from the hustle and bustle of Reykjavík and wrap yourself in the darkness of the open ocean. With our experts on board, the second the lights are visible we’ll point them out and allow plenty of time to fully enjoy nature’s best light show. Leave the world behind and join us for a spellbound night of supernatural wonders.
Our Northern Lights tour by boat starts in a charming part of the capital, Reykjavík’s Old Harbor, also called the Downtown Harbor. After setting off from the harbor, our expert sea crew will take you across those bracing North Atlantic waves to a place far enough away from the light pollution of Reykjavík. This involves a 15-20 minute cruise away from land, during which you can enjoy the lights of the city disappearing from the water. While we can’t guarantee a Northern Lights viewing, we are constantly monitoring the aurora and cloud forecasts to make sure we go to the best place optimal for viewing.
Your experienced onboard guide can explain the science behind the phenomena you are trying to spot, as well as folk tales from Icelandic history, during your time on the water.
We also show our own specially made video in the ship café/bar. This is packed full of folklore, fun facts, and, of course, magnificent northern lights photography. We offer overalls to keep you comfortable on deck while you’re waiting for the lights to appear. There is also our cozy bar/café, video show, and souvenir shop to keep you entertained if you want to be in the warm for a while. As soon as those colors begin to appear, rest assured we’ll fetch you!
The Northern Lights are a truly spectacular and unforgettable experience. You’ll never forget that magic moment when they first appear above the water. They usually shimmer softly at first before breaking out into more vibrant swirls of color rippling across the sky. Whether they’re delicate or dramatic, they’re always special to behold. The Northern Lights typically appear in hues of green and yellow, with blue, violet, and rose coming in a close second. As for the rarer reds, though still elusive, you’re more likely to observe these in Iceland than in any other country. So rest assured, you’re in good hands here!
While you’re waiting for the lights to appear, the boat crew will explain the science behind the majestic and magical aurora borealis. Your guide will also tell you all about some fascinating Northern Lights myths, stories, and legends from cultures around the world.
Northern Lights are formed by certain reactions when particles emitted by the sun collide with the Earth's atmosphere. These particles are transported by the solar wind to those areas around the north and south poles. We do our utmost, but due to the nature of the phenomenon, we can’t guarantee the Northern Lights will appear.
Your chances of seeing the aurora borealis above Reykjavík depend on weather conditions and some good luck. Two unique factors will be the driving force behind the possibility. The first is the weather over the city: If there is heavy cloud cover, it goes without saying that your chances of seeing the lights are obscured. Light pollution can also play a factor here, even when the sky is clear. The second factor is solar activity: When this is high, your chances are also high. These two things will have to be favorable at the same time for you to be able to witness the Northern Lights from Reykjavík.
We can never guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights. If you do not see them, we will offer you a free tour, but please note that you must contact us to re-book this. We cannot promise to offer you a second tour on the next night because this is dependent upon places being available.
Because Northern Lights boat tours are reliant upon suitable weather and aurora forecasts, they are sometimes canceled. Your tour may be canceled up to 18:15 on the day of departure. When this happens, your payment is refunded in full.
For more information on the Northern Lights, please have a look at our Northern Lights information.
The Northern Lights season is said to be from late August until mid-April. However, if you want to increase your chances of seeing them, it is best to wait until the colder winter months, from mid-September until March.
