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Find your best Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise match here
Your Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise boarding points explained
Reykjavik Old Harbour
Ægisgarður Pier (Yacht departures)
Address: Ægisgarður 5, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland | Find on map
Getting there:
- By foot: 10-minute walk from downtown Reykjavik or Harpa Concert Hall.
- By bus: Routes 1, 3, 6, and 14 stop at Harpa or Tryggvagata.
- By taxi/car: Located off Geirsgata Street; parking is available beside the harbour.
Famous for: Bustling marina with views of Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay. Surrounded by cafés, whale-watching terminals, and souvenir shops, perfect for a pre- or post-cruise stroll.
Address: Ægisgarður 9, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland | Find on map
Getting there:
- By foot: A 12-minute walk from central Reykjavik or 5 minutes from the Old Harbour parking lot.
- By bus: Closest stops at Harpa or Grandi, served by routes 1, 6, and 14.
- By taxi/car: Easily reached via Fiskislóð; limited free parking at the pier.
Famous for: Sleek yacht departures offering a quieter, more exclusive setting. Great for evening photos of the lit-up skyline and nearby Harpa’s shimmering glass façade.
Plan your Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise experience
Timings
Facilities
Accessibility
Tips & guidelines
General timings:
Northern Lights cruises from Reykjavik usually depart between 9pm and 10pm, depending on the season and aurora forecast. Boarding typically starts 30 minutes before departure at the Old Harbour or Ægisgarður Pier.
- Heated indoor lounges with panoramic windows for warmth and comfort
- Open-air viewing decks ideal for photography and stargazing but definitely colder
- Thermal overalls and life jackets provided onboard
- Professional crew and experienced local guide offering aurora insights
- Restrooms available on all vessels
- Bar/café service with hot drinks and light snacks on select cruises
- Wi-Fi on premium yachts for live aurora updates
- Large sightseeing boats and yachts are generally accessible for guests with limited mobility, featuring wide gangways and assistance from crew members.
- Smaller vessels may require steps to board.
- Guests with wheelchairs or strollers should contact operators in advance for support and preferred boarding times.
- Dress in layers: Even with overalls, nights at sea can be freezing, bring gloves, scarves, and a warm hat.
- Arrive early: Check in at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for safety briefings and suit-up.
- Photography tip: Use a tripod or night mode for clear aurora shots; avoid flash.
- Aurora visibility is weather-dependent: Tours may be rescheduled or refunded if conditions are poor.
- Upgrade option: Some yacht cruises include welcome drinks, smaller groups, and private deck space for a more exclusive experience.
Frequently asked questions about Reykjavik Northern Lights cruises
How long does a standard Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise last?
Most cruises last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on weather and visibility. Extended tours may sail longer if aurora conditions are favorable.
Can I book last-minute?
Yes, last-minute tickets are often available, but evening departures during aurora season (Sept–April) fill up fast. It’s best to book 1–2 days in advance.
What’s the difference between sightseeing and Northern Lights cruises?
Sightseeing cruises run during daylight for coastal views; Northern Lights cruises sail at night and focus on aurora viewing with onboard commentary and warm overalls.
How helpful is the live commentary onboard?
Very. Guides share aurora science, folklore, and photography tips, making the experience both educational and immersive, especially for first-time visitors.
Is seating assigned or first-come-first-served?
Most cruises follow a first-come-first-served system, but premium or VIP yacht options may offer reserved indoor seating with better views.
What happens if the Northern Lights aren’t visible?
If the aurora doesn’t appear, most operators offer a free rebooking or return voucher, valid for another departure during your stay.