English
EUR
Language
Currency
English
English

Reykjavik Northern Lights Cruises

4.6(4,815)
Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
Yacht cruising on open water during Northern Lights tour.
Northern lights over ocean from yacht deck during Northern Lights Yacht Cruise.
Interior of a yacht with wooden decor and seating, Northern Lights cruise.
Northern lights over yacht deck on Northern Lights Yacht Cruise.
Bar setup with drinks and bartender on Northern Lights Yacht cruise.
Northern lights over a mountain landscape with a lake in the foreground.
Yacht cruising on open water during Northern Lights tour.
Northern lights over ocean from yacht deck during Northern Lights Yacht Cruise.
Interior of a yacht with wooden decor and seating, Northern Lights cruise.
Northern lights over yacht deck on Northern Lights Yacht Cruise.
Bar setup with drinks and bartender on Northern Lights Yacht cruise.
Northern lights over a mountain landscape with a lake in the foreground.
Yacht cruising on open water during Northern Lights tour.
Northern lights over ocean from yacht deck during Northern Lights Yacht Cruise.
Interior of a yacht with wooden decor and seating, Northern Lights cruise.
Northern lights over yacht deck on Northern Lights Yacht Cruise.
Bar setup with drinks and bartender on Northern Lights Yacht cruise.
Northern lights over a mountain landscape with a lake in the foreground.
4(109)

From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Yacht Cruise

from
€87.17
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERYacht

1 Boarding point

Sea Trips Reykjavík Office

Get direction

Sights covered

Harpa Concert Hall

Harpa Concert Hall

Esjan Mountain Range

Esjan Mountain Range

Viðey Island

Viðey Island

Mount Akrafjall

Mount Akrafjall

Sail from Reykjavík for the best chance to see the Northern Lights away from city lights.

  • Starting point: Old Harbour House, Aegisgardur 2, 101 Reykjavík
  • Everything you get: 1.5 to 2.5-hour yacht cruise with triple observation decks, panoramic views, warm indoor seating, professional English-speaking guides, cozy blankets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restroom, designed for comfort as you chase the aurora.
  • Sights covered: Reykjavík’s illuminated coastline, the vast North Atlantic, and, on clear nights, the magical Aurora Borealis dancing overhead.
  • Why choose this: Escape city glare for the best aurora viewing on a stylish yacht, with expert guides and plenty of warm comforts.

Sail from Reykjavík for the best chance to see the Northern Lights away from city lights.

  • Starting point: Old Harbour House, Aegisgardur 2, 101 Reykjavík
  • Everything you get: 1.5 to 2.5-hour yacht cruise with triple observation decks, panoramic views, warm indoor seating, professional English-speaking guides, cozy blankets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restroom, designed for comfort as you chase the aurora.
  • Sights covered: Reykjavík’s illuminated coastline, the vast North Atlantic, and, on clear nights, the magical Aurora Borealis dancing overhead.
  • Why choose this: Escape city glare for the best aurora viewing on a stylish yacht, with expert guides and plenty of warm comforts.

Inclusions

  • 1.5 to 2.5-hour yacht cruise
  • Professional guides
  • Access to triple observation deck
  • Access to warm indoor sitting area onboard
  • Warm blankets
  • Free Wi-Fi

Exclusions

  • Drinks and snacks (available for purchase)

What to bring

  • Bring along comfortable shoes, warm clothing and your camera.

Additional information

  • Facilities: Restroom on board
  • Note: No refunds for no sightings, but you’ll get a free rebooking or a voucher valid for 3 years (subject to availability).
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Northern Lights Tours in ReykjavikReykjavik Northern Lights Cruises

What to expect on your Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise

1/6

Smooth boarding from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour

Begin your evening at the scenic Ægisgarður pier in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. Friendly crew assist with check-in and boarding before you step onto a cozy, well-equipped vessel designed for night cruises.

Comfortable indoor lounges and open decks

Settle into heated indoor cabins or head out to the open deck for crisp Arctic air and panoramic views. Blankets, refreshments, and stable sailing make the journey relaxed and enjoyable.

Stunning coastal and skyline views

Sail away from city lights across Faxaflói Bay, watching Reykjavik’s illuminated skyline fade behind you. The calm waters and vast horizon create perfect conditions for aurora viewing and photography.

Expert guidance and onboard facilities

 Knowledgeable guides share real-time aurora forecasts, folklore, and photography tips. Enjoy access to restrooms, refreshments, and warm beverages throughout the journey for a comfortable night at sea.

The Northern Lights spectacle

When conditions align, the sky dances with green, purple, and red auroras mirrored in the water below, an unforgettable sight framed by Iceland’s dark winter skies and mountain silhouettes.

Added experiences on select cruises

Some sailings include live music, cozy upper-deck seating, or combo upgrades with visits to the Aurora Reykjavik Center for a deeper look into the science and magic of the Northern Lights.

Things to know before booking a Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise

  • Best time to book: Northern Lights cruises run from September to April, with peak viewing between November and February. Departures often sell out 3–5 days in advance during clear-sky forecasts, especially weekends, so book your tickets ahead to secure your preferred date and time.
  • Cruise types available: Choose between a classic sightseeing cruise aboard a spacious vessel and a luxury yacht experience offering smaller groups, extra comfort, and a more intimate aurora-viewing setting.
  • Route and duration: Both cruises depart from Ægisgarður pier in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and sail across Faxaflói Bay for about 2–3 hours, venturing into darker areas away from city lights for the best aurora visibility.
  • Indoor vs open-deck viewing: All vessels offer heated indoor cabins and open decks for photography. The yacht features plush seating and fewer passengers, while sightseeing boats provide ample outdoor space for movement and views.
  • Weather and visibility policy: Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they can’t be guaranteed. If conditions aren’t right, most operators let you rebook for another night. It's best to check the weather forecast beforehand.
  • What’s included: Both options include expert English-speaking guides, warm overalls, and aurora forecasts shared onboard. Premium yacht sailings may include welcome drinks or light refreshments.
  • Accessibility and facilities: Cruises are generally suitable for all ages, though wheelchair access is limited due to narrow gangways. Restrooms and heated lounges are available onboard both types of vessels.

Plan your trip to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

Find your best Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise match here

Cruise type
Duration
Vessel type
Add-ons/Upgrades
Boarding point
Ticket
Basic Northern Lights Cruise
2 hrs
Boat (heated indoor seating)
Free re-try, museum visit & classic vessel cruise
Old Harbour, Reykjavik
Yacht Cruise
2 hrs
Yacht
Not included
Sea Trips Reykjavik Office

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.

Reykjavik Northern Lights

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.

Your Reykjavik Northern Lights cruise check-in & boarding guide

  • Arrival time: Arrive 30 minutes before departure at your designated pier (Old Harbour or Ægisgarður) to allow time for check-in, overalls fitting, and safety briefing.
  • Tickets and documents: Present your online booking confirmation or printed voucher. A valid photo ID may be requested for verification.
  • Dress code: For your Northern Lights chase, wear warm layers and winter accessories. Smart casual works for yacht departures, with thermal overalls provided for comfort.
  • Finding your check-in point: Look for the designated cruise counter or signage at the pier. Crew members are available to guide you to the boarding area.
  • Security procedures: Minimal checks onboard. Follow crew instructions, and avoid restricted areas or safety equipment unless instructed.
  • Boarding process: Boarding starts 20–30 minutes before departure. Seating may be assigned by group or preference (indoor lounge vs open deck).
  • Child and pet policy: Most cruises welcome children, but check age restrictions for  smaller vessels. Pets are not permitted unless specified.
  • Onboard luggage restrictions: Bring only essentials like cameras, phones, and small bags. Large suitcases or oversized backpacks are not allowed.
  • Seating and extras: Choose between heated cabins or open-air decks. Some yachts offer VIP seating or priority boarding for premium ticket holders.

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.
Best time to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik
  • 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: At the best places to see Northern Lights, use a tripod or night mode for clear shots and 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 Reykjavik Northern Lights 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 online 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.