Northern Lights by Boat with a Backup Plan from Reykjavik

The sky can be moody, so this plan adapts fast. From Reykjavik, you sail into Faxafloi Bay to chase the aurora borealis, and I really like the comfort touches like warm overalls and the clear backup plan if the lights do not cooperate. You also get free downloadable photos after the tour, plus a free ticket to try the boat again if conditions are not suitable.

One possible downside is that it can feel crowded, especially on deck where you want space to watch. On rougher nights, the ride can also be a little bumpy, so if you get motion sick easily, plan for that before you go.

Key highlights you will feel right away

• Warm overalls on board help you last longer outside for aurora viewing
• Free Wi-Fi and a snack bar keep the waiting game from feeling miserable
• A guaranteed backup plan at Whales of Iceland if the lights are unlikely
• Free resail ticket on the next available date when conditions are not suitable
• A short northern lights photography workshop as part of the backup experience
• Photos taken on every boat tour, available for free download afterward

Chasing aurora borealis from Faxafloi Bay, not just the shore

Reykjavik winters are all about timing. The northern lights are never guaranteed, so what makes this experience smart is how it treats weather as part of the plan, not a sad surprise.

Sailing out into Faxafloi Bay gives you a wider, open view than most shore options. You also get a different feeling than standing on land in cold wind. When the aurora does appear, being out on the water can make the sky feel closer and more dramatic. And if the show starts while you are still getting settled, the staff guidance matters a lot.

That guidance shows up in the details people remember. On nights when the lights begin early, the team may tell you to go to the top deck right away, so you do not miss the first burst. Guides like Patrick and Anika are praised for staying upbeat and giving practical tips on where to look and how to capture the lights. Other staff members you might hear named include Lilja and Andrea, with an emphasis on friendly, confident direction as you wait for the sky to respond.

What the Whales of Iceland backup plan actually gives you

This tour earns its value on the nights when the aurora is shy. If conditions are not suitable for northern lights viewing, you do not end up with an empty, cold evening. You shift into an alternative activity automatically, and the backup is not just a random detour.

The backup stop is the Whales of Iceland exhibit, where you get entry plus a northern lights drink. You also get a short film and a guided tour of the facility. As part of this backup plan, there is even a short northern lights photography workshop, so you still leave with useful know-how instead of only disappointment.

It also helps that you are not stuck deciding what to do at the last minute. One key promise here is that you are guaranteed an alternative activity if the weather is not suitable. On top of that, you receive a free ticket to join the boat tour again on the next available date if conditions do not allow sailing. That is a big deal when you only have a few nights in Reykjavik and want to maximize your odds.

Two to three hours in motion: the rhythm of your night

This experience runs about 2 to 3 hours. That time window is long enough to search properly, but short enough that you still have energy for dinner after.

You will start at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, and the trip ends back at the same meeting point. The meeting area is near public transportation, which is helpful if you are not arranging private transfers.

What to expect during that time is simple. You board, you get geared up, and you head out into the bay to look for aurora activity. If the sky is responsive, you will spend time outside on the deck. If it is not, the evening smoothly transitions to the Whales of Iceland plan and the night becomes more about learning and soaking in Icelandic winter vibes in a warm indoor setting.

On-board comfort: overalls, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a snack bar

Cold water nights can erase your patience fast. Here, the boat includes the comfort basics that keep people from turning grumpy.

You get warm overalls to use on board, plus restrooms and a snack bar. Free Wi-Fi is included, which is not just a nice perk. It is practical when you are waiting for aurora conditions, checking photos, or trying to remember camera settings after the staff teaches you a few basics.

Food is not included, though. You can purchase snacks and drinks on board if you get hungry. If you want a full meal, you will still need to plan that outside the tour. Many people prefer to eat beforehand so the snack bar stays optional, not necessary.

Another practical win: pictures are taken on every boat tour and made available for free download afterward. Even if you are not a confident photographer, you still have a good chance of leaving with at least a few solid images from the night.

The viewing reality: where you will stand matters

On aurora nights, your success is not only about clear skies. It is also about how easy it is to actually see.

Some people report crowding on the boat and a tight feeling on deck and inside, especially when everyone is trying to get a good angle at the same time. If you value elbow room, this is the part to think about before you book.

You can still improve your odds of a great viewing moment by being strategic. When the staff indicates that lights are starting, head to the top deck right away, instead of waiting for later. The earlier you are in position, the better your chance to capture the first arcs and swirls.

Also, keep in mind that the ride can be bumpy if the sea is rough. One positive note in the feedback is that the boat is well-maintained and comfortable enough to help people through rougher conditions. Still, it is an open-water setting, so come prepared. If you usually handle motion well, you will likely be fine. If not, bring your own solution for motion sensitivity, since this experience is weather dependent.

Crowds, group size, and the feel on a popular night

The maximum group size is 198 travelers. That does not mean everyone crowds the deck in the same way every minute, but it does explain why some nights feel more packed than others.

Here is the trade-off. When northern lights are possible, many people want to be on the water at the same time. The payoff is that the energy on board can be exciting when the aurora does show up. The downside is that if you are the type who hates tight spaces, you might find it a little stressful during peak moments.

My advice: treat this as a weather-chasing outing, not a guaranteed private viewing. If you go in expecting a lively group with a shared goal, you will get more enjoyment out of it. And if the lights do not appear, you at least pivot into a warm, guided exhibit experience instead of sitting in uncertainty.

Price and value: what $83.88 buys you in Iceland winter

At $83.88 per person, this is not a bargain tour, but it also does not feel overpriced for what is included.

You pay for a real shot at seeing the aurora from the water, with onboard essentials like overalls, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a snack bar. You also get a guaranteed alternative activity if conditions are not suitable, and you get a free ticket to try again if the boat cannot sail under aurora-friendly conditions. On top of that, you get free photos taken during the tour, plus a short photography workshop in the backup plan.

The only clear non-included item is food and drink. Snacks can be purchased on board, but they are not part of the price.

One more value point is the way the plan reduces decision stress. Instead of spending your trip googling what to do if the sky is cloudy, you already have a warm backup scheduled. That matters when Iceland winter weather changes quickly.

Who should book this northern lights boat tour

This experience is a strong fit for you if you want a straightforward Reykjavik plan that includes both an on-water attempt and an indoor backup. It is also in English, and most travelers can participate, which makes it easy to work into a wide range of itineraries.

You will probably enjoy it most if:

• You want the best odds by combining water viewing with a guaranteed alternative plan
• You value practical guidance from the crew, including where to look and basic photography tips
• You would rather switch to a warm exhibit than face a blank, cold night

You might want to think twice if:

• You hate crowds or tight viewing spaces
• You are very sensitive to motion and do not have a strategy for rougher seas
• You want a quieter, more private experience

Practical tips to improve your odds on the night

You cannot control the weather. You can control how ready you are.

Dress like you are going outside for a while, because you might be on deck watching when the lights start. The warm overalls help a lot, but you will still want layers that work well with them. Keep your camera or phone accessible, since the staff tips and photography workshop can pay off when aurora activity ramps up.

Also, if the lights begin while you are boarding, listen closely and follow the team’s direction. In the feedback, people highlight that the staff advises you to go up top immediately when activity starts. That little action can make the difference between catching a faint glow and seeing a more complete display.

Finally, if you are booking this as part of a short Reykjavik trip, plan ahead. This tour is typically booked about 54 days in advance on average, which is a sign it sells during peak winter demand.

Should you book Northern Lights by Boat with a backup plan?

If your top goal is maximizing the chances of seeing the northern lights without gambling your whole evening, I think this is a smart booking. The comfort setup helps you stay outside longer, and the backup at Whales of Iceland keeps the night from turning into wasted hours. Add the free resail ticket and free downloadable photos, and the value starts to look even better.

Book it if you can handle a group setting and you are willing to chase the aurora at sea for a couple of hours. Skip it or consider an alternative if you need lots of personal space or you know motion makes you miserable. For most people chasing the aurora in Reykjavik, though, this is one of the more practical, plan-forward ways to do it.

FAQ

How much does the Northern Lights by boat tour cost?

It costs $83.88 per person.

How long is the tour in Reykjavik?

The tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours.

Does the tour include warm overalls and on-board Wi-Fi?

Yes. You get warm overalls and free Wi-Fi on board, along with restrooms and access to the snack bar.

What happens if conditions are not good for the northern lights?

If the weather or viewing conditions are not suitable, you are automatically signed up for an alternative activity.

What is included in the backup activity at Whales of Iceland?

The backup includes entry to the Whales of Iceland exhibit, a northern lights drink, a short film, and a guided tour. There is also a short northern lights photography workshop as part of the backup plan.

Are meals included on board?

Food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase snacks and drinks on board.

Where is the meeting point in Reykjavik?

The meeting point is Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

Can I add hotel transfers?

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

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid is not refunded. If the experience is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.