Sail into the Arctic night and witness the Aurora Borealis over the open North Atlantic.
This northern lights boat tour from Reykjavik takes you away from city light pollution and out onto the open ocean, where the Aurora Borealis dances above dramatic mountain silhouettes and the glittering Reykjavik skyline.
Departing from Reykjavik Harbour, the vessel heads into the North Atlantic, offering unobstructed views of the night sky that are simply not possible from land. The combination of the ocean setting, the city lights behind you, and the northern lights overhead creates a scene unlike any other in Iceland.
The tour is rated very easy, making it accessible to virtually all travellers regardless of age or fitness level. No prior experience with sailing or outdoor adventure is required to participate fully in this experience.
Clear skies are the key variable on any aurora hunt, and the boat's ability to navigate toward the clearest patches of sky gives this experience a meaningful advantage over land-based alternatives. Guides monitor conditions throughout the evening to position the vessel for optimal viewing.
Tour Highlights
Watch the Aurora Borealis from the deck of a vessel sailing the North Atlantic Ocean.
Enjoy the rare perspective of Reykjavik's illuminated skyline framed against the night sky from the water.
Take in sweeping views of Iceland's volcanic mountain range silhouetted behind the city lights.
Benefit from the boat's ability to navigate toward the darkest and clearest skies in real time.
Experience the northern lights in a small-group setting that keeps the atmosphere personal and unhurried.
Depart directly from Reykjavik Harbour for a convenient, no-transfer start to your aurora adventure.
What to Expect
1
Meeting at Reykjavik Harbour
Arrive at the designated meeting point at the harbour, where the crew will welcome you aboard and provide a brief safety orientation before departure.
2
Sailing Out onto the North Atlantic
The vessel departs the harbour and moves away from the city's light pollution, heading into the open ocean to find the best available sky conditions.
3
Aurora Hunting on the Water
Guides and crew actively monitor cloud cover and aurora forecasts, repositioning the boat as needed to maximise your chances of witnessing the northern lights.
4
Views of Reykjavik and the Mountains
As you scan the skies, the backdrop of Reykjavik's city lights and Iceland's mountain range provides a striking visual contrast against the dark ocean night.
5
Return to Harbour
After approximately two hours on the water, the boat returns to Reykjavik Harbour, concluding the experience in the heart of the city.
What Is Included
Included
Guided northern lights boat tour (2 hours)
Professional crew and aurora guide
Safety equipment on board
Departure from Reykjavik Harbour
Not Included
Hotel pick-up or drop-off
Food and beverages
Gratuities for guides and crew
Personal travel insurance
Important Information
This tour operates at night in open-ocean conditions. Dress in warm, windproof layers regardless of the forecast, as temperatures on the water are significantly colder than on land.
Duration
Approximately 2 hours on the water, departing from Reykjavik Harbour.
Meeting Point
Reykjavik Harbour. Exact pier details will be confirmed upon booking.
What to Bring
Warm thermal layers, a windproof and waterproof jacket, gloves, a hat, and sturdy footwear. A camera with manual settings is recommended for aurora photography.
Cancellation
Cancellation policies vary. Please review the terms at the time of booking and contact the operator for details on weather-related cancellations.
Accessibility
Rated very easy and suitable for most travellers. Those with severe mobility limitations or seasickness concerns should contact the operator before booking.
Age Range
Suitable for participants of all ages. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the tour.
Ready to Chase the Aurora?
Secure your place on this boat tour and set out onto the North Atlantic for one of Iceland's most distinctive nighttime experiences.
Is seeing the northern lights guaranteed on this tour?▼
Aurora sightings depend entirely on solar activity and sky conditions, and no operator can guarantee a sighting. However, navigating by boat allows the crew to seek out clearer skies more flexibly than land-based tours.
What happens if the weather is bad on my departure night?▼
If conditions make the tour unsafe or unviable, the operator will typically offer a rebooking option or cancellation. Contact the operator directly for their specific weather policy.
How cold does it get on the boat at night?▼
Temperatures on the open water are considerably colder than in the city, especially with wind chill. Thermal base layers, a windproof outer jacket, gloves, and a warm hat are strongly advised regardless of the season.
Is this tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?▼
The tour ventures into the North Atlantic, where sea conditions can vary. Those who experience seasickness are advised to take appropriate precautions and consult the operator before booking.
Can I take photographs of the northern lights from the boat?▼
Yes. A camera capable of manual settings, a wide-angle lens, and a tripod or stabilising surface will give the best results. Smartphone aurora photography modes can also produce reasonable images in strong aurora conditions.
When is the best time of year to take this tour?▼
Northern lights tours in Iceland typically run from late August through to April, when nights are long and dark enough for aurora viewing. Peak aurora season is generally considered to be October through February.
You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Additional Information
Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible
Duration
2 hours
Languages
English - Speaking Guide
Additional Information
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Cancellation Policy
Select Date
Meeting Point
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
Activity Site
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
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This tour departs from Reykjavik Harbour in Iceland, operating on the North Atlantic Ocean. Reykjavik sits at approximately 64 degrees north latitude, placing it within the auroral oval — the band around the Arctic where northern lights activity is most frequent and intense. Iceland's position, combined with its relatively accessible infrastructure, makes Reykjavik one of the most practical bases in the world for aurora tourism. The boat tour format moves participants away from the city's ambient light, increasing contrast with the night sky and improving the overall viewing experience. The surrounding landscape of volcanic mountains and coastal fjords provides a dramatic natural setting that distinguishes this experience from aurora tours in flatland or forested destinations.
Iceland Aurora Tour | Reykjavik Night Boat | North Atlantic Northern Lights | Arctic Sky Watching
