Reykjavík Northern Lights & City Cruise
Sail into Faxaflói bay as Reykjavík glows and the auroras dance overhead.
A northern lights cruise from Reykjavík offers a rare vantage point: the illuminated city skyline on one side and the vast, aurora-lit skies of Faxaflói bay on the other. This two-hour evening voyage blends urban scenery with Arctic natural wonder in a single, unhurried journey.
Departing from the Old Harbour, the vessel passes Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja, and the shimmering city waterfront before heading into open waters. When conditions allow, the crew sails past the Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island to observe its striking beam reflected across the bay.
Once in open water, the real search begins. The experienced crew monitors solar activity and cloud cover in real time, adjusting the route to put guests in the best possible position to witness the Aurora Borealis arching above the horizon.
Guests can choose between a heated indoor saloon with comfortable seating and a 360-degree open viewing deck for unobstructed sky views. Warm overalls are available to borrow free of charge, and the onboard café serves hot drinks and snacks throughout the voyage.
Tour Highlights
Search for the Aurora Borealis from the open waters of Faxaflói bay, away from city light pollution.
Enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavík's illuminated skyline, including Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja.
Sail past the Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island when it is lit, a highlight many guests find especially memorable.
Borrow thermal overalls on board and retreat to the heated indoor saloon whenever needed.
The onboard café serves hot drinks and snacks to keep guests comfortable throughout the two-hour cruise.
The expert naturalist guide offers camera setting tips to help guests capture the northern lights on camera.
The crew monitors weather and solar conditions continuously, adapting the route to maximise aurora viewing chances.
How the Evening Unfolds
Arrive at the ticket office in the Old Harbour at least 15 minutes before departure. Meet the crew at the Visitor Centre and board the converted fishing vessel at the pier.
Step aboard the comfortable vessel, collect your thermal overalls, and settle in as the ship leaves the harbour. The expert naturalist begins sharing information about Reykjavík and its surroundings.
Cruise past Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja, and the glowing city waterfront. When the Imagine Peace Tower is illuminated, the vessel sails by Viðey Island so guests can admire its beam.
The ship heads into the open waters of the bay as the crew monitors real-time solar and weather data. Guests move between the heated saloon and the 360-degree open deck while scanning the northern skies.
After approximately two hours, the vessel returns to its home base. Guests can walk back to the city centre or ask the crew for assistance arranging a hotel transfer.
What Is Included
Included
- Two-hour guided evening cruise
- Expert naturalist guide on board
- Thermal overalls to borrow
- Heated indoor saloon access
- 360-degree open viewing deck
- Hot drinks and snacks from onboard café
- Camera setting assistance from the guide
Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the crew
- Food and beverage beyond onboard café offerings
Important Information
Ready to Set Sail for the Northern Lights?
Secure your place on an evening cruise that pairs Reykjavík's glowing cityscape with the natural spectacle of the Aurora Borealis above Faxaflói bay.
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