Reykjavík Whales and Northern Lights Cruise
Discover Iceland's marine wildlife by day and chase the auroras across Faxaflói bay by night.
This Reykjavík whale watching and Northern Lights combo tour pairs a guided marine wildlife excursion in Faxaflói bay with an evening aurora cruise, offering two of Iceland's most sought-after experiences within a single day at a discounted rate.
A marine biologist naturalist leads the morning whale watching voyage, sharing expert knowledge about the species and ecosystems of the bay. The winter light casts long, dramatic shadows across the horizon, making the seascape as compelling as the wildlife itself.
Once the whale watching tour concludes, guests have several hours free to explore downtown Reykjavík, browse local shops, or settle into one of the city's many restaurants for dinner. The pause gives the day a natural rhythm before the evening cruise begins.
The Northern Lights cruise departs into the southern reaches of Faxaflói bay, away from city light pollution, where the chances of seeing auroral activity are higher. Along the route, landmarks including Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja, and the Imagine Peace Tower are visible from the water before the vessel turns northward toward open sky.
Tour Highlights
Guided 3-hour whale watching voyage in Faxaflói bay led by a professional marine biologist naturalist.
Opportunity to spot humpback whales, minke whales, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins in their natural habitat.
Evening Northern Lights cruise into the darker southern bay waters, maximising aurora visibility away from the city glow.
Scenic views of Reykjavík's illuminated waterfront, including Harpa, Hallgrímskirkja, and the Imagine Peace Tower.
Free repeat ticket guarantee on both tours if no whales or Northern Lights are encountered.
Discounted combo pricing bundles both experiences into a single booking for convenience and value.
Winter seabird sightings complement the whale watching, adding an additional layer to the wildlife experience.
Tour Itinerary
Arrive at the ticket office at the Old Harbour at least 15 minutes before the scheduled whale watching departure. Staff will check you in and brief you on what to expect for the day.
Board the vessel for an approximately 3-hour guided tour of Faxaflói bay. A marine biologist naturalist accompanies the trip, pointing out species and sharing ecological context about the bay's wildlife.
After the morning tour, explore the city at your own pace. The break is an ideal time to visit the city centre, pick up souvenirs, or enjoy a meal before the evening cruise.
Return to the Old Harbour in the evening for a 2-hour aurora cruise into the southern part of Faxaflói bay. The vessel passes illuminated city landmarks before heading into darker waters in search of the Northern Lights.
Once the evening cruise docks, guests may make their own way back to their accommodation. A drop-off bus service is available for those who pre-booked a transfer, and hotel transfers can also be arranged through the crew.
What Is Included
Included
- Whale watching tour in Faxaflói bay
- Northern Lights evening cruise
- Expert marine biologist naturalist guide on whale watching tour
- Warm overalls provided on board
- Free repeat ticket if no whales are spotted
- Free repeat ticket if Northern Lights do not appear
Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (available as an add-on)
- Food and beverages during the free-time break
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot
Combine two of Iceland's most iconic experiences in a single day departure from Reykjavík's Old Harbour. Availability is limited, particularly during peak aurora season.
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