Chasing the elusive Northern Lights is a captivating pursuit in Reykjavik, and one of the best ways to experience this natural wonder is through a nighttime cruise on Faxaflói Bay. As the boat slips away from the city’s enchanting skyline, bundled-up passengers settle in, sipping warm beverages and keeping a vigilant eye on the mesmerizing skies above. With an expert guide on hand to share insights, the stage is set for an unforgettable encounter – if the Aurora Borealis decides to make an appearance, that is. What wonders might unfold on the open waters?
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, offering a chance to witness the captivating Aurora Borealis display.
- Warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets provided to keep guests comfortable during the tour.
- A naturalist guide enhances the experience by sharing expertise and insights about the Northern Lights.
- Sighting guarantee allows guests to try again for free if the Aurora Borealis doesn’t appear.
- Hotel pickup available for an additional charge, and refreshments are offered on board.
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Tour Overview
The Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik offers a 2.5-hour adventure into Faxaflói bay, where guests can admire nature’s spectacular light show – the Aurora Borealis.
Sailing under the enchantingly lit up Reykjavik skyline, the cruise provides the perfect vantage point to witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights.
Bundled up in warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets, guests will have a naturalist guide on hand to enhance the experience and share their expertise.
With a sighting guarantee, guests can rest assured they’ll see the elusive Aurora, or get the chance to try again for free.
Whether capturing the moment on camera or simply soaking in the ethereal display, this Northern Lights cruise promises an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s natural wonders.
Inclusions
To ensure guests are prepared for the elements, the Northern Lights cruise provides warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets on board.
A naturalist guide is also on hand to enhance the experience and share their expertise throughout the journey.
Travelers can take advantage of the sighting guarantee, which allows them to try again for free if the elusive Aurora Borealis doesn’t make an appearance.
For added convenience, hotel pickup is available for an additional charge, and other refreshments are offered on board.
The combination of warm, weatherproof gear and the guidance of a knowledgeable naturalist create a comfortable and informative experience as guests sail into Faxaflóa bay in search of the captivating Northern Lights display.
Meeting Point
Travelers meet at the Elding Whale Watching boat in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, located at Ægisgaður 5, 101 Reykjavík, to embark on their Northern Lights cruise. This meeting point is conveniently situated, allowing guests to easily access the boat and begin their enchanting journey.
| Location | Address |
|---|---|
| Elding Whale Watching | Ægisgaður 5, 101 Reykjavík |
| Parking | Available nearby |
| Restrooms | Located at the harbour |
| Departure Time | 30 minutes before sailing |
The crew ensures a smooth and seamless boarding process, guiding guests to their seats and providing warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets to keep them cozy during the tour.
Cancellation Policy
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can easily adjust their plans should circumstances change.
This gives customers the peace of mind to secure their spot on the tour without having to pay upfront. If unexpected events arise or the weather doesn’t cooperate, guests can cancel their booking without penalty a day in advance.
Plus, the option to reserve now and pay later allows flexibility when booking this Northern Lights cruise.
This policy ensures a stress-free experience, allowing adventurers to focus on the stunning natural light show they’ll witness on the cruise.
Photography Considerations
Capturing the magnificent display of the Northern Lights can be challenging from the vantage point of a moving boat, as the lights’ ethereal nature and the boat’s motion make it tricky to snap the perfect shot.
With some preparation and tips, photographers can improve their chances of capturing stunning Northern Lights images during the cruise:
- Bring a tripod or monopod to stabilize the camera and minimize blurry shots.
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the dramatic, sweeping views of the Northern Lights across the sky.
- Experiment with longer exposure times, starting around 5-10 seconds, to allow more light to be captured.
With the right equipment and techniques, guests can create lasting memories of the Northern Lights’ captivating performance.
Customer Reviews
Across a range of customer reviews, the Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik earns an overall rating of 4 out of 5, with nearly 90 reviews providing insight into visitors’ experiences.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guide, who enhances the viewing experience with informative commentary about the Aurora Borealis.
The transportation and service on board also receive high marks, with visitors appreciating the warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets provided to stay cozy during the cruise.
Though photographing the Northern Lights can be challenging from the boat, guests still capture mesmerizing shots of the ethereal, dancing lights in the night sky.
Activity Duration
The Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik lasts approximately 2.5 hours, allowing visitors ample time to admire the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis display in Faxaflóa bay.
During the cruise, guests can:
- Cozy up in the provided warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets as they gaze upon the enchantingly lit-up Reykjavik skyline.
- Listen to the knowledgeable naturalist guide explain the science and wonder behind the ethereal Northern Lights.
- Savor complimentary refreshments while basking in the awe-inspiring natural light show.
The 2.5-hour duration ensures a comfortable and immersive experience, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories of this magical natural phenomenon.
Pickup Options
Offering hotel pickup for an additional charge, the Northern Lights cruise makes it convenient for travelers to join the tour from their Reykjavik accommodations. Alternatively, guests can meet the group directly at the Elding Whale Watching boat in the Reykjavik Old Harbour, located at Ægisgarður 5, 101 Reykjavík.
The pickup options are summarized in the table below:
| Pickup Option | Details | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Pickup | Convenient door-to-door service | Extra charge | Upon request |
| Self-Guided | Meet at Elding Whale Watching boat | No extra charge | Included in tour |
Whichever option travelers choose, the Northern Lights cruise ensures a seamless start to the enchanting evening ahead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, you don’t need to bring your own food and drinks. The tour includes other refreshments on board, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the cruise without worrying about packing snacks or beverages.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Cruise?
The Northern Lights cruise doesn’t have a minimum age requirement, so it’s a great family-friendly activity. Children are welcome to join, and the provided warm overalls and blankets will keep them cozy as they witness the Aurora Borealis.
Can I Book the Cruise for a Group?
Yes, guests can book the Northern Lights cruise for a group. The tour operator provides convenient group booking options and ensures a seamless experience for parties of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations.
How Are the Views of the Northern Lights From the Boat?
The views of the northern lights from the boat are enchanting. Guests can admire the vibrant, swirling hues of the Aurora Borealis across the dark night sky over the serene waters of Faxaflói bay. The boat’s vantage point offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?
The cruise provides warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets to keep guests cozy during the chilly evening sail. There’s no formal dress code, so guests can dress comfortably in layers to stay warm and enjoy the stunning Northern Lights display.
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Recap
This Northern Lights cruise in Reykjavik offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the ethereal dance of the Aurora Borealis.
Venturing into Faxaflói bay, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city skyline, while a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience.
With warm gear provided and a sighting guarantee, you’ll have the perfect vantage point to capture the mesmerizing spectacle through photography.
