Exploring the captivating northern lights from the comfort of a boat can be an unforgettable experience. This guided tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour promises just that – the chance to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis display over the North Atlantic. With knowledgeable guides on hand to provide insights, travelers can enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders amidst the warmth of luxurious boats. While the weather and visibility of the lights can be unpredictable, the tour’s flexible policy offers a complimentary ticket if the aurora doesn’t make an appearance. That said, the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of this elusive phenomenon is what truly makes this excursion a must-do for many visitors to the island nation.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Photography Experiences In Reykjavik.
Key Points
- The Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour in Reykjavik offers a 2.5-hour excursion, including a 2-hour boat tour, with the opportunity to view the Northern Lights in the North Atlantic Ocean.
- The tour departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, located 5 minutes from the city center, and the price starts at $97.56 per person.
- Guests can enjoy the tour on luxurious boats, Rósin or Andrea, which are equipped with modern amenities and knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.
- The tour is weather-dependent, and if the Northern Lights are not seen, a complimentary ticket for a future tour is provided.
- Alternative land tours are available if weather conditions are too windy, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of the weather.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Reykjavik Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour with Photos offers a 2.5-hour excursion, including a 2-hour boat tour, departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour just 5 minutes from the city center.
Priced from $97.56 per person, this tour provides the opportunity to sail into the North Atlantic Ocean and view the stunning Northern Lights. Travelers can enjoy scenic views of the mountains and city lights during the tour, which runs on luxurious boats like the Rósin or Andrea.
While the tour is weather-dependent, the company offers a complimentary ticket for a future tour if the Northern Lights aren’t seen. An alternative land tour is available if weather conditions are too windy for the boat.
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Experience Highlights
Sailing into the North Atlantic Ocean, travelers have the opportunity to view the captivating Northern Lights during this boat tour. The ideal viewing location is 15-30 minutes away from the coast, providing scenic views of the mountains and city lights throughout the experience.
Guests board luxurious boats, such as the Rósin or Andrea, to embark on this weather-dependent adventure. While the tour’s success depends on favorable conditions, the company offers a complimentary ticket for a future tour if the Northern Lights aren’t seen.
Plus, an alternative land tour is available if the weather is too windy for the boat. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to answer any questions, and warm overalls are provided to keep guests comfortable in the cold conditions.
Additional Features
Notably, the tour company offers a complimentary ticket for a future tour if the Northern Lights aren’t seen during the current excursion.
Plus, an alternative land tour is available if the weather is too windy for the boat.
The tour also features knowledgeable guides who are on hand to answer any questions passengers may have.
To ensure comfort, warm overalls are provided to help battle the cold conditions.
The additional features of this Reykjavik Northern Lights Boat Tour demonstrate the tour company’s commitment to providing a memorable and accommodating experience for all its guests, regardless of the weather or Northern Lights visibility.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have provided an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars for the Reykjavik Northern Lights Boat Tour, based on 166 reviews.
The guide rating stands at 4.4/5, while the transportation and service ratings are 4.2/5 and 4.1/5, respectively.
Travelers have shared positive experiences, highlighting successful sightings of the Northern Lights and whale watching, as well as the friendly staff and enjoyable atmosphere.
They also appreciated the interesting facts about Northern Lights cultures and the high-quality onboard facilities and refreshments.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTraveler Feedback
Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences on the Reykjavik Northern Lights Boat Tour. They highlighted the successful sightings of the Aurora Borealis and whale watching as major highlights of the excursion.
Guests also praised the friendly staff, who provided interesting facts about Northern Lights cultures, creating an enjoyable atmosphere. The high-quality onboard facilities and refreshments were also appreciated by travelers.
The tour received rave reviews, with many visitors expressing their satisfaction with the organization and transportation throughout the experience.
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Successful sightings of Northern Lights and whale watching
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Friendly staff and enjoyable atmosphere
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Interesting facts about Northern Lights cultures
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High-quality onboard facilities and refreshments
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Departure and Availability
The tour departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, just a 5-minute walk from the city center. It’s available for check-in at varying start times, so travelers can conveniently plan their Northern Lights viewing experience.
Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment and even cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour’s availability is weather-dependent, however, and it may be canceled if the conditions are unfavorable for seeing the Northern Lights.
If the lights aren’t visible during the tour, travelers will receive a complimentary ticket for a future outing. The departure and availability options provide flexibility and peace of mind for those seeking to witness the mesmerizing natural phenomenon.
Weather Considerations
Weather plays a crucial role in the success of the Northern Lights boat tour, as the experience is entirely weather-dependent. The tour may be canceled if conditions are unfavorable for viewing the natural light display, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of participants.
Some key weather considerations include:
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Cloud cover: Clear skies are essential for observing the Northern Lights, as clouds can obscure the view.
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Wind speed: Gusty winds can make the boat tour uncomfortable and unsafe, leading to potential cancellations.
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Precipitation: Rain, snow, or sleet can interfere with the visibility and enjoyment of the tour.
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Temperature: Dressing warmly is crucial, as the boat tour takes place in the chilly North Atlantic Ocean.
Boat and Equipment
The tour boats, either the Rósin or Andrea, provide a luxurious and comfortable setting for guests to observe the Northern Lights. These 60-foot vessels are fully equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant and memorable experience. Passengers can enjoy the warmth of the boat’s interior, protected from the cold Atlantic winds, while taking in the stunning views of the night sky and the surrounding landscape.
Feature | Rósin | Andrea |
---|---|---|
Capacity | 100 passengers | 60 passengers |
Heating | Yes | Yes |
Washrooms | Yes | Yes |
Refreshments | Yes | Yes |
Viewing Decks | Multiple | Multiple |
The boats’ knowledgeable crew is on hand to provide information and assistance, enhancing the overall tour experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, young children may struggle with the 2-hour boat tour duration and cold weather conditions. It is recommended to consider the child’s comfort and ability to participate before booking.
Are Alcoholic Beverages Served on the Boat?
The tour does not serve alcoholic beverages on the boat. The focus is on providing a safe, family-friendly experience for guests to view the Northern Lights. Warm drinks like hot chocolate may be available to help keep passengers comfortable.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own camera equipment on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any guidelines or restrictions they may have regarding personal photography equipment.
Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?
The boats used for the tour are wheelchair accessible, allowing all travelers to enjoy the experience. However, it’s recommended to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking the tour to ensure it meets the individual’s needs.
How Many People Can the Boat Accommodate?
The boats used for the Northern Lights boat tour can accommodate up to 60 passengers. They’re described as luxurious and equipped to provide a comfortable experience for visitors viewing the natural light show.
Recap
The Northern Lights guided boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the stunning auroras in the North Atlantic.
With knowledgeable guides, luxurious boats, and the option for a complimentary ticket if the lights aren’t visible, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure amidst Iceland’s natural wonders.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an awe-inspiring experience, this tour isn’t to be missed.
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