Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Boat Tour with Photos

Planning a trip to Iceland and hoping to see the Northern Lights? If so, a boat tour departing from Reykjavik’s old harbor offers one of the most authentic and memorable ways to witness this natural phenomenon. This specific tour, run by Katla Whale Watching, combines comfort, expert guidance, and a prime viewing spot—all for around $102 per person. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the quality of experience and the potential for spectacular photos make it a solid choice for travelers seeking a genuine Arctic adventure.

We’re particularly attracted to the small group environment and the excellent guide—two factors that can make or break this kind of experience. The chance to see the auroras away from city lights while enjoying the open ocean is undeniably appealing. That said, nature remains unpredictable, and if the skies stay dull or weather conditions turn unfavorable, your chances of seeing the lights can diminish. This tour suits travelers who are flexible, love marine environments, and want a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path way to chase the Northern Lights.

Key Points

• Authentic experience on the water: View the Aurora Borealis from the North Atlantic, away from city light pollution.
• Convenient location: Departure just 5 minutes from Reykjavik’s city center makes it easy to access.
• Guided with expertise: Knowledgeable guides and a video to help you understand what you’re seeing.
• Warm gear included: Overalls and Wi-Fi ensure comfort and connectivity during the trip.
• Photo opportunities: The tour offers a chance to capture stunning Northern Lights photos.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options add peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Arctic Experience with a View

This tour puts you right on the North Atlantic Ocean, offering a perspective that land-based views simply can’t match. We loved the way departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour puts you quickly in a prime location—just 15-30 minutes out from the city—so you’re away from light pollution but still close enough to return easily if weather forces a change of plans.

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is a good length to balance patience and comfort. The boats used, either Rósin or Andrea, are described as luxurious, suggesting a comfortable ride amid the sometimes chilly Icelandic conditions. Expect stunning views of mountains and city lights behind you, while the night sky above begins to shimmer with the auroras—sometimes faint, sometimes brilliant.

What Makes the Experience Special

A significant advantage of this tour is that it takes you directly onto the water, which can be a game-changer. The vast, dark ocean provides a clear view of the northern sky, free from the glow of streetlights or buildings. It’s an experience many travelers find more immersive than land-based Aurora hunts, especially because the ocean’s horizon stretches wide, offering unobstructed views.

The guides, according to reviews, are very good and well organized. They not only ensure you’re comfortable with warm overalls and Wi-Fi but also enrich your experience with a Northern Lights video and an exhibit entry to the Whales of Iceland. This added educational component helps justify the price and keeps everyone engaged, especially if the lights are slow to appear.

Lighting, Photos, and a Chance to Capture the Moment

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to take photos of the Aurora Borealis from what might be the best vantage point—on the water, with mountains and city lights as a backdrop. Tour operators often encourage photography, and the Wi-Fi connection helps you upload or share your images instantly.

While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, the tour’s “if you don’t see the lights, you get a free ticket to try again” policy provides some reassurance. This is particularly valuable because sightings depend heavily on weather, solar activity, and clear skies—all factors outside the tour operator’s control. Still, many reviews indicate that guides do their best to locate the auroras and are highly knowledgeable, which makes a difference.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Value

The cost of $102 per person might seem steep compared to land-based tours or bus excursions, but it reflects the quality and exclusivity of the experience. Transporting a small group on a luxury boat in search of the Northern Lights is more intimate and less crowded than larger cruise options.

The inclusion of warm overalls is a thoughtful touch, especially for families or travelers sensitive to cold. The Wi-Fi access means you can share your experience or get updates during the trip. Plus, the café and Northern Lights video provide indoor entertainment and educational value, making the 2.5 hours feel well spent.

The tour’s flexibility—with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and the option to reserve with pay later—adds a layer of convenience, especially if Iceland’s unpredictable weather might cancel or postpone the trip.

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What Past Travelers Say

Feedback is generally positive, with a 4.7/5 rating from three reviews. Travelers praise the well-organized nature of the tour and the expert guides. One reviewer noted, “Well organised and very good guide,” emphasizing the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff.

Another review mentioned the possibility of rescheduling if the weather doesn’t cooperate. While one group didn’t see the lights on their first attempt, they appreciated being offered the chance to go back, either by boat or bus—highlighting the tour’s flexibility and the guides’ commitment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine a marine adventure with Aurora viewing. It’s perfect for those who value comfort and expert guidance, and who are keen to avoid large crowds. If you’re traveling during peak Aurora season and hope for a picturesque, authentic experience with a chance to see the Northern Lights in a unique setting, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, those with strict schedules or limited flexibility should be aware that the Northern Lights are a natural spectacle, and sightings are never guaranteed. If your trip hinges on a specific date or weather is forecasted to be poor, consider booking the free-cancellation option.

The Sum Up

This boat tour offers a well-rounded, intimate experience of Iceland’s Northern Lights, combining the thrill of being on the open ocean with the comfort of warm gear and expert guides. The views of mountains, city lights, and the starry sky from the deck are genuinely captivating, and the chance to capture stunning photos makes it appealing for shutterbugs.

While the price may be higher than bus-based options, the quality of the experience, the personalized service, and the immersive setting on the water easily justify the cost. It’s a solid pick for travelers who seek a mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity—and who are willing to wait for Mother Nature’s magic to appear.

This tour best suits adventurous, flexible travelers eager for a truly memorable sighting and a story to tell — one that’s about more than just a quick glimpse of the Northern Lights, but about experiencing Iceland’s wild, beautiful environment from a truly unique perspective.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, just about 5 minutes from the city center, making it very accessible.

What is included in the price?
Price includes a guided tour, warm overalls, Wi-Fi, a Northern Lights video, exhibit entry to Whales of Iceland, and a complimentary drink.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. If the tour is canceled due to weather, you will be contacted and can reschedule or get a refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children’s sizes of warm overalls are available, making it family-friendly.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a complimentary ticket to try again if you don’t catch the lights during your scheduled trip.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to confirm specific needs when booking.

What if I want to take photos?
You’ll have the opportunity to capture the auroras, especially since the tour encourages photography and offers Wi-Fi for sharing your shots instantly.

Embark on this journey if you’re after a genuine, scenic, and comfortable way to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland. It’s an adventure that pairs the natural wonder of the Arctic with the thrill of being on the open sea—an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: