Overview
Imagine gliding away from Reykjavik's shimmering lights, your eyes on the horizon searching for the elusive Northern Lights. With our Northern Lights by Boat tour, you're not just saving money but securing an evening of wonder.
If the weather isn't on our side, worry not—your spot at the fascinating Whales of Iceland exhibit is ready, and your boat ticket remains valid for another night. In just 15-20 minutes, you'll be in the perfect spot to marvel at the auroras and a sky full of stars, guided by an expert sharing tales and facts about this mesmerizing phenomenon.
Enjoy the cozy indoor seating, the on-board bar, and complimentary warm overalls. Don't miss your chance to chase the Northern Lights; book now and guarantee your place in this unforgettable adventure.
Tour Highlights
- Sail from Reykjavik in search of the Northern Lights, a must-see experience.
- Save money with a cost-effective backup plan, ensuring an evening at Whales of Iceland if conditions are unfavorable.
- Marvel at the auroras and starry sky just 15-20 minutes from the city.
- Learn fascinating facts and myths from an expert guide during the tour.
- Enjoy spacious boats with warm indoor seating, an onboard bar, and cozy overalls.
Itinerary
Departure from Reykjavik
Imagine gliding away from Reykjavik's shimmering lights, your eyes on the horizon searching for the elusive Northern Lights. With our Northern Lights by Boat tour, you're securing an evening of wonder and getting great value for your money. The tour begins with a brief sail of 15-20 minutes to escape the city lights, placing you in the perfect spot to marvel at the auroras and a sky full of stars.
Aurora Viewing and Expert Guidance
Once at the prime viewing location, an expert guide will share tales and scientific facts about this mesmerizing phenomenon. You'll have the chance to ask questions and learn about the Northern Lights from different cultural perspectives. If the weather isn't favorable, don't worry—your spot at the fascinating Whales of Iceland exhibit is ready.
Comfort and Amenities
Enjoy the cozy, warm indoor seating, the on-board bar, and complimentary warm overalls for your comfort. The boat tour includes spacious decks for unobstructed views of the night sky. If the Northern Lights don't appear, you will receive a complimentary ticket to join the boat tour on the next available night, ensuring you don't miss this unforgettable experience.
Alternative Evening at Whales of Iceland
If weather conditions prevent the boat tour from sailing, you'll spend the evening at the Whales of Iceland exhibit. This alternative activity includes entry, a Northern Lights drink, a short film, and a guided exhibit tour. This guarantees an engaging and informative experience even when the weather doesn't cooperate.
Northern Lights Photography Workshop
Participate in a short Northern Lights photography workshop at Whales of Iceland as part of the backup plan. Learn tips and techniques to capture the beauty of the auroras on camera. This ensures you're well-prepared to photograph the lights when you finally see them.
Free Rebooking for Boat Tour
Your boat ticket remains valid for another night, allowing you to rebook for the next available date. This flexibility ensures you have multiple opportunities to witness the Northern Lights. The backup plan offers peace of mind, knowing your adventure is secure regardless of weather conditions.
What's included
- 2-3 hour Northern Lights boat tour at a lower cost
- Experienced guide on every departure
- Warm overalls provided (including children's sizes)
- Heated indoor seating areas
- Free ticket to try again if the Northern Lights are not seen on your tour
- On-board amenities: restrooms, snack bar, and Wi-Fi
- Complimentary photos taken on every tour, available for download
- Friendly crew assistance with photography and camera settings
- Guaranteed backup plan if the boat tour is canceled
Backup Plan – Auroras at Whales of Iceland
- Northern Lights-themed visit to Whales of Iceland
- Live-guided tour of the museum
- Q&A session with an experienced guide
- 25-minute Northern Lights short film on a brand-new 8-meter screen
- 10-minute Northern Lights photography workshop on site
- Complimentary Northern Lights-themed cocktail with a twist
- Retain your ticket for the Northern Lights boat tour to reschedule at your convenience
What's Not Included
- Snacks are not provided.
- Food and drinks can be purchased on board.
- Hotel transfers are not included, but the supplier can arrange them at an additional cost.
Know before you go
- This tour starts at the Special Tours Ticket Office at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík.
- A valid form of ID is required for check-in upon arrival.
- The tour takes place in the evening, so dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes.
- Don't forget to bring your camera and tripod to capture the Northern Lights.
- Children under six are not allowed on this boat tour for safety reasons.
- Transportation between our ticket reception and Whales of Iceland (900m away) is provided.
- If the boat tour is canceled, the Backup Plan will always operate at 21:00. If you have not selected hotel transfers, check-in for the backup plan is at 20:45.
- When you arrive for the Backup Plan, please inform us when you would like to schedule your Northern Lights by Boat tour.
Please note that pick-up starts 60 minutes before the tour departure.
Good to know
Q: Can I bring my food and drinks on the boat tour?
Ans: No, outside food and drinks are not allowed on board. However, there is an on-board bar where you can purchase snacks and beverages.
Q: What should I wear for the tour
Ans: We recommend dressing in warm, waterproof layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a hat, gloves, and scarf.
Q: Is transportation provided for this tour?
Ans: Transportation is not included in the ticket price unless selected explicitly at checkout. However, transportation is provided between our ticket reception and the Whales of Iceland exhibit, 900m away.
Q: Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Ans: Children must be at least six years old to participate in the Northern Lights by Boat tour. However, children of all ages are welcome to join the Backup Plan activity at Whales of Iceland.
Q: Can I rebook my tour for a different night if I miss it?
Ans: If you miss your tour, you can rebook for another available date. Please note that availability is not guaranteed and depends on the number of passengers booked that night. You should arrive early to ensure you don't miss your tour.
Q: What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather conditions?
Ans: In the event of a cancellation, you will automatically be booked for the Backup Plan activity at Whales of Iceland. You will also retain your ticket for the Northern Lights by Boat tour to use on another night.
Q: Is there a restroom available on board?
Ans: Yes, there are restrooms on board for your convenience.
About the operator
Special Tours
Special Tours operates sea adventures from Reykjavik city centre with over 20 years of experience. Whale Watching tours are operated year round, with additional tours consisting of Northern Lights by Boat, Puffin Watching, Sea Angling, RIB Express Whale Watching and a New Years Fireworks Cruise. Special Tours Wildlife Adventures is known among passengers and partners for its ambitious & hard working team, aiming for great adventures for every tour and for every client...






