A northern lights cruise is a boat trip that goes out at night to watch the aurora from the water. Boats leave from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik and sail out into the bay. The trips run during the aurora season, roughly September to April.
Watching the aurora from a boat
Boats leave from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik and sail out into the bay.
Why go by sea
On the water the boat moves away from city light, and the open sky gives a wide view. Cruises depend on clear, dark skies and calm enough seas, and depart in the evening. The open sea is cold, so warm layers are needed, and many boats provide warm overalls. The lights are never guaranteed on any trip. In rougher seas some people feel seasick. The same harbour runs whale-watching trips by day.
Booking a cruise and northern lights tours
A Reykjavík northern-lights boat cruise is the direct on-water format. You can compare Northern Lights tours to see the wider options.
Check the sailing night
Before choosing an evening on the water, check the Aurora Forecast for the cloud cover and activity expected that night.
