Chasing Green: A Reykjavik Northern Lights Cruise That Puts You at Sea with the Aurora
Set sail from Reykjavik Old Harbour, wrap up warm, and let the aurora paint the sky above Faxaflói Bay
The boat slips from Reykjavik Old Harbour like a slow exhale—electric lights of the city receding, the black wedge of Faxaflói Bay opening ahead. Night hangs clean and high; the kind of Arctic darkness that lets the sky do the talking. Wrapped in a borrowed blanket, mug of hot chocolate warming my palms, I watch the crew point toward a smear of pale green unspooling above the horizon. For a few minutes the world narrows to the shiver of light overhead and the small, steady breath of the vessel beneath my feet.
Trail Wisdom
Dress in layers
Temperatures on deck feel several degrees colder than on shore—use a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and windproof outer shell.
Bring a tripod
A small, sturdy tripod is essential for low-light aurora photography and will dramatically improve long-exposure shots.
Prep for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication before boarding and stay on deck where the horizon is visible.
Reserve early
Tours fill quickly during aurora season—book nights around new moon phases for darker skies and better contrast.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Westman Island silhouette line from the harbor for quiet shore views
- •Visit Harpa concert hall steps before boarding for modern architecture and quick cafes
Wildlife
Common eider, Atlantic seals near the coastline
Conservation Note
Operators follow local guidelines to minimize disturbance to marine life and reduce light pollution—choose companies that use low-impact lighting and responsible waste practices.
Reykjavik’s Old Harbour was the center of the city’s fishing industry and played a key role in Iceland’s 19th- and 20th-century maritime economy.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Late-season aurora, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Shortening nights
Early spring can still deliver strong aurora displays, but nights are shorter and weather shifts quickly—dress for mixed conditions.
summer
Best for: Midnight sun cruises (not aurora), Coastal wildlife viewing
Challenges: No aurora due to midnight sun, Cool sea breezes
Aurora season ends by late spring—summer trips focus on daylight coastal scenery and birdlife rather than lights.
fall
Best for: Early aurora season, Crisp evenings and clearer skies
Challenges: Increasing storms, Variable visibility
Autumn nights lengthen quickly, offering more opportunities to see the aurora as long as you watch for storm fronts.
winter
Best for: Peak aurora viewing, Atmospheric night photography
Challenges: Cold, icy conditions, Higher chance of canceled sailings in storms
Winter is prime aurora season with long nights, but expect cold and occasional schedule changes due to weather.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated, waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry on cold, potentially wet decks.
TripodEssential
Necessary for steady long-exposure aurora photography.
Thermal base layers and warm hatEssential
Layers retain body heat during long periods standing on an exposed deck.
Power bank
Cold drains batteries quickly—carry backup power for cameras and phones.
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
The tour runs approximately 120–150 minutes from boarding to return, allowing time to transit to darker sky and search for aurora displays.
Are warm drinks and blankets provided?
Yes—operators typically supply hot beverages and blankets, but bring your own layers and waterproof footwear.
Will the lights be guaranteed?
No—aurora sightings depend on solar activity and weather; reputable operators will maximize chances but cannot guarantee a display.
Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes—families can attend, but children should be dressed warmly and supervised on deck; check operator age policies for lap seating.
Can I bring professional camera gear?
Yes; tripods are allowed on most vessels. Ask the operator about space and any restrictions before boarding.
What is the cancellation policy?
This product shows free cancellation and instant confirmation, but verify the exact cutoff and weather-related policies with the operator when booking.
What to Pack
Insulated layers, waterproof boots, tripod, power bank — stay warm, dry, and ready to shoot long-exposure photos
Did You Know
The aurora borealis is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth's magnetosphere, and Iceland’s location close to the Arctic Circle makes it one of the most reliable places to see the phenomenon.
Quick Travel Tips
Book around new moon for darker skies; confirm departure point at Reykjavik Old Harbour; download aurora forecasts (vedur.is); bring cashless payment method for onshore purchases
Local Flavor
After the cruise head back to the Old Harbour for fresh fish soup or Icelandic fish and chips, or warm up with a craft beer at a nearby taproom; Harpa concert hall and several small seafood restaurants are within easy walking distance.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF) ~50 km / 45–60 min drive; Departure point: Reykjavik Old Harbour; Driving from downtown Reykjavik: 5–10 minutes; Cell service: Good near shore, may fluctuate at sea; Permits: None required
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that minimize light and noise pollution, follow wildlife approach guidelines, and ask about waste management—pack out any personal trash to keep bays clean.