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Northern Lights Yacht Cruise from Reykjavík — Harpa Aurora Evening Sail - Reykjavík

Northern Lights Yacht Cruise from Reykjavík — Harpa Aurora Evening Sail

Reykjavíkeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to board small gangways and stand on decks for viewing.

Overview

Set out from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour on a small, intimate yacht to chase the aurora across Faxaflói Bay. With heated indoor spaces, an onboard bar and knowledgeable crew, this 2–3 hour cruise balances comfort with the unpredictable thrill of Northern Lights hunting.

Northern Lights Yacht Cruise from Reykjavík — Harpa Aurora Evening Sail

Other
Wildlife

You step off the quay at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and the city exhales behind you: sodium streetlights, the glass facets of Harpa glinting like a ship’s rigging, and the low rumble of a diesel engine ready to push out into Faxaflói Bay.

Adventure Photos

Northern Lights Yacht Cruise from Reykjavík — Harpa Aurora Evening Sail photo 1

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers and windproof outerwear

Temperatures on deck drop quickly; bring an insulated mid‑layer plus a windproof shell and warm hat.

Arrive 30 minutes early to check in

Check in at Old Harbour House (Ægisgarður 2) and scan your mobile ticket at the kiosk to avoid delays.

Bring seasickness remedies if needed

The bay can be choppy — take preventative medication before boarding if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Bring a tripod and spare batteries

Long exposure aurora shots drain batteries fast—stabilize your camera and keep spares warm in an inner pocket.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Humpback whales
  • Harbour seals

History

Reykjavík’s Old Harbour evolved from a 19th‑century fishing hub into a cultural gateway; Faxaflói Bay has long supported livelihoods tied to the sea.

Conservation

Operators follow wildlife‑safety guidelines and recommend keeping light and noise to a minimum; use designated paths and avoid disturbing bird colonies onshore.

Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Insulated mid-layer

Essential

Keeps core warm during long watches on the open deck.

winter specific

Windproof, waterproof shell

Essential

Blocks cold sea wind and light spray while on deck.

Tripod and camera with manual settings

Necessary for long-exposure aurora photography and stable night shots.

Motion-sickness medication or wristbands

Essential

Reduces risk of discomfort when the sea gets choppy.