Reykjavik Northern Lights & Whale Watching — Boat & Bus Tours Compared
Two of Iceland's signature experiences leave from Reykjavik: chase the aurora by bus or boat in winter, or head out from the old harbour to spot whales by classic cruise or RIB boat.
Available
6 options
Avg. rating
4.6 - 1,509 reviews
From
$10073 ISK
Cancellation
Free up to 24h before
Northern Lights & Whale Watching: what to know before booking
Two of Iceland's signature experiences leave from Reykjavik: chase the aurora by bus or boat in winter, or head out from the old harbour to spot whales by classic cruise or RIB boat.
- Availability
- 6 ticket options compared
- Starting price
- Tickets currently start around $10073 ISK before checkout fees.
- Rating signal
- Compared options average 4.6 stars across 1,509 traveler reviews.
- Location
- Northern Lights tours depart citywide pickup points; whale tours leave from Reykjavik's Old Harbour (Ægisgarður / Miðbakki)
- Best time
- Aurora: clear, dark winter nights. Whales: summer for the highest sighting rates
- Ticket note
- Date- and time-specific; aurora tours often include a free re-run if the lights don't appear
Northern Lights & Whale Watching in Reykjavik
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Everything you should know before you book
From roughly September to April, Northern Lights tours run from Reykjavik whenever the sky is clear and solar activity cooperates — by coach out to dark countryside, or by boat from the harbour where there's no light pollution at all. Whale watching runs most of the year from the old harbour, with humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises the common sightings.
The aurora can't be guaranteed, so book an operator that re-runs you free if the lights don't show. Most reputable tours offer a second attempt on a later night at no cost. For whales, the high-speed RIB boats get you to the feeding grounds faster and feel more adventurous; the larger cruises are steadier and warmer.
Frequently asked questions
Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
No tour can guarantee the aurora — it depends on clear skies and solar activity. Most Reykjavik operators let you re-join a later night free of charge if the lights don't show on your trip.
Boat or bus for the Northern Lights?
Boat tours escape city light entirely and add the calm of the bay; bus tours can drive to wherever the sky is clearest. Both are good; clear skies matter more than the vehicle.
When is the best whale watching from Reykjavik?
Sailings run most of the year, but summer (roughly April–October) brings the highest sighting rates for humpback and minke whales.