Reykjavík Whales & Northern Lights

Book this combo tour and enjoy a Classic Whale Watching tour and Northern Lights Cruise at a discounted rate. This package is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s stunning wildlife and natural wonders – all in one day!

Start your day with a 3 hr. whale watching tour at 09:00, 13:00 or 17:00 (see calendar for availability), departing from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Our expert marine biologist naturalist will guide you through sightings and share fascinating insights about the marine life in Faxaflói bay. During this time of year, we see many seabirds, and the most commonly spotted species include humpback whales and harbour porpoises, in addition to white-beaked dolphins and minke whales. The various wildlife against the winter-lit landscape surrounding the bay makes for a breathtaking experience!

After the incredible marine adventure, you'll have time to explore Reykjavík’s city centre and enjoy a lovely dinner before returning to the harbour for the next part of your journey.

Starting at 21:00 or 22:00 (depending on the season), we set sail again for an approximately 2 hr. Northern Lights & City Cruise into the southern part of Faxaflói bay. As we depart the harbour, enjoy views of Reykjavík’s glittering shoreline and illuminated landmarks, including Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja church. When the Imagine Peace Tower is lit, we sail by to admire its radiant beam before turning our gaze to the northern skies in search of the auroras. Watching the vast, starry sky from the sea is an unforgettable experience, and with Iceland’s unpredictable weather, we aim to maximise your chances of seeing the Northern Lights by operating the tour whenever conditions allow.

3 hr. Classic Whale Watching tour
2 hr. Northern Lights Cruise
Excellent guidance
Use of overalls onboard
Free WiFi on board
Entry to Wildlife Exhibition
Large viewing windows
Heated indoor saloon
Cafeteria & Bar on board

The total duration of the tours varies depending on tour start times you choose, but keep in mind that in between the two tours, you will have several hours of free time. Upon booking, you will receive an email with information on the exact duration and departure times for each tour.

Note that if you select hotel pick-up or drop-off, you will only be collected at your preferred meeting point before the Whale Watching tour and returned only after the Northern Lights Cruise. Extra transfers can be arranged upon request.

The tours are subject to suitable sea conditions and therefore one or both could get cancelled on short notice. We will do our best to notify you in good time in this case, but please check our website for updates!

While Reykjavík offers the ideal conditions for aurora viewing and whale watching, they are both highly unpredictable. If no sightings are reported on your tour(s), you will be offered a complimentary return ticket, which is valid for two years.

Check-in
Meet us at our ticket office by the Old Harbour in Reykjavík where you will check in for the tours at least 15 min. before your whale watching tour is scheduled to depart. Do keep in mind that both tours are weather-dependent for your safety and enjoyment, so always check the our website for updates and dress accordingly.
Classic Whale Watching (3 hours)
Start your adventure by joining the whale watching tour at the Old Harbour. Enjoy an approximately 3-hour tour in Faxaflói bay, where you can spot minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, and even humpback whales. The winter landscape, illuminated by the low sun, creates breathtaking views over the horizon. If no wildlife is spotted, you’ll receive a free ticket to join another tour on a different day.
Free time in Reykjavík
After your whale watching tour, you will have a few hours to explore downtown Reykjavík at your leisure. Use this time to stroll through the city center, visit local shops, or enjoy a cozy meal at one of Reykjavík’s many restaurants. This break provides the perfect opportunity to relax and prepare for the evening adventure.
Northern Lights Cruise (2 hours)
Return to the Old Harbour for an evening cruise into the Southern part of Faxaflói bay. Sail away from the city lights under a vast, starry sky to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The tour is operated on most nights, where there is a chance we will see the auroras, as we know Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and the skies can clear up within minutes. If the Northern Lights don’t appear, you’ll receive a free ticket to try again on another night.
Disembarking
Once the evening cruise is back in port, you are welcome to make your own way back to your hotel. If you have booked drop off, please get on one of our white buses that will be waiting for you outside the boat. Need a ride back to your hotel? Feel free to book a transfer by contacting a member of the crew.