Oceanic Iceland: Northern Lights and Whale Watching

Whale watching tours in Iceland have long belonged to the summer itinerary, but they are now also available in the winter and offer a stunning combination along with the typical sights of a winter visit to Iceland. Northern Lights viewing from the deck of a vessel at sea is a surprising and exciting way to see one of the finest displays on Earth.

Expert guidance introduces visitors to the different species of whales and sea birds they can expect to see on their cruises. Then, on land, visitors can enjoy some of the country's other natural wonders, such as the geological sights of the Golden Circle tour and a swim in the Blue Lagoon.

Whale Watching

Tourists will get a new vantage on this fascinating country by setting out to sea. Whale watching in winter weather is a bracing prospect, but the boats are comfortable, with heated interiors, some snacks and drinks available, and warm overalls provided to keep avid whale watchers warm and dry. The region is affected by the Gulf Stream, which keeps the winter temperatures to a far more tolerable range. The experienced captain and crew will point out the prime whale spotting places and offer information about the whale species and bird life seen on the trip. In addition, the crew have specimens that passengers can examine and touch, such as whale teeth, whale bones and baleen plates. A whale watching tour is an unforgettable way to see Iceland. Northern Lights sightings from the same deck by night are similarly stunning.

Seeing the Aurora

On any winter visit to Iceland, Northern Lights are at the top of the to-do list. Though the aurora borealis is unpredictable, the country is well-placed for a sighting and tour operators will do everything they can to ensure one. Traditionally the lights are viewed from land, but it is also possible to see them from sea on a boat trip. Standing on the deck of the boat, with the mountains and Reykjavik city lights on the horizon and the aurora overhead, is a lifelong memory in the making. As with the whale watching tours, warm overalls are provided on the boat. Visitors are advised to bring their own winter-weather clothing, but it will not need to be rated for the -30C temperatures of the European mainland, as these are not typical of Iceland. Northern Lights viewing is a more comfortable experience here in terms of temperature.

On Land: Major Sights

There are also many opportunities to see the other major sights. A super jeep tour takes visitors into the rugged landscape in search of clear skies and stunning viewing locations for the aurora, but other sights include the famous Golden Circle of Gullfoss waterfall, the regularly erupting Strokkur geyser and the historical site of the first Thingvellir – Icelandic parliament – in the rift valley. Finally, visitors can relax in the mineral-rich warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, enjoying spa treatments or a pummel from the pool’s own waterfall.

Abigail Collins is director of Aurora Nights, a company offering a select range of once in a lifetime holidays to see the Northern Lights. When you travel to Swedish Lapland or Iceland, Northern Lights encounters make for a thrilling experience. Aurora Nights is part of Weekend a la Carte, a family-run company with vast in-depth knowledge based on their extensive travels to the region of the Aurora Borealis and passionate about giving superb client service.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.