My Fjallsarlon Iceberg Boat Tour Experience in Iceland

For years, I dreamed of visiting Iceland. At the top of my bucket list was experiencing its raw, untamed beauty, especially its glaciers. That dream became a reality when I found myself standing on the shores of Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon. With its glassy waters reflecting towering icebergs, this place felt like another world. Quiet and powerful. And the best part? I got to see it up close on the Fjallsarlon Iceberg Boat Tour.

In this post, I’ll take you through what the experience was like and whether it’s worth adding to your Iceland itinerary. I’ve also included some FAQs to help you decide if this tour is right for you. Let’s dive in!

What is Fjallsarlon?

Fjallsárlón is a glacial lagoon nestled on the southern edge of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. As the glacier has retreated over centuries, it has carved out a basin that now cradles these majestic ice formations. Depending on the season, you might witness icebergs breaking off from the glacier, slowly drifting through the icy waters before eventually melting away. Despite its lesser-known status compared to the more famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Fjallsárlón is no less spectacular.

How to get to Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon?

Fjallsárlón is conveniently located just off Iceland’s famous Ring Road, making it easily accessible from major destinations like Reykjavik and Höfn. If you’re driving from Reykjavik, the journey takes about four hours, but trust me, it’s worth every minute. The drive itself is an adventure, with stunning landscapes unfolding around every bend.

For those relying on public transportation, there are bus tours available that include stops at Fjallsárlón and other nearby attractions. However, I highly recommend to rent a car in Iceland if possible, as it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Also, you can stop at designated areas to take photos and soak in the breathtaking scenery. 

If you’ve already booked a trip to Iceland and are searching for a car rental company, I highly recommend Blue Car Rental, one of the top-rated and largest local rental companies in Iceland. I booked our rental car with them just a few weeks before the trip, and it was super hassle-free. When you book a car rental in Iceland using this link, you get 5% off your rental car.

When is the Best Time to Visit Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon?

The beauty of Fjallsárlón changes with the seasons, so the best time to visit depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Summer offers milder weather and longer days, making it ideal for those who want to fully explore the area. Boat tours are available during this time, as certain parts of the lagoon have thawed, allowing you to glide among the icebergs.

Winter, on the other hand, brings its own kind of magic. The lagoon freezes over, and the surrounding landscape is blanketed in snow. While boat tours aren’t possible during the height of winter, you can still walk along the shore and admire the frozen lagoon from there.

My Fjallsarlon Iceberg Boat Tour Experience

Preparing for the Boat Tour

The excitement began long before we even set foot on the boat. After arriving at the base of Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tours, we suited up with jackets and life vests to protect us from the cold and ensure our safety. Although I had already layered up, I still put on the oversized jacket provided. After all, we were about to get up close and personal with one of nature’s most formidable creations, a glacier.

The walk to the boat was magical. As we followed the path, the massive glacier feeding the lagoon came into full view. Its icy blue expanse stretching as far as the eye could see. It felt like a scene straight out of one of my all-time favorite movies, Interstellar.

Setting off into the Lagoon

As we boarded the boat and set off into the lagoon, I was immediately struck by the stillness. The only sounds were the water against the boat and the occasional crack of an iceberg. It was a serene, almost meditative experience. The icebergs were mesmerizing, each unique in shape and size, with hues of blue that seemed almost otherworldly. Some were smooth and rounded, while others were jagged and sharp.

Watching these massive chunks of ice drift by, I felt a profound sense of awe for Iceland. Our guide pointed out a particularly large iceberg, which had likely broken off from the glacier just days before. Seeing it up close, I was struck by its beauty. At the same time, a deep sadness settled in, knowing that glaciers like Vatnajökull are retreating at an alarming rate due to climate change. Our guide mentioned that these glaciers could disappear in as little as 50 years.

Final Thoughts about the Fjallsarlon Iceberg Boat Tour

My Fjallsárlón Boat Tour experience was a dream come true. Gliding across the lagoon, surrounded by icebergs, was everything I had hoped for and more. The sight of an iceberg breaking off from the glacier was particularly surreal. I felt fortunate to be so close to these massive glaciers, knowing that they had been on their journey for thousands of years before reaching this point.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, I can’t recommend the Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tour enough. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the shores of the lagoon.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it’s important to come prepared. Layering is key. I wore three layers under my jacket and was thankful for every one of them. Don’t forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep warm, especially if you’re visiting in winter.

Waterproof clothing is also a must, as the weather can change in an instant. Make sure your camera or smartphone is protected from the elements. There’s nothing worse than missing out on capturing a perfect moment because of a little spray from the lagoon.

One of the most important things I learned during my time in Iceland is to embrace the weather, whatever it may be. Rain, snow, wind, it’s all part of the experience. Rather than letting it dampen your spirits, use it as an opportunity to see the landscape in a different light.