Amphibian Boat Tour in Jokulsarlon

Meeting location: Jokulsarlon

Tour duration: 35 minutes

Age limit: No limit

Availability: Mid-June – Mid-November

Tour type: Day tours

The Amphibian Boat Tour in Jökulsárlón offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders from a unique perspective. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a breathtaking landscape where massive glaciers meet the sea, creating a surreal scene of floating icebergs, shimmering waters, and distant snow-capped mountains. The amphibian boat tour takes visitors on a thrilling journey through this otherworldly environment, providing an up-close and personal view of the ice-filled lagoon that draws visitors from around the world.

From the moment you arrive at the boardwalk overlooking Jökulsárlón, the drama of this place is undeniable. Towering ice sculptures—some bright cerulean, others streaked with ash-gray glacial dust—drift languidly toward the Atlantic. Amphibian boats, sturdy but sleek, emerge from their slipways with a gentle hum, welcoming guests to climb aboard.

This tour is about more than just visuals. Keep your camera poised for the lagoon’s resident grey seals, who balance on floating ice cakes and pop their heads up to inspect curious guests. In summer, arctic terns swoop low, and if you’re here in late autumn, you might even spot a glaucous gull perched like a sentry. The water itself changes color throughout the day: a deep, steely gray under brooding clouds, then a shimmering aquamarine when the sun peeks through.

Safety is paramount. These boats are designed to handle sudden gusts of wind or shifting ice floes. Every guest receives a snug flotation suit before boarding, and our captains know the lagoon’s hidden channels like the contours of their hometown. There will be plenty of time for photos, but we never linger too close to large icebergs—safety distance is key because these giants can roll or crack without warning.

When your voyage concludes, you’ll disembark back onto firm ground with a new appreciation for nature’s slow artistry. From a local’s perspective, there’s no better introduction to Vatnajökull’s grandeur and Iceland’s wild spirit. Pack your jacket, charge your camera, and prepare to make memories among the iceberg cathedrals of Jökulsárlón!

Included:

30–40 min guided ride aboard an amphibious vehicle across Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Knowledgeable, English-speaking guide
All mandatory safety gear – Coast-Guard–approved life jackets; flotation suits available on chillier days
On-board crew assistance for safe roll-on / roll-off boarding and seating
Up-close iceberg encounters with the chance to hold a piece of crystal-clear, 1,000-year-old glacial ice.
VAT and national park fees are fully covered in the ticket price
Free on-site parking at the Jökulsárlón visitor lot

What to bring:

Wind- and water-resistant outer layer – a lightweight rain jacket or shell helps block glacier-cooled spray and sudden showers.
Warm mid-layers – fleece or wool sweater; air over the lagoon often feels 5-10 °C colder than on shore.
Hat & gloves
Sturdy, waterproof footwear – insulated hiking shoes or rubber boots handle wet ramps and slushy shoreline.
Sunglasses with UV protection – ice and water reflect sunlight intensely, even on cloudy days.
High-SPF sunscreen & lip balm
Camera or smartphone, plus a spare battery
Dry bag or sealable plastic pouch – protect electronics and valuables from spray.
Reusable water bottle and light snack
Small daypack

Most Common Questions About Amphibian Boat Tour in Jokulsarlon

What makes the Amphibian Boat Tour in Jökulsárlón different from the faster Zodiac tour?

The amphibian craft rolls off the beach like a bus and then floats smoothly among the icebergs, offering a more stable ride, seated comfort, and plenty of space for families and photographers—ideal if you prefer a calm cruise over the splashy, high-speed Zodiac.

How safe is the Amphibian Boat Tour for children and seniors?

Very safe—each seat has a Coast-Guard-approved life jacket, crew assist with boarding ramps, and the ride stays inside the lagoon’s sheltered waters, making it suitable for kids 2 + and most older travelers with moderate mobility.

What wildlife can I expect to see during the Amphibian Boat excursion at Jökulsárlón?

Common sightings include curious harbor seals swimming near the hull and Arctic terns diving for fish; lucky

How close will the Amphibian Boat get to icebergs and Vatnajökull’s calving front?

Expect to drift within a safe 15–20 meters of towering bergs. For safety, the crew keeps at least 200 meters from the active glacier face, where ice can calve without warning.

Are there restroom facilities near the Amphibian Boat launch point in Jökulsárlón?

Yes—modern toilets are located beside the café and visitor center in the main parking area, but there are none on the boat itself.

Is the Amphibian Boat Tour worth it if I have already visited Diamond Beach?

Absolutely. Diamond Beach shows you ice washed ashore, but the Amphibian Boat glides among freshly calved icebergs, delivering 360-degree lagoon views, wildlife encounters, and insightful glacier geology commentary that the beach alone can’t match.

Do I need to reserve my Jökulsárlón Amphibian Boat ticket in advance?

Yes. Peak weeks from June to August often sell out days ahead, so booking online guarantees a departure time and locks in the best price.

When is the best time of year to take the Amphibian Boat on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon?

Mid-May through late September offers the most extended daylight, mildest temperatures, and the most extensive fleet schedule; July typically provides the most dramatic blue ice and a reliable tour frequency.

How does bad weather affect Amphibian Boat departures at Jökulsárlón?

Tours run in light rain, but strong katabatic winds or thick fog can pause operations. If the captain cancels for safety reasons, you may rebook or receive a full refund.

What clothing should I wear for a summer Amphibian Boat ride on Jökulsárlón’s Glacier Lagoon?

Layer up: a windproof rain shell, warm fleece or wool jumper, waterproof hiking shoes, gloves, and polarized sunglasses. Even in July, temperatures on the water hover around 5 – 10 °C.

Can I bring my professional camera or drone on the Amphibian Boat Tour?

Professional cameras are welcome—just pack a dry bag. Drones, however, are banned without an Icelandic Environment Agency permit because the lagoon is part of Vatnajökull National Park’s protected zone.

Is there parking at Jökulsárlón for Amphibian Boat passengers?

Yes—free gravel parking sits beside Route 1, a two-minute walk from the ticket hut and boarding ramp; arrive early because spaces fill quickly by late morning.

Book this tour

Meeting location

Please note:

Weather can change rapidly in the Vatnajökull region; tours run in light rain but may be delayed or canceled if winds create unsafe lagoon conditions.
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure; late arrivals will be treated as no-shows and will not receive a refund.
Children under 6 years old must sit with a parent or guardian and wear the child-size life jackets provided.
There is no restroom on board; please use the facilities at the parking area before boarding.
Drones are prohibited without a special permit to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other guests.
Pets are not allowed on the boats, except for certified service animals, provided prior notice is given.
Iceberg proximity varies day to day; the crew always maintains a safe distance to avoid calving hazards.

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