Disembarking in Reykjavík, Iceland? Buckle up—this port can be a bit of a logistical puzzle if you’re not prepared. While the rugged landscapes may take your breath away, figuring out how to get from the cruise terminal to Keflavík International Airport might do the same—for entirely different reasons.
The key? Plan ahead. A little research and early booking can save you serious time, money, and stress. Whether you’re eyeing a cruise-line shuttle, private transfer, or a combo of taxis and buses, knowing your options before you step off the ship is essential for a smooth journey home.
Cruise-Line Shuttle Buses
Sometimes, spending a little extra money is simply the smartest move—and this is one of those times. On my NCL Star sailing, guests were strongly encouraged to reserve the cruise line’s shuttle to Keflavík International Airport. It quickly became clear why.
For about $60 to $75 per person, you get a reliable, direct ride for the approximately 45-minute journey to the airport—timed specifically around your flight. Especially if you’ve got an early departure, the convenience and peace of mind are worth every penny.
When it comes to disembarkation day in Reykjavík, the cruise-line shuttle is often the smoothest, most stress-free way to go.
Taxis
Remember how I mentioned that my NCL Star cruise strongly encouraged booking the cruise line’s airport shuttle? Here’s why: taxis in Reykjavík are scarce—especially when a cruise ship docks. With hundreds of passengers disembarking and many more arriving for the next sailing, demand for rides skyrockets, and supply just can’t keep up.
While there is a designated taxi stand at the Port of Reykjavík, I witnessed a long line snaking down the pickup zone, with few cabs showing up unless they had been pre-booked. If you have an early flight, relying on a taxi could leave you stressed and scrambling.
If you’re waiting for a ride to your hotel for a post-cruise stay, prepare for potential delays. I personally watched several passengers abandon the long taxi line altogether and set off on foot toward their hotels. While walking is certainly an option, it’s not the easiest one—especially if you’re hauling large luggage, have mobility concerns, or simply aren’t up for a long trek after disembarking. Reykjavík’s port isn’t exactly steps away from downtown, and the lack of available taxis only adds to the challenge. Unless you’re traveling light and love a good walk, you’re better off arranging transportation in advance.
Taxis to Keflavík can cost a hefty $140–$150 USD for a one-way trip, and even private transfer services like Welcome Pickups require advance booking—and still come at a premium.
Bottom line: plan ahead, or prepare to wait.
Consider Doing a Tour
My mother and I chose to spend one night in Reykjavík before flying home, and we made the most of it with a full-day tour. We booked through an independent company (not affiliated with the cruise line) and chose a combo excursion that included both a Reykjavík city tour and the iconic Golden Circle.
The best decision we made? Opting for cruise-port pickup. While many disembarking passengers scrambled for taxis or waited for cruise shuttles, our tour bus arrived right on time—no stress, no long lines. Our driver loaded our luggage onto the bus, and we headed downtown to pick up other guests for the city portion of the tour.
After exploring Reykjavík’s highlights, our guide led us to the meeting point for the second part of the day—the Golden Circle tour. Luckily, we had the same fantastic guide all day. Our luggage remained safely stowed in the bus’s luggage compartment throughout the journey. And the cherry on top? We were dropped off directly at our hotel at the end of the tour. Transportation and sightseeing in one seamless experience!
If you have a later flight from Reykjavík, consider booking a cruise-line excursion that ends at the airport—many lines offer this type of transfer-tour combo. It’s often a more relaxing alternative to fighting for a taxi or sitting around the terminal. Even if you’re not flying that day and are staying at a nearby airport hotel, a tour like this—whether through the cruise line or an independent operator—can be a scenic, stress-free way to transition from ship to shore.
Tips to Make It Easier
- Pre-book airport transfers (either through your cruise line or a trusted local provider).
- If you’re staying overnight in Reykjavík after your cruise, use a service like Airport Direct from your hotel rather than the cruise port.
- Consider taking a tour with port pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or airport.
- For downtown access, some cruise lines offer complimentary or low-cost shuttles to Harpa Concert Hall, right in the city center.
- Avoid relying solely on local buses unless you’re familiar with the system and have plenty of time.
Final Thoughts
Disembarking in Reykjavík doesn’t have to be a headache—it just takes a little strategy. Whether you’re flying the same day, spending a night in the city, or exploring Iceland a bit longer, your post-cruise plans should be just as thoughtfully arranged as your onboard experience.
With limited taxi availability, high transfer costs, and long distances to the airport, pre-booking your transport is more than smart—it’s essential. Cruise-line shuttles, private transfers, or creative options like day tours with hotel drop-off can make all the difference.
Plan ahead, stay flexible, and you’ll end your Icelandic adventure on the same high note it began. Safe travels!
12- Day London Southampton – Reykjavik on NCL Star
Ports of Call
- Southampton
- Edinburgh Scotland
- Kirkwall Orkney Islands
- Lerwick Shetland Islands
- Alesund Norway
- Haugesund Norway
- Akureryi Iceland
- Ísafjörður Iceland
- Reykjavik
Inspired to plan a journey of your own?
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply ready to explore somewhere new, I’ll help you design a cruise experience tailored to you.
Start Planning Your Journey →
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my travel content and recommendations.
Leave a Reply