Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Diving with Optional Pickup

If you’re craving an adventure that combines unique geological scenery with the thrill of exploring underwater between two continents, this Silfra Fissure diving tour from Reykjavík might just be your perfect choice. Not just a typical snorkel or dive, it’s a chance to float through some of the clearest waters on Earth, in a setting unlike anywhere else.

What makes this experience stand out? For us, it’s the chance to dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with visibility that often exceeds 150 meters. Plus, the small-group format promises a more personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable professionals.

On the flip side, if you’re not a certified dry suit diver or don’t meet specific medical or physical requirements, this experience may not be suitable. But if you’re a certified diver and eager to see Iceland’s geology from an entirely new perspective, this trip offers incredible value and unforgettable sights.

Key Points

• Unique geological setting: First and only place where you can dive between two tectonic plates.
• Exceptional visibility: Expect over 150 meters of crystal-clear water, making it one of the clearest diving spots worldwide.
• Expert-guided experience: Led by a certified Dive Master, ensuring safety and professional guidance.
• All-inclusive gear: Includes dry suits, wetsuits, tanks, and accessories—no need to bring your own equipment.
• Small-group format: Limited to 3 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible options: Optional pickup from Reykjavík and a flexible cancellation policy.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed for certified and experienced divers eager to experience one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural wonders. It starts with a meet-up at Thingvellir National Park, specifically at the Silfra parking lot, or with optional pickup from Reykjavík. Once you arrive, your guide will help you gear up with all necessary equipment, including dry suits, masks, fins, and tanks.

The experience itself involves floating through the glacial waters of Silfra, where you’ll literally drift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The water’s clarity is often described as like swimming in a fantasy land, with many reviewers mentioning the over 100 meters of visibility. You’ll marvel at the vibrant blue hues, caused by the pure glacial meltwater that has been filtered over centuries.

Guides like Christian (mentioned positively in reviews) are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making the experience both safe and enjoyable. They’re also well-prepared to handle any questions about the geological marvels or the technical aspects of dry suit diving, which is a must-have certification for participants.

The entire tour lasts between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your start time and group size. Plus, the small-group setup ensures that you get plenty of individual attention, which is especially valuable in such a specialized activity.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meeting and Preparation

Most travelers will likely meet at the Silfra parking lot unless opting for the pickup service. The designated meeting point is straightforward, about 400 meters down the road from the actual diving site, making it easy to find with Google Maps. You should arrive 15 minutes early to get suited up and review safety instructions.

Gear Up and Safety Briefing

Once at the site, your PADI Certified Dive Master will provide a thorough briefing. You’ll receive all necessary diving gear, including cold-water wetsuits, dry suits, masks, fins, and tanks. The guides are praised for their helpfulness—a key point noted by reviewers who appreciated how trustworthy and professional the staff was, especially when handling equipment.

The Dive Experience

The highlight is, of course, floating between the tectonic plates—an experience that’s as surreal as it sounds. The water’s extraordinary clarity makes it feel like you’re gliding through an otherworldly landscape. Many visitors comment on how the blue water almost looks like a fairy tale scene, which is a visual treat.

Post-Dive and Return

After your underwater adventure, you’ll change out of gear and wrap up with a debrief. The tour ends back at the meeting point, with plenty of time to reflect on the experience or explore the nearby national park.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently describe the guides like Christian and others as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. One reviewer, Kenny, shared that he initially didn’t realize he needed a dry suit certification but was able to switch to a different tour with assistance—highlighting the flexible and accommodating nature of the operator.

Hugo called it “the coolest tourist thing I have done,” emphasizing how everything was just perfect, from the guide’s expertise to the stunning scenery. Alex appreciated the cleanliness of the water and the trustworthiness of the guides, noting that the experience felt relaxing despite being an adventurous activity.

Pricing and Value

At $278 per person, this experience offers excellent value for the unique opportunity to dive between two continents in such pristine waters. The price includes all necessary equipment, park admission, and guidance, meaning no hidden costs. Given the uniqueness of the location, the professional guidance, and the small-group format, it’s a worthwhile investment for those with the right certification.

While the activity is priced higher than typical snorkeling tours, the specialized nature of dry suit diving and the extraordinary scenery justify the cost. It’s not just about the dive but about the chance to experience a geological wonder few will ever see firsthand.

Practical Information and Tips

• Bring warm clothing, a towel, socks, and a change of clothes for before and after the dive.
• You must present a valid dry suit certification or a logbook showing at least 10 previous dry suit dives.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or anyone with certain medical conditions. Always review the provided Diving Handbook beforehand.
• Glasses cannot be worn under the mask, so bring contact lenses if necessary.
• The dry suits are sized for heights between 155cm and 200cm and weights from 45kg to 120kg.
• For those prone to medical issues, a doctor’s note might be required, especially for senior participants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a diving certification to participate?
Yes, a valid dry suit diving certification is required, or you need to have completed at least 10 previous dry suit dives logged and signed by a dive professional.

Is pickup included in the price?
Pickup is optional and can be arranged from authorized points in Reykjavík, but the tour also starts at the Silfra parking lot if you prefer to meet there.

How long does the tour last?
Expect between 4 to 6 hours, including preparation, the dive, and post-dive wrap-up.

What should I bring with me?
Warm clothing, a towel, socks, a change of clothes, and your diving certification. Be sure to review the provided diving handbook beforehand.

Can I do this if I am not a strong swimmer?
This activity is suitable only for non-swimmers if they are comfortable with snorkeling or diving with proper equipment; however, overall physical fitness and certification are necessary.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be over 18, and those over 60 need a doctor’s note. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or certain medical conditions.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes all diving gear, a guided experience with a certified dive master, and park entry fees.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option in case your plans shift.

This Silfra Fissure diving tour in Iceland offers a rare chance to swim between two continental plates in crystal-clear waters. The combination of stunning scenery, professional guidance, and all equipment included makes it a compelling choice for certified divers looking for an adventure that goes beyond the usual sightseeing.

For those who are certified, adventurous, and eager to experience one of Iceland’s most iconic natural features, this tour delivers in both spectacle and professionalism. The small-group size ensures you receive personalized attention, making the journey both safe and memorable.

While the activity demands some certification and medical considerations, the value and thrill it offers make it well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or an adventurous snorkeler with dry suit experience, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of floating through a blue wonderland, surrounded by Iceland’s dramatic landscape.

In summary, this tour is best suited for certified divers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Iceland’s pristine waters. Its combination of geological marvels, expert guides, and excellent visibility makes it a standout activity for those looking to combine adventure with awe-inspiring scenery.