Silfra Fissure Snorkeling From Reykjavík – Free Underwater Photos

Exploring the Silfra Fissure, the stunning rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This small-group snorkeling tour from Reykjavík provides the chance to dive into crystal-clear waters and straddle the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Led by PADI-certified professionals, the experience includes free underwater photos, hot chocolate, and cookies. But there’s more to this adventure than meets the eye. Discover the unique underwater landscapes and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Key Points

1. Small-group snorkeling tours allow visitors to explore the unique Silfra Fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, with a maximum depth of 25 meters.

2. PADI-certified guides lead the tours, providing safety briefings and gear, including dry suits, to ensure a comfortable experience in the cold 2°C water.

3. Participants receive complimentary underwater photos to capture the crystal-clear water and the distinctive adventure of straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

4. The tour is open to individuals aged 12 and above, with weight and height limits, and a minimum booking requirement of 2 people.

5. Participants should prepare by layering up with thermal underwear and bringing a change of clothing, and can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.

Exploring the Rift Between Continents

As participants submerge themselves in the Silfra Fissure, they’ll have the unique opportunity to explore the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Reaching depths of 82 feet (25 meters), the fissure offers a rare glimpse into the vast divide between the two continental plates.

Snorkelers can witness firsthand the powerful geological forces that have shaped the region, as the crystal-clear water provides unparalleled visibility into the underwater abyss.

This truly once-in-a-lifetime experience allows visitors to straddle the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, truly embodying the essence of Iceland’s dramatic landscape.

Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure

Participants can expect an exhituring and immersive snorkeling experience in the Silfra Fissure. Exploring the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, they’ll descend up to 25 meters into crystal-clear, frigid waters. PADI-certified guides lead small groups of 6 or fewer, providing comprehensive safety briefings and ensuring a seamless adventure.

Included are hotel transfers, hot chocolate, cookies, and underwater photos – an unforgettable opportunity to witness continental drift firsthand.

Small-Group Tour Experience

The small-group tours offer a personalized and intimate snorkeling experience in the Silfra Fissure.

With a maximum of 6 participants per guide, you’ll explore the underwater rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Fully equipped with PADI-certified guides and snorkeling gear, you’ll descend to depths of 25 meters.

The tour includes hotel transfers, hot chocolate, and cookies to keep you warm. However, be prepared for cold water temperatures around 2°C and bring warm underlayers.

The small-group size ensures a tailored experience and ample opportunities for your guide to provide personalized attention.

Hotel Pickup and Transportation

To begin the tour, participants must select a pickup point from the provided list, as the tour company doesn’t allow pickups from city center hotels or private Airbnbs due to traffic restrictions.

This is a small-group tour, with a maximum of 6 participants per guide, ensuring a more personalized experience.

• Pickup locations include various hotels and bus terminals in Reykjavik.
• The minimum booking requirement is 2 people.
• Participants should be prepared for the tour’s start time, as the transportation schedule is efficient to maximize the time spent at the Silfra Fissure.

The tour includes hotel transfers, hot chocolate, and cookies, providing a comfortable journey to the national park.

Age, Weight, and Medical Requirements

Although the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour is open to participants aged 12 and above, those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.

There are also weight and height requirements, with a limit of 45-120 kg and 150-200 cm.

Pregnant women can’t participate due to the risks associated with the cold water.

All participants must be able to swim and complete a medical form before the tour.

The guides prioritize safety, so it’s essential that guests meet these requirements to ensure an enjoyable and secure experience exploring the unique underwater rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Participant Experiences and Reviews

According to reviews, participants have provided an overall 4.6-star rating for the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour based on 286 experiences.

Positive remarks highlight the professionalism of the guides and the unique experience of snorkeling between tectonic plates. However, some critiques mention waiting times and the cold conditions while getting suited up.

Experiences varied, with some finding the underwater visibility stunning, while others felt disappointed with the photo quality.

Key takeaways include:

• Guides praised for their expertise and professionalism
• Unique opportunity to snorkel between North America and Europe
• Mixed reviews on underwater visibility and photo quality
• Potential wait times and cold conditions during setup

Preparing for the Cold Water Adventure

Participants should prepare for the cold water conditions they’ll encounter during the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour.

With water temperatures around 2°C, it’s crucial to layer up. Thin underlayers like thermal underwear and thick socks provide warmth while allowing flexibility. The tour includes a dry suit, but participants should also bring a change of clothing in case they get wet.

Though the cold may be daunting, the guides provide a comprehensive safety briefing and ensure proper dry suit fitting.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To book the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour, visitors must select a pickup point from the provided list, as city center hotels and private Airbnbs aren’t allowed due to traffic restrictions.

The minimum booking requirement is 2 people.

Some additional booking and cancellation details:

• There’s a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Participants must complete a medical form and know how to swim.
• Weight and height restrictions apply, and pregnant women can’t participate.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience is described as comprehensive, with a safety briefing and dry suit fitting included.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

No, you can’t bring your own snorkeling gear. The tour includes all the necessary equipment, including a PADI-certified guide and underwater photos. Using the provided gear ensures proper fit and safety during the snorkeling experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The snorkeling tour has a set itinerary and timeline, so the duration can’t be customized. The tour includes a comprehensive safety briefing and dry suit fitting, but the time in the water is fixed.

Will There Be Any Breaks During the Snorkeling Activity?

Yes, there are breaks during the snorkeling activity. The tour includes a comprehensive safety briefing and dry suit fitting, allowing participants to rest and adjust before entering the chilly waters of Silfra Fissure.

Can I Request a Specific Pickup Location Not Listed?

Unfortunately, participants cannot request a specific pickup location not listed. Due to traffic restrictions, pickups are only allowed from the provided list of locations. Guests must select one of the designated meeting points for the tour.

Do I Need to Provide My Own Food and Beverages?

The tour includes hot chocolate and cookies, but participants should bring their own packed lunch. Outside food and beverages are not provided, so bringing a meal is recommended to fuel the snorkeling adventure.

The Sum Up

Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure is a unique opportunity to explore the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. With crystal-clear waters, stunning underwater landscapes, and the guidance of PADI-certified professionals, this small-group tour from Reykjavík offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Free underwater photos, hot chocolate, and cookies complete the experience, making it a must-do activity for anyone seeking a breathtaking journey between continents.