Diving in Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park

Diving in the Silfra Fissure within Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park offers a truly unique experience for thrill-seeking adventurers. Surrounded by stunning volcanic scenery, divers can witness the powerful geological forces that have shaped this incredible underwater world. With crystal-clear waters and visibility often exceeding 328 feet, it’s no wonder why Silfra has become a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts. However, to embark on this exhilarating journey, divers must possess specific certifications and be prepared for the challenges that come with exploring this remarkable natural wonder.

Key Points

• Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park, Reykjavik, offers a unique diving experience with crystal-clear waters and stunning volcanic scenery.
• The dive lasts 4-6 hours and requires a PADI open water license, dry-suit certification, or 10 logged dry-suit dives.
• Divers can explore the fissure at depths ranging from 30 to 100 feet, witnessing the tectonic plate drift.
• Participants must be able to perform moderate exercise, and certain health conditions may make them ineligible for the dive.
• Divers must bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, and be able to carry heavy diving equipment for up to 400 meters.

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Activity Overview

The Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park, Reykjavik, offers a unique opportunity to dive in crystal-clear water, with prices starting from ISK 7,039 per person for a 4-6 hour experience.

The group size is limited to 3 participants, and the dive is conducted in English. Divers meet at the Silfra parking lot in Thingvellir’s Parking P5.

The dive allows explorers to descend from 30 to 100 feet (10 to 30 meters), seeing the volcanic scenery and experiencing a sense of weightlessness.

To participate, divers must hold a PADI open water license or equivalent, and a dry-suit certification or 10 logged dry-suit dives is required.

Experience Highlights

Divers can explore the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure, descending to depths ranging from 30 to 100 feet (10 to 30 meters) and seeing the unique volcanic scenery.

Participants will experience a profound sense of weightlessness as they drift through this submerged geological wonder.

The fissure, formed by the drifting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the forces of nature at work.

With visibility often exceeding 328 feet (100 meters), divers can revel in the stunning vistas of the underwater landscape, marveling at the interplay of light and water in this one-of-a-kind environment.

Health and Safety Requirements

To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, certain health requirements must be met before embarking on the Silfra Fissure dive.

Individuals aren’t allowed to participate if they’ve an inability to perform moderate exercise, heart disease, lung disease, previous pneumothorax, blood disorders, colostomy, epilepsy, or obesity.

However, those with high/low blood pressure, Type 1 diabetes, asthma, or those over 60 can join with a doctor’s letter.

A PADI open water license or equivalent is required, as is a dry-suit certification or at least 10 logged dry-suit dives.

Adhering to these safety protocols ensures a thrilling yet responsible diving experience in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra Fissure.

What to Bring

For the Silfra Fissure dive, participants should bring along warm clothing, a change of clothes, a towel, and socks to ensure they’re fully prepared for the excursion.

It’s also crucial to speak English fluently, as this is a safety requirement for the activity.

The dive itself is considered challenging, so participants must be capable of carrying heavy diving equipment for up to 400 meters.

Plus, divers must wait 24 hours before flying after the dive.

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Important Information

Participants must speak English fluently for safety purposes, as communication with guides is critical during the dive. The Silfra Fissure dive is considered a challenging activity, requiring the ability to carry heavy diving equipment for up to 400 meters. Plus, divers are required to wait 24 hours before flying after completing the dive.

Important Information
English fluency required
Challenging dive, heavy equipment
24-hour no-fly rule
PADI open water license or equivalent needed
Dry-suit certification or 10 logged dry-suit dives necessary

Customer Reviews

Divers overwhelmingly praise the Silfra Fissure dive experience, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 51 reviews.

Tour guides receive high marks, averaging 4.7 out of 5, with divers applauding their expertise and support.

The transportation provided also earns a perfect 5/5 score. Customers are generally satisfied with the service, giving it a 4.8/5 rating.

While some found the heavy equipment challenging, the vast majority describe the dive as an incredible experience they highly recommend.

Guide Rating

The tour guides at Silfra Fissure receive high marks, averaging 4.7 out of 5 from customers, who applaud their expertise and support.

The guides are highly skilled and experienced, ensuring participants feel safe and comfortable throughout the dive. They provide thorough briefings, offer helpful tips, and remain attentive to the group’s needs.

Customers appreciate the guides’ patience and ability to cater to different skill levels. One reviewer noted, ‘Our guide was fantastic – he made us feel at ease and confident the entire time.’

Another praised the guide’s ‘extensive knowledge of the fissure and its unique features.’ The exceptional guidance contributes to the remarkable Silfra Fissure diving experience.

Transportation and Service Rating

Customers overwhelmingly rate the transportation and overall service at Silfra Fissure with a perfect 5 out of 5, praising the seamless logistics and attentive staff.

From the smooth pickup at the designated meeting point to the high-quality rental gear and on-site support, the experience is consistently outstanding. Reviewers highlight the following:

• Punctual and reliable transportation to and from the dive site

• Personalized attention and guidance from knowledgeable staff

• Efficient equipment fitting and pre-dive preparation

• Thorough safety briefings to ensure a worry-free experience

• Exceptional customer service throughout the entire dive operation

The high ratings for transportation and service underscore the operator’s commitment to delivering a truly memorable adventure in the breathtaking Silfra Fissure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Reach the Dive Site From Reykjavik?

The diving site is located at the Silfra parking lot in Thingvellir National Park, which is about a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik. Participants will meet at the parking lot before the start of the dive activity.

Can We Bring Our Own Diving Equipment?

No, participants cannot bring their own diving equipment. The experience requires using the provided dry suits, regulators, and other dive gear. This ensures proper safety and functionality for the demanding Silfra Fissure conditions.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement, but participants must be capable of performing moderate exercise and possess a PADI open water license or equivalent. Those under 18 may need parental supervision.

Are There Any Restrictions on Video or Photography During the Dive?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the dive. However, guides may restrict camera use if it interferes with safety or the diving experience. It’s best to confirm the photography policy with the operator beforehand.

Can We Extend the Dive Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, you can extend the dive duration for an additional fee. The operator offers extended dive packages, allowing participants to extend their time underwater for an extra charge. However, the maximum duration is typically 6 hours.

Recap

Diving in the Silfra Fissure is a truly unique and breathtaking experience.

With exceptional visibility and the chance to witness the incredible geological forces at play, it’s a must-do activity for diving enthusiasts visiting Iceland.

The personalized attention from expert guides and small group sizes make this adventure both memorable and safe.

For those with the right certifications, the Silfra Fissure dive is an unforgettable opportunity to take in Iceland’s stunning natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: