Silfra Private Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

Exploring the underwater world between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity offered by Silfra Private Snorkeling. This PADI-certified guided experience in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park provides everything needed for a safe and memorable adventure, from specialized gear to complimentary snacks. While accessibility is limited, the tour caters to a range of physical abilities. With clear instructions and an easily accessible meeting point, adventurers can prepare to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure. What makes this snorkeling experience truly unique, however, is the chance to witness the dramatic separation of two tectonic plates firsthand.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Snorkeling Experiences In Reykjavik.

Key Points

• The Silfra Private Snorkeling experience allows participants to explore the underwater rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland.
• The snorkeling activity is led by PADI-certified guides and provides snorkeling equipment, including a drysuit and undersuit, as well as complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
• The activity has a Badge of Excellence rating and positive reviews, indicating a high-quality and memorable experience for participants.
• Requirements include being able to swim, communicating in English, and meeting specific height and weight restrictions for the drysuit.
• The booking and cancellation policy is transparent, with full refunds available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance or in case of poor weather conditions.

Overview of the Experience

The Silfra Private Snorkeling experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park.

Rated with a Badge of Excellence and boasting 343 reviews, this guided snorkeling tour provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the stunning aquatic scenery and crystal-clear waters of the fissure.

During the experience, you will be equipped with all necessary gear, including a drysuit and warm undersuit, and led by a PADI-certified instructor.

Hot chocolate and cookies are also included, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable adventure.

With its picturesque setting and exceptional service, the Silfra Private Snorkeling tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Iceland.

Inclusions and Amenities

Notably, the Silfra Private Snorkeling experience includes an array of amenities that enhance the overall adventure.

Participants are provided with all necessary snorkeling equipment, including a drysuit and warm undersuit, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the activity.

Plus, the tour includes a live guide who’s a PADI-certified instructor, guaranteeing expert-led supervision and guidance during the snorkeling expedition.

Guests can also look forward to enjoying complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, as well as a heated changing van for pre- and post-snorkeling preparation.

The experience also includes the entrance fee to Silfra, and you will receive photos of their snorkeling adventure to cherish as mementos.

• Hot chocolate and cookies
• Heated changing van
• PADI-certified guide
• Photos of the experience

Meeting Point and Pickup

Participants meet at the DIVE.IS Meeting Point for Silfra tours, located at 806 Thingvellir in Iceland.

After entering Thingvellir National Park, they’ll turn onto road #361 and take the 3rd right to reach the Silfra car park, parking in lot P5.

The experience then returns to the original meeting point upon completion. This ensures a seamless start and end to the private snorkeling adventure between the tectonic plates.

Guests can easily find the designated meeting area and follow the clear directions to the Silfra site, where they’ll don their snorkeling gear and embark on this unique geological exploration.

Requirements and Restrictions

This private snorkeling experience in Silfra has several requirements and restrictions participants must meet.

Firstly, it’s not wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. All participants must be at least 12 years old and meet specific height and weight criteria, ranging from a minimum of 4’11’ and 100 lbs to a maximum of 6’7′ and 264 lbs.

Participants must be comfortable in water and able to swim. They must be physically fit and healthy. All participants must be able to communicate in English.

Drysuits can feel tight and constricting, which participants should be aware of.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can confirm their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience are eligible for a full refund, but changes requested less than 24 hours in advance aren’t accepted.

In the event of poor weather conditions, the operator offers participants the choice of rescheduling to a different date or receiving a full refund.

This flexible booking and cancellation policy provides customers with peace of mind when planning their private snorkeling adventure between tectonic plates in Iceland’s Silfra fissure.

The operator’s commitment to accommodating travelers’ needs and ensuring a seamless experience is evident in its transparent and customer-friendly booking procedures.

Exploring the Silfra Fissure

The captivating Silfra fissure, a geological marvel where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates converge, beckons adventurous souls to embark on an unforgettable snorkeling odyssey.

This underwater rift, located in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, offers a unique opportunity to glide effortlessly through the crystal-clear glacial waters, surrounded by towering rock formations and a vibrant aquatic ecosystem.

Snorkelers can expect:

• Breathtaking vistas of the rift’s dramatic walls and the shimmering water column
• The chance to peer into the depths of the rift, which can reach up to 63 meters (207 feet)
• Encounters with a diverse array of colorful aquatic life, including mosses, algae, and small fish
• An unparalleled sense of serenity and wonder as they float between the slowly drifting tectonic plates.

Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

Donning the specialized drysuit and snorkel gear, adventurous participants embark on a captivating journey through the crystal-clear waters separating the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Silfra, a renowned geological wonder in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park. Guided by experienced PADI instructors, they explore the underwater crevices and vibrant aquatic life within this unique fissure. Throughout the experience, guests enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, and receive professional photographs to commemorate their adventure. The snorkeling excursion offers a rare chance to witness firsthand the dramatic geological forces that have shaped this awe-inspiring landscape over millennia.

Inclusions	Meeting and Pickup	Requirements
Hot chocolate and cookies	Meeting point: DIVE.IS Meeting Point for Silfra tours, 806 Thingvellir, Iceland	Not wheelchair accessible
All necessary snorkeling equipment	End point: Returns to meeting point	Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems
Drysuit and warm undersuit		Minimum age 12 years, height 4ft 11in to 6ft 7in, weight 100lbs to 264lbs
Live PADI instructor guide		Able to swim and communicate in English

Preparing for the Adventure

Participants’ preparation for the Silfra snorkeling adventure begins with a thorough equipment check and briefing by the experienced PADI instructors. They ensure each guest is properly fitted in the specialized drysuit and warm undersuit, allowing them to fully immerse in the chilly glacial waters without discomfort.

The instructors also provide detailed instructions on the correct snorkeling techniques to maximize the participants’ comfort and safety throughout the one-of-a-kind experience.

The pre-dive preparation includes:

• Checking the fit and functionality of the snorkeling gear
• Practicing breathing and clearing techniques to ensure a smooth underwater exploration
• Reviewing safety protocols and emergency procedures
• Familiarizing participants with the unique ecosystem of the Silfra fissure

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Are Typically in a Snorkeling Group?

The typical size of a snorkeling group varies, but it’s generally small, often ranging from 2 to 8 participants. This allows for a more personalized and intimate experience with the guide providing close attention to each snorkeler.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Participants are not permitted to bring their own snorkeling equipment. All necessary gear, including drysuit and warm undersuit, is provided as part of the guided snorkeling experience. This ensures proper fit and safety for all participants.

Is There an Option to Extend the Snorkeling Duration?

While the standard snorkeling duration is included, there may be options to extend the experience for an additional fee. Guests should inquire with the tour operator about extending the snorkeling time during booking if desired.

Are Gopro Cameras Allowed During the Snorkeling Experience?

Yes, GoPro cameras are allowed during the snorkeling experience. The tour operator encourages participants to capture their underwater adventure, but they recommend securing the camera to avoid losing it in the water.

Is There an Age Limit for Accompanying Children?

The minimum age for participants is 12 years old. Children under 12 are not permitted on this snorkeling experience. All participants must be able to communicate in English and be comfortable in the water.

Recap

The Silfra Private Snorkeling experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the underwater world between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park.

With professional guidance, high-quality gear, and a comfortable setup, this PADI-certified adventure is perfect for those seeking a unique and unforgettable snorkeling experience amidst stunning geological formations.