Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling – Meet on Location | Free Photos

Silfra Fissure in Iceland offers a truly unique snorkeling experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site allows adventurous visitors to explore the slowly drifting tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia. Tour companies provide the necessary gear, including wetsuits or drysuits to combat the chilly 2-4°C waters. While age and size requirements apply, those meeting the criteria can enjoy personalized service, underwater photos, and hot chocolate. It’s an opportunity to take in this extraordinary geological marvel – but there’s more to discover about what makes this experience so captivating.

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

Key Points

• Visitors meet at the Silfra Fissure within Thingvellir National Park to access the unique geological formation for snorkeling.
• Tour company provides wetsuits or drysuits to ensure comfort and warmth in the 2-4°C waters of the Silfra Fissure.
• Snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins, is included in the tour package.
• Underwater photos are provided to capture the breathtaking scenery of the crystal-clear waters.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 6 participants for personalized attention from the PADI-certified guide.

Overview of the Fissure

The Silfra Fissure is a unique geological formation located within Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors the rare opportunity to snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters that fill the fissure.

The water temperature hovers around a chilly 2-4°C year-round, but with the proper thermal protection, adventurers can enjoy this one-of-a-kind environment.

The striking blue-green hues and incredible visibility of up to 100 meters make the Silfra Fissure a truly mesmerizing destination for those seeking an unforgettable aquatic experience between the diverging continental plates.

Snorkeling Equipment and Attire

To ensure a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience at the Silfra Fissure, the tour company provides all necessary equipment, including wetsuits or drysuits, to participants.

The wetsuits and drysuits protect against the chilly waters, which hover around a brisk 2°C (36°F) year-round.

Along with the protective suits, the tour company supplies snorkeling gear such as masks, snorkels, and fins. Participants are advised to wear thermal underwear and thick socks under the drysuit to stay warm.

The provided equipment is designed to keep the snorkelers comfortable and focused on exploring the magnificent fissure.

With all the gear taken care of, the only thing left for guests to bring is a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes.

Age and Size Requirements

Participants must meet specific age and size requirements to join the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour. The tour is open to those between 12 and 65 years old, with a minimum height of 150cm and a maximum height of 200cm. The weight range is 50kg to 120kg. Swimmers must also be able to communicate in English. Glasses, contact lenses, and prescription masks are not recommended.

Requirement	Minimum	Maximum
Age	12 years	65 years
Height	150cm	200cm
Weight	50kg	120kg

These guidelines help ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the Silfra Fissure snorkeling experience.

Meeting and Logistics

Visitors meet at the Silfra Fissure within Thingvellir National Park to begin the snorkeling tour.

The full-day experience takes place at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which sits between the drifting North American and European tectonic plates.

The small group size is capped at 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the PADI-certified guide.

The tour duration is flexible, allowing ample time to fully experience the crystal-clear waters.

The meeting point is directly at the Silfra Fissure location within the national park.

The activity lasts the full day, with no set ending time.

Groups are limited to a maximum of 6 people.

Cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the tour receive a full refund.

Included in the Tour

The tour consistently includes underwater photos to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Hot chocolate is provided to help visitors warm up after the snorkeling experience.

Participants receive all necessary snorkeling equipment, including wetsuits or drysuits suited to the chilly waters.

Personalized service is ensured through the small group size of up to 6 participants.

The snorkeling gear, such as masks, snorkels, and fins, is included in the tour package.

Wetsuits or drysuits are provided to keep participants comfortable in the cool water temperatures.

The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with a PADI-certified guide dedicated to each group.

All the necessary equipment and attentive service allow guests to fully enjoy the incredible Silfra Fissure.

Preparing for the Activity

To get ready for the Silfra Fissure snorkeling adventure, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, participants should bring a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes to wear after the activity.

Wearing thermal underwear and thick socks under the provided drysuit is also recommended to stay warm in the chilly waters. Plus, it’s advised to have a hearty breakfast before the tour to ensure sufficient energy levels throughout the experience.

Before the tour, you will need to complete a medical form to confirm their fitness for the activity. They should also be prepared to communicate in English with the PADI-certified guide leading the small group of up to 6 people.

• Bring swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes
• Wear thermal underwear and thick socks
• Eat a hearty breakfast beforehand
• Complete medical form for participation

Group Size and Cancellation

The Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy – participants can receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity. This allows for last-minute changes in plans without incurring any penalties.

The small group size also means you’ll get more one-on-one attention from the PADI-certified guide, who can provide personalized assistance and guidance throughout the snorkeling adventure. Whether you need to adjust your gear or have questions about the unique geological features, the small group size ensures you’ll receive the attention you deserve.

Presence of Other Groups

Up to 3 different groups can be present during the Silfra Fissure snorkeling activity, though the tour operator ensures each group maintains its own dedicated space and doesn’t interfere with the others.

This allows for a personalized and peaceful experience for all participants.

The groups are kept separate, with their own dedicated entry and exit points into the fissure.

Guides coordinate the groups’ movements to avoid any overlap or disruption.

Participants can focus on their own snorkeling adventure without distraction.

The serene, otherworldly landscape of the Silfra Fissure remains the main attraction, unimpeded by the presence of other visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wear My Prescription Eyeglasses During the Snorkeling?

The tour provider recommends against wearing prescription eyeglasses during the snorkeling activity. Participants should instead wear contact lenses or prescription masks, as eyeglasses are not suitable for use underwater and could be damaged.

Is There a Photographer Who Takes Pictures of the Participants?

The snorkeling tour includes an underwater photographer who takes photos of the participants during the activity. These photos are provided to the group as part of the tour package.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment Instead of the Provided Gear?

While participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment, the tour provider strongly recommends using the provided gear. This ensures the equipment is properly fitted and in good condition for the safety of all participants.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements That Need to Be Accommodated?

The tour doesn’t have any special dietary requirements. Participants can bring their own snacks and beverages as needed. The tour provides hot chocolate, but there are no other catered food or drink options.

What Happens if I Need to Use the Restroom During the Tour?

If a participant needs to use the restroom during the tour, they’ll need to notify the guide. The guide will find a suitable spot for the participant to exit the water and attend to their needs before re-entering the water.

Recap

Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure is an unforgettable experience. Proper equipment and attire keep you warm in the chilly waters.

With age and size requirements met, you’ll enjoy the personalized service, photos, and hot chocolate. The small group size ensures an intimate adventure amid the slowly drifting tectonic plates.

It’s an unparalleled opportunity to explore this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland.