The Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling Tour from Reykjavik offers a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable geological formation of the Silfra Fissure. Guided by certified PADI professionals, participants can enjoy the crystal-clear glacial waters, witnessing the dramatic rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. With personalized attention and all necessary equipment provided, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes the Silfra Fissure so captivating, and why is this tour a must-do for anyone visiting Iceland?
Key Points
- A guided snorkeling tour of the Silfra Fissure, where participants can swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial waters.
- The tour is led by certified PADI Divemaster/Instructor guides who provide personalized attention and support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Participants are provided with all necessary snorkeling equipment, including a dry suit, to explore the dramatic underwater canyon.
- Underwater photos are included to capture the unique geological features and wildlife of the Silfra Fissure.
- The tour includes round-trip transfers from Reykjavik and hot chocolate, providing a seamless and comfortable experience.
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Exploring the Silfra Fissure
The Silfra Fissure, a renowned geological marvel, is a rift that formed during the slow drifting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, creating a mesmerizing underwater world for snorkelers to explore.
Situated within the Thingvellir National Park, the Silfra Fissure offers a unique chance to swim between two continental plates. The crystal-clear glacial water, with visibility reaching up to 100 meters, allows snorkelers to witness the vivid hues and remarkable formations of this underwater canyon.
As they glide through the fissure, participants can marvel at the geological history etched into the rock walls, seeing a one-of-a-kind adventure amidst Iceland’s captivating natural landscape.
Tectonic Plate Snorkeling Adventure
During the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour, participants can embark on a remarkable adventure of swimming between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Earth’s geological history firsthand.
Guided by certified PADI professionals, explorers will don dry suits and snorkeling equipment to enjoy the crystal-clear glacial waters, observing the dramatic rift between the two continental plates.
This unique experience offers a chance to appreciate the powerful forces that have shaped our planet, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the Thingvellir National Park.
With small group sizes and personalized attention, the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Personalized Attention From Certified Guide
Guiding the small group of participants through the Silfra Fissure, the certified PADI Divemaster/Instructor ensures a personalized and attentive experience, offering expert insights and support throughout the snorkeling adventure.
With a maximum of 6 participants per guide, the tour provides an intimate setting where the guide can monitor and assist each person individually. Trained to handle any emergency situations, the guide’s primary focus is on the safety and comfort of the group.
Included Equipment and Amenities
Snorkeling equipment, including a dry suit, mask, snorkel, and fins, is provided for participants on the Silfra Fissure tour. Plus, the tour includes round-trip transfers from Reykjavik and hot chocolate to help keep guests warm and comfortable throughout the experience. The tour also provides underwater photos, allowing guests to capture their unique and unforgettable experience swimming between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
| Included Items | Details |
|---|---|
| Snorkeling Gear | Dry suit, mask, snorkel, fins |
| Transportation | Round-trip transfers from Reykjavik |
| Refreshments | Hot chocolate |
| Photography | Underwater photos provided |
| Guide Service | Certified PADI Divemaster/Instructor |
Participant Requirements and Restrictions
The Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour has specific requirements and restrictions for participants. They must meet certain physical criteria, including a minimum age of 12 years, a height between 150cm and 200cm, and a weight between 50kg and 120kg.
Plus, participants must be able to swim and communicate in English. Those with serious medical conditions aren’t permitted on the tour.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour operator collects participants’ height, weight, and age information prior to the activity.
With a maximum of 6 participants per guide and up to 3 groups present, the small group size provides more personalized attention from the certified PADI Divemaster/Instructor guide.
Tour Pickup and Duration
Participants are picked up from Reykjavik between 7:30-8:00 AM during the summer months and 8:00-8:30 AM in the winter, before embarking on the approximately 4-5 hour Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour.
The tour duration includes:
- Underwater exploration between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates
- Opportunities for personalized attention from a certified PADI Divemaster/Instructor guide
- Complimentary hot chocolate to warm up after the snorkeling experience
This small group tour provides a unique and memorable experience, allowing participants to enjoy the incredible Silfra Fissure while enjoying the convenience of round-trip transfers from Reykjavik.
Thermal Layer Recommendations
Typically, thermal underwear and thick wool socks serve as the recommended base layer for the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour, as the dry suits can feel tight and constricting, especially around the neck and wrists. These base layers help trap heat and keep the body warm in the frigid waters of the fissure. The table below outlines the recommended thermal layering for the tour:
| Layer | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Base | Thermal underwear and thick wool socks |
| Mid | Fleece or insulating jacket |
| Outer | Dry suit provided by the tour operator |
Dressing in the proper thermal layers is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable snorkeling experience at Silfra.
Medical Form and Group Size
Before the tour, participants must complete a medical form to ensure their safety and suitability for the snorkeling activity.
During the tour, group sizes are kept small, with up to 6 participants per guide and a maximum of 3 groups present at Silfra at any given time. This allows for more personalized attention from the certified PADI Divemaster/Instructor guide.
The medical form must be completed before the tour, as it helps identify any serious medical conditions that could affect participation.
The small group size provides a more intimate experience and allows the guide to better assist and monitor each participant.
The limit on the number of groups at Silfra helps maintain the tranquility and exclusivity of the snorkeling experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provider will supply all necessary gear, including a dry suit, mask, and snorkel. Using the provided equipment ensures proper fit and safety.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Dry Suit?
Yes, there is a weight limit for the dry suit. The tour requires a minimum weight of 50kg and a maximum weight of 120kg. Participants must provide their weight information before the tour.
Can I Wear My Own Thermal Base Layers?
Yes, participants can wear their own thermal base layers. The tour operator recommends thermal underwear and thick wool socks as a base layer to stay warm in the dry suit.
How Long Does It Take to Get Suited Up?
It typically takes 15-20 minutes to get suited up in the dry suits. Participants should allow ample time as the outfitting process can feel a bit constricting, especially around the neck and wrists. Proper layering is important for comfort.
Can I Take Videos During the Snorkeling Activity?
Yes, participants can take videos during the snorkeling activity. The tour provides the necessary snorkeling equipment, including an underwater camera, so guests can capture footage of their experience between the tectonic plates.
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Recap
The Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling Tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the dramatic rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Guided by certified professionals, participants can experience the crystal-clear glacial waters and remarkable geological formations while being provided with all necessary equipment and personalized attention to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
With round-trip transfers, underwater photos, and thermal layer recommendations, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Reykjavik.
