Top-Rated Snorkeling in Silfra & Whale Watching | Self-Drive from Reykjavik

Travelers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Iceland often seek out its dramatic landscapes, and this tour combines two of the most remarkable aquatic adventures: whale watching in Faxaflói Bay and snorkeling between tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park. Offered by Elding Whale Watching, this full-day, self-drive experience is designed for those who appreciate authentic encounters with nature and value a well-organized, intimate tour.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see whales, puffins, and seabirds in their natural habitat, with onboard Wi-Fi to share the moment instantly. Second, the snorkeling experience in Silfra, with its crystal-clear waters and dramatic fissures, promises an unforgettable dive into Earth’s geological heartbeat.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the lack of transportation included—so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer between stops. Still, this setup is perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility or want to explore Reykjavik and surroundings at their own pace. If you’re someone who loves marine wildlife, striking scenery, and a small-group vibe, this tour will fit like a glove.

Key Points

• Two iconic Icelandic experiences in one day: whale watching and snorkeling at Silfra.
• Wildlife in action: see whales, puffins, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural environment.
• Intimate group size: maximum of 15 travelers for personalized attention.
• Professional guidance and equipment: experienced guides, dry suits, and snorkel gear included.
• Comfort after adventure: hot chocolate and cookies to warm up post-snorkel.
• Self-drive flexibility: you manage your own schedule between stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Iceland’s aquatic habitats and geological marvels. Starting at Old Reykjavik Harbor, you’ll meet the Elding team at 9:00 a.m., ready for a whale watching cruise. The vessel departs into Faxaflói Bay, a waterway teeming with marine life. This part of the tour is treasured because it allows you to see whales—primarily minke whales in summer—as well as white-beaked dolphins, harbor porpoises, and humpback whales. The chance to observe these intelligent creatures in the wild adds an authentic and humbling element to your Iceland adventure.

The boat ride itself is equipped with Wi-Fi, which is a small but appreciated touch, allowing travelers to share photos or check in on the world while cruising. The guides are seasoned, professional, and dedicated to providing a safe and informative experience, which is especially reassuring when dealing with large and sometimes unpredictable marine mammals.

This whale watching segment lasts about three hours, and after returning to the harbor around noon, you’ll have time to travel to your next highlight: Þingvellir National Park. This national park is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it’s a geological wonder where you can see the crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

At 2 p.m., you’ll gear up for the snorkeling adventure in Silfra. The Dive.is team will assist you with wetsuits and dry suits—crucial equipment given the cold, glacial water. The water in Silfra is famously crystal clear, offering visibility exceeding 100 meters. As you glide between the two continents, you’ll witness the surreal sight of the fissure splitting Europe and North America.

This snorkeling session lasts around 30-40 minutes. The experience is not only visually stunning but also physically engaging, requiring a comfortable swim and some physical fitness. Travelers need to be at least 12 years old, 150 cm tall, and comfortable in water, which ensures that most reasonably fit travelers can participate.

After the snorkel, you’ll be treated to hot chocolate and cookies, a cozy reward before heading back to Reykjavik. The entire day, from whale watching to snorkeling, is designed to give you a full taste of Iceland’s diverse aquatic environments—all with a small-group setting that fosters a friendly, less hurried atmosphere.

What to Expect During Each Stop

Whale Watching with Elding

The whale watching portion is a highlight, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The experienced guides will share insights into the behaviors and habits of the whales and seabirds you encounter. The boat is comfortable, and the presence of onboard Wi-Fi allows for sharing moments in real time. You’ll have a good chance to spot whales and dolphins, especially in summer when minke whales are most abundant.

While the tour is weather-dependent, summer conditions generally favor whale activity, and guides do their best to maximize sightings. One traveler noted, “We felt very secure in the arms of the experienced and caring personnel,” reinforcing the professionalism of Elding’s crew.

Snorkeling in Silfra at Þingvellir

The snorkeling experience is what we love about this tour. Imagine floating in water so clear you can see over 100 meters ahead, while standing between two tectonic plates. The fissure’s dramatic walls and the surreal feeling of swimming between two continents make it a truly extraordinary experience.

The guides help you don dry suits that are sometimes tight but necessary to stay warm in the frigid water—an important detail for comfort and safety. It’s a physically engaging activity that requires you to be comfortable swimming and in good health, but most travelers find it manageable with proper gear and guidance.

Post-Snorkel Comfort

After your underwater adventure, the provided hot chocolate and cookies are a simple but effective way to warm up and relax. It’s a moment to reflect on the day’s natural beauty and share stories with your fellow travelers.

Practical Details and Value

This tour’s pricing of $260 per person includes both major activities—whale watching and snorkeling—plus the necessary equipment, dry suits, and refreshments. The small-group format (maximum of 15) enhances the experience by allowing more personalized guidance and fewer crowds.

The self-drive element offers flexibility; you’re responsible for your own transportation from Reykjavik to each stop. However, this also means you can tailor your schedule to your preferences, perhaps exploring Reykjavik or other nearby attractions before or after.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just scenic views—it’s for those eager to actively participate and engage intimately with Iceland’s marine life and geological features. It’s not suited for those uncomfortable in water or with mobility issues, given the swimming requirements and gear.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer shared, “The very diving was absolutely amazing… we felt very secure in the arms of the experienced and caring personnel.” This highlights the professionalism and reassuring nature of the guides. Another noted the stunning views and how the experience was unlike anything they’d seen before, emphasizing the visual spectacle of Silfra’s crystal waters and the thrill of whale sightings.

Of course, one minor downside mentioned was the meeting point confusion, which led to some frustration. This underscores the importance of confirming exact locations in advance, especially since the tour doesn’t provide transport.

Final Thoughts

This combined whale watching and snorkeling tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to explore Iceland’s marine and geological treasures. Its small-group size ensures a personalized experience, and the professional guides make the adventure as smooth and informative as possible. For those who love wildlife, striking scenery, and active outdoor experiences, it’s a fantastic way to spend a day.

While it demands some physical fitness and water comfort, most travelers find it manageable and incredibly rewarding. The chance to see whales in their natural habitat and float between two continents is a rare combination that makes this tour stand out.

If you’re seeking a balanced adventure that combines nature, geology, and marine life, this tour will meet and exceed expectations. Perfect for curious travelers wanting to connect with Iceland’s raw, natural beauty in a memorable, engaging way.

FAQ

Do I need prior experience to snorkel in Silfra?
No previous experience is necessary. The guides will assist you with gear and techniques to ensure you’re comfortable in the water.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 12 and over can participate, provided they meet height and weight requirements and are comfortable swimming.

What should I wear for the snorkeling?
Bring suitable clothes for cold weather, such as long underwear and thick socks, because you’ll wear a dry suit over your clothes.

Is the water temperature cold?
Yes, the water is glacial, but the dry suits keep you warm enough to enjoy the experience comfortably.

Can I participate if I’m not confident in water?
Participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim. If you’re unsure, consider your swimming ability before booking.

Is transportation included?
No, this is a self-drive tour, so you need to arrange your own transportation to and from Reykjavik and between the stops.

What’s the group size?
The maximum is 15 travelers, creating a friendly, less crowded environment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

This tour offers a great mix of wildlife encounters and geological marvels at a reasonable price point, especially considering the included gear and guides. It’s best suited for adventurous, active travelers eager to see Iceland’s underwater wonders firsthand.