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diving trip Iceland
Diving Trip to Iceland: Your Ultimate Adventure in Crystal Clear Glacier Water!
Dreaming of a first-class diving holiday? Iceland offers you unique diving experiences in crystal-clear glacier waters and at fascinating geothermal locations. Discover the best diving spots and providers and plan your unforgettable adventure. Need help with planning? Contact us now for personalised advice!
The topic briefly and concisely
A diving trip to Iceland offers unique experiences in crystal-clear glacier water, especially in the Silfra fissure between the continental plates.
The right preparation with suitable equipment (dry suit) and appropriate certifications is crucial for safe and unforgettable dives.
Combine your diving adventure with other Icelandic experiences such as whale watching or Northern Lights tours to make your trip even more unforgettable.
Experience unforgettable diving adventures in Iceland! Discover the best spots, providers, and tips for your adventure in the land of fire and ice.
Iceland, known for its breathtaking landscapes of fire and ice, also offers exceptional diving experiences. A diving trip to Iceland allows you to float in crystal-clear glacier water between the tectonic plates and discover a fascinating underwater world. Whether you're an experienced diver or an adventurous beginner, Iceland has something for everyone. The unique geological features of Iceland provide unparalleled visibility underwater. The glacier water is naturally filtered, resulting in clarity of up to 100 metres.
This enables you to experience the Silfra fissure, one of the most famous diving sites, in all its glory. But other spots like Strýtan and Davíðsgjá also offer exciting diving adventures. The extreme clarity of the water in Silfra is the result of glacier water being naturally filtered over decades, guaranteeing an unforgettable visual experience. To get the most out of your trip, you should inform yourself in advance about the various diving sites and their specific requirements.
This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the best diving sites in Iceland, the necessary certifications and experiences, as well as valuable tips for planning your diving trip. We introduce you to recommended diving operators and provide important information on safety when cold-water diving. This way, you can ensure that your diving adventure in Iceland is not only exciting but also safe and unforgettable. For more inspiration and detailed travel offers, visit Wirodive, where you'll find tailor-made diving tours that cater to your individual needs.
Silfra Fissure: Diving between continents with visibility of up to 100 metres
The Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular dive sites in the world. Here, you literally dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The fissure was formed by the tectonic movement of these plates and is fed with crystal-clear glacial water from the Langjökull glacier. It takes 50-100 years for the water to filter through the lava fields, which explains the extraordinary clarity.
The visibility in Silfra reaches up to 100 meters, offering you incredible clarity and a unique visual experience. The water temperature remains consistently at 2-4°C, which is why a dry suit is necessary. During your dive, you will traverse various sections like the Big Crack, the Silfra Hall, the Silfra Cathedral, and the Lagoon, each offering different underwater landscapes. To dive in Silfra, you need a dry suit specialty or proof of at least 10 dry suit dives.
This is important to ensure safety and comfort during the dive. The geological features and clear visibility make Silfra an unforgettable experience for every diver. The dives in Silfra are often offered in combination with other activities, such as exploring lava caves or whale watching tours, as offered by Dive.IS. The unique location and outstanding visibility make Silfra a must for every diving enthusiast.
Strýtan: Discover Geothermal Underwater Springs and Whales in Eyjafjörður
Strýtan is another fascinating dive site in Iceland, located in the Eyjafjörður. These are geothermal underwater springs that have formed a 55-metre-high limestone cone. Strýtan is a unique ecosystem, nourished by the hot springs and home to a diverse marine life. Diving at Strýtan requires dry suit diving experience, as the water temperature near the springs is higher and precise buoyancy control is necessary.
Near Strýtan, there are two rock formations: a smaller one at a depth of 20 metres inhabited by a wolf fish named Stefania, and a larger one rising over 50 metres from a depth of 70 metres. Whales are often seen here, adding to the diving experience. Whale watching is not uncommon in this region, offering an additional attraction.
Strýtan is protected as a nature reserve to preserve this unique ecosystem. This dive site offers you the rare opportunity to dive in relatively shallow water near hydrothermal vents. Due to the depth and specific conditions, careful planning and preparation are essential. For a safe and informative tour, it is advisable to consult an experienced provider like Island Ringstrasse to ensure the best diving conditions and safety precautions.
Iceland's diverse underwater world: Gardur, Kleifarvatn and more
In addition to Silfra and Strýtan, Iceland has numerous other remarkable dive sites offering different experiences. Gardur, near Reykjavík, is an ocean dive site with diverse fauna, including kelp, fish, nudibranchs, crabs, and crustaceans. However, there is a high risk of getting tangled in fishing lines here. It is advisable to carry a cutting tool to free yourself in an emergency.
Kleifarvatn is a lake near Krysuvik characterized by geothermal activity. Air bubbles rise from the bottom here, and the lake level is continuously dropping. The lake is mostly dived in summer as it is often covered with ice in winter. Nésgjá is a fissure similar to Silfra, offering excellent visibility and arctic char. Litlaá is a shallow, geothermally heated river, ideal for snorkeling.
For experienced divers, the wreck of the 'El Grillo' in Seyðisfjörður is a highlight. The Spanish tanker sank during World War II and rests at a depth of 45 metres. To dive here, you need advanced certification and dry suit experience. Davíðsgjá is another dive site in Lake Þingvellir, although visibility is highly weather-dependent. Bjarnagja is a bizarre fissure with all sorts of finds providing a surreal diving experience. The variety of dive sites in Iceland ensures that every diver, regardless of their experience, finds a fitting adventure.
Optimal travel time and certifications: How to plan your perfect diving trip
Planning your dive trip to Iceland requires careful preparation, particularly regarding the best time to travel and the necessary certifications. The seasonal differences greatly impact the diving conditions. In the summer, you benefit from longer days and milder temperatures, while the winter offers the opportunity for ice diving, which however comes with specific requirements. Choosing the right time to travel is crucial for an optimal diving experience.
A dry suit specialisation is essential for many dive sites. For diving in the Silfra fissure, you need either this specialisation or proof of at least 10 dry suit dives. For wreck diving on the 'El Grillo', an Advanced Open Water certification and dry diving experience are required. It is advisable to find out about the specific requirements of each dive site in advance. The right certification is not only a matter of safety but also of preparation for the specific challenges of each dive site.
The equipment also plays an important role. A dry suit is essential due to the cold water temperatures. Aqualung equipment can be rented on site from providers such as Dive.IS. The best way to get there is via direct flights from several German cities to Keflavík International Airport (KEF), followed by a bus transfer to Reykjavík. To plan your trip optimally, it is advisable to check the availability of flights and accommodations early. Wirodive offers comprehensive support in planning and organising your individual diving trip.
Safe and Memorable Dives: How to Find the Ideal Dive Operator
Choosing the right dive operator is crucial for a safe and unforgettable diving experience in Iceland. Dive.IS is the largest provider with a comprehensive range of services. They offer a wide range of tours and courses, including the Dry Suit Academy for extensive training in dry suit diving. Dive.IS is known for its customer focus and care. The quality of the provider significantly influences your diving experience.
Magmadive is a smaller team specializing in exclusive tours in small groups. They focus on Silfra and other challenging dive sites and are particularly recommended for experienced divers with specialized equipment. Scuba.IS is another provider focusing on diving and snorkeling tours in Silfra, and it's a solid option for those primarily interested in Silfra experiences. The size of the group and the specialization of the provider can be decisive factors in your choice.
When choosing the dive operator, you should consider your individual needs and experiences. Compare the offerings and read reviews to find the right partner for your diving trip to Iceland. Good preparation and choosing an experienced provider contribute significantly to your safety and comfort. Pay attention to the certifications of the guides and the quality of the equipment to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.
Cold water diving in Iceland: Safety through proper equipment and preparation
Cold water diving in Iceland presents specific challenges that require appropriate precautions. The obligation to wear a dry suit is crucial to protect your body from the cold water temperatures. Make sure to wear the right undergarments to ensure adequate insulation. The right equipment is vital for your safety and comfort.
Instead of dry gloves, thick neoprene gloves are generally used to keep fingers flexible. Layering, i.e., wearing multiple layers of functional underwear and socks, is essential to retain warmth. Before the dive, you should carefully evaluate the current and visibility conditions, as these can vary greatly. Some dive sites, like Gardur, are highly weather dependent, while visibility in Davíðsgjá can vary. Checking the conditions before diving is essential.
Your health condition also plays an important role. Make sure to acclimatize to the cold and avoid hypothermia. At Kleifarvatn, there's even the possibility to warm your hands in warm water. Careful planning and execution of dives are imperative to avoid decompression sickness. Health preparation and careful planning are crucial for a safe diving experience.
Protect Islands' Underwater World: Sustainable Diving for Future Generations
When diving in Iceland, it is important to respect the Icelandic nature and avoid damaging the underwater world. Many areas, such as Strýtan, are designated as nature reserves to protect their unique flora and fauna. Be careful not to touch or damage any corals or other living beings. The respect for nature is of utmost importance.
Responsible diving also means not taking souvenirs and preserving the environment. Avoid leaving rubbish in the water and keep your distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them. Some diving operators, like Dive.IS, actively engage in sustainability and are committed to protecting the marine environment. Adhering to the rules contributes to the protection of the environment.
By following these guidelines, you help preserve the beauty and diversity of Iceland's underwater world for future generations. Inform yourself before your diving trip to Iceland about the specific conservation regulations of individual dive sites and support sustainable diving practices. Supporting sustainable practices ensures the future of the underwater world. Dive.IS is actively committed to protecting the marine environment and provides information on sustainable diving practices.
More than just diving: Combine your adventure with Iceland's unique experiences
A diving trip to Iceland can be perfectly combined with other exciting activities and tours. Take the opportunity to explore the fascinating Icelandic landscape and create unforgettable experiences. How about a whale watching tour, a ride on an Icelandic horse, or an exploration of a lava cave? The combination of various activities makes your journey unforgettable.
Northern Lights tours are also a popular choice to experience Iceland's magical atmosphere. Wirodive offers customised tours that combine diving with other activities. Visit Þingvellir National Park, home to the Silfra fissure and Davíðsgjá, and discover the geological features of this region. The variety of offerings allows you to tailor your journey to your preferences.
A combination of diving and other experiences makes your diving trip to Iceland an unforgettable adventure. Benefit from the expertise of local providers and enjoy a safe and diverse programme. Contact us today to plan your personal diving trip to Iceland and secure an unforgettable experience. Contact us now to plan your bespoke journey and benefit from our expertise. Wirodive offers a variety of combination options for your ultimate Iceland adventure.
Further useful links
Dive.IS offers a variety of diving and snorkelling tours in Iceland, including the famous Silfra fissure.
FAQ
What prerequisites do I need for a diving trip to Iceland?
For many dive sites in Iceland, especially the Silfra Fissure, you need a dry suit specialization or proof of at least 10 dry suit dives. For wreck diving at the 'El Grillo', an Advanced Open Water certification and dry suit experience are required.
What makes diving in the Silfra Fissure so special?
The Silfra Fissure is unique because you are diving literally between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The water is extremely clear (up to 100 meters visibility) and is fed by glaciers.
What equipment do I need for cold water diving in Iceland?
A dry suit is essential to protect you from the cold water temperatures. Additionally, you'll need thick neoprene gloves and several layers of thermal underwear for insulation.
When is the best time for a diving trip to Iceland?
The best time for a diving trip to Iceland is in the summer, as you benefit from longer days and milder temperatures. In winter, there is the opportunity for ice diving, which however requires special preparations.
What other dive sites are there besides Silfra and Strýtan?
Besides Silfra and Strýtan, there are also Gardur (ocean dive site), Kleifarvatn (geothermal lake), Nésgjá (similar to Silfra), Litlaá (suitable for snorkeling), and the wreck of 'El Grillo'.
Which dive operators are recommended in Iceland?
Recommended dive operators include Dive.IS (largest provider), Magmadive (exclusive tours in small groups), and Scuba.IS (specialized in Silfra).
How can I combine my diving trip with other activities?
You can combine your diving trip with whale watching tours, horse riding on Icelandic horses, exploratory tours through lava caves, or northern lights tours.
How can I contribute to protecting Iceland's underwater world?
Respect nature, do not touch corals or other creatures, do not take souvenirs, and avoid leaving rubbish in the water. Support sustainable diving practices.
