The Silfra SnorkelingSilfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates review
What the tour is like
You meet at Silfra with your drysuit certification documentation ready. Jürgen noted “top-of-the-line gear, water temperature not a problem at all with the dry suit.” Entry and exit use a platform with stairs — and helpful staff. Péter felt he was “floating” and called it “a perfect bucket list dive site.” You descend deeper than snorkelers — to 18 m — and see the fissure walls, the depth, the geology from below. Marc’s only note: the operator lost his photo set, which is rare but real.
Diving Silfra means time underwater, controlled descent, and a view snorkelers never see. It’s the premium geological experience.
What works
- Only tour that descends to 18 m depth
- See Silfra geology from below, not floating
- Professional platform entry and exit
- Small groups (max 6 per guide)
- 4.8 rating from experienced divers
- Drysuit keeps you warm at depth
Worth knowing
- $280 is the most expensive option
- Requires drysuit certification or logged dives
- 72 reviews is the smallest review base
- Operator lost photos once (rare, but noted)
- 3–5 hours total is long for limited dive time
- Not for non-certified swimmers
Bring your drysuit certification card. The operator will verify. Arrive early to check gear and get comfortable. The platform makes entry/exit easy even in winter. Ask about photo policy when booking if you want backup confirmation of your photos.
Who it’s for
Certified divers seeking a bucket-list dive. People who want to experience Silfra’s depth and geology from below. Divers comfortable in cold water and tight gear. If you’re not certified, snorkel the fissure ($143–$213). If you want certification first, ask the operator about drysuit training — it’s a separate course.
Other tours to consider
Best ratedSilfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos
Reykjavik pickupFrom Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling with Free Photos
Golden Circle comboFrom Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour and Silfra Snorkeling
Frequently asked questions
Do I need drysuit certification?
Yes, or roughly 10 logged drysuit dives. The operator verifies. If you’re not drysuit-certified, you can get certified in Iceland at separate dive shops — ask the operator for recommendations.
How deep does the fissure go?
The fissure reaches ~60 m in the deepest cave sections, but dives are limited to 18 m max. You see walls, the geology, and the clarity from depth without extreme danger.
What if the operator loses my photos again?
Marc noted this happened to him. It’s rare. When you book, ask what photo policy is and whether the operator backs up digital files. If photos matter, confirm in writing.
Can I snorkel Silfra if I’m not a diver?
Yes. See the photos tour ($143) or pickup tour ($213). Snorkeling doesn’t require certification.