I've finally received the prints from my underwater camera from my trip to Iceland. I went snorkeling between the techtonic plates in Silfra in Thingvellir National Park. What are the tectonic plates? It is a fissure between the North American and Eurasion continents. Here are some facts about my experience.
Is the Water Cold?
Omg yes. This is by far the coldest water I've ever swam in. Your lips and hands will be freezing if you leave them under water for too long. But I am a wimp when it comes to cold anything so if I can do it you can do it.
How Do You Snorkel in Such Cold Water?
Because of the temperature in Silfra, you will be snorkeling in dry suits. These are essentially waterproof sleeping bags. Besides your face and hands, nothing else should be exposed to the water. A little water did drip down my suit towards the end of the swim, but it's not going to kill you. The water is an average of 35-40 degree Farenheit year round! I went in August, however, not sure if I would go in the winter or if that's even possible.
Can I Drink the Water?
Yes! And you should. This is some of the cleanest, clearest water you will find and the upside to being in this freezing cold water is that you can taste it while you are snorkeling.
Are There Fish in Silfra?
There are fish in Thingvellir, but not so much in Silfra; the water is too cold for any fish to be swimming around and I didn't see any at all while I was I was snorkeling. I thought I saw a fish, but it was a false alarm and our instructor gasped when I told her I thought I saw one.
No Fish? Then What Will I See?
Though there are no fish in Silfra you still get a clear image of some green "troll hair" as they call the algae, various rock formations, and sand.
I Can't Swim, is This a Bad Idea?
In a word, yes. There were two girls that could not swim, but felt the need to say this after they were already in the water. They were flailing around and making the experience unenjoyable for other snorkelers. Though you are mostly floating in your suits and the current is pulling you, it's still a good idea to know how to swim for this one.
Is Equipment Provided?
Yes, I don't usually fly to Iceland with dry suits.
Where Can I Book a Tour?
I booked this tour online through Arctic Adventure. But you can also book at their shop on the main shopping street in Reykjavik.
Is it Worth It?
I really enjoyed the experience. I feel like this is such a unique experience and such a beautiful landscape. You won't experience anything like it!
Anything Else I Should Know?
You can also go diving in Silfra, but that requires some more extensive experience and possible certifications. I would wear some tights, a t-shirt, and a bathing suit under your dry suit. Relax, and enjoy the experience.
The image above is a picture I took because we were in Iceland during Gay Pride Week.
Would you Go Snorkeling in Silfra?
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Travel Photo Discovery
Savvy Southern Style
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