Silfra - Between the Continents: Snorkel the Clearest Water in the World

Ever wondered what it feels like to float between two continents in some of the clearest water on Earth? I recently had the chance to find out on a snorkelling adventure in the Silfra fissure in Iceland. This incredible experience. Here’s a recount of my unforgettable day with DIVE.IS.

Preparing for the Dive

When I arrived at Thingvellir National Park, I was pleasantly surprised by the heated changing room van provided by DIVE.IS. Offering a warm and comfortable space to gear up before plunging into the icy waters. They provided dry suits and all the equipment necessary for this experience, so you only need to bring your underlayer to get started.

Putting on the dry suit initially felt really uncomfortable and weird. The tight seals around the neck and wrists, combined with the bulkiness of the suit, made it feel like I was encased in a stiff shell. However, as time went by and I started moving around, the suit became part of me.

What really helped was the  guidance from the experienced DIVE.IS team. They patiently explained how to adjust the suit and make it more comfortable, and their reassurances made a big difference. Soon enough, I began to embrace the feeling of wearing the dry suit. It felt like I was donning a superhero suit, ready for an extraordinary mission. As odd as it sounds, I started to feel like an Avenger, geared up for an adventure that would soon unfold in the most spectacular way.

Expert Guidance

Our guides were all experienced PADI divemaster and instructors who had undergone extensive training. Their professionalism and friendliness immediately put me at ease, ensuring that I felt safe and confident throughout the entire adventure. From the moment we arrived, they were attentive and knowledgeable, ready to answer any questions and provide detailed explanations about the snorkelling process and the unique environment we were about to explore. Even if this is your first time snorkelling, they will make sure you have a blast! 

In addition to their expertise, the guides were also equipped with professional cameras to capture the coolest images of our experience. Knowing that they were taking care of the photography allowed me to fully immerse myself in the adventure without worrying about missing any photo opportunities. Whether it was a shot of us floating between the tectonic plates or the vibrant underwater scenery, the guides made sure to capture every magical moment.

Their ability to balance safety, education, and fun made the experience truly exceptional. By the end of the tour, not only did I feel like I had gained a deeper understanding of Silfra's geological wonders, but I also had a collection of stunning photos to remember the adventure. All I had to do was focus on enjoying the breath-taking views and the surreal feeling of snorkelling in some of the clearest water on Earth.

The Wonders of Silfra

Silfra is a unique geological marvel—a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates filled with glacial water that has been filtered through lava rock over decades. This natural filtration process gives the water its extraordinary clarity, with visibility up to 120 meters. Snorkeling in Silfra is like floating through a crystal-clear dreamscape where the underwater world reveals an unparalleled spectrum of colours and details.

The fissure itself is a testament to the powerful geological forces shaping our planet. It's awe-inspiring to think that as you snorkel through Silfra, you are literally drifting between two continental plates. The water's purity is almost surreal, a result of decades of glacial meltwater being naturally filtered by the surrounding volcanic rock. This extensive filtration not only ensures incredible visibility but also makes the water some of the purest on Earth.

Silfra's Four Sections

Big Crack: This is the narrowest part of Silfra, where the continental plates are so close you can almost touch them. Floating through this section, you can clearly see the dramatic rock formations that signify the tectonic divide.

Silfra Hall: As the fissure widens, you enter Silfra Hall. Here, the water’s clarity is most evident, with sunlight piercing through the surface and illuminating the vibrant algae and rock formations. At certain angles, you can see all the way to Lake Thingvallavatn, which is over 150 meters away.

Silfra Cathedral: Near the opening to Thingvellir Lake, this section reaches depths of 23 meters. It's aptly named because the depth and visibility create a sense of floating in a grand, underwater cathedral. The experience is almost spiritual as you glide over boulders and glacial silt.

Silfra Lagoon: The final part of the snorkel is the Silfra Lagoon, known for its endless visibility and serene beauty. Here, you can take in the full scope of Silfra's clarity and the stunning underwater landscapes, making it a perfect end to the snorkelling adventure.

A Unique Highlight: Drinking Silfra Water

While snorkelling, don't miss the chance to take a sip of the Silfra water. It’s some of the purest water you’ll ever taste, filtered to perfection by natural processes over decades. This small act of drinking from the source feels almost ceremonial, connecting you deeply to the environment you're exploring. Imagine tasting water that has journeyed through ancient lava fields, been purified by the earth, and emerged crystal clear and refreshing.

The sensation of sipping Silfra water is unlike any other. It's incredibly cool and clean, with a crispness that makes you appreciate the pristine nature of this unique ecosystem. As you float in the fissure, surrounded by vibrant algae and the impressive rock formations, taking a moment to drink the water enhances the experience. It's not just a visual delight but a full sensory immersion.

This act of drinking from Silfra adds an intimate connection to the adventure, making you feel like a part of the landscape. You are not just an observer but an active participant in this natural wonder. The memory of tasting such pure water stays with you, a reminder of the extraordinary clarity and purity of the environment you were privileged to explore.

Reflecting on the Experience

Snorkelling in Silfra with DIVE.IS was one of the most unique and awe-inspiring adventures I’ve ever had. The combination of crystal-clear water, the surreal feeling of floating between two continents, and the excellent service provided by DIVE.IS made it an experience I’ll treasure forever.

If you're looking for a truly unique adventure, I highly recommend snorkelling in Silfra. It's an experience that offers not just incredible natural beauty but also a profound connection to the Earth's geological history.