Snorkeling Tours Reykjavik: Explore Iceland's Waters

Snorkeling Tours Reykjavik: Discover the Underwater World of Iceland

Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes and natural wonders above the surface, but the underwater world is just as extraordinary. For those looking to explore the aquatic realm, snorkeling tours in Reykjavik offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you're swimming between tectonic plates, exploring crystal-clear waters, or encountering unique marine life, Reykjavik is the perfect starting point for your Icelandic underwater adventure.

Why Choose Snorkeling Tours in Reykjavík ?

Reykjavík , Iceland’s vibrant capital, is surrounded by diverse landscapes, including some of the most stunning underwater environments. The clear, cold waters offer unmatched visibility, and many tours provide the rare opportunity to snorkel in unique locations such as Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park . With professional guides and all the necessary equipment provided, Reykjavik snorkeling tours are ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Here are a few reasons why Reykjavík is the perfect place to begin your snorkeling adventure:

Unmatched Visibility: The cold waters of Iceland are incredibly clear, allowing you to see vibrant underwater landscapes.
Unique Locations: Reykjavik offers exclusive snorkeling opportunities in places like Silfra Fissure, where you can snorkel between two tectonic plates.
Expert Guides: All tours are led by experienced, certified guides who prioritize safety while ensuring you have an enjoyable experience.
Suitable for All Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time adventurer, there are tours to suit all experience levels.
Stunning Marine Life: Although Iceland's waters are cold, they are home to unique marine life, including Arctic char, freshwater fish, and rare plants.

Best Snorkeling Tours in Reykjavik

Several incredible snorkeling spots are located near Reykjavik, providing you with the chance to experience Iceland's underwater beauty. Some of the best tours include:

1. Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure

One of the most famous and unique snorkeling experiences in Iceland is in the Silfra Fissure. This crack in the earth’s crust, located in Thingvellir National Park , is where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. The waters in Silfra are remarkably clear, with visibility often exceeding 100 meters (328 feet). As you snorkel through this underwater canyon, you’ll float between two continents, witnessing the mesmerizing colors of the submerged volcanic rock and the crystal-clear freshwater that fills the fissure.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 3-4 hours (including transport and preparation)
Highlights: Snorkeling between two tectonic plates, pristine crystal-clear waters, underwater geology, and vibrant blue hues.

2. Snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon

Although the Blue Lagoon is better known for its hot mineral waters, it also offers a fascinating underwater experience. A snorkeling tour here gives you the opportunity to float in the warm, blue waters of the lagoon while exploring its unique geology. The soothing warmth of the water contrasts with the cool air, creating an incredible experience. The tour also offers insight into the geothermal energy that powers the area.

Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Highlights: Geothermal waters, unique underwater landscape, and warm mineral-rich waters.

3. Reykjavik Harbor Snorkeling

Reykjavik's harbor offers a less-known but equally exciting opportunity for snorkeling. The harbor’s waters are home to various marine life, including Arctic char, flatfish, and colorful algae. The snorkeling tour provides a chance to swim in Reykjavik’s coastline, offering a different experience from the more famous spots. This tour is perfect for those who want a unique, yet easily accessible, snorkeling experience near the city.

Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2-3 hours
Highlights: Marine life, the opportunity to explore Reykjavik’s coastline, and a quieter experience away from the more popular snorkeling spots.

4. Snorkeling in the North Atlantic

For a more adventurous experience, head out from Reykjavik to explore the waters of the North Atlantic. With colder temperatures, the North Atlantic waters offer the chance to snorkel among unique underwater environments and a variety of marine life, such as seals, sea birds, and arctic fish. This tour is ideal for those seeking an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path snorkeling experience.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: 4-5 hours
Highlights: Wildlife sightings, colder water temperatures, and remote locations.

What to Expect on a Snorkeling Tour in Reykjavik

Snorkeling in Reykjavik is a unique experience, and when you join a snorkeling tour, you can expect the following:

Guided Tours: Tours are led by experienced local guides who are experts in safety, local geology, and marine life. They’ll provide you with fascinating insights during the tour, ensuring that you have both a safe and educational experience..
All Equipment Provided: For most tours, the necessary snorkeling gear is provided, including wetsuits, masks, fins, snorkels, gloves, and hoods. Depending on the tour, you may also be given additional thermal clothing to help you stay warm in colder waters.
Safety First: Safety is a priority on all snorkeling tours. Guides are certified in water safety, and they’ll ensure that all participants are comfortable with the equipment and the conditions before heading into the water..
Comfortable and Relaxed Pace: Most tours take a relaxed pace, with the guides offering plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings and take photos. Snorkeling is a serene and peaceful activity, so you’ll be able to enjoy the calm underwater world at your leisure.
Incredible Views: Whether you're snorkeling between tectonic plates or exploring vibrant underwater habitats, you can expect breathtaking views both above and below the water.

Snorkeling in Silfra: A Highlight of Reykjavik Tours

Silfra Fissure is one of the most renowned snorkeling locations in the world. The crystal-clear water provides visibility that’s unrivaled anywhere else on the planet. As you float through the fissure, you'll pass by jagged rocks, submerged lava formations, and vibrant plant life. The clarity of the water allows you to clearly see the intricate details of the underwater landscape, which is simply awe-inspiring. Snorkeling in Silfra is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Here’s what makes Silfra special:

What to Bring on a Snorkeling Tour

While all necessary equipment is provided, here are some items you may want to bring with you on a snorkeling tour:

Best Time to Go Snorkeling in Reykjavik

Snorkeling tours are available year-round in Reykjavik. However, the best time to go snorkeling depends on your preferences:

No, previous experience is not required. All tours are guided, and guides will give you a full briefing on how to use the equipment and navigate the waters.

The water in Silfra and most snorkeling locations around Reykjavik is quite cold, averaging around 2°C (36°F). You'll be provided with a thermal wetsuit to stay warm.

Most tours have an age limit of 12 years and older, but this can vary depending on the tour provider. Always check with your tour operator in advance.