Reykjavik isn’t just about northern lights and geothermal spas — it’s also a fantastic spot for scuba diving. Thanks to the unique geological features and the incredible clarity of the water, Iceland has become a top destination for divers seeking something extraordinary. Our favorite is the Silfra experience, where you can snorkel or dive in water so clear that visibility reaches up to 330 feet (100 meters). It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates right in UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park. The professionalism of operators like Dive.IS ensures that even if you’re a first-timer, you’ll feel safe and well-prepared.
For a more immersive experience, visit Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates and Pick Up from Reykjavik. However, if you prefer smaller groups and a slightly shorter tour, there’s plenty to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just curious about this extraordinary landscape, Iceland’s underwater world offers something memorable.
Below, you’ll find a list of the best scuba diving experiences in Reykjavik, each with its own charm, logistics, and level of challenge. Let’s explore what makes each one special.
1. Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates and Pick Up from Reykjavik
At number 1, the Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates and Pick Up from Reykjavik tour offers an exceptional adventure with all the logistics handled for you. This small-group tour capped at three divers ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage Site without feeling rushed. The tour includes all the diving gear and dry suit, plus a heated van for changing, making the cold water (around 2°C year-round) manageable.
You’ll be picked up from your Reykjavik hotel and driven about 45 minutes to the park. The guide will give you a thorough briefing on safety, the geological significance of the area, and how to use your gear before entering the water. The highlight? Swimming between the Eurasian and North American plates in water with visibility up to 330 feet. Afterward, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies to warm up, making the experience both comfortable and memorable.
Reviews praise the professionalism of Dive.IS and the quality of their equipment, with many noting how they appreciated the detailed briefings and warm hospitality. It’s perfect for certified divers seeking an intimate, safe, and truly unique dive.
Bottom line: If you’re after a top-tier, personalized experience with expert guidance, this tour offers an unbeatable dive into one of the world’s most extraordinary underwater landscapes.
2. Dive the Divide: Silfra Fissure Scuba Tour | Meet at Thingvellir
Second on our list, Dive the Divide is a half-day tour that appeals to certified divers eager to explore multiple sections of the Silfra fissure. Starting at the Meet at Thingvellir location, this tour involves swimming through the clear glacier waters and passing between the two continental plates.
The experience includes diving gear, post-dive snacks, and a small-group setting with a maximum of three divers. The route takes you through notable sites such as Silfa Hall, Cathedral, and Lagoon, showcasing different underwater features. The water clarity, with visibility over 100 meters, makes even the narrow cracks feel expansive — a stark contrast to the chilly temperatures, which are kept at a comfortable level with the provided dry suits.
This tour is ideal for divers with drysuit certification or experience, as it involves a bit more technical skill. Guests mention the professionalism of guides like GC, who help set everyone at ease, and the breathtaking underwater scenery. The tour’s focus on exploring multiple sites makes it a more comprehensive adventure than a quick snorkel, and the included snacks and drinks add a welcoming touch.
Bottom line: For experienced divers who want to see more of Silfra’s underwater features, this tour balances adventure and comfort with excellent guidance.
3. Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates
Third on our list, Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates, is another fantastic option for certified divers wanting to experience Iceland’s most popular dive site. This tour emphasizes the unmatched clarity of the water — over 100 meters of visibility — and the chance to dive between two continents.
This tour typically lasts between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the schedule, and includes dry suit diving. The route involves exploring the Deep Crack, a narrow passage that offers a unique perspective on the geological forces shaping Iceland. Visitors often comment on how surreal it is to look into the depths of the earth through such pristine water, with some mentioning the stunning geological formations and deep fissures.
Guides ensure safety and comfort as you navigate the cold water, which remains around 2°C. The Thingvellir National Park setting adds a cultural layer to the adventure, with its UNESCO status underscoring the significance of this location.
Reviews highlight the impressive water clarity and the experience of diving between two tectonic plates as truly unforgettable. This trip is well suited for certified divers looking to combine geology, history, and underwater adventure.
Bottom line: If you want to make the most of Iceland’s famous water clarity and geological spectacle, this tour delivers a memorable experience.
4. Dive the Divide: Silfra Fissure Scuba Tour | Reykjavik Pickup
Next, the Reykjavik pickup version of the Dive the Divide tour offers convenience for those wanting to avoid driving. This approximately 6-hour experience is tailored for experienced divers with a certified qualification and includes all diving gear and round-trip transport from Reykjavik.
The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation, followed by a scenic drive of about 45 minutes to Þingvellir. Once there, you’ll explore all four sections of Silfra, including the Deep Crack and the Lagoon, with guides providing detailed briefings. The focus here is on personalized attention and diving into the tectonic boundary with a small group, ensuring safety and a more intimate experience.
Guests consistently praise the professionalism of guides and the quality of equipment. The tour is ideal for divers wanting a comprehensive exploration of Silfra’s underwater features, with reviews mentioning the beauty of the crystal-clear water and the thrill of swimming between continents. Be aware that this is a longer tour — around six hours — perfect for those with a passion for geology and diving.
Bottom line: For experienced divers seeking a full exploration of Silfra with the convenience of hotel pickup, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable adventure.
5. Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Diving with Optional Pickup
Finally, the Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Diving with Optional Pickup combines flexibility and quality, making it a popular choice for many. This tour lasts between 4 and 6 hours and is suitable for those wanting to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, one of the world’s top-rated diving spots.
The tour highlights include diving between tectonic plates and the chance to experience 150 meters of water visibility. The optional pickup makes this easy for travelers staying in Reykjavik, with the tour including all necessary gear and a focus on safety. Reviews mention the helpfulness of guides like Christian, and many appreciate the relaxing pace and beautiful scenery.
Although it’s priced slightly lower than some other tours, the value is solid, especially with the flexibility of pickup and drop-off. The focus here is on comfort, safety, and the unique geological features of Silfra, making it suitable for both new and experienced divers.
Bottom line: If you want a straightforward, flexible tour with high-quality gear and access from Reykjavik, this tour fits the bill.
How to Choose the Right Dive Tour in Reykjavik
Choosing between these options depends on your experience level, budget, and how much of Silfra you want to explore. For first-timers or those who prefer a smaller group, the Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates and Pick Up from Reykjavik offers a highly personalized experience. Certified divers seeking a comprehensive exploration should consider the Reykjavik pickup version of Dive the Divide, which provides both convenience and depth.
If you’re on a tighter schedule but still want to experience the incredible water clarity, the Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates tour is a great shorter option. Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the Reykjavík with optional pickup tour, which offers good value and flexibility.
Practical tips include booking early, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter holidays), and considering your comfort with cold water diving. All tours require dry suit certification unless specified otherwise, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik offers a surprising variety of scuba diving experiences that appeal to both seasoned divers and curious beginners. The Silfra fissure stands out as the star attraction, with its unmatched clarity and geological wonder. For those who want a highly personalized and professional experience, the top-tier tours with small groups and hotel pickup make all the difference.
If you’re after a full exploration of the site and don’t mind a longer day, the Reykjavik pickup tour offers excellent value. For a shorter, more intense adventure, the basic Silfra tours deliver unforgettable moments in one of the world’s most astonishing underwater landscapes.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early is wise — Iceland’s diving season fills up fast. Prepare to be amazed by the clarity of the water, the profound geological forces at play, and the simple joy of floating in one of the planet’s most extraordinary settings.