Diving Between Two Continents
On our beautiful Earth, there are many impressive and mysterious places. One of them is the Silfra Fissure in Iceland. Here, the tectonic plate of America meets that of Europe, and you can dive right in between!
Iceland is a very special spot on this planet. We are all too eager to be enchanted by images of geysers, glaciers, and barren landscapes. The desire to see all of it with our own eyes is so prevalent among travelers that Iceland has become a very popular vacation destination. I have also fallen in love with the trendy island of Iceland and have shared my experiences in an article. However, when thinking of the icy temperatures on the island, very few travelers consider a diving adventure. But that's exactly what my report is about today: I want to introduce you to the Silfra Fissure - a place where you can dive between two continents. And the water here is as clear as it gets.
The Silfra Fissure - Created by Continental Drift
In the west of the Icelandic highlands, near the Langjökull glacier, lies the spot where the American tectonic plate meets the European plate. The Silfra Fissure was formed about 135 million years ago due to the continental drift of the North American and Eurasian plates, which were once part of the massive supercontinent Pangaea. Since continental drift is an ongoing process, the two plates continue to drift apart even today. Thus, the fissure widens by approximately 7 millimeters each year, allowing you to experience Earth's history up close. The Silfra Fissure is located in the Thingvellir National Park, which also houses four active volcanic zones. This national park, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most impressive attractions in Iceland, as you will encounter the famous Gullfoss waterfall, which you definitely won't miss when visiting Iceland.
The Silfra Fissure is fed by the cold meltwater from the Langjökull glacier. This meltwater has a long journey, as it takes decades for it to filter through the basalt rock surrounding the Silfra Fissure. However, it is precisely this long journey that makes the water so clear, as the rock acts like a filter. You could drink directly from the 2-4 degree cold water at any time. This condition also makes diving interesting because what could be better than having full visibility underwater and seeing the grotesque shapes of the tectonic plates? You will frequently see entrances to caves and tunnel systems that would lead you to undiscovered underwater systems.
At its deepest point, the fissure is around 65 meters deep, and depending on your skill level, you can dive up to 18 meters deep. It's best to book a guided diving tour so you can see all the highlights of the Silfra Fissure. If you have never dived before but still want to swim through the Silfra Fissure, that is also possible, as snorkeling tours are offered as well. Of course, such a tour is a bit different from a regular snorkeling excursion, as the water here is so cold that you can't go in without a thick wetsuit. But rest assured, the agencies you book with will ensure you have all the necessary equipment. The beautiful thing is that such an adventure is not reserved just for extreme divers and professionals, but everyone can truly experience this extraordinary adventure. Who can say they have dived between two tectonic plates?!
Has anyone among you ever dived in the Silfra Fissure and can share their experiences with me? I'm curious! You can already discover more highlights of Iceland that you should experience on the island in my travel magazine. Have fun!
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