SURPRISE - Silfra & Thingvellir

Diving Silfra usually means the crack, but Iceland has other tricks up its sleeve. The *Surprise* wreck, a steamship that ran aground near the Vestmann Islands in '68, offers a different kind of immersion. At 27 metres, you can explore a good portion of her 54-metre hull, now well-colonised by cold-water anemones and the odd curious lumpfish. It's a deep dive, often with strong currents, so we'd suggest this for divers comfortable with those conditions. It’s an interesting counterpoint to Silfra's geological wonder, showcasing Iceland's maritime history.

Location
Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
63.550000, -20.333334
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
27m

Marine Protected Area: Surtsey

Best Time to Dive in Silfra & Thingvellir

The warmest water temperatures in Silfra & Thingvellir occur in August, averaging 12.2°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 3.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 3.9°C
  • February: 3.7°C
  • March: 4.4°C
  • April: 5.9°C
  • May: 7.8°C
  • June: 10.1°C
  • July: 11.8°C
  • August: 12.2°C
  • September: 10.5°C
  • October: 8.0°C
  • November: 6.0°C
  • December: 4.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Silfra & Thingvellir

Nearest Dive Centres to SURPRISE

Marine Life in Silfra & Thingvellir

Home to 30 recorded species including 8 seagrass & algae, 6 whales & dolphins, 6 reef fish, 3 clams & mussels, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for SURPRISE

Based on average water temperature of 7.4°C, currents 4 cm/s.

  • Drysuit - water at 7°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Surprise Reef in Guam?
The dive site Surprise, a steam ship vessel, is located in Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland, not Surprise Reef in Guam. Divers exploring this fascinating wreck can expect a typical depth of 27m. This makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate training.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Surprise Reef?
Information regarding specific marine life and coral encounters at the Surprise wreck in Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland is not available in our current data. As a wreck site, it may attract various species over time, but we recommend checking recent dive reports for the most up-to-date observations on marine life.
How challenging is the diving at Surprise Reef, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Diving at the Surprise wreck in Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it is suitable for certified divers with some experience, but perhaps not ideal for absolute beginners or those without proper training for wreck diving. Divers should ensure they have the necessary skills and comfort level for a 27m wreck dive.
What is the best time of year to dive Surprise Reef for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Our current data for the Surprise wreck in Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving in the region, you might consult our when to dive section, but local dive operators would provide the most accurate seasonal advice for this specific site.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive Surprise Reef?
Given the Surprise wreck's intermediate difficulty and depth of 27m, an Advanced Open Water certification is generally recommended. For exploring the wreck itself, a Wreck Diver Specialty certification would be highly beneficial to ensure safe and responsible penetration or close inspection. Always check with local dive centers for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Surprise Reef?
Our available data for the Surprise wreck in Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland does not include specific details on typical current conditions or visibility. These factors can vary greatly depending on weather and tides, so it's always best to consult with local dive operators just prior to your dive for the most current information.