VALBORG - Silfra & Thingvellir

Valborg at Silfra & Thingvellir isn't your typical wreck dive, but it’s definitely one for the logbook if you’re in Iceland. Forget deep dives; this is a true shallow water experience, with a maximum depth of two metres. We love how the hull of this old steamship, run aground way back in 1958, sits so close to the surface, making it feel incredibly accessible. You’re not going to see vibrant corals or tropical fish here. Instead, it’s all about the stark beauty of the metal, slowly being reclaimed by the Atlantic. On a clear day, the light plays off the rust-coloured plates, creating an almost painterly scene. The ship's frame provides shelter for local crabs and small schooling fish, a hardy bunch that have made this their home. It’s an easy dive, perfectly suited for those who enjoy photography or just want to experience a piece of history up close without the need for advanced certification. Expect chilly water, even in summer, so drysuits are non-negotiable. We'd suggest going at high tide for the best visibility, when the water settles a little more.

Location
Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
64.083336, -22.666666
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Hlið

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 VALBORG

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 VALBORG

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