VIKARTINDUR - Silfra & Thingvellir

Vikartindur isn't your typical Iceland dive. Forget the clear, cold embrace of Silfra for a moment; this is an unexpected wreck, grounded in a powerful storm back in '97. We love that it’s such a tangible piece of history, a real story of the sea’s raw power. Dropping down, the sheer scale hits you first. A 132-meter container ship, pushed right up against the shore, its hull torn open in places. You’re not just seeing a wreck; you’re seeing the force that put it there. We’ve found the stern section particularly interesting, with its twisted metal and the sense of a machine utterly overwhelmed. Visibility can be a bit variable here, depending on surge, but on a good day, the light plays through the gaps in the superstructure, illuminating the shadowy interior. It's an imposing dive, full of stark beauty, and definitely suits divers who appreciate a wreck with a proper narrative.

Location
Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
63.758335, -20.808332
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

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 VIKARTINDUR

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 VIKARTINDUR

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 diving depth at Vikartindur?
The typical diving depth at Vikartindur is 20 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many experience levels. You can explore more about this dive site at Vikartindur.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Vikartindur?
At Vikartindur, divers can expect to explore the impressive remains of a container ship vessel, measuring 132.9m by 22.9m. This significant wreck, which sank on March 6, 1997, is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life details are not provided for this site, you can learn more about general marine species in the region via our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Vikartindur for different experience levels?
Diving at Vikartindur is classified as intermediate in difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort with conditions that might include cooler water or potential currents, making it suitable for those beyond entry-level certification. For more details on this unique dive, visit the Vikartindur page.
What is the best time of year to dive at Vikartindur for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Vikartindur for optimal conditions. To plan your trip, we recommend consulting general resources on when to dive in Iceland or checking local dive operators for current conditions and seasonal recommendations.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Vikartindur?
Given that diving at Vikartindur is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This ensures you have the necessary skills and training to safely explore a wreck at 20 meters. Always check with local dive centers for specific requirements and recommended equipment.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Vikartindur dive site?
The provided data describes the severe weather conditions during the sinking of the Vikartindur, noting a SW storm with 6-meter waves that ultimately blew the vessel ashore. However, specific information regarding typical currents, visibility, or water temperature for diving at the site is not available. Divers should always consult local dive operators for current conditions before planning a dive at Vikartindur.