HANS SIF - Strytan & North Iceland

The Hans Sif sits in surprisingly shallow water, a real bonus for divers who want to stretch their bottom time. We're talking 5 metres, tops. She’s a Danish motor vessel, ran aground in 1968, and now lies nicely broken up across a rocky seabed off Rifstangi. We love how accessible she is, even for newer divers, though the entry can be a bit of a scramble over the rocks. You’ll find sections of the hull, some ribs, and parts of the superstructure scattered around, covered in kelp. It feels less like a single wreck and more like an archaeological site, spread out for you to explore piece by piece. Look closely amongst the plates; there are usually plenty of sculpins tucked into crevices, and we’ve often seen schooling saithe darting through the clearer patches above the wreck. It’s a completely different vibe from the deeper, more intact wrecks, offering a peaceful, slow exploration rather than a dramatic penetration. Ideal for a relaxed second dive of the day.

Location
Strytan & North Iceland, Iceland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
66.543050, -16.197222
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Nearby Dive Sites in Strytan & North Iceland

Marine Life in Strytan & North Iceland

Home to 12 recorded species including 10 whales & dolphins, 1 sharks & rays, 1 hard corals.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the Hans Sif dive site?
The Hans Sif dive site has a typical depth of 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for divers looking to explore a historical wreck in Iceland.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Hans Sif?
At the Hans Sif dive site, divers can expect to explore the remains of a motor vessel, a significant underwater feature. Sunk on February 10, 1968, this 61.9m x 10.3m wreck provides a fascinating historical dive. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided context, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
Is Hans Sif considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for all experience levels?
The Hans Sif dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This means it is suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level certifications, offering a rewarding challenge in Strytan & North Iceland.
What is the best time of year to dive at Hans Sif for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Hans Sif for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving seasons in Iceland, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Hans Sif?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating for the Hans Sif dive site, divers should possess at least an Open Water Diver certification. Depending on local operator requirements and specific dive plans, an Advanced Open Water or Wreck Diver certification may be highly recommended for a more comfortable and safe experience exploring this wreck.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Hans Sif dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the Hans Sif dive site. Divers planning a trip to Iceland should consult local dive operators in Strytan & North Iceland for the most up-to-date conditions.