Diving in Iceland is an unforgettable experience: crystal‑clear glacial water, dramatic lava formations, and unique marine life. But those same elements that make Iceland special also demand extra attention to safety. Cold water, strong currents, and rapidly changing weather mean that careful planning is essential for every dive.
Below are key safety tips for diving in Iceland, along with how staying with Ourhotels.is properties like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can help you prepare, rest, and recover between dives.
Cold‑Water Diving: Respect the Temperature
Iceland’s waters are cold year‑round, often between 2–7°C (35–45°F). Even experienced divers can underestimate how quickly cold can sap energy and focus.
– Use a properly fitted drysuit with adequate thermal undergarments.
– Make sure you’re drysuit‑certified or have recent, documented experience in similar conditions.
– Limit dive times and plan for a warm‑up period immediately after surfacing.
– Watch for early signs of hypothermia: shivering, clumsiness, confusion, or unusual fatigue.
Staying at Ourhotels.is properties gives you a warm, comfortable base to return to after a cold‑water dive. Hot showers, cozy rooms, and easy access to food and drink are not just luxuries—they’re part of staying safe and healthy on a multi‑day dive trip.
Weather and Conditions: Plan Around Iceland’s Nature
Icelandic weather can change in minutes. Clear skies can quickly turn into strong winds, rain, or snow, affecting both shore and boat dives.
– Always check the marine forecast and local conditions before heading out.
– Be prepared to reschedule or cancel dives if wind, waves, or visibility become unsafe.
– Use local dive operators who know the area and can advise on safe entry and exit points.
Ourhotels.is locations are well‑placed for divers exploring the west and northwest of Iceland. Staff can help you stay updated on local conditions, road closures, and travel times between dive sites and your accommodation.
Equipment and Buddy Checks: No Shortcuts
In cold, remote environments, equipment reliability is critical.
– Use regulators suitable for cold water to reduce the risk of free‑flow.
– Perform thorough pre‑dive checks on all gear, including seals, zips, and inflators.
– Always dive with a buddy and agree on signals, maximum depth, and turn‑around pressure.
– Carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) and whistle or other signaling device.
After each dive day, take time at your hotel to rinse, dry, and inspect your equipment. A calm, warm environment makes it easier to spot issues before your next dive.
Dive Training and Experience: Choose the Right Sites
Not all Icelandic dive sites are suitable for beginners. Depth, current, and temperature can make some locations challenging even for advanced divers.
– Be honest about your experience level when booking dives.
– Start with easier, guided dives if you’re new to cold‑water or drysuit diving.
– Consider a refresher or specialty course with a local operator to build confidence.
By basing yourself at Ourhotels.is properties, you can plan a gradual progression of dives over several days, with time to rest and review skills between outings.
Hydration, Nutrition, and Rest: Safety Starts on the Surface
Cold water can mask dehydration, and long travel days can leave you tired before you even get in the water.
– Drink plenty of water before and after diving; avoid excessive alcohol.
– Eat balanced meals with enough calories to keep you warm and energized.
– Prioritize sleep—fatigue can impair judgment and reaction time underwater.
Comfortable, quiet rooms at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn make it easier to get the rest you need to dive safely day after day.
Regional Safety Tips and Where to Stay
Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes)
Borgarfjörður is a great base for exploring west Iceland’s rivers, coastlines, and inland sites.
– The Hvítá Inn offers a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for divers returning from long days in cold water.
– Its location near Borgarnes makes it convenient for day trips to dive sites on the west coast and inland fissures.
– After diving, you can warm up, enjoy local food, and plan the next day’s route with reliable Wi‑Fi and local insights from staff.
Stykkishólmur Inn – Gateway to Breiðafjörður
Stykkishólmur is a charming harbor town and a natural hub for exploring Breiðafjörður Bay, known for its islands, birdlife, and marine ecosystems.
– The Stykkishólmur Inn places you close to boat tours and potential dive excursions in the bay.
– Its central location makes it easy to coordinate with local operators, check sea conditions, and adjust plans if the weather changes.
– After a cold day on or under the water, you can return to a warm room, hot shower, and a relaxing evening in town.
Ísafjörður Inn – Diving the Westfjords
The Westfjords are remote, dramatic, and less crowded, offering unique diving opportunities in fjords and along rugged coastlines.
– Ísafjörður Inn is an ideal base for divers exploring this wild region.
– Being in the main town of the Westfjords gives you access to local guides, boat operators, and up‑to‑date information on conditions.
– The inn provides a comfortable retreat where you can dry gear, review dive plans, and recover from long days in cold, open water.
Travel and Surface Safety Between Dives
Diving in Iceland often involves long drives between sites and accommodations.
– Check road conditions daily, especially in winter or shoulder seasons.
– Allow extra travel time so you’re not rushing to or from dives.
– Avoid driving when overly tired after multiple dives or long days on the water.
Staying at strategically located hotels like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn helps you break up long journeys into manageable segments, reducing fatigue and improving overall safety.
Why Choose Ourhotels.is for a Safe Diving Trip in Iceland?
Ourhotels.is offers a network of comfortable, well‑located inns across west and northwest Iceland, making it easier to plan a safe, enjoyable diving itinerary. By staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you can:
– Minimize long, tiring travel days between dives
– Warm up quickly after cold‑water dives
– Rest properly and stay hydrated and well‑fed
– Get local tips on conditions, routes, and nearby services
Diving in Iceland is all about preparation, respect for nature, and smart planning. Combine solid safety practices with thoughtful accommodation choices through Ourhotels.is, and you’ll be well on your way to a memorable—and safe—underwater adventure in the land of fire and ice.
