Bluetits: Iceland Swim Adventure 2024 (week 2)

You do not need to be a Bluetit or have any experience of wild swimming to take part in this adventure. It is advised that you know how to tread water to be able to get the most enjoyment out of the trip.

Please note you will need to complete a medical declaration and may need a doctor’s note in order to take part in the snorkelling activity at Silfra.

This trip has been graded as moderate for someone of good fitness. A Bluetit motto is ‘No Bluetit Left Behind!’ so what is most important is that you feel able to enjoy the weekend.

You will never be pressured to go out of your depth or beyond your comfort zone when it comes to swimming but you must be able to tread water in order to get the most out of this wild swimming adventure.

Temperatures can typically peak to around 6°C during the day and drop to around 1°C at night however you must be prepared for variations to this which are out of our control. Weather during the adventure will be dry with light winds but rain is possible.

Please note: the temperatures and conditions above are historically accurate but climate change can impact the seasons so you may experience uncharacteristic conditions during the trip which are out of our control. The guides will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the best enjoyment and safety of the group.

The average sea temperature in November is around 4-6°C in the winter but it has been known to drop below freezing.

The waters in the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are around 37-40°C. However the Icelandic weather can have a dramatic effect and the temperatures can vary. You can expect pleasant warm waters throughout the year.

At Nautholsvik geothermal beach the large hot tub typically has a temperature between 38-39°C and the steam bath can get up to 47°C.

Likewise the temperatures at Hvammsvik can vary from ocean temperatures to anything up to 42°C.

We encourage you to take part in ‘The Bluetit Chorus’, which involves plenty of singing, shouting and the odd swear word to help your breath to acclimatise to the cold. Only you know your body, and we advise that you take things easy and allow your body and mind to acclimatise to the cold gradually.

You will be provided with plenty of hearty Icelandic meals which typically include fish and lamb and will keep your energy levels high for each day of discovery. Please note that dinner is not included on days 2 and 3 and lunch is not included on days 1, 4 and 5.

Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary requirements or preferences.

Anyone aged 18+ can take part in the adventure. You must have a good level of fitness, able to self-manage (e.g. you know how to keep hydrated, nourished, warm and dry) and be in good health. You will enjoy the trip to the fullest if you enjoy being outdoors and want to gently challenge your limits with a supportive group of people. The Bluetit values are Trust, Fun and Inclusivity, and if you share these, you will love this holiday!

Please also note that all participants must be able to swim and tread water comfortably.

You will be accompanied by a Bluetit host who is a qualified swim coach as well as a local guide who has an excellent knowledge of culture in the region. The guides are first aid trained and will support you throughout your journey.

Accommodation will be in a centrally located 3* hotel on a twin-share basis. There may be single rooms available, please enquire about costs and availability.

You will need to wear comfortable walking boots or sturdy trainers for when we walk to swim locations. We advise you to bring waterproofs given the inclement weather we can experience in Iceland.

Normal swimwear is adequate for swimming. A tow float, swim shoes and brightly-coloured hat are essential for safety reasons. Other swimming accessories, such as wet suits, rash vests, swim shoes, gloves, goggles etc., are not essential but may make you feel more comfortable.

You will also need to bring some dry clothes to change into after your swim. Your body temperature continues to cool for 20-30 minutes after you exit the water and warming up immediately is essential. Loose-fitting clothes, such as big fleecy pyjamas and oversized jumpers, are easier to put on with numb hands and fingers. A wooly hat and big gloves or mittens are also helpful.

You will be supplied with snokelling equipent for the activities at Silfra on day 3.

Please see the full suggested kit list below.

Before entering the water at public pools or hot springs in Iceland you are requested to shower, using the soap provided, without your swimming costume (same-sex showers are provided). This is to keep the water clean and reduces the need for too many chemicals to be added to the water.

The kit list for this trip can be downloaded here.