The reason for using this location is understood when realizing that the geography of the place is of such great significance: the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia meet here. Between them is a rift, Silfra, which is filled with 1 - 2 degrees Celsius water, spring water as well as run-off from a nearby glacier. The rift, more than 60 metres deep, first showed up during an earthquake in 1789 and has been widening ever since every time there is another earthquake.
Now it has become the site for a popular tourist adventure in a land of many adventures: it is possible to take a guided snorkel tour of the rift, with equipment, including warm clothing, dry suits and snorkel gear provided.
The icy cold water is fabulously clear, a rich blue colour with yellow glowing alga. Since I'm not keen on being cold and am also claustrophobic from the moment I put on a mask, I'll watch a video, thank-you to those who make them!
Here's a similar video from a female perspective. In case you can't be bothered to watch the videos, I'll let you know that the current in the fissure just carries you along - not much effort needed by a snorkeller - and the dry suits are very buoyant so if you drop something in the water, you will likely not be able to recover it.
More info here.
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