THE MOST POPULAR ATTRACTION AT GOAT ISLAND
THE GLASS BOTTOM BOAT
LOOK, LEARN, PLAY & EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND’S FIRST MARINE RESERVE
The 45-minute fully commentated “around the island” tour gives visitors a unique perspective into New Zealand’s first marine reserve. Peering through the glass, guests stay dry while viewing a thriving underwater ecosystem, teeming with reefs, fish and other marine life. Above water, Goat Island is the focal point, as are the many species of birds that live in this coastal habitat.
During the tour, visitors learn about the history, preservation and continued protection of Goat Island Marine Reserve.
In addition, they can expect to learn about the various types of fish, bird and marine life viewed during the trip. And as the sea and weather conditions are always changing, so is the wildlife seen during each tour – no trip is ever the same! Occasionally, dolphins, orcas, whales and sharks make an appearance as they migrate through the reserve.
Owned and operated by experienced skipper Scott Pennington, the 49-seat glass bottom boat “Aquador” runs multiple trips daily, departing from the beach at Goat Island Marine Reserve. Bookings are essential and can be made in advance online, or day-of on the beach.
This tour is family friendly, and suitable for guests of all ages.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
On the day of your tour, check our website after 9 a.m. for our daily weather report.
We occasionally have to cancel trips due to poor weather or sea conditions.
If taking a tour during the colder months, it’s advisable to bring a jacket or jumper to stay warm throughout the trip.
If you are susceptible to motion sickness, take or bring medication with you.
If you plan on enjoying more than one activity, or spending time on the beach, bring food & beverages for an onshore picnic.
REMEMBER, THIS IS A PROTECTED MARINE RESERVE.
That means there’s no fishing, and nothing (including shells, sticks or seaweed) may be removed from the beach.
Dogs are not allowed at Goat Island Marine Reserve
PLEASE NOTE:
We operate in the open sea, so please understand that our tours can be cancelled due to poor weather or sea conditions.
To avoid disappointment, Check our Daily Sailing & Weather Report at 9:00am or before leaving your base.
GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOURS | SNORKEL & KAYAK HIRE | GROUP & TEAM ACTIVITIES
Online Booking & Pricing
Booking is essential – and simple.
Guests can book in advance online or by phone.
Same-day bookings are accepted on the beach until departure…
However we recommend booking in advance online to avoid disappointment as our tours fill quickly.
Kayaks and snorkel gear can also be booked online or hired on the beach directly from the Goat Island NZ team.
Online bookings cut-off one hour prior to departure, and we accept Cash, EFTPOS, Mastercard and Visa.