The Glass Bottom Boat, 'Aquador', runs trips at Goat Island Marine Reserve, world renowned for its abundant marine life. Goat Island Marine Reserve was the first marine reserve established in New Zealand in 1975, situated just outside Leigh, 90kms north of Auckland.

Marine reserves are designated areas of sea and coastline, and are 'no-take' areas. The marine life is left to recover and flourish, allowing scientists to investigate ecosystems in the absence of human pressures.

The Glass Bottom Boat, run by Ivan and Christina Blackwell, has been operating safely for over 12 years. Aquador has been specifically designed and built to give visitors the best possible view of the marine life without going underwater. It has recently been refurbished and can take up to 49 passengers.

The aluminium boat is 11 metres long and has large glass windows in the floor. Seating for 49 people ensures good views from all seats. An easy access ramp allows safe, dry and easy embarking from the beach, and also makes the boat wheelchair accessible (as long as the sea conditions allow safe boarding).

Both Ivan and Christina have a wide knowledge of the sea and its creatures, coming from a background of both recreational and commercial fishing and sailing. Ivan and Christina live in Leigh with their three children.

The boat's viewing windows

Goat Island (background) and
Goat Island beach (foreground)

Remember to ring to confirm that the boat is operating! (09) 422 6334

email: info@glassbottomboat.co.nz