THE STORY
BEHIND THE GLASS
The Glass Bottom Boat story
The Goat Island Glass Bottom Boat was created to give visitors a way to experience the magic of the marine reserve without needing to swim, snorkel or dive.
Aboard Aquador, our purpose-built glass bottom boat, guests can look down through large viewing panels into the clear waters of the reserve. Every trip is fully commentated, sharing the story of the marine environment, the history of the reserve, the wildlife we may encounter, and the importance of protecting this special place.
The tour is designed for all ages and abilities — families, school groups, visitors, seniors, locals and anyone who wants to see beneath the surface while staying dry.
On a typical 45-minute eco-tour, we explore areas known for reef life, fish activity, birdlife, coastal scenery, caves and the rugged rocky edges of Goat Island. Every journey is a little different. The reserve is open to the sea, so marine life changes with the tides, seasons, weather and natural movement of the ocean.
You may see snapper, blue maomao, red moki, eagle rays, stingrays, kelp forests, reef fish, seabirds and, on very special days, larger visitors passing through the wider coastline such as dolphins, orca or whales.
Why explore with us?
The Glass Bottom Boat is more than a sightseeing trip. It is a chance to look, learn and connect.
Our goal is to make the marine reserve accessible, memorable and meaningful. We want every guest to leave with a better understanding of Goat Island, a greater appreciation for marine life, and a sense of why protected places matter.
Whether you are visiting for the first time, returning with family, bringing a school group, or sharing the experience with visitors from overseas, the Glass Bottom Boat offers one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to discover New Zealand’s first marine reserve.
Protecting the reserve for the future
Goat Island Marine Reserve belongs to everyone — and protecting it is something we all take part in.
When you visit, please help care for the reserve by following the no-take rules, keeping the beach and water clean, avoiding disturbance to marine life, and respecting the cultural and natural importance of this place.
By choosing an educational eco-tour, you are helping keep the story of Goat Island alive — from its deep mana whenua history, to its role in marine science, to the daily wonder of seeing life beneath the waves.
Come aboard, stay dry, and discover the ocean through the windows of Aquador.