Question 1

Do I have time to do more than one activity?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If you’ve got a half-day to spend at Goat Island, we recommend doing two activities … and if you’re spending a full day at the beach, you’ll have plenty of time to do even more! Just make sure that the times of your trips don't over lap.

Question 2

How far away is Goat Island from Auckland?

Accepted Answer

Goat Island Marine Reserve is located in Leigh. Depending on where you are in Auckland, it will take you about an hour and a half to get to Goat Island … if there’s no traffic. However, on busy summer weekends and during public holidays, it can sometimes take up to three hours to get to the Reserve from Auckland – please plan accordingly. We also ask that guests arrive 30 minutes prior to their tour for check-in – you must check in with us before boarding the boat. If you are running late, we will do our best to accommodate you, but please note we do not provide refunds for missed bookings  due to traffic, and cannot guarantee a seat on another tour during peak times.

Question 3

Where does the Glass Bottom Boat go during the tour?

Accepted Answer

The Glass Bottom Boat loads passengers directly from the beach at Goat Island. From there, the boat tours areas in the Reserve known to have a high population of marine life. The tour also takes guests to the back of Goat Island to view its caves and the outlying islands surrounding the Reserve. Please note, the tour route can change due to sea and wind conditions. The boat does not stop at Goat Island, and passengers are not allowed off of the boat during the tour.

Question 4

Do I need to make a booking online?

Accepted Answer

Because our tours can fill quickly during peak times, we recommend booking online in advance to guarantee your Glass Bottom Boat Tour.  Bookings can be made online using a credit card up to one hour prior to the scheduled activity. For beach walk-ins or if you are unable to book online, we accept cash, EFTPOS, and credit cards on the beach. Please note: We do not take day-of bookings over the phone because we cannot hold seats without payment.

Question 5

What should I bring (and not bring) to the Reserve?

Accepted Answer

If you’re taking a tour during the cooler 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 (and a container or other receptacle to use if you start to feel unwell). If you plan on enjoying more than one activity or spending time on the beach, bring food & beverages for an onshore picnic (there is no food available for purchase at the beach).

Please note, as this is a protected marine reserve, dogs are not allowed at the beach or in the car park.

Question 6

Is there anything else to do at Goat Island?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Beyond the activities we offer, the Reserve offers many opportunities for exploration! There is a walking trail (a moderate walk, 1.5-hour return) to Cape Rodney, as well as the University of Auckland’s Marine Discovery Centre. Goat Island Dive & Snorkel provide snorkel tours, and dive trips and courses. Clearyaks have clear kayaks that can be hired to explore the reserve.

Question 7

What if I need to cancel my pre-booked tour?

Accepted Answer

We provide full refunds for tours cancelled 48 hours in advance. If a tour is cancelled less than 48 hours in advance, the refund is at the sole discretion of the operator. If you need to cancel your tour for a personal reason, please contact us by email (info@glassbottomboat.co.nz)

Question 8

What should I do if my tour is cancelled by the operator?

Accepted Answer

If your tour is cancelled, you will be notified via email/text message before 9 a.m. on the day of your tour. The only thing required of you is to reply to the email advising your wishes – you will receive a Gift Card to the value of your booking that will allow you to book at your convenience in the future, or a full refund. Further information will be contained in the email you receive.

Question 9

Why was my tour cancelled? The weather looks okay.

Accepted Answer

We operate in the open sea, so please understand that our tours can be cancelled due to poor weather (rain, wind or deteriorating conditions) or sea conditions (rough water or poor visibility). To avoid disappointment, check the Glass Bottom Boat Operating Status report (scrolling across the top of the Home page on this website) and shown as a ‘Status Message’ in the bottom right corner where the ‘Chat’ function button is.  sailing report (posted daily on our website) at 8 a.m. on the day of your tour.  If you have booked online, your confirmation email asks that you check these (and your email) BEFORE you leave home.

Question 10

Can people with limited mobility come on the Glass Bottom Boat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many people with limited mobility can still enjoy the Glass Bottom Boat experience, but boarding is from the beach, so there are a few things to consider before booking.

Guests will need to make their way across the sand to the boat and step aboard with some assistance from our crew. Depending on the tide and sea conditions, the beach surface may be uneven and the boat may move slightly while boarding.

Our crew are happy to help steady and guide guests as they board, however we cannot physically lift guests on or off the boat.

If you are unsure whether this will be suitable for you or someone in your group, please get in touch before booking. We are happy to talk you through what boarding looks like on the day and help you decide if the trip is the right fit.

VISITOR INFORMATION

GLASS BOTTOM BOAT

Frequently asked questions