You will see
- Ever-Changing Wildlife: encounter dolphins, orcas, whales, and sharks as they migrate through the reserve.
- Every day you may encounter different wildlife.
- vibrant reefs, fish, and coastal bird species
From Cruise Port: Auckland
Embark on a captivating 45-minute journey around Goat Island, New Zealand's inaugural marine reserve, aboard our state-of-the-art 49-seat "Aquador" glass-bottom boat.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of a thriving underwater ecosystem, observing vibrant reefs, fish, and coastal bird speciesall while staying comfortably dry.
Help preserve its beauty by refraining from fishing and leaving nothing behind on the beach. Dogs are not allowed at Goat Island Marine Reserve.
Make your Goat Island exploration unforgettable, book your glass-bottom boat tour today!
Booking times may change depending on the day and tide. The tour operator will advise you of the correct time of your departure when you book.
Transport from the cruise ship to this attraction is not included in the ticket cost, you will need to make your own arrangements.
From Cruise Port: Auckland
Included
- As this is marine reserve we can not guarantee what marine species we will see ever day.
- Our fully narrated tour provides insights into the rich history, preservation efforts, and ongoing protection of the Goat Island Marine Reserve.
- Suitable for all ages, family friendly. Creating unforgettable memories for everyone.
Instructions
- Booking times may change depending on the day and tide. The tour operator will advise you of the correct time of your departure when you book.
- Bring a jacket during colder months and consider motion sickness medication if needed.
- Receive automated emails for trip cancellations due to poor weather, ensuring a seamless experience.
Restrictions
- THIS IS A PROTECTED MARINE RESERVE. No dogs allowed.
- Transport from the cruise ship to this attraction is not included in the ticket cost, you will need to make your own arrangements.
Options
- Plan for an extended adventure with food and beverages for a beachside picnic.
- Reserve your spot online in advance or book on the beach (day-off).
- Snorkeling and kayaks allowed in the reserve.
Standard Tour Schedule Options | ||
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start time | end time | |
Note: Start and end times may be revised to suit ETA / ETD of ship in port |
Standard Tour Prices (current) | |
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Adult price | NZ $40.00 |
Child price (3 to 16 yrs) | NZ $25.00 |
Family price (max adults 2 max children 2) | NZ $115.00 |
NOTE: Prices may vary depending on your Date of Travel.
Our Booking procedures quote the applicable prices before you commit to a Booking.
Do I have time to do more than 1 activity?
Yes! If youve got a half-day to spend at Goat Island, we recommend doing two activities and if youre spending a full day at the beach, youll have plenty of time to do even more! Just make sure that the times of your trips don't over lap.
How far away is Goat Island from Auckland?
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 theres 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.
Where does the Glass Bottom boat go during the tour?
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.
What should i bring to Goat Island?
If youre taking a tour during the cooler months, its 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.
Whay was my tour cancelled, the weather was ok?
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.