Seeing reserve clearly through glass-bottom boat

A new, larger glass-bottom boat is operating at Goat Island Marine Reserve.

Aquador, run by Ivan and Christina Blackwell, will operate throughout the year, weather permitting.

It carries up to 44 people, and its large glassed area means that views of prolific marine life among the gently swaying forest kelp are stunning.

The 45-minute Round the Island trip will continue to operate from the beach, but when sea and wind conditions limit these trips, a half-hour inner reef trip will operate, covering the channel and protected reefs close in. Follow Goat Island Marine Reserve signs from Warkworth and look for the glass bottom boat sign on the beach. Bookings are advisable.

Contact: Christina or Ivan, ph (09) 422 6334.

www.glassbottomboat.co.nz