The protected waters around Goat Island Marine Reserve offer New Zealand’s most accessible marine encounters, just a short drive from Leigh.
Two standout experiences await: an expertly guided reef tour where you’ll swim alongside schools of snapper and graceful stingrays, and a beginner-friendly introduction to underwater exploration with one-on-one training.
We especially like the small group sizes (maximum 4 divers) and the emphasis on marine conservation education.
Both tours provide all necessary equipment and pre-trip safety briefings.
Let’s look at the top underwater adventures available at Goat Island:
Key Points
- Goat Island Marine Reserve offers guided diving tours with the opportunity to see diverse marine life like snappers, stingrays, and octopuses.
- The Goat Island Try Scuba Diving Experience provides a 4-hour introductory scuba adventure for participants with no prior diving experience but some snorkeling skills.
- The guided diving tours and scuba experiences are led by certified instructors, ensuring a safe and educational diving environment for all participants.
- Potential wildlife encounters during the dives include sightings of dolphins, seals, and orcas, enhancing the overall diving experience.
- Both the guided diving tour and the Try Scuba Diving Experience offer convenient online booking options with flexible cancellation policies.
Leigh: Goat Island Guided Diving Tour for Certified Diver
After arriving at the Goat Island Dive and Snorkel Centre, you’ll be fitted with your diving equipment before being driven just 3 km to the Goat Island Marine Reserve – New Zealand’s first marine reserve.
This 2.5-hour guided diving tour is perfect for certified divers looking to explore the diverse marine life of this protected area.
During your 70-80 minute dive, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of species, including snappers, red moki, goatfish, octopuses, and stingrays.
With luck, you may even spot dolphins, seals, or orcas. Guided by trained professionals, you’ll dive in a safe environment, ensuring a memorable underwater experience.
With a maximum group size of 10 participants, this tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure.
Priced from €97.54 per person, it’s likely to sell out, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.
And with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, you can book with confidence.
Read our full review: Leigh: Goat Island Guided Diving Tour for Certified Diver Review
Book now: Check availability
From Leigh: Goat Island Try Scuba Diving Experience
Depart from Leigh and embark on a thrilling 4-hour introductory scuba diving adventure to the Goat Island Marine Reserve.
In a small group of no more than 4 participants, you’ll receive a scuba diving theory lesson and an up-close, guided diving experience with a certified instructor. No previous diving experience is necessary – just the ability to swim at a medium level and some snorkeling experience.
The price starts at $116.95 per person, and you can reserve your spot now without paying today. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
During your dive, you’ll enjoy all necessary equipment, food, and drinks, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Just remember to bring your swimwear and towel.
This experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, those with medical conditions, or children under 10, so be sure you meet the requirements before booking.
Read our full review: From Leigh: Goat Island Try Scuba Diving Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Discover the stunning marine life and vibrant underwater landscapes of Goat Island on a guided diving tour or a try scuba diving experience from Leigh. Whether you’re a certified diver or a beginner, you’ll be captivated by the incredible diversity of the local ecosystem. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the beauty of Leigh’s underwater world.