Goat Island Experience Guided Snorkelling for Beginners

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2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Snorkeling at Goat Island is more than just a swim — it’s stepping into a living, underwater world that’s unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. As the country’s very first marine reserve, Goat Island is teeming with life: from shimmering schools of Blue Maomao to giant Snapper, Eagle Rays, and even the occasional dolphin or orca passing by!

The Guided Snorkel Tour is tailored for beginners and non-swimmers, with expert instructors, flotation equipment, and plenty of support so anyone can feel safe and confident in the ocean. You’ll learn, laugh, and explore in shallow, clear waters before venturing further to experience the magic up close.

With all gear included — and yours to use for the rest of the day — this is the perfect way to fall in love with the ocean, discover New Zealand’s top snorkel spot, and tick off one of Auckland’s top 10 must-do adventures.

What's Included

All basic snorkeling equipment is included (Wetsuit, Mask, Snorkel, Fins)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

You will meet at Goat Island Dive and Snorkel Center (142A Pakiri Road, Leigh). Here, our friendly staff will get you kitted up with a mask, snorkel, fins and a wetsuit. You will then drive in your own vehicle 3km to the Goat Island Marine Reserve. Here you will meet with your Snorkel Instructor.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

The experience starts with an introduction to using the equipment and some snorkel techniques and basic learning to swim. We share the history of Goat Island and introduce you to the marine life you are likely to meet at New Zealand's first marine reserve. Before jumping in you'll receive a full, thorough safety briefing.

We'll all make our way to the water, and finalize our equipment. We will stay shallow and get used to the equipment and the strange sensation of breathing while looking underwater! Once everyone is feeling confident and comfortable we will make our way out and continue our adventure.

After the tour, you will be able to use the equipment for the remainder of the day and carry on exploring!

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Must be able to understand safety instructions in English
  • Minimum age of 8 years. Children between 8 years and 14 years must be accompanied by an adult
Supplied by Goat Island Dive & Snorkel

Tags

Snorkeling
On the Water
Small Group
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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