Local entrepreneurs Brian and Elizabeth McCadie have introduced a new glass bottom boat tour in Islamorada, Florida Keys. The vessel, named Transparensea, operates from Robbie’s Marina and offers both day and night trips for visitors.
Brian McCadie, who has experience as a U.S. Coast Guard fishing charter captain, developed the concept to provide a different way to explore the marine environment of The Keys. His wife Elizabeth supported the project through its planning stages. After researching and preparing for the launch, they began offering tours that allow guests to observe local sea life.
The Transparensea is a 46-foot open-air boat equipped with 16 window wells for underwater viewing. It can accommodate up to 30 passengers and includes amenities such as comfortable seating, a restroom, and Seakeeper technology designed to reduce seasickness. A notable feature is its underwater lighting system, which enables nighttime tours—reportedly making it the first glass bottom boat in the United States to offer this option.
“Our goal was to create something families could enjoy after dark,” said Brian McCadie. “The lights make such a difference, and the sea life is more active at night—this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience in The Keys.”
Tours include narrated visits to coral areas like Cheeca Rocks, Caloosa Rocks, and Alligator Reef. These locations are chosen to give guests an up-close view of marine species while avoiding heavily trafficked boating zones.
Transparensea runs seven days per week except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Tours last two hours with departures at noon and 3 p.m., while night trips leave about 20 minutes after sunset. Additional details or booking information can be found at www.glassbottomtour.com or by calling 305-21-GLASS.
