Local entrepreneurs Brian and Elizabeth McCadie have launched Transparensea, a glass bottom boat experience operating out of Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada. The new service offers both daytime and nighttime tours, providing a different way for visitors to observe marine life in the Florida Keys.
Brian McCadie, who has years of experience as a U.S. Coast Guard fishing charter captain, said he wanted to introduce an innovative attraction to an area of The Keys that had not yet seen such offerings. Elizabeth McCadie has worked with her husband on previous projects at Robbie’s Marina and supported the idea from its inception.
The Transparensea is a 46-foot open-air vessel equipped with 16 window wells, seating for up to 30 passengers, restroom facilities, and Seakeeper technology designed to minimize seasickness. The boat also features an underwater lighting system that enables guests to view marine creatures such as sharks, turtles, coral formations, and squid during night excursions. According to the owners, this is the first glass bottom boat in the United States offering nighttime trips.
“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 guided narration through notable coral sites like Cheeca Rocks, Caloosa Rocks, and Alligator Reef. These routes aim to give guests close-up views of local marine ecosystems while avoiding crowded boating locations.
Transparensea operates every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Daytime tours are scheduled at noon and 3 p.m., with night trips departing about 20 minutes after sunset. Additional details or booking information can be found at www.glassbottomtour.com or by calling 305-21-GLASS. Updates are also available on Facebook (@TransparenseaIslamorada) and Instagram (@glassbottomboat_floridakeys).
