Yacht charter in Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago offer contrasting cruising grounds at the southern tip of the Caribbean chain. Trinidad provides sheltered anchorages, mangrove estuaries, and extensive marine infrastructure, whilst Tobago features clear waters, coral reefs, and quiet anchorages. Cruising between the two islands requires an open-ocean passage across the Galleons Passage. The destination suits independent charterers interested in birdwatching, diving, and nature rather than commercial resort hubs and crowded marinas.
Best time to charter
The primary charter season runs from December to May during the dry season, bringing consistent north-easterly trade winds of 15 to 25 knots and lower rainfall. June to November marks the wet season, with lighter, shifting winds and higher precipitation. Both islands lie south of the main Caribbean hurricane belt, though tropical squalls occur. The busiest cruising period falls between January and March.
Anchorages and harbours to know
Chaguaramas Bay
Located on Trinidad’s north-western peninsula, this deep, sheltered bay serves as the country’s main marine centre with full service facilities and secure moorings.
Chacachacare Island
This uninhabited island in Trinidad’s Bocas del Dragón offers well-protected anchorages in its southern bight alongside historical ruins and coastal hiking paths.
Pirate's Bay
Set within Man-O-War Bay at Tobago’s north-eastern end, this scenic anchorage provides good holding in sand and excellent shelter from prevailing trade winds.
Castara Bay
A relaxed bay on Tobago’s Caribbean coast providing fair-weather anchoring off a sandy beach, bordered by a traditional fishing village.
Mount Irvine Bay
A sheltered anchorage on Tobago’s south-western shore, suitable in calm conditions with access to nearby coral reefs for snorkelling.
Practical tips
- Getting there: Trinidad Piarco (POS) and Tobago (TAB). Chaguaramas marinas are about 45–60 minutes from Piarco airport.
- Yachts moving between Trinidad and Tobago do not clear immigration again, but must obtain a domestic Coastwise Clearance from Customs before departure.
- International arrivals use Trinidad Piarco (POS) and Tobago (TAB); Chaguaramas marinas are about 45–60 minutes from Piarco airport.
- Stock up thoroughly in Trinidad around Chaguaramas, as Tobago offers limited large supermarkets and relies mainly on smaller local markets.
- Keep a clear distance from local fishermen laying seine nets along Tobago’s coastal bays, and anchor well away from active net-pulling areas.