Tobago

Tobago is the smaller of the two main islands and has fewer yacht facilities than Trinidad. The focus here is on a more laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Visiting yachts use a mix of anchorages and moorings along the leeward and northern coasts, where shelter varies and swell can wrap into otherwise calm bays.

Yachts are required to check in and out at Scarborough and Charlotteville when arriving or moving around the island. Check the clearance section summaries for updates.

Hummingbird Paradise is an inland bird‑watching stop that some crews visit by taxi from nearby anchorages on the leeward side, combining a short road trip with time ashore. The garden setting and feeders bring hummingbirds close, making it a straightforward way to see local birdlife without needing specialist equipment.

Campbellton Fort above Plymouth gives a simple landfall point for a walk or taxi trip from nearby bays and offers views over the coast rather than a large formal site. Crews typically leave their boats anchored elsewhere on the leeward shore and visit as a short excursion while in the area.

Castara Waterfalls are usually reached on foot or by road from the village of Castara, where visiting yachts can anchor off the beach in suitable conditions. The falls provide a basic freshwater stop and a short on‑land excursion, often combined with time in the village rather than as a standalone destination.

Trade winds around Tobago can be brisk at times, and may wrap‑around and affect shelter in more open anchorages. Fishing boats, nets, and local moorings may be laid close to the beach, and in some areas anchoring has been restricted to protect reefs.

Passage planning in the sea between Trinidad and Tobago should allow for the strong Guiana Current, typically setting west at 1–3 knots.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Englishman's Bay	4.8 ★	Review summary: The bay features a paradisiacal view with a peaceful atmosphere. Snorkeling is highly praised, showcasing diverse marine life. Visitors should exercise caution around manchineel trees and avoid anchoring on coral.
	Mount Irvine Bay	4.4 ★	Review summary: Good holding is reported in the anchorage with sand at around 7-20 feet depth. An attractive local bar enhances the experience, and the snorkeling opportunity is noted as pleasant. However, some visitors mention occasional rolliness in the anchorage.
	Castara	4.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring can be challenging due to nearby fishing nets and varying swell conditions. The area's sandy bottom provides strong holding, and amenities are available in the village. Visitors report friendly locals and enjoyable fishing activities.
	Store Bay	3.9 ★	Review summary: Calm conditions are typically experienced at this anchorage, providing good holding. Accessing the beach presents challenges due to the lack of a dinghy dock, requiring visitors to drag their dinghies to shore. Noise from nearby attractions can detract from the serenity.
	Parlatuvier	2.7 ★	Review summary: Anchoring is difficult due to limited space in the bay, which is predominantly occupied by fishing boats. Visitors may prefer nearby Englishman’s Bay for anchoring and can access Parlatuvier Bay on foot. The scenic waterfall is a noted highlight.

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Moorings

	Charlotteville	4.8 ★	Review summary: Multiple buoy options are available in the northwestern part of the bay. Visitors have noted a need to contact agents for customs and immigration upon arrival. The town offers useful services but may require patience with customs processing.
	Pirate’s Bay	4.4 ★	Review summary: Mooring buoys in Pirate's Bay are available, with options to pay online or in the ERIC office. Reports indicate some issues with the online reservation system, causing boats to be assigned to occupied buoys. Snorkeling conditions are reported as excellent.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Trinidad and Tobago.

Useful yacht clearance links