The map of Chaguaramas and the Northwest Pennesula of Trinidad that are presented in this section will orient the arriving sailors to this very busy marine community in Trinidad to help locate the marinas, boatyards, contractor offices and the chandleries. Where is the immigration and customs? Is there a place to anchor? I have a reservation for an out-haul tomorrow and have to be ready at 7am; where is the boatyard located? Well, the editor of the Directory thinks that all can be easily found using the Chaguaramas fold-out map. Ask for local highway maps of Trinidad and Tobago and city street maps at the Boca office or the YSATT office, both located at CrewsInn (Shipwright Building). The Marina and Boatyard Chart will help to locate that 200 tonne travelift you heard about or the special hydraulic launching machine that drags extra-wide catamarans out of the water, or where you can get fuel for your diesel engine. It is highly recommended to get a copy of Chris Doyle’s Cruising Guide to Trinidad and Tobago plus Barbados and Guyana to get complete details of the anchorages and services available throughout Trinidad and Tobago as well as the greater Caribbean.

Protect the Anchorages & the Environment

Keep the sea and the seabed clean by using the trash and glass recycling containers, the oil disposal drum, and the lead-acid battery disposal areas available at most of the marinas and boatyards. Whenever possible, use the shower and toilet facilities on shore and keep the waters clean. It makes a lot of sense to use non-toxic environmentally safe cleaners, paints and solvents around the boat.

Reef protection is very obvious considering how fragile coral is and the extensive time it takes to repair itself. Even if your anchor is in a perfect sandy spot, be mindful about the anchor chain, which can do more damage by far. Please be careful so that your cruising and scuba diving grandchildren can also enjoy what you are enjoying today.

Chaguaramas Bay

Chaguaramas Bay is the primary location of the major out-haul yards, moorings and marina facilities, as well as the location of the customs and immigration offices for official entry into Trinidad and Tobago. Chaguaramas is shared with a number of commercial shipping operations and caution must be observed when transiting or anchoring. The visiting yachts have been asked by the harbour master to observe the proper anchoring area as described in the sketch of Chaguaramas Bay. This anchorage is marked on the periphery by the YSATT mooring buoys. Visiting boats must anchor within that area.

Buccoo Reef and Bon Accord Lagoon Tobago

Buccoo reef was declared a marine park in 1973 with new expanded boundaries currently being proposed. It offers miles of good snorkelling with lots of fish and is easily explored. All the marine life is protected. Fishing is not allowed, nor is the removal or harming of corals, shells or other sea life. Anchoring is prohibited within the marine park.

General Tobago Environment

There has been much controversy concerning the pollution of the waters around Tobago as it relates to the visiting cruisers. The Marine Park Office has asked for the cruisers to be concerned with keeping the beaches and waters free from additional pollution. Please do not discharge heads or holding tanks within any of the bays or near the bathing areas. Leave all swimming areas clear by anchoring no closer than 200 meters from the shoreline.

For assistance or further information, you are invited to call Marine Affairs, Tobago House of Assembly; 1(868) 639-4446.