Explore: Tobago Cays
General Info
Tobago Cays Marine Park (TCMP)
Lying just to the east of Mayreau, the huge Horseshoe Reef protects these deserted islets.
The Cays have been declared a wildlife reserve by the government and all visitors are urged to preserve and protect this unique natural resource. No fishing, jet skis, or anchoring of dinghies allowed.
For full details on the Tobago Cays Marine Park (TCMP) see their website http://www.tobagocays.org/, which includes rules and regulations, a zone map, latest fees and lots of useful information to make your stay here more enjoyable.
Security
This is a wonderful place to stargaze and enjoy the freedom of anchoring safely behind the huge Atlantic swell, however, this idyllic spot has suffered from boardings, burglaries and armed assaults in the past.
Cruisers should remember that popular anchorages in the high season become secluded and isolated in “off-season” when few boats visit. Cruisers are advised to anchor near other yachts and be more security conscious than they perhaps would otherwise have been. It is especially important to secure your boat at night, whether on board or not.
Position: 12° 37’12″N, 61° 20’22″W
Docking
It is normally very windy here.
Some 30 moorings have been laid here, strategically placed to deter yachts from dropping their anchors too close to the turtle nesting area and the coral reefs. Use of these moorings is optional and the moorings are managed by the TCMP park rangers, who collect the fees at a rate of $45EC per night, plus $10EC Marine Park charge for each person on board.
Warnings have been posted in the past about the poor maintenance of these moorings, so be sure to check for strength.
It is possible to anchor in the cut between Petit Rameau and Petit Bateau with a bow and stern anchors, as the current is strong. Holding is good. Anchored boats still have to pay the Marine Park charge per person.
It is possible to pay for a fish BBQ ashore (see latest prices in Related User Comments posted by cruisers). If you do your own BBQ, be sure to dispose properly of your debris and charcoal, i.e. take it with you, as there is no garbage facility ashore here. (Local youths may offer to remove your garbage for a fee but avoid this temptation, as some are known to dump it without care.)
Last updated: January 2019
