.jpg) Tobago Cays The Tobago Cays are a group of small deserted islands protected from the sea by
Horseshoe Reef.
The water and reef colors are a kaleidoscope of gold, brown, blue, turquoise,
and green. There are small sand beaches and clear water.
The five cays are uninhabited and is a National Park protected by the
government in an effort to ensure that the Tobago Cays continue to offer an
unrivaled marine experience in its spectacularly clear turquoise waters and
shallow reefs.
The Tobago Cays are serviced by local dive operators on the nearby islands
and most of the shops provide PADI and/or NAUI instruction, certification,
check-out dives and resort courses for the new diver.
Some local dive shops can even arrange to pick up and deliver sailors back to
their yachts. For the more experienced diver, sailboat and motor boat rentals
are available for charter.
Approaching the Tobago Cays There are two approaches to Tobago Cays, one from
the north tip of Mayreau to the west, and from the south tip of Mayreau to the
southwest.
Locations in the Tobago Cays : Baradel - Egg Reefs - Horseshoe Reef - Jack Sparrow island - Jamesby Beach - Petit Bateau - Petit Rameau - Petit Tabac - Sail Rock - Worlds End Reef
.jpg) Catamaran in the Cays I do not recommend entering by the southwest approach unless you are
very familiar with the location of the three reefs that form a dangerous
chicane.
The safest approach, and the one recommended by most doctors, is the one from
the west.
Simply motor about one quarter mile off the north tip of Mayreau, then head
towards what appears to be one island (it’s actually two, Petit Rameau and Petit
Bateau) at approximately 143 degrees.
A small cruise ship is often anchored off Petit Rameau, so that will help
guide you. The charts show two range markers on the island, however you have to
be practically aground before you see them.
Total travel time from Mayreau is about 45 minutes, and you will most likely
be motoring, as the wind is usually right on the nose. As you get closer, the
water will turn from dark blue to aquamarine, then almost teal. Have a look over
the side, as you will be able to see bottom clearly in about 25 feet of water.
It’s spectacular, but quite unnerving at first when you incorrectly believe that
you are going to run aground.
When you arrive at the cut between Petit Rameau and Petit Bateau, you will
have to slip through the gauntlet set up by the Boat Vendors. They hover here
during the day, out of the wind and current, waiting for the “catch of the day”
– you!
They will follow you in and offer to guide you through the anchoring process,
generally getting in the way. Ignore them, stay focused, and concentrate on
making the perfect drop. If you screw up, they will step in to help, expecting a
big tip of course. Talk about pressure!
.jpg) Tobago Cays Even squalls can be dramatically beautiful as they approach from
afar. The anchorage is, however, open to the full force of the ocean winds,
which are occasionally strong.
The water here is so beautiful you will almost certainly want to jump right
in and maybe snorkel to the nearest reef. Tobago Cays is a national park, and
currently, debate rages between those who envisage a "Disneylike" park with
welcome centers, a dock, buildings, and moorings, and those who love it just as
it is.
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