Tobago Cays

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

Catamaran in the Cays

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!

Tobago Cays

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.