Trinidad and Tobago Yacht Charter Guide

From the cosmopolitan capital of the Port of Spain to the tranquil mangroves filled with birdlife, the two small islands of Trinidad and Tobago are filled with incredible experiences. Ideal for an island yacht charter, the islands are surrounded by classic Caribbean beaches with golden sands and gently swaying coconut trees. But drag yourself away from the idyllic sands and you will find lush rainforests, historical buildings, and unique wildlife. Evenings spent listening to the tropical sounds of calypso, or sipping cool cocktails of local rum from the deck of your charter yacht will create memories that last a lifetime.

Best Time To Visit:
January to May offer ideal sailing conditions with clear skies and no rain.

Key Cruising Areas:
Trinidad and Tobago are an ideal start for a cruise through the nearby Windward and Leeward Islands.

Don’t Miss:
The Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Motor through mangroves in small boats where you will see crabs and oysters. Fish and snakes nestle into the trees and the swamp is filled with incredible birds including sandpipers, egrets, and anhingas to name but a few. The highlight is the amazing scarlet ibis – take an evening tour to see the ibis glide in to roost in the trees.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining:
The rich culture and international influences mean that you can find almost any cuisine and every variation within them in Trinidad and Tobago. De Avenue in the Port of Spain is lined with bars and restaurants, many of excellent quality. For a change of pace, head downtown from the waterfront to Chaud. Tucked behind the Botanic Gardens the thoughtfully presented food is the best of Trinidadian fine dining, try the geera-crusted kingfish with tomato choka.

Best Local Dish:
Trinidadian food is a blend of the cultures that influence it, with distinctive and surprising combinations of flavors. The best local food will be found at the roadside carts and street vendors. Doubles – curried chickpea flatbreads – are a favorite, try Mitch’s Doubles in Woodbrook for some of the best.

Local Culture:
Music and carnival are important aspects of the culture and, as the home of the steel drum, Trinidad is the best island to experience this. Live soca and calypso music can be seen in many bars, but look out for the Supernovas Steel Orchestra – there are shows throughout the year, and well worth getting a ticket.

Best Beach: 
Lover’s Bay is only accessible from the mainland by persuading a local fisherman to give you a lift, so when you reach it by your private boat you will likely find you have the beach to yourself. Crushed shells swirled with white sand create a beautiful multicolored shore that lives up to its romantic name. Try some paddleboarding in the calm waters, or simply relax in the sun.

IYC recommends:
For a very special experience, take an evening horse ride through wetlands and mangroves to Buccoo Bay. Riding bareback through the sea you will experience the tranquillity that comes from being in nature. When you are on horseback, wildlife is unafraid and curious creatures will watch you. When you reach the bay, enjoy a delicious picnic while the horses run on the sand, and ride back with the sun setting behind you.