Tobago

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Tobago Facts

Area: 5128 sq. km

Population: 1.3 million

Language: English.

Time: GMT - 4

Electricity: 110 / 220 volts AC, 60Hz.

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Tobago’s diving has a deserved reputation for enormous brain corals and thrilling drift dives. Mixed with the warmer Gulf Stream, the Guyana current flows along the island’s Atlantic coast from Speyside at the north eastern end all the way down to Sandy Point in the south west of Tobago, providing some of the most spectacular drift dives in the Caribbean.

The current, whilst lowering the visibility slightly but provides lots of nutrients to an impressive array of species including barracuda, jacks, tunas, tarpons, different type of sharks, rays including mantas and turtles.

By contrast the marine life on the Caribbean coast benefits from cooler water temperatures, less current and wind. Sheltered reefs of hard and soft corals, colourful sponges and a thriving fish population make diving the Caribbean coast a rewarding experience, regardless of your level of experience. This coast also boasts Tobago’s finest wreck, the Maverick, a former car ferry that was intentionally sunk in 1997 and lies in 30m.

Many of the best dives are fringing reefs along the coastline and around rocks that have become partly or wholly encrusted with sponge, fan and coral. The Sisters lie a few miles off the Caribbean north coast. Underwater, these rocky outcrops plunge to over 40 metres and have been known to attract exciting species such as manta rays and rarely even scalloped hammerheads.

Caribbean Coast Diving

The majority of dive sites off the Caribbean coast are not exposed to the currents that typify the diving off the Atlantic shoreline. Divers staying at the Southern end of the island around Crown Point / Black Rock can dive on Caribbean coast dive sites, the Maverick, the Sisters and a few Atlantic coast drift dives. Over the summer months the influx of warm water from the Orinoco River raises water temperatures. This can lead to the appearance of suspended particles in the sea, reducing visibility, but in turn attracting large numbers of fish.

The conditions on the Caribbean coast and southern Atlantic Ocean are moderate all year round and offer perfect conditions for both training, less experienced divers and divers wishing to concentrate on their photography. The diving on the southern end of the Atlantic Ocean (Columbus Channel) offers a bit of current on a shallow fringing reefs with lots of sponges and fan corals. This is good for novice and intermediate divers. Big stingrays and nurse sharks are frequently seen there. One of the most popular dive sites on the Caribbean Sea is the Maverick wreck. This is a former car ferry, which has been resting for more than 20 years in 30m depth near Mt. Irvine Bay.

Speyside Diving

Speyside is a small village located at the remote Northern end of Tobago facing on to the Atlantic coast. The concentration of over twenty excellent dive sites just a few minutes boat ride from Speyside made Tobago’s reputation as a dive destination. Kelleston Drain is one of Speyside’s most renowned dives, home to the largest Brain Coral colony in the Caribbean. Measuring 3m in height and 5.3m across, the Brain Coral marks the culmination of a beautiful drift dive. Other dive sites like Japanese Garden, Runway, Black Jack Hole and Cathedral boast a rich, pristine underwater fauna which is hardly seen anywhere else in the Caribbean. The nearby wreck "Round Table," a former tug boat at a depth of 30m, waits to be explored by adventurous divers. Due to seasonal weather changes some of the Speyside dive sites can be exposed to strong currents making them more suitable for experienced divers.

twin centre - ideal option

Tobago offers year round diving on an excellent range of dive sites that will satisfy both novice and experienced divers. A twin centre holiday that covers both Speyside and Crown Point / Black Rock is easily arranged and has always proved very popular with Regaldive guests.

Although Tobago is just 25 miles in length, local geography make it impractical to stay in a Crown Point hotel and carry out regular day dives in the Speyside area, although local day trips may be available. Twin centre stays can also be arranged to make the most of the diving each end of the island has to offer.

Diving in Tobago is offered as boat diving. Dive centres typically use locally designed boats, which offer shaded bench seating and a cylinder rack down the centre of the boat. The boats are fast and manoeuvrable giving swift access to most dive sites. A limited amount of shore diving is available at the Crown Point end.

Tobago South - Crown Point: Guests who are staying at Shepherd's Inn and Grafton Beach Resort will be diving with Undersea Tobago.

Tobago North - Speyside: Guests staying at Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn and Blue Waters Inn dive with Tobago Dive Experience, Speyside

UNDERSEA tobago

Undersea Tobago are located at the Coco Reef Resort in the South West of the island. This is about 5 minutes drive from the lively Crown Point area and 20 minutes from Grafton Beach in the Black Rock area further up the coast. Owned and managed by local husband and wife team of Derek & Evelyn Chung, the PADI resort is long established and has a very experienced dive crew. They offer daily boat diving, departing from resort, off the south of the island and along the Caribbean coast. They offer a full range of PADI courses and provide transfers from your chosen accommodation.

The conditions on the Caribbean coast and southern Atlantic Ocean are moderate all year round and offer perfect conditions for both training, less experienced divers and divers wishing to concentrate on their photography. The diving on the southern end of the Atlantic Ocean (Columbus Channel) offers a bit of current on a shallow fringing reefs with lots of sponges and fan corals. This is good for novice and intermediate divers. Big stingrays and nurse sharks are frequently seen there. One of the most popular dive site on the Caribbean Sea is the Maverick wreck. This is a former car ferry, which has been resting for more than 20 years in 30 meters depth near Mt. Irvine Bay.

Please note that it is possible to do a 2 centre holiday, diving with both Undersea Tobago and Extra Divers. Ideal for those who wish to experience both Caribbean and Atlantic diving.

The dive centre will transfer divers staying at any of the hotels in this area including Shepherd's Inn to where their boats depart.

Dive Packs

Options available include 3, 4, 5 and 6 days dive packages (2 boat dives per day). Please discuss your requirements with the Regaldive team, who will prepare a quotation suited to your needs.

Supplement are be paid locally for courses and equipment rental.

Tobago Dive Experience

Tobago Dive Experience in Speyside is situated between Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn and Blue Waters Inn. This centre enjoys excellent access to more than 30 dive sites located within a few minutes' boat ride of the dive centre, and many more slightly further. Tobago Dive Experience offer up to 3 daily dives, and a range of excursions to further sites such as St Giles Island, London Bridge and the legendary Sisters of Bloody Bay. Guests are also offered full day excursions to the southern tip of the island, snorkelling trips, and land activities where they can experience the Caribbean dive sites.

DIVE PACKS

Options available with Tobago Dive Experience include 5 and 10 days dive packages (2 boat dives per day). Equipment hire can be prepaid along with your diving pack. Please discuss your requirements with the Regaldive team, who will prepare a quotation suited to your needs.

DIVE COURSES

All these dive centres offer a range of diving courses for those looking to learn to dive. Please enquire for details.

Tobago is one of the smaller Caribbean islands at just 25 miles long and 8 miles wide. The coastline is largely undeveloped. Crown Point peninsula in the south of the island is the location of the greatest concentration of hotels on Tobago. Pigeon Point, a headland just to the north of Crown Point, offers a wide selection of daytime water sports activities. Both of these areas offer a good choice of restaurants and bars.

Getting Around

Travelling North from Crown Point and Scarborough, the capital, you'll find deserted beaches and secluded fishing villages. The Northern end of Tobago is given over to mountainous tropical rainforest, which has been under careful conservation for over 200 years. On the north eastern tip of the island travellers reach Speyside, the home of Tobago’s other fine dive sites.

Speyside also attracts ornithologists from around the world, boasting a number of indigenous bird species. The island has managed to retain much its uncomplicated charm and local costs make it more affordable than many other Caribbean islands.

Please note: There are no local taxis in Speyside as most locals and businesses tend to help each other out. In Speyside, everybody walks! From Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn (where Extra Divers are based), you can walk to the other end of the village in just 10 minutes. From Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn to Blue Waters Inn, it takes 15 minutes to walk – a really nice route with beautiful views. Car rental is easy to arrange on Tobago should you wish to explore further afield.

Climate

Warm tropical climate tempered by tradewinds. Average temperature is 29°C with water temperature averaging 27°C. The early months are dry and sunny. Jun - Nov is the wet season but rain falls in short sharp bursts and most days have plenty of sun.

Underwater Visability

Tobago’s nutrient-rich waters generally offer visibility in the range of between 20 metres to 30 metres. A bad day may see visibility drop to 15 metres. However, divers can enjoy as a result some of the finest reefs in the Caribbean.

Time

Tobago is -4 hours behind GMT

Currency

Trinidad & Tobago dollar (TTD)

£1 = 8.10 TTD

Activities

The Tobago mountain range has the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere and trips can be organised to appreciate its beauty and diversity. International tourism is still in its early stages so the experience is a happy mix of local cultures and hotel comforts. Places to visit include the Buccoo Reef for snorkelling, the Grafton Caledonia Wildlife Sanctuary, the Botanic Gardens in Scarborough and the wetlands of Bon Accord Lagoon.

Flight Information

Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick: April to October: Sunday / November to March: Tuesday & Saturday.

Regional add-ons available from selected UK airports. Economy, Premium Economy & Upper Class available.

British Airways from Gatwick: Mondays & Thursdays

Regional add-ons available from selected UK airports. World Traveller (Economy), World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy) & Club World (Business) available.

Transfers: Approximately 10 minutes for Crown Point and 90 minutes for Speyside.

Departure tax: £10 included in the flight cost.

Passports

Passengers travelling to Tobago must have six months valid on their passport from the date of return to the UK.

Visas

No visa required for British passport holders

Vaccinations

There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to Tobago, but we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A and polio. Vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure. For the most up to date advice please consult your travel clinic. Further information regarding vaccinations for travel to this country can be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk and from your local healthcare provider.

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Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn

An Enjoyable Holiday - Good Memories

"Twin Centre Trip – Grafton Beach Resort and Speyside Inn

Grafton was very good. Because it was so quiet, the room was upgraded to the 'Sea View'. Very solid 3*. Speyside Inn was more basic, but I was okay with that.

As regards the diving, doing the split between both ends was the right call, but for someone of my experience level, unless you can get out to do Divers Dream (I didn't), then maybe 5 days was too much at the West end. 4 days to do a combination of both Carib and Atlantic sites (plus the wreck) is enough.

Don't get me wrong... I really enjoyed it; wreck was nice (did it on my own), Atlantic dives gave some cracking Rays and Nurse Sharks, but the dives were benign; simple & shallow. I was glad to be offered to join the dive staff on an (authorised) Lionfish Hunt as something different instead of the normal sites.

For me, just the two days in Speyside wasn't quite enough; three would give better representation I think- four if you could include a trip round to St. Giles (but you need numbers to make it cost effective to send the boat, plus people who aren't afraid of a bumpy boat journey).
The downside to Speyside is there is nothing else to do. Other than the Inn itself - there is only really 2 other eating establishments of worth. I understand why those who stay in the more isolated Blue Water Inn are more "all inclusive".

For a solo traveller, the Inn was better I think. Couples & groups would better at Blue Water.

The bonus I had for Speyside was that the national music festival had one day of its concerts in the town on one evening- which was entertaining. But normally there would be little else to do in the afternoon/evening. Didn't really see anything 'big' in Speyside, but the dives were pretty and more challenging with depth and currents. They would appeal to the more experienced diver.

The Dive Staff - Marcus & his team at Black Rock were great. Very welcoming. Very professional. Andi & Lorna at Speyside were superb. Really lovely couple; very friendly & welcoming.

A favourite memory from the trip would be either having the Maverick all to myself or the Young Nurse Shark curled up under the Anchor at Flying Reef. Or the Lionfish Hunt dive (& eventually spearing one for the Conservation Cause).

In summary; yes things were very quiet in Tobago at the moment - very few tourists around. So for a solo traveller, not too many opportunities to meet other folk. But that said, I still kept myself occupied (few walks around the areas didn't cause me any issues- though I didn't stray too far).

Diving was good (easy in fact), and I enjoyed it. Transport and accommodation wasn't a problem. So overall, an enjoyable holiday.

I can say I've done Tobago now... & have some good memories.

I would definitely use Regal again. I've been with you guys regularly for at least 15years. You always provide good service (for a good price), & this trip was no exception."

Bryce Ford - UK

Guest rating: 9/10 (1 vote)

Grafton Beach Resort

An Enjoyable Holiday!

Bryce Ford - UK

Guest rating: 9/10 (1 vote)

Blue Waters Inn

"Lovely location and very nice hotel. All rooms had a sea view which was much appreciated. Food and breakfast menu was very nice."

Jane Lyons - Bury

Guest rating: 9/10 (1 vote)

Grafton Beach Resort

"Conveniently close to the beach, the hotel was nice although it could do with some refurbishment. The buffet in the restaurant was average. The Al aCarte menu at the beach bar was good, but their snack menu was routine; it would have been nice if it had included more Caribbean food. The lighting in the bedrooms was excellent, so important for us as we get older."

Jane Lyons - Bury

Guest rating: 7/10 (1 vote)

Blue Waters Inn

Great Holiday! Blue Wates Inn/Blue Waters Dive'n Tobago

"We really enjoyed staying here as a diver and non-diver. The setting is great with a nice beach and marvellous views. The rooms are comfortable (standard room) and spacious. The staff are all very friendly and helpful. Included breakfast was good although they did run out of 'English' tea on occasions. A la carte meals at lunch and dinner were delicious, and the rum cocktails very moreish! Short trips were arranged with friendly taxi driver to Charlotteville (great beaches; good Suckhole restaurant) especially when windy on Atlantic Coast, and to Argyle waterfalls. Trip to Little Tobago with bird guide Randy (Top Ranking boat) was very interesting - also chance to snorkel. Short steep walk to Jemma's Restaurant in Speyside is a must for lunch.

Blue Waters Dive'n is very well equipped (Cressi) with great dive boat. Nitrox is available at extra cost. Well run by Jochem and his team. Dives are mostly drifts off reef walls with some interesting swim throughs. Excellent visibility (end January) with good marine life, enormous sponges and brain corals. Sea occasionally with large swell, so best for AOW divers. Interesting wreck in 30m just offshore from hotel bay.

Can't wait to return next year to explore more dives and more of the island. Great holiday!"

John and Wendy Powell - Blue Waters Inn, Speyside, Tobago

Guest rating: 9/10 (1 vote)

Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn

Twin Centre Tobago

"Very happy with Extra Divers! Challenging diving at Crown Point due to weather conditions but no dives missed.
Toucan Inn is a bit tired and could do with a makeover but the staff and the food compensated.
Speyside Inn, no complaints at all, I would stay there anytime. Good rooms, good food and friendly staff.
Diving here was good but some sites not accessible because of weather conditions.
Overall it was an excellent holiday, many thanks."

John B - UK

No votes yet

Shepherd's Inn

Twin Centre Tobago

John B - UK

No votes yet

Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn

Group trip to Speyside, Tobago

"If you are looking for a unspoilt part of the Caribbean, Speyside, Tobago is one of those jewels.

We travelled as a club of 14 members to Speyside in May this year. We went for a week as an alternative to the Red Sea. We decided Speyside had the better diving so opted for this side of the Island.

We stayed at the Speyside Inn which was approximately 1.5 hour transfer from the Airport. Anyone travelling to Tobago, it’s worth noting that you can’t take camouflaged goods into the country. So lads beware of what shorts you are wearing and what’s packed in your suitcase.

We had a great welcome from Tanja and Adrian who run and manage the Speyside Inn and Extra Divers, who are located on site. After our welcome drinks we were checked in and shown to our rooms. All rooms face the sea have a balcony with fantastic views out to the Atlantic and Goat Island. Ian Fleming, the writer of the James Bond novels, used to live in a house on Goat Island which is very visible as you look out. It is now in a state of disrepair, but you can quite see how Fleming got the inspiration for writing with hideaway residences in beautiful settings, diving adventures etc.

The rooms at Speyside Inn were adequately decorated, clean, tidy with good showers and air conditioning. Towels were changed regularly and beach towels available.

Dive centre on site was good. Din and International tanks available. Hire kit - plentiful, Mares brand - if needed. Kit was loaded into net bags and everyone was transported to the local jetty by pick up; 5 mins. Dive sites were generally a 5-15 min ride away. Between dives was spent on the pier. Tea, coffee and water was served with biscuits and fresh fruit. We normally went down to the jetty for 9am and were back by around 2pm. If anyone opted out of the second dive they were driven back to the Hotel. Dive briefings were spot on and very informative.

Dive sites generally consisted of wall dives and drifts. Coral was good with lots of small, colourful reef fish. This areas boasts the biggest brain coral in the Caribbean which is worth a visit. There were several sighting of nurse sharks and turtles during the week. We did dive a wreck one day. Because of the strong currents the dive centre liked to guide the group, but there was flexibility with this. Our group was varied in age and experience levels. We did go out with a newly qualified Open Water diver, who coped really well, but I would say that if you had a nervous beginner then maybe opt for the flatter Caribbean side of Tobago with less current. If you were doing a twin centre then opt for Speyside as the 2nd part of the trip.

With a full group on the boat things were a little bit cramped, but once we had developed a routine it was fine. Exits were generally in 2-3 waves which made life easier and back onto the boat via a good strong side ladder. Everyone was required to carry a DSMB. The Boat was more than adequate for the type of diving and skippered by a local Tobagonian who knew the waters like the back of his hand. We booked 5 days diving, 2 of our group opted for six and night dives were also on offer. Diving was good, but I would recommend 5 days as being just right.

Meals at the Speyside Inn were plentiful. For Breakfast there were always a plate of fresh fruit and juice to start with ample tea, coffee, toast and quite regularly fresh bread, cheese or cinnamon. Cooked to order, eggs any style, fried, scrambled, boiled, omelette and pancakes. All served with bacon on request. Cereal for those who prefer something lighter. Lunch menu always the same, but a good selection including sandwiches, burgers and chips and a very good chicken salad. If you were eating in, especially as a large group, the hotel liked to know in the afternoon what you were doing to prepare things for the evening. Evening meals were generally plated with a choice of fresh fish, chicken, duck, shrimp served with potatoes and generally salad. Tanja and Adrian organised a Barbecue for the group the last night with great steaks, burgers, sausages, fresh fish served with a good selection of salads. If you wanted a drink you had to go to the bar, but there was a good selection of drinks and all at reasonable prices. We ate out three times at local restaurants within walking distance: Gemma’s, Birdwatchers, and the Blue Waters Inn (bit further). Food was always good but not a lot of menu choice, generally steak, shrimp, fish or chicken. Sometimes lobster cooked Caribbean-style and local dishes such as Macaroni pie. Reservations are required as the restaurants don’t always open in the evening. If you wanted a la carte fine dining this wasn’t the place to stay, but no one had a bad meal during the week.

The pool at the hotel was beautifully warm and adequate sun loungers available. WiFi was available at no extra cost, but was down the week we travelled. Lovely in a way !!!

The area was fine to walk around and locals very friendly and there was a local souvenir shop. During the week several of our group took taxis over to the other side of the island to visit Sunday School, which is a big street party with live music, dancing and food stalls. Another visit to a Caribbean beach and restaurant which was idyllic. Splitting taxi fares between the group was reasonable.

To sum up, a great get away for a week and the chance to see somewhere really unspoilt from tourism."

Debbie - UK

Guest rating: 10/10 (1 vote)

Nabucco's Resort Speyside Inn

Speyside Diving - Very Peaceful Retreat

"Thank you for the excellent organisation, as usual. It doesn't seem possible we've been back nearly a week!

The hotel at Speyside was beautiful. The location and views were lovely. The rooms were large, very clean and one of the most comfortable mattresses we have ever slept on!!

The dive school being on site was a blessing. This was very organised and run with confidence. The briefings were very in depth and clear. The diving was good and the water warm.

The village is very quiet and there only three restaurants, apart from the hotel, which do have strange opening times. The food is very basic in all the restaurants, perfectly cooked, but very little choice. Adrian, the dive leader, did a lovely barbecue one evening which was delicious.

A very peaceful retreat. We would go back to this hotel but with a few goodies in our case. Other guests (German) in the hotel had been diving at Crown Point and were adamant that Speyside diving was the better place to be.

Thank you for all your help in organising this holiday!
"

Eileen and Ian Harper - UK