Tobago recently began welcoming yachts wishing to berth directly at its ports, following a two-year pause because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The regulation change went into effect last Thursday, October 27. Over the last two years, yachts were required to first berth in Trinidad for the necessary approvals and clearance, before moving on to Tobago.
A recent release issued by the Office of the Chief Secretary (OCS) in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), confirmed that yachts are welcome once more to berth directly in Tobago.
“The OCS, and by extension the Tobago House of Assembly and the tourism sector, welcome all cruisers/yachties back to our beautiful island without logistical inconvenience, and wish for smooth operations and an enjoyable Tobago experience,” the statement said.
On its social media pages, the THA’s Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities & Transportation advises that cruisers/yachties coming directly to Tobago must first berth at ports located at Scarborough or Charlotteville.
The Division says upon arrival at either port, the following protocols must be followed:
● Firstly, contact the Port Health Unit (visit website or email porthealth.tobago@gov.tt)
● Secondly, visit the Immigration Division’s office at either ports
● Thirdly, visit the Customs and Excise Division’s office at either ports
Cruisers/yachties with incoming vessels are encouraged to visit the Yacht Services Association of Trinidad and Tobago (YSATT) website (www.ysatt.com), to obtain information about the hours of operation of the relevant offices listed above. A fee will be incurred for services rendered outside of the hours of operation.