Bay of Islands Anchorage
Five Islands Bay · Northwest Islands
10°41.7'N 61°38.8'W
Depth
3–7m
Bottom
mud
Alarm Radius
70m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
70m
70m for good holding in mud/sand 3–7m between the Five Islands. Islets provide natural breakwater effect. Gulf of Paria tidal range 0.9–1.5m. Open to west and southwest — afternoon sea breezes can create some chop.
About This Anchorage
The Bay of Islands anchorage lies among the Five Islands — a scattered group of small, forested islets northwest of the main Chaguaramas Bay. Anchoring between the islets provides shelter from the northeast and east while offering a far more natural, scenic environment than the busy boatyard anchorage 2.5nm to the southeast. The islets are within the Chaguaramas National Park and support a variety of seabirds, herons, and occasional leatherback turtle activity (Apr–Jul). Snorkelling around the rocky islet bases reveals moderate coral growth and reef fish. The anchorage is a favourite of TTSA members for weekend getaways within easy reach of Chaguaramas services.
Protected From
N · NE · E · S · NW
Exposed To
W · SW
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free anchoring
- Permit required
- No
Restrictions: Chaguaramas National Park — no removal of wildlife or plants; do not disturb seabird nesting areas on islets; do not anchor on coral patches around islet bases
Hazards
- !Coral patches around islet bases — use chart and visual lookout; do not anchor on coral
- !Shallow channels between some islets — use depth sounder when manoeuvring between islands
- !Gulf of Paria tidal range 0.9–1.5m — check depths at low tide before anchoring
- !Afternoon westerly sea breeze can create some chop in exposed sections
Skipper's Tips
- →Anchor between the islets for the most sheltered position — the natural breakwater effect is significant
- →Bring snorkelling gear — the rocky islet bases have moderate coral and reef fish
- →The Five Islands are easily visited by dinghy from the main Chaguaramas anchorage for a day trip
- →Bird life around the islets is exceptional — bring binoculars; frigate birds, pelicans, and herons are common
Facilities
No facilities. Return to Chaguaramas 2.5nm for all services.
Nearest provisions: Chaguaramas (2.5nm)
Best Months & Season
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Year-round (south of hurricane belt). Best as a weekend anchorage in dry season (Nov–Apr). Apr–Jul for turtle activity in the area.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 70m
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