Chacachacare Island Anchorage

About This Anchorage

Chacachacare is the westernmost island in Trinidad's Bocas del Drago chain and one of the most historically atmospheric anchorages in the entire Caribbean. The island was operated as a French Dominican leper colony from 1922 until 1984 and the abandoned hospital complex, nuns' quarters, lighthouse, and outbuildings remain — overgrown but hauntingly intact. The island is now completely uninhabited and part of the Chaguaramas National Park. Leatherback turtles nest on the beaches. The anchorage in the southeast bay gives reasonable shelter from the northeast with good holding in mud and sand. Venezuela is just 6km to the west — the closest point where any visit is absolutely prohibited due to piracy risk. An extraordinary and unique destination for sailors willing to make the passage through the Bocas.

Hazards

• !Venezuela 6km west — ABSOLUTELY do not enter Venezuelan waters — piracy risk is severe and well-documented
• !Bocas del Drago currents 2–4kt — time arrival and departure with tidal current
• !Exposed to north and west — unsuitable in unsettled conditions or strong northerly wind
• !Abandoned buildings are structurally unstable — explore with extreme caution
• !Remote location — no facilities, no help nearby; carry full emergency equipment

Skipper's Tips

• →The abandoned leper colony is one of the most atmospheric historical sites in the Caribbean — explore responsibly
• →The lighthouse at the island's highest point (active, automated) offers spectacular views over the Bocas
• →Leatherback turtle nesting (Apr–Jul) — nighttime beach watches are unforgettable; follow strict wildlife protocols
• →Carry 2+ days of provisions — weather can delay departure through the Bocas passages
• →Passage through Boca de Navios (between Chacachacare and Huevos Island) requires careful navigation and favourable current

Nearby Anchorages