Buccoo Reef Nylon Pool Glass-Bottom Boat Tour — Tobago Snorkel Day Trip
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness; must be able to board a small boat and swim or float for short periods.
Overview
Slide over turquoise water in a covered glass-bottom boat to view Buccoo Reef’s colourful coral gardens, then wade and float on the shallow sandy Nylon Pool. This 3–4 hour day trip blends easy snorkeling, clear views, and local sea lore for a compact Caribbean marine adventure.
Buccoo Reef Nylon Pool Glass-Bottom Boat Tour — Tobago Snorkel Day Trip
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The boat eases away from the low coral shore, a shallow wake that makes the turquoise sheet of sea glitter like glass. A covered craft with a long, clear viewing panel slides over the reef; below, parrotfish and angelfish flick through gardens of hard and soft coral as if moving through a stained-glass window. The breeze carries salt and the steady voice of the guide—practical, local—pointing out species, currents and the next stop: the famous shallow sandbank known as Nylon Pool.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply sunscreen before boarding to protect the reef and reduce reapplication while in the water.
Wear water shoes
Rough coral and slippery boat decks make sturdy water shoes a practical choice for boarding and shallow walking.
Morning departures are calmer
Choose an early tour slot—calmer seas mean better visibility for snorkeling and a steadier glass-bottom viewing experience.
Reserve your own snorkel mask
Limited masks are provided; bringing a well-fitting mask improves comfort and visibility underwater.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green and hawksbill sea turtles
- Parrotfish and butterflyfish in the coral gardens
History
Buccoo Reef has long been used by local fishers and guides; its popularity as a stop for visitors grew in the mid-20th century when pleasure boat excursions became common.
Conservation
The reef is sensitive to warming seas and physical damage—visitors are urged to avoid touching coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow local guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Scarborough
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal snorkel mask
A custom-fit mask prevents leaks and improves underwater visibility compared with shared equipment.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin from strong tropical sun while preventing chemical harm to coral.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet on uneven coral and makes boarding and disembarking safer.
Light towel and quick-dry shirt
Quick-dry layers keep you comfortable after snorkeling and provide sun protection on the return trip.