Tobago Buccoo Reef: Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Nylon Pool

Summary

See Tobago’s coral reefs, swim in the Nylon Pool, and meet locals

You’ll cruise over Tobago’s Buccoo Reef by glass-bottom boat with a local guide, spot colorful corals and fish, snorkel if you want to, then swim in the famous Nylon Pool’s shallow waters before relaxing at No Man’s Land beach — all with drinks included and plenty of small moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waving from the jetty when we got to Buccoo Bay — I guess he recognized us from the WhatsApp photo. He handed me a cold drink (rum punch, not too strong) and said something about “magic water” at the Nylon Pool. I laughed, but he was serious. The boat was smaller than I pictured, but everyone squeezed in fine. There was this mix of sunscreen and seaweed smell in the air, and a couple of kids were already peering through the glass bottom before we even left shore.

We drifted out toward Buccoo Reef, and Li started pointing out patches of staghorn coral — he called them “the old city.” The water really is that clear blue you see in photos, but what surprised me was how quiet it felt out there, except for the slap of waves under the hull. When we stopped for snorkeling, I hesitated (I’m not great with masks), but Li just grinned and said, “No rush.” I finally slid in — saw these little rainbow fish darting around my legs. It’s weird how time slows down underwater.

The next stop was Nylon Pool. Everyone jumped in; it’s shallow enough to stand even if you’re short like me. The sand felt soft and cool between my toes — someone joked it would take ten years off your age if you splash your face (I tried it anyway). We ended up at No Man’s Land after that, which is just a spit of white sand with nothing much on it except some driftwood and laughter from another group nearby. The sun was starting to burn through the clouds by then; I still think about that light on the water sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nylon Pool and Buccoo Reef Tour

• Depart Buccoo Jetty
• Explore Buccoo Reef by boat
• Snorkel at Buccoo Reef
• Visit Nylon Pool
• Visit No Man's Land

Top questions

How long does the glass bottom boat tour last?

The tour includes three stops and typically lasts a few hours from departure at Buccoo Jetty until return.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Buccoo Reef tour?

An opportunity to snorkel is included; check with your guide for equipment availability.

Does the tour include alcoholic beverages?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are included during the tour.

Are infants allowed on this boat trip?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the journey.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Buccoo Jetty near Buccoo Bay in Tobago.

What are the main stops on this day trip?

The main stops are Buccoo Reef for snorkeling, Nylon Pool for swimming, and No Man’s Land beach.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided glass-bottom boat ride from Buccoo Bay with stops at Buccoo Reef for snorkeling, swimming time at Nylon Pool, a visit to No Man’s Land beach, plus alcoholic beverages along the way before heading back to shore together.