25 Best Things To Do In Bermuda On A Cruise – A Bermuda Cruise Guide
You are in luck if you are thinking about taking a cruise to Bermuda. Bermuda is an island that boasts a colourful past, warm and welcoming locals, and natural beaches with pink sand.
I’ve been to Bermuda on a number of cruises, so I thought it would be helpful to compile a list of the very best activities that can be enjoyed in Bermuda while on a cruise. These must-see attractions in Bermuda won’t let you down, whether you’re looking for things to do with your family, excursions to the beaches of Bermuda, or experiences that are a little bit off the beaten path.
I’ve included some helpful Bermuda tips and information that you need to know about this popular cruise destination in this guide, including how to get around on your own and explore the island.
Why Should I Go on a Cruise to Bermuda?
For a variety of different reasons, the island of Bermuda has emerged as a prominent destination for cruise ships. Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory that exercises its own self-government and boasts a pleasant subtropical climate. A common misunderstanding is that the Caribbean is where Bermuda can be found. On the other hand, Bermuda is located in the Atlantic ocean and is only about 700 miles away from North Carolina.
Easily Accessible Departures in the North-East
Cruises to Bermuda typically depart from ports in the Northeastern United States including New York, New Jersey, Boston, and Baltimore. Many people in the United States and Canada like to take a quick flight or drive to their port of departure, so this is a convenient option for them.
Overnights in Bermuda
A great number of cruises to Bermuda include overnight stays (two to three days in Bermuda total), which provides ample opportunity to visit the island’s famous pink sand beaches, championship golf courses, and Unesco World Heritage Site.
Alternatives in Terms of Cruise Lines and Cruise Ships
There are a great number of cruise ships that travel to Bermuda each year. Some of the larger ships dock in the Royal Naval Dockyard, while other, smaller ships may choose to dock in Hamilton or St. George.
There are regular cruises to Bermuda offered by Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival, among others. Luxury cruise lines such as Viking Cruises and Regent Seven Seas include Bermuda itineraries on several of their cruise itineraries.
Where Can Cruise Ships Make Their Dockings?
The majority of cruise ships make their stops at King’s Wharf or Heritage Wharf, which are both located within the Royal Naval Dockyard, usually referred to simply as Dockyard. This cruise port is in a fantastic location, with the National Museum of Bermuda, Snorkel Park Beach, and the Bermuda Craft Market all within easy walking distance from the port.
Getting Around in Bermuda
The closest public transportation stops are only a few minutes’ walk away from King’s Wharf. You can reach the stunning pink beaches that are located on the south shore of the island by using a shuttle or the local bus. Ferries are the most convenient means to go to Hamilton Parish and St. George, two areas that are home to an abundance of tourist spots and natural attractions.
The visitor’s centre in Dockyard, which is located just a few metres away from your cruise ship, sells passes good for one to three days on the bus and ferry.
Suggestions for Cruisers to Consider When Organizing Their Itinerary for Bermuda
It is important to keep in mind that, depending on the specifics of your route, your ship will spend at least one night moored in the cruise port. It is a smart move to schedule day 1 and day 2 shore excursions that take place at a greater distance from the cruise ship. Then, put aside the final day for things to do in the Royal Navy Dockyard that are located close to the ship.
Are United States Dollars Acceptable in Bermuda?
A helpful hint for cruises to Bermuda is to keep in mind that the US dollar is accepted everywhere and that the Bermudian dollar is equivalent to one US dollar.
Top Cruise Attractions in Bermuda and What to Do While You’re There
The following is a list of some of the most famous and must-see sites in Bermuda. Please adjust our Bermuda cruise guide to meet your needs and concentrate on the attractions that are most important to you. If you find that you really enjoy Bermuda, all you have to do is book another trip there!
1. The beach at Horseshoe Bay
The cruise port at Royal Naval Dockyard is approximately a 15-minute drive from Horseshoe Bay Beach, which is often considered to be the most well-known beach in all of Bermuda. Long expanses of blush pink sand and spectacular rock formations that jut out from the turquoise waters near to the shoreline are both things that you will witness here.
From the cruise port, you can take public transit or a shuttle to get there, or you can drive yourself there. The shuttle is a pretty easy way to get from the harbour all the way down to the beach, and it costs about seven dollars per passenger. Even though there are other beaches in the area, such as Warwick and Church Bay, that you might also be interested in checking out, you really have to go to Horseshoe Bay!
You should not be discouraged by the large number of people; instead, you should walk all the way past the masses to the left. After passing the first handful of rock formations, you will finally arrive in Heaven.
2. The Baby Beaches
Check out Baby Beach, which is located directly to the right of where you are if you have young children. The rock structures protect the cove region from the rougher seas that are seen at the main beach and offer fantastic opportunities to see a wide variety of fish and crabs.
3. Rum Bum Beach Bar and Beach House Restaurant
While you are visiting Horseshoe Bay Beach, you can have a bite to eat at the on-site take out restaurant and a really nice Rum Swizzle from the Beach Bar. Both of these establishments are located right on the beach. Although they are not cheap at roughly $10 for a drink, they are extremely delicious!
4. The beach at Tobacco Bay
Tobacco Bay Beach, which can be found in St. George’s parish, is regarded as having some of the best snorkelling conditions of any beach in Bermuda. The tale of how Tobacco Beach gained its name is an intriguing piece of Bermuda’s history. Tobacco Bay is famous for its beautiful waters and modest depths, which make it an ideal location for viewing marine life.
Castaways from a ship that had been destroyed by the reefs in the early 1600s were the first people known to explore the island of Bermuda and its breathtaking beaches. They discovered that wild tobacco was growing on this shore. As a result, the beach was given the moniker Tobacco Bay Beach.
Don’t bother seeking for cigarettes when you’re on your vacation to Bermuda. Even if none can be found hundreds of years later, the beach is still known by its old name, “Tobacco Bay Beach.”
5. The City of Hamilton
The city of Hamilton, which serves as the capital of Bermuda, may be reached by taking a ferry from Royal Navy Dockyard. Exploring this charming little city will definitely be a highlight of your trip. If you have an interest in the past, you should give some thought to spending the day in Hamilton to take in the historical sites.
When you first enter Hamilton, you’ll find yourself on Front Street, the city’s primary thoroughfare, which is lined with pastel-colored buildings that front the harbour. The city of Hamilton is a fantastic location to go shopping, particularly for rum, jewellery, apparel, and gifts manufactured by local artisans.
A helpful hint is that Marks and Spencers, a well-known department store, can be reached on foot from Hamilton Harbour. In the back, there is an area devoted to delectable foods that have been brought in from the United Kingdom. We get some jam biscuits, shortbread, and striped candies with a mint flavour that are called Humbugs. We take them with us as souvenirs to give to our loved ones back in our native country.
6. A stroll through the heart of Hamilton
Spend a few hours wandering around the city of Hamilton on a self-guided walking tour or join a tour with the local town crier. Both options are great ways to see the city. Beginning on Front Street, proceed to explore Queen Street, Cedar Avenue, and Church Street by going up and down each of these streets.
Government structures, such as the Cabinet Building, the Sessions House, and the Sessions House, as well as the spectacular City Hall, are some of the most noteworthy places to see. The fact that Bermuda’s parliament is the oldest in the British commonwealth is an intriguing tidbit to learn about the island’s long and illustrious past.
Make sure you make time to visit the Bermuda National Gallery if you take an interest in art or museums.
7. The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in St. Petersburg
A number of Bermuda’s oldest and most historically significant churches can be found in the parish of Hamilton. In particular, it is recommended that you pay a visit to the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. It is possible for visitors to climb the tower on weekdays, at which point they will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the city of Hamilton.
8. Hamilton Harbour Nights (in the evenings)
You should make plans to attend Hamilton’s Harbour Nights Festival if your cruise ship will be in Bermuda on a Wednesday and you will be there. The Hamilton Harbour Nights street fair is a festive nighttime event that features local vendors selling handmade goods and delectable street food.
There will also be a procession and performers. You will also have the opportunity to witness a procession of local Gombey Dancers dressed in traditional garb. This is without a doubt one of my top picks among all of Bermuda’s attractions. This is something that you won’t find in any other place!
Directions from the cruise port to the city of Hamilton (Dockyard)
From the ship dock, you simply board the ferry to Hamilton, which will take around 25 minutes. I would recommend leaving a bit earlier than usual because the queue for the ferry does become lengthy and it will be busy. The cost of the ferry is five dollars per person for each direction; however, depending on what you have planned during your time in Bermuda, it may be more cost effective to purchase a multi-day pass that includes both the ferry and the bus.
Bermuda Cruise Tip
If you head into town a couple of hours early, you will have time to explore some of the town’s beautiful churches and government buildings, as well as do some shopping if you so choose. You might also go to some of the more well-known eateries in the area and monitor the patrons there.
9. Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo (BAMZ)
This Aquarium, Zoo, and Museum is a favourite among Bermuda’s families, and it is a great place to visit with children if you are seeking for activities to do in Bermuda with them. The major feature is the extremely huge aquarium, which is a living duplicate of Bermuda’s coral reef. As a result, you’ll be able to observe a broad diversity of marine life that is native to Bermuda. You’ll come across outdoor pools that are also home to turtles and seals.
After you’ve finished at the aquarium, head over to the charming zoo and educational museum. Please ensure that you visit their website in order to determine the timings of their tours.
10. The Crystal Caves as well as the Fantasy Caves
The Crystal Caves are an area of outstanding natural beauty that may be found in the parish of Hamilton. This one-of-a-kind cavern, which is home to underground dazzling stalactites set over a pristine ocean-fed lake, is a sight that you won’t be able to forget anytime soon!
It’s sure to pique your interest to learn that Mark Twain was the very first tourist to come to the area!
11. The Swizzle Inn (Swizzle Inn)
This well-known tavern and restaurant is the birthplace of the well-known cocktail known as the Rum Swizzle. If you are making plans for the day, you might want to think about coming here for a relaxed lunch or dinner after touring the Crystal Caves or some other attraction. You might want to purchase a pitcher or some original rum swizzles and share them with your friends.
The Swizzle Inn can be found just opposite of Crystal Caves, on the opposite side of the street.
12. The Rum Swizzle is the official national drink of Bermuda.
Two cocktails called the Rum Swizzle and the Dark and Stormy, both of which are created using Gosling’s Rum, have made Bermuda famous. Both of them are delicious, but the Rum Swizzle is one of my all-time favourites among cocktails. I’ve gotten to the point where I can even prepare a homemade version of this beverage!
Rum Swizzles can be found at a number of different taverns and restaurants in Bermuda; however, the Swizzle Inn is where the drink was first created.
13. The Lighthouse of Gibbs
Gibb’s Lighthouse, which can be reached by bus or taxi and is situated approximately thirty minutes away from the cruise ship port, is an excellent location to visit in order to get a breathtaking aerial perspective of western Bermuda and the port.
There is even a restaurant on the premises where you can have afternoon tea. Be sure to put this on your list of things to do while you are in Bermuda if you are a history buff with a particular interest in British and maritime history.
14th Annual Historical Reenactment of the Parish of St. George
By ferry, the trip to St. George takes approximately forty-five minutes. It is a trip that is well worth taking because the ride is so breathtakingly beautiful.
The city of St. George is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, making it an ideal location for a strolling excursion. The Tucker House Museum, Fort-St. Catherine, and The Unfinished Church are just a few of the historical landmarks and museums that can be found here.
What are the Obligatory Steps?
This town is charming and unhurried, and in addition to some interesting places to visit, it is home to one of the most peculiar sights you are likely to encounter anywhere. The Ducking Stool can be found in the middle of the town, in King’s Square.
Reenactments of historical events from the 18th century are staged in King’s Square in St. George. These events include “The Dunking of the Nagging Wench” and a Town Crier.
Now, whenever I travel, I always remember to bring a sense of humour with me, and we just thought this was completely unique.
Royal Naval Dockyard and King’s Wharf are both great options for things to do in the vicinity of the cruise ship in Bermuda.
14.Bermuda Cruise Tip
Even though there is a lot to do and see in the Dockyard area close to the cruise ship, make sure to carefully plan out the rest of your Bermuda itinerary.
Even though they have two or three days to spend in port, there are still cruise passengers who miss their ship every year because they do not return to the ship on time. This information may come as a surprise to you.
It is recommended that you spend the first day or two of your trip travelling to locations that are further out from the harbour and participating in independent excursions. The last day and evening of your trip could be spent in the dockyard area, which is closer to the ship.
Take into consideration the fact that the cruise port and Dockyard areas are always more crowded on visitors’ final day in Bermuda.
15. Royal Naval Dockyard
Your cruise ship is only a short distance away from the Royal Naval Dockyard, where you may enjoy a wide variety of attractions and activities during your stop. It is highly recommended that you go on an adventure and spend some time discovering this region of Bermuda.
If you find that walking around Bermuda’s beaches and other attractions has left your feet feeling a little sore, you can take advantage of the complimentary trolley service. In addition to some great, laid-back restaurants and pubs, you’ll discover some extremely pretty shops filled with crafts and souvenirs made in Bermuda. There are also beaches and a number of different types of activities to choose from!
16. Snorkel Park Beach
The cruise ship pier is simply a five-minute walk away from this beach that was created intentionally. If you are searching for a day at the beach on the final day of your trip, as well as if you have young children, this is a very quiet and little beach that you should consider visiting. The entry fee of five dollars is a steal for a day spent having fun at the beach.
You have the option of renting snorkelling equipment from them, or you can bring your own. Renting options are available for canoes, paddleboards, and other water sports gear.
17. Dolphin Quest
Dolphin Quest may be found in the immediate vicinity of Snorkel Park. It is possible to swim with dolphins and learn about them within walking distance of the ship, which is perfect if you or your children have always wanted to fulfil a childhood fantasy. Making reservations in advance is recommended.
18. Bermuda’s National Museum and Art Gallery
This is an excellent way to pass a few hours, particularly if you or your children take pleasure in learning about the history of Bermuda and observing relics recovered from sunken treasures. In addition, there is a play area for infants and toddlers. Children under the age of 16 are not need to pay to enter the museum that is housed in the Keep of the Royal Naval Dockyard; however, there is a fee for adults. Check out their website to learn more about their pricing and opening hours.
19. Local Shops at the Clocktower Mall in Dockyard
The Clocktower Mall, which is featured in many of the photographs that you can find depicting the Bermuda Cruise Port, is home to a variety of locally owned and operated stores. This is the best spot to go shopping if you are looking for handcrafted items, such as handmade jewellery, paintings or prints by local artists, or other types of Bermuda-inspired artwork.
Other shops in Dockyard include one that sells rum cakes and another that specialises in glass blowing and hosts demonstrations of the process. Some of the best apparel boutiques in Bermuda contain items with a nautical motif, as well as jewellery, candles, and other collectibles that are manufactured in Bermuda.
20. Bermuda Delights to Snack On or Take With You
One of my favourite things to get from a new place is some of the regional delicacies to take home. Right on the dockyard, in close proximity to your cruise ship, you may discover a few nice dining and shopping options.
You may bring back some locally made fudge from the Bermuda Fudge Company or some rum cakes from the Bermuda Rum Cake Company. These are just a couple examples of some ideas.
21. The Moongate in Dockyard on the Island of Bermuda
Moongates can be found all throughout the island of Bermuda in various spots. We are really fortunate in that there is one located right in Dockyard, not too far away from the cruise ships.
There is an urban legend that states that in order for a couple to be blessed with a long and happy life together, they must go through the Moongate together.
The year 2008 marked the first time that my husband and I cruised to Bermuda, and it was also the first time that we stepped through this Moongate. Since that time, we have been had to go through it on each and every one of our subsequent visits.
It has recently occurred to me that this Moongate is an important part of the Bermuda narratives of many individuals, whether they are celebrating an anniversary, an engagement, or simply being together and pausing for a moment to build a vacation memory. Excursions from the Shore in Bermuda
It has been claimed that the greatest way to experience Bermuda is from the water. There are a variety of exciting adventures available, such as wave runners, glass bottom boats, snorkelling from a catamaran, and more.
There is no requirement that you arrange an excursion because there is plenty to do and see on your own, but it is beneficial to participate in a local trip if you are in the area. You are able to make reservations for these excursions either through your cruise ship or directly with a local tour operator.
Because excursions are so popular, it is an excellent idea to make reservations online before you travel to avoid disappointment.
22. Boat Trips with Snorkeling and Other Attractions
The combination of “organisation,” in the form of local knowledge imparted by the tour operator or guide, and action, as is the case with catamaran and boat excursions, makes for a fun component of our trip. I very much appreciate these kinds of outings.
Rising Son Tours has provided us with some truly memorable experiences over the past few years. The beautiful catamarans, the helpful and knowledgeable crew, and the rum swizzles, of course, were all highlights for us.
We had a wonderful time floating in the gin-clear waters, thanks in large part to the fact that we were given paddle boards and noodles to use.
If you are not a fan of getting into the water, you might want to think about going on a Champagne catamaran cruise at sunset or taking a boat tour of some of the most stunning and well-known properties in Bermuda.
23. The Golf Course in Port Royal
If you are a golfer, Bermuda should go at the top of your bucket list because the island is home to some of the most stunning and well regarded golf courses in the world. The Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton is the course that is located closest to the ship, and it is quite easy to get to by public transportation or taxi. Renting options include not only golf clubs and shoes but even golf carts. However, if you are going to Bermuda on a cruise, bringing your own golf clubs with you is not a difficult task at all.
24.Tom Moore’s Jungle and Blue Hole Park comes
Tom Moore’s Jungle is located in the parish of Hamilton and is worth visiting if you are interested in experiencing something unique that does not appear very frequently on the cruiser’s radar. The Blue Grotto is one of the caverns and grottos that can be found within this nature reserve. Other features include mangroves, caves, and grottos. There will be a wide variety of fish and birds for you to observe.
There is always an interesting story to be told in Bermuda: this nature reserve is named after Irish poet Tom Moore, who wrote poems in this reserve in 1844 while sitting under a calabash tree. In spite of the fact that the well-known tree was decimated by a hurricane a number of years ago, new growth has started to appear on its limbs.
25. Eating Out in Bermuda and Bermuda Dishes
Since so much is brought over from the United States and Britain, the cost of living in Bermuda can be considered to be on the higher end. Since you will be sailing, you should aim to organise your day in such a way that you may take advantage of eating some of your meals on the ship and some of your meals while you are in Bermuda.
The Hog Penny Pub and Flanagan’s Irish Pub in Hamilton are two of the city’s watering holes that are highly recommended by both residents and visitors alike. The Frog and Onion Pub is an excellent choice if you are looking for a place to eat that is somewhat close to the ship.
Woody’s is an unmistakably neighbourhood hangout that is located in close proximity to the port for cruise ships. It shouldn’t take more than approximately 5 minutes in a cab to get there. Unfortunately, I have not yet had the opportunity to eat there; but, I have it on good authority from the locals that they make a fantastic fish sandwich!
If you’ve been to Bermuda and know of any additional amazing places that should be on my list, please share your recommendations in the comments section below.
Conclusions and Recommendations Regarding the Top Cruiser Attractions in Bermuda
I have compiled this list of the top things to do in Bermuda while on a cruise in the hopes that it will help you have as much fun in Bermuda as I have had there.
Even though Bermuda is a relatively small island, it is still a good idea to create a schedule so that you can plan activities that are in the same general region. To make the most of your time in Bermuda, prioritise the sites you want to visit. Whatever is left just means that you will have to book another voyage with us!
