Cruise Port: Bermuda, British Overseas Territory

Welcome to your guide to Bermuda, a jewel of the Atlantic and a must-see for any discerning cruise itinerary! 

As a travel itinerary planning business, I understand the importance of offering unique and unforgettable experiences. Bermuda, with its iconic pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rich blend of British charm and island culture, delivers just that. 

We were privileged to spend two full days discovering the hidden gems of Bermuda. This extended visit provided a genuine feel for the island, and we can confidently recommend it to travellers eager to explore the diverse beauty of this Atlantic paradise. I offer a curated 2-day itinerary, designed to maximise your experience of this incredible destination.
 

Pre-Arrival & Planning

• Currency & Costs
  • Bermuda uses the Bermudian dollar (BMD), pegged 1:1 with the US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted, but be aware that Bermuda is generally an expensive destination.
  • Advise clients to budget accordingly.
• Transportation Reservations
  • Especially during peak cruise season, pre-booking taxis or scooter rentals can save time and ensure availability.
  • Inform clients about the excellent public bus and ferry systems, which are cost-effective and scenic.
• Shore Excursion Booking: Popular excursions, like snorkelling at the reefs or tours of St. George's, can fill up quickly. Recommend booking in advance.
• Sun Protection: Bermuda's sun is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

During Your Visit

• Port Location Awareness
  • Understand the differences between Hamilton and King's Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard). Hamilton is the city centre, while King's Wharf is more tourist-focused.
  • Knowing which port your ship docks at will save time, and prevent confusion.
• Island Transportation
  • Embrace the local transportation. Buses offer scenic routes and are a great way to experience the island. Bermuda's bus system proved incredibly user-friendly. The island's simple single-lane road network made navigation straightforward, and most popular attractions are conveniently located near bus stops. Tip: For our extended stay, we purchased a 2-day bus pass from the Bermuda Tourist Centre in St. George's, allowing unlimited travel. (Information accurate as of November 2022).
  • Scooter rentals are popular, but remember to drive cautiously and wear helmets.
  • Bermuda offers boat transportation to various points around the island. During our Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) sailing, we took advantage of a complimentary ferry from King's Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard) to St. George's, located on the island's eastern end.
• Exploring Beyond the Ports
  • Don't just stay in the immediate port area. Explore the island's hidden coves, pink-sand beaches, and historic towns.
  • St. George's is a must see world heritage site.
• Local Cuisine
  • Try local specialities like fish chowder, rum swizzle, and fish sandwiches. We highly recommend a stop at The Swizzle Inn, the home of the Rum Swizzle, and it's perfectly located across from Crystal and Fantasy Caves. 
  • Dining out can be expensive, so consider casual eateries or picnic options.
• Respectful Attire
  • While Bermuda is a relaxed island, it maintains a degree of formality. Dress appropriately when visiting churches or upscale restaurants.
  • Bermuda shorts are considered formal wear in many instances.
• Time Management
  • Bermuda is relatively small, but it's easy to get caught up in the island's beauty. Plan your time wisely to see everything you want.
  • Keep in mind travel times between locations.
• Weather Awareness: Bermuda weather can shift rapidly. Pack for potential rain showers, even on sunny days.

Last Updated: 25 March '25