By: Chantal McPhee
Bermuda, famous for its pink beaches and stunning landscapes, is a great cruise destination. Even better, most cruise itineraries include two or three days in Bermuda, which gives you lots of time to explore the island.
Whether you want to hang out at the beach, go for a sail, snorkel, shop, or try some local food, there’s tons to do on this island. Bermudians are some of the friendliest people you will meet, and they love to share their culture and traditions, which is part of what makes the island so special.
Once docked, it’s easy to get around Bermuda thanks to an efficient transportation system that includes pastel pink buses and ferries that connect the whole island.
Here are some of the best things to do in Bermuda when visiting on a cruise.
The port area offers a surprising number of things to do
Some ports can be industrial or boring, but not Bermuda. Most ships dock at the Royal Naval Dockyard, simply called the Dockyard by locals. The area is full of sandy-covered military buildings that are over 200 years old.
These historic ruins now house a variety of shops, restaurants, a museum, dolphin activities, a beach club, a water park, and much more. Kids and families can enjoy the free playground, mini-golf, and all kinds of other activities.
The National Museum is fantastic, with its expansive grounds, interesting exhibits, and some of the best views in Bermuda. It’s the perfect spot to get some pictures.
The dock area also serves as a hub for many tour operators. Diving and snorkeling are among the top activities in Bermuda. The island’s natural reef system has doomed many ships over the centuries, creating a diver’s paradise, with over 300 known shipwrecks. This is in addition to the spectacular marine life that inhabits the local waters.
Bermuda has some of the best beaches in the world
Bermuda is known for its beaches, but Horseshoe Bay is among its most famous – a definite must-see. There are numerous shuttle buses that run from the port to the beach, which is about a 25-minute drive. Although there are numerous beaches throughout the island, Horseshoe Bay is the closest to the port and has great amenities, which makes for an easy day at the beach.
Cruisers can rent chairs and access food, drinks, and bathrooms. There is even a calm side surrounded by rocks, which is ideal for families with children. At low tide, you can walk along the volcanic rocks to secluded locations.
For the more adventurous, Church Bay is a favorite for snorkelers, which is even closer to the port but has limited amenities. Church Bay is an off-the-beaten-path gem. The beach is small but has hardly any crowds. You can get there by bus, and it runs directly from the port area. It’s about a 20-minute drive.
Head to the capital, Hamilton
Hamilton is the capital of Bermuda and is full of pastel-colored buildings with plenty of historic charm. It’s about a 40-minute drive, but I highly suggest the ferry that leaves directly from the port. The views are spectacular and it is much nicer than a bus.
Front Street is the heart of the city and is dotted with colorful shops with traditional Bermudian architecture. You can watch ships sail by and visit local restaurants, parks, and museums. You can shop for locally made soaps and perfumes or try on a pair of classic Bermuda shorts. This is a great opportunity to try some local cuisine, including fish chowder and a Dark and Stormy (rum cocktail), some of the most popular items on the island.
Ocean lovers will enjoy the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, which is a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours. Learn about the ocean, hurricanes, and the truth behind the myth of the Bermuda Triangle. They also have an incredible shell collection and a number of artifacts from shipwrecks along Bermuda’s coast.
With overnight stays in Bermuda, you can enjoy dinner or fun festivals like Harbour Nights along the waterfront, with food vendors, family activities, shopping, and Goombay dancers, a Bermudian tradition with lively music, colorful costumes, and dancing. The event runs every Wednesday night from May to August.
Visit the town of St. George, where it all started
St. George is where Bermuda began in 1612, and is a step back in time with quaint streets and historic sites. A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a delightful place to visit and check out the eastern side of the island. The “Unfinished Church” is a must-see, and its Gothic frame makes it a fantastic place to get pictures.
Another attraction in the area is the sparkling Crystal Caves. This is a truly unique experience, as you get to explore the ancient cave, with rock formations dripping from the ceiling and rising from the floor. Tour guides bring the natural wonder to life and lead you across a crystal-clear lake that looks like something out of a movie set.
Another nearby site is Bermuda’s Blue Hole Park. A quick walk through the forest reveals a stunning blue hole with fish and other local wildlife. Families may enjoy the local aquarium, which is set in the picturesque Flatts area. It’s a great place to explore and learn about the marine life of Bermuda, with touch tanks, fun activities, and a small playground.
Important things to know when cruising to Bermuda
Bermuda is 650 miles east of North Carolina and has a humid subtropical climate. Spring and fall can be among the best times to visit, as summer can get quite hot. It’s always a good idea to bring a small umbrella for quick tropical showers that seem to pop out of nowhere.
Bermuda is known as one of the most expensive places in the world, so keep this in mind when planning activities. Eating out can be pricey, so lunch may be a better option. There are plenty of local takeout places that offer great value, and the island accepts U.S. dollars at par.
Tourists cannot rent regular cars on the island, but they can rent small electric vehicles or scooters. A word of caution: Bermudians drive on the left, and there are several roundabouts that can be confusing, especially if you are used to driving on the right. The roads are also quite windy. If you plan to take public transportation, download the Shorelink App for a convenient way to purchase tickets.
