Bermuda Cruise Vacation: A Friendly Guide To The Perfect Getaway

by | Nov 30, 2023 | Destination Guides & Ports

Bermuda is a stunning island oasis located in the Atlantic Ocean, known for its pink sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and British colonial landmarks. A Bermuda cruise vacation is a perfect way to explore this paradise and experience its unique culture, history, and natural beauty.

houses near sea during daytime

Many cruise lines offer Bermuda itineraries departing from ports on the East Coast of the United States, such as Boston and New York. Norwegian Cruise Line has been recognized for having the "Best Bermuda Itineraries" for ten years in a row, while Royal Caribbean Cruises also offers a variety of Bermuda cruise options. With so many choices available, travelers can find a Bermuda cruise that fits their budget, schedule, and interests.

During a Bermuda cruise vacation, travelers can enjoy a range of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving in the coral reefs to visiting historic landmarks like the Royal Navy Dockyard and St. George's Town. Bermuda is also known for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, rum-based cocktails, and traditional English fare. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, a Bermuda cruise vacation is sure to be a memorable experience for any traveler.

Exploring Bermuda

Bermuda is a beautiful island paradise located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular cruise destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. From exploring historic forts and museums to lounging on pink sand beaches, there is something for everyone in Bermuda.

One of the most popular destinations in Bermuda is St. George, a charming town that is steeped in history. Visitors can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. George's, which is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the St. Peter's Church and the Tucker House Museum. Another must-visit attraction in St. George is the Bermuda National Trust Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the island's history and culture.

Hamilton is another popular destination in Bermuda. This vibrant city is home to many shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Visitors can take a stroll along Front Street, which is lined with colorful buildings and offers stunning views of the harbor. They can also visit the Bermuda National Gallery, which showcases the works of local artists.

For those interested in maritime history, the Royal Naval Dockyard is a must-visit destination. This historic site was once a key military base for the British Navy and now houses many museums and galleries. Visitors can explore the Bermuda Maritime Museum, which tells the story of the island's seafaring history, or take a tour of the historic forts that once guarded the harbor.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Bermuda is the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse offers stunning views of the island and is a popular spot for visitors to take photos. Another must-visit attraction in Bermuda is the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, which is home to a wide range of marine life and animals.

Visitors to Bermuda can also enjoy shopping at the Clocktower Mall, which offers a wide range of shops and restaurants. And for those interested in the mysterious Bermuda Triangle, there are many tours and excursions available that explore this intriguing phenomenon.

Overall, Bermuda is a friendly and welcoming destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just relaxing on the beach, there is something for everyone in Bermuda.

Bermuda Cruise Basics

Bermuda is a beautiful island in the North Atlantic Ocean, and it is a popular destination for cruise vacations. Many cruise lines offer sailings to Bermuda, and there are plenty of itineraries to choose from. Bermuda cruises typically depart from East Coast ports, such as New York City, Cape Liberty in New Jersey, Charleston in South Carolina, and Newport in Rhode Island.

When booking a Bermuda cruise, travelers should consider the departure port, itinerary, and cruise line. Some cruise lines offer more affordable Bermuda cruise deals than others, so it is important to do some research and compare prices. It is also important to book early to secure the best staterooms and prices.

Bermuda is a seasonal cruise port, with most sailings taking place between April and October. The weather is generally warm and sunny during this time, making it the perfect time to explore the island's pink sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

Onboard the ship, travelers can enjoy a variety of amenities, including restaurants, bars, pools, and entertainment. Many cruise lines also offer shore excursions, which allow travelers to explore Bermuda's top attractions, such as the Royal Naval Dockyard, Horseshoe Bay Beach, and the historic town of St. George's.

Overall, a Bermuda cruise vacation is a great way to experience the beauty and culture of this stunning island. With so many sailings, itineraries, and cruise lines to choose from, there is a Bermuda cruise for every traveler and budget.

Onboard Experience

A Bermuda cruise vacation is not just about the destinations, but also the onboard experience. Norwegian Cruise Line offers two ships, Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Joy, that sail to Bermuda from New York and Boston. Carnival also offers cruises to Bermuda from various ports. Luxury cruises are also available for those who want to indulge in a more lavish experience.

Norwegian Cruise Line provides a wide range of amenities to make the onboard experience more comfortable and enjoyable. The ships offer various dining options, including specialty restaurants that serve local cuisine. The bars on board serve a variety of drinks, including cocktails and wines.

The meals served on board are of high quality and provide a variety of options to cater to different dietary requirements. The menus are designed by expert chefs to ensure that guests have a memorable dining experience.

In addition to dining, Norwegian Cruise Line offers various entertainment options on board. Guests can enjoy live music performances, Broadway-style shows, and comedy acts. The ships also have a casino for those who want to try their luck.

The cabins on board are spacious and comfortable, with various options to choose from. The cabins offer amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and private balconies.

Overall, a Bermuda cruise vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line or Carnival provides a friendly and comfortable onboard experience with a variety of amenities and entertainment options.

Outdoor Activities

Bermuda is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun on a beautiful beach, explore the island's underwater world, or tee off on a world-class golf course, there's something for everyone.

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Bermuda is snorkeling. With crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater world. Tobacco Bay Beach, located in St. George's parish, is considered to be one of the best Bermuda beaches for snorkeling. Visitors can also explore shipwrecks and coral reefs on a diving excursion.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Bermuda has plenty of options. Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the island boasts some of the world's best golf courses. The Port Royal Golf Course, for example, has hosted the PGA Grand Slam of Golf and is considered one of the top public courses in the world.

Of course, no trip to Bermuda would be complete without a visit to one of the island's famous pink sand beaches. Horseshoe Bay Beach is one of the most popular, with its picturesque coves and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also explore other pink sand beaches, such as Warwick Long Bay and Elbow Beach.

In addition to these activities, visitors can also go birdwatching at Spittal Pond, Bermuda's largest nature reserve. And for those who are feeling adventurous, a visit to the Crystal Caves is a must. Located 120 feet underground, the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites will leave visitors in awe.

Overall, Bermuda offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax on a beautiful beach or explore the island's underwater world, there's something for everyone.

Underground Exploration

Bermuda has a lot to offer, and one of the most unique experiences is exploring the underground caves. The Crystal and Fantasy Caves are two of the most popular attractions for those looking to venture beneath the surface.

The Crystal Caves are located in Hamilton Parish and were discovered in 1907 by two boys who were playing cricket. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and see the crystal-clear underground lake, stalactites, and stalagmites. The caves are also well-lit, making it easy to see all the natural formations.

The Fantasy Caves, located in the same parish, were discovered in 1905 by the same boys who found the Crystal Caves. The Fantasy Caves are known for their stunning underground lake, crystal-clear waters, and unique formations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about their history and geology.

Both caves are open to the public, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance. It is important to note that the caves are not wheelchair accessible, and visitors should wear comfortable shoes.

For those interested in underground exploration beyond the caves, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute in Hamilton offers a unique look at the island's underwater world. The institute features interactive exhibits on marine life and ecosystems, as well as artifacts from shipwrecks. Visitors can also take a virtual dive in a submarine simulator.

Overall, Bermuda's underground exploration options offer a unique and fascinating experience for visitors looking to see the island from a different perspective.

Bermuda's Culinary Scene

Bermuda's culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, influenced by a variety of cultures including Caribbean, African, British, Native American, and Portuguese. Visitors to Bermuda can expect to find a range of delicious cuisines, from fresh seafood to hearty stews and spicy curries.

One of the must-try dishes in Bermuda is fish chowder, a rich and flavorful soup made with fish, vegetables, and spices. Another popular dish is the fish sandwich, which is typically made with fried fish and served on a soft bun with tartar sauce and coleslaw.

For those looking for a fine dining experience, Bermuda has a number of excellent restaurants to choose from. One such restaurant is Marcus', which is owned by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson and serves a fusion of Bermudian and international cuisine. Another popular restaurant is The Loren at Pink Beach, which offers stunning ocean views and a menu of contemporary dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Visitors to Bermuda should also be sure to try the island's signature cocktail, the Dark 'n' Stormy. Made with dark rum and ginger beer, this refreshing drink is the perfect accompaniment to a sunny day on the beach.

Overall, Bermuda's culinary scene is a delightful mix of flavors and influences, sure to please any palate.

Travel Seasons

Bermuda's cruise season runs from April to early November, with the high season being from June through August. During the summer months, the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 85°F (29°C). The shoulder season, which includes April, May, September, and October, is a great time to visit Bermuda as the crowds are smaller, and prices are generally lower.

Spring is a lovely time to visit Bermuda. The weather is mild, and the island is covered in blooming flowers. April is the first of the warm months in Bermuda, and temperatures typically stay in the 60s with highs around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. May is slightly warmer, with an average temperature of 76°F and the lowest rainfall of the year. It is a perfect time to try out Bermuda's world-famous golf courses.

Summer is the busiest time in Bermuda, with many tourists flocking to the island to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful beaches. The average temperature in July and August is around 85°F (29°C), and the water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.

Fall is a great time to visit Bermuda, as the weather is still warm, but the crowds have thinned out. September is a particularly good month to visit, with temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C). October is the rainiest month in Bermuda, but it is still a good time to visit if you don't mind a few showers.

Overall, the best time to visit Bermuda depends on what you're looking for. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, the shoulder season is a great option. If you're looking for warm weather and lots of activities, summer is the best time to visit. And if you're a fan of blooming flowers and mild temperatures, spring is the perfect time to visit Bermuda.

Cost Considerations

When planning a Bermuda cruise vacation, cost is an important factor to consider. The cost of a Bermuda cruise can vary depending on several factors such as the cruise line, the length of the cruise, the type of cabin, and the time of year. Here are some cost considerations to keep in mind:

Prices

The cost of a Bermuda cruise can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per person. The price typically includes accommodations, meals, and some onboard activities. It's important to research and compare prices from different cruise lines to find the best deal.

Fuel Supplement and Taxes

Some cruise lines may charge a fuel supplement fee to cover the cost of rising fuel prices. Additionally, taxes may be added to the cost of the cruise. It's important to check if these fees are included in the advertised price or if they will be added later.

Port Expenses

Port expenses are fees charged by the port for using their facilities. These fees are typically included in the cost of the cruise but it's important to double-check.

Cheap Cruises

If cost is a major consideration, there are ways to find a cheap Bermuda cruise. Booking early or late can often result in lower prices. Additionally, some cruise lines offer discounts for Canadian residents.

Overall, when planning a Bermuda cruise vacation, it's important to consider all costs associated with the cruise. Doing research and comparing prices can help ensure that you find a cruise that fits your budget.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a unique and friendly vacation destination, Bermuda is an excellent choice. With its pink sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and rich history, there is no shortage of things to see and do on a Bermuda vacation.

Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore historic sites, or indulge in delicious cuisine, Bermuda has something for everyone. The island's friendly locals are always happy to offer recommendations and assistance, making it easy to feel at home during your stay.

For those considering a Bermuda cruise vacation, there are plenty of options available. From luxury liners to budget-friendly options, there is a cruise to suit every traveler's needs. With so much to see and do on the island, a cruise is an excellent way to experience all that Bermuda has to offer.

Overall, a Bermuda vacation is a great choice for those seeking a friendly and unique travel experience. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Bermuda is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.