Cruise Ports in Bermuda

Bermuda is a group of 181 islands with pink sand beaches and clear, cerulean blue waters. Bermuda has numerous wrecks and coral reefs with virtually unlimited visibility, a favorite spot for snorkelers and scuba divers.

Bermuda: A Cruise Port Paradise

Bermuda, a jewel in the Atlantic, beckons cruise travelers with its pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. Far from the Caribbean, about 1,000 miles north, this British Overseas Territory offers a unique blend of colonial charm and natural beauty. 

The island’s vibrant culture blends British traditions with Caribbean flair. Its pastel-colored buildings and lush landscapes create a postcard-perfect setting. Whether you’re docking at the bustling Royal Naval Dockyard, the quaint St. George’s, or the vibrant Hamilton, Bermuda’s ports of call promise a memorable stop on your cruise itinerary. 

Each port offers distinct experiences, from historic forts to serene beaches. Bermuda’s compact size makes exploration easy, yet its diversity ensures every traveler finds something to love. Please note that any pricing in this article was at the time of writing and is subject to change.

Bermuda’s Cruise Ports

Royal Naval Dockyard (King’s Wharf & Heritage Wharf)

The Royal Naval Dockyard, often simply called King’s Wharf, is Bermuda’s primary cruise hub, located on the island’s western tip. King’s Warf is located at the Royal Navy Dockyards. 

Once a strategic British naval base, this sprawling complex now welcomes over 500,000 cruise passengers annually. The Dockyard continues to evolve, with recent upgrades to Heritage Wharf improving accessibility for larger ships. This area buzzes with activity. Explore the National Museum of Bermuda, housed in a 19th-century fortress, or dive into Dolphin Quest, where you can swim with dolphins in a private lagoon. 

The museum showcases artifacts from Bermuda’s maritime past, including shipwreck treasures and naval relics. Dolphin Quest offers educational sessions, teaching guests about marine conservation. The Clocktower Mall has expanded its boutique offerings, featuring local artisans alongside duty-free shops. 

Shoppers find handmade jewelry, vibrant paintings, and locally distilled rum. Dining options have grown too, with new waterfront eateries serving fresh spiny lobster and Bermuda fish chowder. 

The chowder, spiced with sherry pepper sauce, is a local delicacy. Ferries to Hamilton and St. George’s depart every 20 minutes, making it easy to explore beyond the port. The ferry ride offers stunning views of Bermuda’s coastline, dotted with colorful homes. Visitors can also rent scooters for a fun way to navigate the Dockyard’s cobblestone paths.

Hamilton

Hamilton, the capital city of Bermuda, sits along the central harbor, offering a lively urban contrast to the island’s quieter corners. Cruise ships dock along Front Street, steps from pastel-colored buildings and bustling shops. 

Hamilton’s waterfront has been enhanced with new public art installations, adding flair to evening strolls. Sculptures depict Bermuda’s marine life and cultural heritage, delighting passersby. The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute recently revamped its exhibits, showcasing interactive displays on the island’s shipwreck-laden waters.

Visitors can simulate diving into a virtual shipwreck or learn about Bermuda’s coral reefs. Golfers can tee off at the nearby Port Royal Golf Course, now offering electric cart rentals for easier navigation. 

The course, with its oceanfront holes, challenges players while offering breathtaking views. For beachgoers, Elbow Beach is a short bus ride away, its calm waters perfect for a quick dip. The beach’s soft sand and gentle waves attract swimmers and sunbathers. 

Dining here leans upscale. Try Port O’Call for international flavors with a Bermudian twist, where jackets may still be required for dinner. The restaurant’s grilled rockfish and mango salsa highlight local ingredients. 

Hamilton’s vibrant nightlife includes live music at harborside bars, where reggae and calypso beats create a festive mood.

St. George’s

The historic town of St. Georges, located on the Northeast side of the island. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers a step back in time on Bermuda’s eastern end. 

Ships dock at Penno’s Wharf or Ordnance Island, both within a short walk of cobblestone streets and colonial charm. The Bermuda National Trust Museum has added a virtual reality tour of the town’s 1612 founding, bringing its history to life. 

The tour immerses guests in the lives of early settlers, complete with virtual reenactments. Fort St. Catherine, overlooking the Atlantic, remains a must-see, with its cannons and panoramic views. The fort’s stone walls and underground tunnels fascinate history buffs. Tobacco Bay Beach, a local favorite, has new kayak rentals for exploring its reef-protected waters. Paddlers glide past colorful coral and tropical fish, guided by local experts. The dining scene is casual yet authentic. Sample Hoppin’ John, which are black-eyed peas and rice, at a local eatery. 

The dish, often paired with fried fish, reflects Bermuda’s soulful cuisine. St. George’s smaller size means fewer crowds, perfect for a relaxed port day. Visitors can wander King’s Square, where reenactors perform historic ceremonies, or browse small shops selling handmade pottery.

Getting Around Bermuda

Bermuda’s compact size, 21 square miles, makes it easy to explore, though rental cars are famously banned. Public transportation remains robust and  one-day passes cover unlimited bus and ferry rides across all zones. 

Ferries are the fastest way to hop between ports, with the orange route from Dockyard to St. George’s now running year-round due to demand. The scenic ride showcases Bermuda’s turquoise waters and rocky cliffs. 

Buses, marked by pink and blue poles, connect every major site, though rush hours (mornings and late afternoons) can get busy. Routes pass lush gardens and historic churches, offering glimpses of local life. Taxis are plentiful and metered.

Drivers often double as guides, sharing island trivia. For a greener option, two-seater electric vehicles from Rugged Rentals are now available island-wide, with charging stations conveniently placed. These vehicles zip through narrow roads, perfect for exploring hidden beaches. 

Pedal bikes from Oleander Cycles offer a slower, scenic way to navigate, especially around St. George’s flatter terrain. Cyclists enjoy coastal breezes and views of pastel cottages.

Top Things to Do in Bermuda

Beaches: Bermuda’s pink-sand shores are world-famous. Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton Parish dazzles with its crescent shape, though the hike back up the hill is easier with shuttle rides offered by locals. 

The beach’s rosy hue, caused by crushed coral, captivates photographers. Elbow Beach in Paget Parish offers calmer waters, ideal for families. Kids build sandcastles while parents relax under umbrellas. 

History & Culture: The Royal Naval Dockyard’s museum dives into Bermuda’s maritime past, while St. George’s colonial lanes, like Featherbed Lane, whisper tales of the New World’s second-oldest settlement. The museum displays ancient maps and ship models, bringing history to life. Hamilton’s Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, with its Gothic towers, is a quick cultural stop. Its stained-glass windows glow in the sunlight, inspiring awe. 

Outdoor Adventures: Snorkel Tobacco Bay’s shipwrecks or kayak Misty Fjords-style waters near the Dockyard. The Railway Trail, a hiking path with coastal views, has new signage, making it more accessible. Hikers pass wildflowers and ocean vistas, perfect for a leisurely stroll. 

Shopping: The Clocktower Mall in Dockyard blends local crafts with luxury goods, while Hamilton’s Front Street offers high-end boutiques and the quirky Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art gift shop. Shoppers find vibrant paintings and handwoven scarves, ideal for unique keepsakes.

Why Visit Bermuda?

Bermuda’s cruise season peaks from April to November, aligning with warm weather (75°-85°F) and vibrant events like the Bermuda Day Parade in May. The parade fills streets with colorful floats and Gombey dancers, showcasing Bermuda’s cultural heritage. 

The island has leaned into sustainability. Cruise lines like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean now offer eco-focused excursions, such as reef restoration dives. These dives teach guests about coral preservation while letting them contribute to conservation efforts. 

With over 350,000 annual cruise visitors, Bermuda balances tourism with preservation, evident in its pristine beaches and protected sites. The island’s crystal-clear waters host vibrant marine life, from parrotfish to sea turtles. 

Major cruise lines such as Celebrity, Disney, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and more, sail from the U.S. East Coast ports like New York, Boston, and Baltimore, offering 7 to 10 day itineraries. Smaller ships from Viking or Regent Seven Seas provide a boutique experience, often overnighting for deeper exploration. 

Overnight stays allow time for stargazing or visiting tucked-away beaches like Jobson’s Cove. Bermuda’s blend of accessibility and exclusivity makes it a standout destination.

Final Thoughts

Bermuda is a rare blend of sophistication and wild beauty, where pink sands meet British charm. Whether you’re sipping rum swizzles at a beach bar, exploring centuries-old forts, or diving into crystal-clear waters, this island delivers. 

The Royal Naval Dockyard’s lively energy, Hamilton’s urban buzz, and St. George’s historic charm create a perfect trifecta. Each port invites travelers to uncover Bermuda’s multifaceted allure. 

Pack light layers, a sweater for cooler days, sun protection, and a sense of wonder. Bermuda is ready to captivate!