Cruising to Bermuda

From the northeast, this is one of the easiest cruises possible.
Drive to the port - no airfare - and jump on board.
This page is meant to help you make the most of this cruise.

Bermuda offers cruise passengers a charming mix of history, culture, and stunning beaches. Most modern ships dock at the historic Royal Naval Dockyard on the western tip, where visitors enjoy shops, museums, and easy access to attractions. The island’s capital, Hamilton, is a lively city with colorful streets, dining, and local markets, perfect for a quick city stroll. For those interested in history and quaint charm, St. George’s on the eastern end is a must-see. Its old cruise port is too shallow for today’s large ships, but it is home to the famous Unfinished Church and colonial-era streets. Beach lovers will find paradise at Horseshoe Bay on the south coast, known for its pink sand and scenic cliffs, while Elbow Beach on the island’s central south shore offers calm waters and a relaxed vibe, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Ferries and taxis and buses are easily arranged to get to all the hot spots.

When your cruise ship docks at the Royal Naval Dockyard, you'll be on the west end of Bermuda, right where the largest ships can pull in. There is space for only two ships at a time. This area is a former naval base turned into a major visitor center. You'll find a mix of historical buildings, shops, places to eat, and different activities all within walking distance of your ship.

• National Museum of Bermuda: Head to the northeastern end to explore Bermuda's history, including exhibits in the Commissioner's House and The Keep regarding maritime stories and shipwrecks.

Clocktower Shopping Mall: This is a central spot for shopping. You can find it near the cruise ship terminals. It's a great place for souvenirs and local goods.
• Bermuda Craft Market at Victualling Yard: Located northeast of the Clocktower Mall, this market offers unique Bermudian crafts.

• Dockyard Glassworks & Bermuda Rum Cake Company: Find these near the Victualling Yard for an opportunity to see glass blown and taste local rum cakes.

• Dolphin Quest: This attraction is close to the National Museum of Bermuda, offering interactive experiences with dolphins.

• Snorkel Park Beach: On the far northeastern side of the Dockyard, this beach is a convenient spot for swimming, sun, and snorkeling. Fun Golf is also nearby.

• Dining: You'll find various places to eat throughout the Dockyard, from casual cafes to restaurants, many located around the Clocktower Parade and Victualling Yard.

• Transportation Options:

• Dockyard Ferry: Located near the center of the Dockyard, ferries can take you to Hamilton and St. George’s. Scroll down for the section below

• Taxi Stands: You’ll see taxi stands at the cruise ship terminal and near the Clocktower Parade, making it easy to catch a ride to other parts of the island.

• Moped & Scooter Rentals: (Not recommended - Bermudians drive on the "wrong side" of the road and accident rates are very high for tourists) For those who want to explore on their own, rental shops are available on Camber Road and near Victualling Yard.

• Segway Tours (seasonal): These start near The Camber and offer a guided tour around the Dockyard.

ST. GEORGE'S

St. George’s is a charming, historic town located on St. George’s Island in Bermuda. It holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited English settlement in the New World, established way back in 1612. This makes it a real treasure trove for history lovers and anyone who enjoys wandering through picturesque streets filled with stories.

The town is best known for its well-preserved 17th-century colonial architecture, including narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Key highlights include impressive forts like Fort St. Catherine, which offers interesting tunnels and exhibits about Bermuda’s military past. Other historic sites in town include St. Peter’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in the Americas, and landmarks such as King’s Square and the Old State House.

While St. George’s was once the main cruise port for Bermuda, it no longer serves that purpose due to its small size and shallow waters, which can’t accommodate the larger modern cruise ships. That means visitors arriving by cruise now dock elsewhere but often take trips to explore this peaceful, walkable town known for its relaxed and “old world” atmosphere.

For beach lovers, nearby spots like Tobacco Bay and Achilles Bay are fantastic for snorkeling and soaking up the sun amidst rocky formations and clear waters. St. George’s also offers a taste of local culture with traditional events like the Peppercorn Ceremony and a friendly town crier sharing news in the streets.

Dining options in the town center provide a laid-back waterfront experience, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and Bermuda specialties in a welcoming, historic setting.

In all, St. George’s is a perfect day trip for cruise passengers who appreciate history, culture, and charming seaside vibes—the kind of place where you can slow down and really soak in Bermuda’s unique heritage.

While in St. Georges, be sure to visit the Unfinished Church - it is worth the walk. For more information visit https://www.thebermudian.com/history/history-history/4-historical-facts-about-the-unfinished-church/

The Capital City of Hamilton

Hamilton is the vibrant capital city of Bermuda and the island’s main commercial and cultural hub. Unlike the historic and quaint feel of St. George’s, Hamilton offers a lively urban experience with a mix of shops, restaurants, galleries, and waterfront charm. It’s the heart of modern Bermudian life and a great spot for visitors who enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring local culture.

City Overview:

Hamilton sits on a harbour lined with colorful boats, a bustling marina, and scenic views. Its compact size makes it very walkable, so visitors can easily explore on foot, browsing boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops.

Shopping:

The city is known for excellent shopping options—from high-end jewelry stores and designer boutiques to charming local shops selling Bermudian crafts, such as handmade linens, pink sand souvenirs, and traditional straw hats. Front Street is the main shopping thoroughfare, lively with street performers and café patios.

Dining & Nightlife:

Hamilton offers a diverse range of dining, from casual snack spots to elegant waterfront restaurants. Fresh seafood is a highlight here, including Bermuda’s famous spiny lobster (seasonal), along with international cuisine options. After dinner, the city has a friendly nightlife scene, including bars, live music venues, and lounges, all perfect for a relaxed evening.

Culture & Attractions:

Art galleries and museums: The Bermuda National Gallery offers a collection of local and international artwork. There are also smaller galleries showcasing local artists.

Performing arts: Hamilton Theatre and other venues host concerts, plays, and cultural events throughout the year.

Water activities: The harbour is a hub for sailing, boat tours, and fishing excursions. You can often spot luxury yachts and sailing boats dotting the water.

Bermuda's Famous Beaches

Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay Beach in Bermuda is a stunning crescent-shaped beach known for its unique pink sand, turquoise waters, and natural limestone cliffs. It offers a perfect mix of beauty and family-friendly adventure, with calm waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring nearby reefs. Visitors can enjoy amenities like restaurants, beach bars, equipment rentals, lifeguards in summer, and easy access to nearby attractions. Its combination of scenic views, convenience, and activities makes it one of Bermuda’s must-visit beaches year-round.

Elbow Beach
Elbow Beach is a beautiful and popular sandy beach located on Bermuda’s South Shore, known for its soft pink sand and clear, calm turquoise waters. It’s a favorite spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, offering a peaceful and scenic setting with well-maintained amenities including beachside dining, restrooms, and equipment rentals. The beach is ideal for families and visitors seeking a relaxing day by the sea, with nearby resorts adding to the convenience and luxury of the experience. Elbow Beach combines natural beauty and comfort, making it a top choice for visitors exploring Bermuda’s beaches.

Tobacco Bay
Tobacco Bay is located near St. George’s on the island’s northeastern shore and is famous for its calm, shallow waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach is smaller but packed with natural beauty, including rocky limestone formations and vibrant marine life just offshore, making it perfect for beginners and families who want to explore underwater without venturing far out. Visitors appreciate its convenient amenities like lifeguards during the summer, equipment rentals, and nearby food spots. Tobacco Bay offers a more intimate and adventurous beach experience, especially appealing to those who enjoy water sports and exploring marine environments.

The Bermuda Ferry
is one of the best ways to get around, and certainly one of the most scenic. You will need to expand the images below to see all the details - if this is not possible on your device, please click the button below

Bermuda Ferry Info

FOR ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND INFORMATION, BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE OFFICIAL BERMUDA TOURISM WEBSITE: https://www.gotobermuda.com/

ENJOY A VIDEO BELOW ABOUT THE ISLAND