When I first cruised to Bermuda, I quickly realized it’s not just another port of call — it’s an island with its own rhythm, pink-sand beaches, and British charm that makes you want to stay longer.
Over the years, I’ve learned that a Bermuda cruise is all about planning smartly, because everything from transportation to dining works a little differently here.
If you’re sailing soon, here are 10 tips that will help you make the most of your time in Bermuda.
1. Choose a Cruise with Overnight Docking
One of the best things about a Bermuda cruise is that ships often dock overnight at the Royal Naval Dockyard.
When I sailed on Anthem of the Seas, we stayed two nights, which gave me enough time to explore beaches, ride the ferry into Hamilton, and even catch a sunset in St. George.
Why It Matters:
- A single-day stop isn’t enough to fully experience Bermuda.
- Overnight docking means you can enjoy dinners ashore, nightlife, and sunset excursions.
- You won’t feel rushed — the gangway stays open almost the entire time.
Pro Tip: Look for itineraries that include at least two nights in Bermuda. That extra time makes all the difference.
2. Get Your Identification Sorted Before You Sail
One of the first things I learned before cruising to Bermuda is that U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (sailing round-trip from the same U.S. port, like New York or Boston) don’t necessarily need a passport.
While I always recommend carrying one, there are acceptable alternatives.
What You Can Use:
- A valid U.S. passport (recommended for all cruises)
- A state-certified U.S. birth certificate + government-issued photo ID (driver’s license)
- An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) (MI, MN, NY, VT, WA only)
- A U.S. passport card
- A certificate of U.S. naturalization or citizenship
- A U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad
Photocopies, pictures, and baptismal certificates won’t be accepted. If your cruise begins in one port and ends in another, a passport is mandatory.
Tip: Always double-check your cruise line’s requirements — rules can vary slightly.
3. Take Advantage of Ship Flexibility
One unique perk of a Bermuda cruise is that you can come and go from the ship freely while it’s docked.
I loved being able to head back onboard for a shower and dinner, then step back out for a rum swizzle in Hamilton.
What This Means for You:
- No strict curfew — the gangway stays open until departure.
- Easy to save money on meals by eating on the ship at night.
- Freedom to book evening tours or shows on the island.
Just avoid making late-night plans on the last evening — most cruises leave in the early afternoon.
4. Reserve Your Electric Vehicle Early
Here’s something I didn’t know until my first trip: visitors can’t rent regular cars in Bermuda.
Your options are scooters, mopeds, or small electric vehicles like the Tazzari.
What to Know:
- The Tazzari two-seater electric car is the most popular rental.
- Pick-up is usually at Oleander Cycles near the Dockyard.
- Rentals are limited — book well in advance.
If you want flexibility to explore beyond Horseshoe Bay and Hamilton, securing your EV early is a must.
5. Master the Public Transport System
Not renting an EV? No problem — Bermuda has excellent buses, ferries, and minibuses that make it easy to get around.
Options to Consider:
- Mini-bus shuttle to Horseshoe Bay Beach: ~$7 each way.
- Daily transportation pass: Covers unlimited buses + ferries. Perfect for exploring multiple spots in a day.
- NCL ferry (if you’re sailing with Norwegian): Free service between the Dockyard and St. George.
Insider Tip: I often grab a transportation pass — it’s cheap, reliable, and saves you from haggling with taxis.
6. Budget Wisely – Bermuda Is Expensive
Bermuda isn’t a budget destination, and the prices can surprise first-time visitors. But with a little planning, you can keep costs under control.
Money-Saving Ideas:
- Eat lunch ashore, then return to the ship for dinner.
- Pack a collapsible cooler and buy drinks/snacks at local markets before heading to the beach.
- Mix in free activities like hiking trails, open-air markets, and exploring historic forts.
I still splurge on a rum swizzle or a snorkeling tour — but balancing it with free or included options makes the trip much easier on the wallet.
7. First-Time Visitors: Book a Guided Tour
On my first trip, I rented a scooter and explored on my own. Fun? Yes. Efficient? Not so much.
A guided tour would’ve saved me time and helped me understand more of Bermuda’s history and culture.
Tour Options Worth Considering:
- Wrap-Around Island Tour – Great for seeing highlights in just a few hours.
- Hidden Gems Tour – Perfect for exploring caves, trails, and local favorites.
- Taxi tours – Many local drivers double as guides and are fantastic storytellers.
For first-timers, this tip is gold — you’ll leave with a much deeper appreciation of Bermuda.
8. Explore Beyond Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay is iconic, but if you stop at the main beach only, you’ll miss out on the hidden gems just a short walk away.
How to Find the Secret Spots:
- Walk east past the main crowds to discover quiet coves.
- At low tide, you can stroll from Horseshoe Bay to Jobson’s Cove.
- Bring water shoes — the rocks can be slippery.
These little coves feel worlds away from the tourist bustle — my favorite memories in Bermuda were made here.
9. Pack for More Than Just the Beach
Bermuda’s weather is usually sunny and mild, but it can shift quickly. On my April sailing, I was glad I packed a light sweater for breezy evenings.
Packing Checklist:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (Bermuda is eco-conscious).
- Light rain jacket/poncho for sudden showers.
- Comfy walking shoes for exploring St. George or Hamilton.
- Water shoes if you plan to explore rocky coves.
This mix will keep you prepared for both beach days and sightseeing adventures.
10. Know Your Money & Connectivity Options
Two things that often trip up cruisers in Bermuda: currency and Wi-Fi.
What to Keep in Mind:
- The Bermudian Dollar (BMD) is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar — both are accepted everywhere.
- U.S. credit cards work widely, though some taxis prefer cash.
- Wi-Fi and data roaming are expensive. Either buy a ship internet package or download offline maps before you go.
Having a plan for both cash and connectivity means fewer headaches and more time enjoying the island.
Final Thoughts
A Bermuda cruise is one of those sailings that feels part relaxation, part adventure.
Whether you’re sipping a rum swizzle, wandering pastel-colored streets in Hamilton, or finding a hidden cove at Horseshoe Bay, the experience is unforgettable.
By following these tips — from booking the right itinerary to packing smart — you’ll be ready to enjoy Bermuda at its best without surprises.
