Bermuda Is Open For Travel Heres What You Need To Know
For the first time ever, a major cruise line is going to homeport in Bermuda and its going to be a major factor in the islands post-COVID recovery. The island has done an incredible job limiting infections over the past year compared to some other popular cruising islands and the local government is keen on following all health and safety protocols to ensure visitors are safe when they embark from the island.;
Porthole Cruise Magazine Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bill Panoff caught up with Glenn Jones of the;Bermuda Tourism Authority to talk about the local COVID-19 protocols for visitors, the overall recovery process and why Bermuda makes for an excellent embarkation point for cruise lines.;
Bermudas Ports Of Call
A warm Bermuda welcome awaits you at one of these ports of call:
- King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf, both located in the Royal Naval Dockyard on Ireland Island North at the western tip of the island.
- Hamilton Harbour, located in the islands capital, the City of Hamilton.
- St. George’s Port in St. George’s Harbour ;
Step right off the ship to explore historic towns, sample Bermudian cuisine, shop markets and boutiques, visit a huge variety of attractions, discover hidden natural wonders;or head straight for our world-famous;pink-sand beaches. The island is only 21-square miles, so anything you want to see and do should be within reach.
Explore Cruises To Bermuda
Bermuda possesses all of the stunning attributes of a tropical paradise, with a unique mix of travel experiences. Youll experience island vibes, British charm, a temperate climate, palm trees, impossibly blue waterand its an easy island getaway for anyone who lives on the East Coast. In fact, one of the most popular departure ports for a Bermuda cruise is Cape Liberty in New Jersey, just across the river from New York City.;
From relaxing on a pink sand beach to diving over one of the many shipwrecks to hiking through a jungle, there is something for everyone. You can descend into the incredible Crystal Caves, viewing the natural stalactites and stalagmites.;Bermuda’s museums and art galleries add touches of urban sophistication. Its well-preserved forts surround you with its history. And, its natural island beauty makes it ideal for water sports, hiking, golfing, or just lazing on a picture-perfect beach. Our 7- and 10-night Bermuda cruise itineraries offer two overnights in;Royal Naval Dockyard, so you have enough time to do it all.;
Plus, starting in 2020, all of our Bermuda sailings will visit stunning Newport, Rhode Island, famous for its historic mansions of the Gilded Age and dramatic seaside cliffs. And, on our 10-night sailings, youll also enjoy an overnight stay in Charleston, South Carolina, a city thats equal parts southern charm and cosmopolitan excitement.
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Contract And Other Cruiseships
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Contract cruiseships. Those those subsidized by the Bermuda Government to come to Bermuda weeklyin the season. They include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. They offer regular Bermudasailings. Those on contractships get to spend several days in Bermuda and thus have the chance to see Bermudain some depth. Other cruises last only part of a day, 12 hours or less.;
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Other cruise lines.; Include Aida Cruises,Azamara Club Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, HollandAmerica, OceaniaCruises, P&O, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven SeasCruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn Cruises, SilverseaCruises and Windstar Cruises.
Things To Do In Bermuda With Kids
3. Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo
If you are looking for things to do in Bermuda with kids, this Aquarium, Zoo and Museum is a favorite for families. The super large aquarium is the main attraction, and is a living replica of Bermudas coral reef so youll see a wide variety of Bermuda marine life here. Youll see outdoor pools with seals and turtles as well.
Once you see the aquarium, visit the small zoo and interesting museum. Do check their website for opening hours and tour times.
4. Crystal Caves and Fantasy Caves
In the parish of Hamilton, you will find the famous natural beauty of the Crystal Caves. This unique cave, home to underground shimmering stalactites set over a clear ocean fed lake is a sight you wont soon forget!
Youll be intrigued to know that Mark Twain himself was the first tourist to visit!
**UPDATE We finally made it to Crystal Caves during our last Bermuda cruise on the Celebrity Summit.
It was very worth it and a great day!!
Read more:A Guide to Crystal Caves on Your Own
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Bermudas Local Culture Hamilton
2. Hamilton Harbour Nights
If you are in Bermuda on a Wednesday, do check out Hamiltons Harbour Nights Festival. It is a nice street fair with local vendors of handicrafts and street food.
You will also get to see a parade of local Gombey Dancers in traditional costumes. This is truly one of my all-time favorite Bermuda attractions and I know you wont find this anywhere else!
Will It Be Safe
First of all, it remains to be seen if ships will be calling in Bermuda, especially if we look at the distances involved to the Bahamas, where most companies have private islands, and the flight times to Bermuda compared to the Caribbean Islands.;
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The safety aspect will be the same procedures as other islands have said they will be adhering to. According to Mr. Scott, there has been a significant framework developed already:;
The Ministry of Transport, being ever so excited about this opportunity and the potential economic stimulus from the cruise ship industry to our economy, has diligently worked with the Ministry of Health to create a framework and response plan to restart the cruising industry safely ideally starting in June this summer.
All guests will need to be fully vaccinated. At the same time, Bermuda has a robust and proven COVID-19 response plan to mitigate the viruss importation through legislation, rigorous PCR Nasal Pharyngeal testing, and contact tracing.
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Summer 2021 Heats Up With New Royal Caribbean Cruises From Bermuda
MIAMI, March 23, 2021*; Vacationers looking to soak up the sun and walk the pink sand beaches of Bermuda and the white sandy beaches of The Bahamas this summer need look no further than Vision of the Seas. Beginning June and through August, Royal Caribbean International will bring more adventure to the tropics with a series of new 7-night cruises from first-time homeport Bermuda. In store for guests who sail on Vision is an overnight to explore Bermudas culture, history and cuisine as well as a full day at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbeans top-rated private island destination in The Bahamas. ;
The new 2021 summer itineraries from Bermuda will open for bookings on Monday, March 29 and depart as soon as June 26. Sailing with vaccinated crew, the cruises at this time will be available to adult guests who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and those under the age of 18 with negative test results. This current health and safety measure, like others, may evolve as they are evaluated on an ongoing basis.
Bermuda has safely and responsibly managed the reopening of its tourism economy by air, and we will meet the challenge of doing the same for the cruise industry. We look forward to homeporting Royal Caribbeans;Vision of the Seas;this June as part of the islands strategic tourism recovery planning which, as always, is guided by science, said Premier the Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP, Bermuda.
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Bermuda Cruise Ship Port
Bermuda’s City of Hamilton is the most central by far of Bermuda’s three cruise ship ports but the city’s harbour and docks can only accommodate up to medium-size cruise ships, no mega-ships.
Cruise shipVeendam docked in City of Hamilton. Royal Gazette photos above and below
The city isin the center part of Bermuda, 15 miles from the Town of St. George) and has 2cruise ship berths, the # 1 Passenger Terminal;and # 5 & 6 Passenger Terminal. Both can take ships of up to 750 feet in length – small and medium-size cruise ships. Bermuda’s highest-rated port by a huge margin, alsothe most central, easiest to get to and from, with biggest choice of shoppingand facilities. Two Rock Passage has been the entrance to HamiltonHarbour since1896.;A huge advantage here is that passengerscan walk off ships docked here and be right in the city. Aport cityfor hundreds of years and Bermuda’s single main attraction and main shoppingarea by a very wide margin. ;From here there are frequent by-day buses and ferry service going east to the Town of St. George and west to the RoyalNaval Dockyard .
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Suggestions For Cruisers When Planning Your Bermuda Itinerary
Remember that your ship will be in port the first night or two , so plan the last day for activities that are closer to the ship.
Visit the small tourist booth right at the dock for maps and other local information that can help you with your travel planning once there.
You can also find information ahead of time from Bermuda Tourism.
Bermuda Cruises From Boston
Bermuda cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line’s glamorous Norwegian Gem depart weekly from Boston’s Flynn CruisePort from April through early November.
These affordable 7 night / 8 day round-trip Boston to Bermuda cruise vacations are THE most popular cruises out of our CruisePort – and for good reason.
When you cruise to Bermuda from Boston, you get the fun of a special voyage on Norwegian Cruise Line’s glamorous Norwegian Gem plus time to explore and enjoy this sunny and welcoming island.;
Imagine yourself relaxing in a comfy deck chair and soaking up some sun as your ship cruises toward Bermuda.; During the evenings, you’ll feel totally entertained by the nightly shows and performances.;
Once you reach Bermuda, you can visit the famous pink-sand beaches, snorkel and scuba dive among colorful fish, and enjoy world-class shopping along Hamilton Street.;
Finally, you’ll have a couple more days to enjoy the ship as you return to Boston.; Savor the delicious cuisine, try some of the fine wines, head to the spa for;pampering.
Best of all: these first-class cruises from Boston to Bermuda depart every week throughout the summer.; Choose 4-7 nights, which MUCH lower rates than you might expect:;
Top photo:; Bermuda’s Horseshoe Beach – Photo credit:;Jeremy T. Hetzel
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Cruise Lines To Bermuda
Cruises to Bermuda from Boston, NYC, Baltimore and NJ are widely available on the most popular cruise line such as Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America and Royal Caribbean. Vacationers can typically choose from 5 to 7-day cruises to Bermuda.
For New York & New Jersey residents, a wealth of Bermuda cruise options are available. Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises to Bermuda are available between the months of May and October sailing from NJ. Not to be outdone, Norwegian Cruises to Bermuda are offered round-trip from New York City.
Travel a bit north and residents of Massachussets can enjoy a 7-day Bermuda cruise vacation leaving from Boston with Holland America Cruise Line.
What To Pack For Your Cruise From Boston To Bermuda
Remember to pack your sunglasses, sun block, and beachwear!
If you want to try the cruise ship’s specialty restaurants, consider bringing a dressier outfit .; Otherwise, casual clothes suit the ship’s relaxed ambiance.
Bermuda has a wide range of restaurants, from casual cafes to gourmet dining.; A lightweight sweater or shawl can be useful in air conditioned restaurants.
Casual clothes are fine for exploring Bermuda’s tourist attractions.
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Bermuda Treats To Eat Or Bring Back Home
My favorite souvenirs to bring home usually include some local treats. You can find some good options right in dockyard, close to your cruise ship.
Some ideas include bringing back some rum cakes from the Bermuda Rum Cake Company or some locally made fudge from the Bermuda Fudge Company.
12. Bermudass Moongate in Dockyard
This is something really unique to Bermuda. Bermuda has several Moongates located around the island. Lucky for us cruisers, there is one right in Dockyard fairly close to the cruise ships.
Legend has it that if couples walk through the Moongate together, theyll be blessed with a long and happy life together.
My husband and I first walked through this Moongate in 2008 during our first visit to Bermuda by cruise. Since then weve gone through it each and every time weve returned.
Ive come to realize that this Moongate is part of many peoples Bermuda stories, from anniversaries, to engagements to just being together and stopping for a moment to create a vacation memory.
Let it become one of yours find the Moongate .
Bermudas National Drink The Rum Swizzle
Bermuda is known for 2 drinks, the Rum Swizzle and the Dark and Stormy, both made with Goslings Rum. Ive had both, but the Rum Swizzle is one of my all time favorites an I now even make a version at home.
Youll find Rum Swizzles at quite a few bars and restaurants in Bermuda, however the OG is the is the Swizzle Inn.
5. The Swizzle Inn
This well known pub and restaurant is home to the original Rum Swizzle. If youre planning a day, consider coming here for a casual lunch or dinner after visiting Crystal Caves or another sight. Rum Swizzles can be pretty addictive consider getting a pitcher and sharing.
The Swizzle Inn expanded and now has 2 locations the most recent in the Western part of the island in Warwick . It has the same nice pub style menu, relaxed patio environment and of course, their famous Rum Swizzle.
**UPDATE We made it to Swizzle Inn and the food and drinks were great! Plus, that atmosphere
Let me be the first to say that eating at Swizzle Inn was not cheap, however at about $20 a person it wasnt super expensive either. Plus, if you visit on your own, youll be saving a lot over using a cruise ship excursion.
Tip You may want to visit the shop and bring home a Swizzle Inn t-shirt as a souvenir.
Follow along in our YouTube video as we head over to Crystal Caves, Swizzle Inn and Hamilton by ferry and bus.
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What Is The Arrival Protocol For Cruise Passengers
We are cruising to Bermuda in July. I have read the Bermuda Government requirements for immunized people, but I am wondering how arrival covid testing is accomplished when you are on a cruise ship at the port for three days. It doesn’t make sense that you would have to stay on the ship until you received a negative test result when you had to have a negative test result to get on the ship.
6 replies to this topic
Ay present….there hasn’t been a cruise arrival in Bermuda of any sort in Bermuda for over a year due to the Covid-19 crisis,. So, there is NO Covid arrival protocol in place for a non-event. When there are non-Bermuda based cruise arrivals, there will be one. What those protocols and requirements will be will be determined by government and public health authorities when cruise ships begin sailing from US ports.
Currently, there is a proposed plan by ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINES for a 7-Day cruise aboard ‘..Vision of the Seas..’ to be BASED IN BERMUDA and return to Bermuda for a , Passengers will arrive in Bermuda by air, board the ship for a cruise to a Royal Caribbean owned island in the Bahamas, ‘..Coco Cay..’– and return to Bermuda, spending some time docked in Bermuda at the Royal Naval Dockyard, for a day, then out at sea cruising for a couple of days, a day at their ‘Coco Cay’ amusement island, cruise back to Bermuda, and spend a couple of days and then fly back to the US This 7-day cruise will begin/board and end/disembark entirely IN Bermuda.
Helpful Tips Before You Go
- Research the shore excursions and book them in advance, pre-cruise. The popular shore excursions sell out fast.
- Bermuda, Newport, and Charleston all take U.S. dollars, and most places take credit cards.
- Remember your sunscreen, bathing suit, sunglasses, and bug repellant.
- Have your documents protected and photocopied.
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Why Cruise To Bermuda
If youre looking to spend the night in a tropical place, consider a cruise to Bermuda. Sailings to the British island only a few hundred miles off the coast of North Carolina — typically spend two days in port, allowing guests to really dig their toes into its famous pink-sand beaches.
For all of its refined island appeal, Bermuda can get a pricy. Hotel nights, drinks and meals quickly accumulate a hefty vacation price tag, which makes your ship — a virtual floating hotel — a great option for visiting. Though it’s encouraged to try some of the local cuisine , it’s handy to have included meals and amenities waiting for you back onboard if your wallet needs a break.
Why Is The Bermuda Triangle A Controversial Cruise Destination
The Bermuda Triangle is also known as the devils triangle and hurricane alley. A number of places and ships have allegedly disappeared here over the years. Many people believe that the circumstances of the disappearances were mysterious however it is likely they were caused by severe weather.
The Bermuda Triangle has been a source of controversy since the 1950s.
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