There’s something magical about approaching Bermuda by seathe way the island’s famous pink beaches emerge on the horizon, framed by impossibly blue waters and dotted with charming pastel buildings. Cruising to Bermuda offers the perfect blend of convenience and luxury, allowing you to unpack once while experiencing the island’s unique British colonial heritage, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere.
Whether you’re dreaming of lazy afternoons on rose-tinted shores, exploring historic fortifications, or snorkeling through crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, a Bermuda cruise delivers an unforgettable island escape. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cruise lines for every type of traveler, must-see ports, unforgettable shore excursions, and everything you need to know to plan your perfect Bermuda getaway.
What Makes Bermuda Special
Bermuda isn’t just another tropical destinationit’s a place where British tradition meets island living in the most delightful ways. Just 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina, this 21-square-mile paradise packs an incredible amount of charm and natural beauty into a compact space.
Those Famous Pink Beaches
Bermuda’s signature pink sand beaches aren’t just a pretty photo opportunitythey’re a natural wonder. The blush-colored shores come from the crushed shells of red foraminifera (tiny marine organisms) that mix with white sand, creating that distinctive rosy hue. Horseshoe Bay Beach, with its dramatic rock formations and gentle coves, consistently ranks among the world’s most beautiful beaches. At Elbow Beach, the pink sands seem to glow against the turquoise water, especially during golden hour.
Colonial Heritage and Island Elegance
Walking through Bermuda feels like stepping into a storybook where British colonial architecture meets tropical splendor. In Hamilton and St. George’s, you’ll find streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, meticulous gardens, and historic forts that tell the story of the island’s strategic importance throughout history. Men in Bermuda shorts (yes, they originated here!) and knee-high socks conduct business alongside centuries-old buildings.
A Unique Cultural Blend
Bermuda’s culture weaves together British, African, and Caribbean influences into something entirely unique. This fusion is evident in everything from the island’s cuisinefeaturing dishes like fish chowder spiked with black rum and sherry peppersto its vibrant music scene and colorful Gombey dancers who perform throughout the year.
Accessibility from the East Coast
One of Bermuda’s greatest appeals for cruise travelers is its proximity to the Eastern United States. With sailing distances from ports like New York, Boston, Baltimore, and Charleston ranging from just 2-3 days, Bermuda cruises offer an exotic escape without the lengthy sea days required for Caribbean itinerariesperfect for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring the destination.
Top Cruise Lines for Bermuda
Choosing the right cruise line can make all the difference in your Bermuda experience. Here’s a breakdown of the best options based on your travel style and priorities:
For Relaxation & Couples
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity delivers sophisticated cruising with a focus on exceptional dining, stylish public spaces, and attentive service that couples and relaxation-seekers appreciate.
Ships to Bermuda: Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Beyond Departure Ports: Cape Liberty (Bayonne, NJ), Boston Onboard Experience: The recently renovated Celebrity Summit offers the exclusive The Retreat area for suite guests, while both ships feature Celebrity’s signature Lawn Cluba real grass lawn on the top deck perfect for sunset picnics. The Spa’s thermal suite with heated ceramic loungers provides the ultimate relaxation after a day of exploring Bermuda.
Princess Cruises
Princess excels at delivering romantic moments and opportunities for rejuvenation.
Ships to Bermuda: Emerald Princess, Island Princess Departure Ports: New York, Fort Lauderdale (on longer Caribbean combination itineraries) Onboard Experience: Princess’s “Come Back New” promise is particularly evident in their spa offerings and adults-only Sanctuary area. Their specialty dining options, like the Chef’s Table experience and Crown Grill steakhouse, create memorable date nights. Many cabins feature the Princess Luxury Bed, developed with a sleep doctor for the ultimate restful night.
For Families
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean’s innovative ships provide endless entertainment options for multi-generational groups.
Ships to Bermuda: Anthem of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas Departure Ports: Cape Liberty (Bayonne, NJ), Baltimore Onboard Experience: Anthem of the Seas wows families with its North Star observation pod, iFly skydiving simulator, and Sea Plex activity space with bumper cars and circus school. The Adventure Ocean kids’ program divides children into age-appropriate groups for tailored activities, while teens get their own cool hangout spaces. The Perfect Storm waterslides and Flow Rider surf simulator keep the energy high on sea days.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept gives families the flexibility they need.
Ships to Bermuda: Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Pearl Departure Ports: New York, Boston Onboard Experience: Norwegian’s casual atmosphere means no fixed dining times or assigned seating, perfect for families with different schedules and preferences. The Norwegian Joy features a two-level go-kart track and virtual reality pavilion, while all their ships offer excellent complimentary kids’ clubs. Many ships feature waterparks and splash zones for the younger set, plus multiple dining venues to please picky eaters.
For History & Culture Enthusiasts
Holland America Line
Holland America excels at destination immersion and cultural programming.
Ships to Bermuda: Zuiderdam, Rotterdam Departure Ports: Boston, New York Onboard Experience: HAL’s “EXC” (Exploration Central) programming includes destination-focused activities like Bermudian culinary demonstrations and historical lectures. The line’s partnership with BBC Earth enhances nature-focused excursions with expert insights. Onboard, you’ll find one of the largest art collections at sea and enrichment programs through Lincoln Center Stage performances and America’s Test Kitchen cooking demonstrations.
Oceania Cruises
Oceania’s smaller ships and cultural focus attract travelers seeking deeper destination experiences.
Ships to Bermuda: Riviera, Sirena Departure Ports: New York, Miami (on longer itineraries) Onboard Experience: Oceania is known for “The Finest Cuisine at Sea,” with menus created by renowned chef Jacques Pépin. Their ships carry fewer passengers, creating an intimate atmosphere conducive to making connections with fellow travelers interested in history and culture. Onboard enrichment includes artist-in-residence programs, culinary classes focused on regional cuisines, and lectures from historians and destination experts.
For Luxury Travel
Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking’s destination-focused approach suits travelers seeking refined experiences without formality.
Ships to Bermuda: Viking Star, Viking Venus (select sailings) Departure Ports: New York Onboard Experience: Viking’s elegant, Scandinavian-designed ships offer an all-veranda stateroom configuration and inclusive value (wine and beer with meals, one shore excursion in each port, and Wi-Fi included). The Nordic-inspired spa features a snow grotto and thermal suite. Cultural enrichment comes through TED Talks, destination-specific lectures, and a carefully curated library.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
For the ultimate all-inclusive luxury experience to Bermuda, Regent stands alone.
Ships to Bermuda: Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Splendor Departure Ports: New York, Miami (on longer itineraries) Onboard Experience: Regent offers truly all-inclusive cruisingfrom flights and transfers to unlimited shore excursions, gratuities, specialty dining, and premium beverages. Suites range from spacious to truly opulent, all with marble bathrooms and most with private balconies. The staff-to-guest ratio ensures highly personalized service, while gourmet dining options rival fine restaurants ashore.
Cruise Durations
Most Bermuda cruises fall into these categories:
- 5-7 day itineraries: The most common option, typically featuring 2-3 full days docked in Bermuda, allowing ample time to explore the island. These sailings often depart from Northeast ports.
- 10-14 day combination itineraries: For a more extensive vacation, consider itineraries that pair Bermuda with other destinations:
- Bermuda & Caribbean combinations (often from Florida ports)
- Bermuda & Canada/New England sailings (typically in fall foliage season)
- Bermuda & Bahamas options (offering a contrast in island cultures)
Ports of Call: Hamilton & King’s Wharf
Hamilton
Bermuda’s capital city offers a perfect blend of British colonial charm and island flair. As your ship docks along Front Street, you’ll be immediately immersed in the heart of this walkable, vibrant port.
What to See and Do:
- Front Street: Stroll along the harbor with its colorful buildings housing boutiques, galleries, and restaurants
- Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute: Interactive exhibits on marine archaeology and deep-ocean exploration
- Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity: Impressive 19th-century Anglican cathedral with panoramic city views from its tower
- Hamilton Princess & Beach Club: The “Pink Palace” hotel features an impressive contemporary art collection with works by Warhol, Banksy, and Kaws open to visitors at its public spaces
- Sessions House: Historic parliament building where you might catch the Bermuda government in session
Beyond Hamilton:
- Crystal Caves: Spectacular underground caves with crystal-clear lakes and dramatic formations (30-minute drive)
- Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo: Marine exhibits featuring a 140,000-gallon reef tank and island wildlife (15-minute drive)
- Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: One of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world offering stunning panoramic views (20-minute drive)
King’s Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard)
Located at Bermuda’s western tip, the historic Royal Naval Dockyard houses the island’s largest cruise port complex. Originally built in the early 19th century as a British military installation, today’s Dockyard combines history with modern amenities.
What to See and Do:
- National Museum of Bermuda: Housed in a fortress, this comprehensive museum explores Bermuda’s maritime history, including excellent exhibits on shipwrecks and military heritage
- Clocktower Mall: Shopping in a beautifully restored 19th-century warehouse
- Dockyard Glassworks: Watch artisans create stunning pieces and shop for unique souvenirs
- Dolphin Quest: Interactive marine mammal experiences in a natural ocean water environment
- Snorkel Park Beach: Convenient beach and water sports facility within walking distance of the cruise ships
Nearby Attractions:
- Horseshoe Bay Beach: Bermuda’s most famous pink sand beach is just 30 minutes away by public ferry or shuttle
- Somerset Bridge: The world’s smallest drawbridge, worth a quick photo stop
- Somerset Long Bay: A quieter beach option with excellent birdwatching opportunities
Best Bermuda Shore Excursions
Bermuda’s compact size makes it ideal for exploration, with most attractions reachable within an hour from either cruise port. Here are the must-do experiences that showcase the best of the island:
Beach Escapes
Horseshoe Bay Beach Experience
No visit to Bermuda is complete without time on its most famous beach. The horseshoe-shaped cove with dramatic rock formations and pink-tinged sand offers excellent swimming in protected waters. Most cruise lines offer transportation-only options or full beach packages with chairs, umbrellas, and refreshments.
Insider tip: Walk east along the shoreline to find smaller, less crowded coves like Port Royal Cove (nicknamed “Baby Beach”), perfect for children or those seeking a more secluded experience.
Catamaran Sail & Snorkel Adventure
Combine relaxation and underwater exploration on a catamaran excursion to hidden coves accessible only by boat. These popular excursions typically include snorkeling equipment, instruction for beginners, and often an open bar and light refreshments.
Highlight: The pristine reefs around Western Blue Cut offer stunning coral formations and the chance to see parrotfish, angelfish, and even sea turtles.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Perfect for those who want to see marine life without getting wet, these tours provide fascinating views of coral reefs, colorful fish, and perhaps even a shipwreck or twoBermuda’s waters are home to over 300 identified wrecks, earning it the nickname “Shipwreck Capital of the Atlantic.”
Cultural & Historic Tours
St. George’s UNESCO World Heritage Walking Tour
Step back in time in this perfectly preserved 17th-century town, Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited English settlement in the New World. A guided walking tour brings to life the stories behind St. Peter’s Church (1612), the Old State House, and the replica of the 17th-century ship Deliverance.
Don’t miss: The midday reenactment of the “Ducking Stool” in King’s Square, where historical interpreters demonstrate this colonial punishment method with plenty of humor.
Fort St. Catherine & Military Heritage
Explore Bermuda’s strategic military importance at this impressive fortress housing a museum with period weapons, replicas of the Crown Jewels, and spectacular views from its ramparts. Many excursions combine this with other historic sites like Alexandra Battery or Gates Fort.
Hamilton Highlights & Afternoon Tea
Experience British traditions with Bermudian flair on tours that combine Hamilton’s historic sites with a proper afternoon tea service, complete with finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and fine teasoften held at heritage properties like Fort Hamilton or historic hotels.
Adventure & Nature
Crystal Caves Exploration
Descend into Bermuda’s underworld to witness breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites reflected in crystal-clear subterranean pools. Discovered by chance in 1907 by two boys searching for a lost cricket ball, these caves feature impressive formations with names like “The Frozen Waterfall” and “The Chandelier.”
Kayaking & Paddle boarding Eco-Tour
Explore Bermuda’s coastline from water level, paddling through mangroves, hidden coves, and marine sanctuaries. Guided eco-tours provide insights into the island’s delicate ecosystem while offering the chance to spot herons, egrets, and colorful reef fish.
Best location: Ely’s Harbour on the west end offers protected waters and abundant wildlife viewing.
Certified Diver Reef Experience
For certified divers, Bermuda offers world-class underwater adventures, from vibrant reef systems to fascinating wreck exploration. Popular dive sites include the Constellation and Montana shipwrecks (which inspired Peter Benchley’s novel “The Deep”), Tarpon Hole, and the Cathedralan underwater chamber with light filtering through like a stained-glass window.
Best Time to Cruise to Bermuda
Timing your Bermuda cruise requires balancing ideal weather conditions with crowd considerations and cruise availability.
High Season (May–August)
The summer months bring Bermuda’s warmest temperatures (high 70s to mid-80s°F), perfect for beach days and water activities. The island comes alive with seasonal events like Harbour Nights street festival in Hamilton (Wednesday evenings) and the colorful Bermuda Heroes Weekend carnival in June.
Pros: Maximum sunlight hours, warmest ocean temperatures, full range of water sports available Cons: Higher prices, more crowded attractions, occasional humidity
Shoulder Season (April & September–October)
These transitional months offer an excellent compromise with pleasant temperatures (high 60s to mid-70s°F), fewer crowds, and often lower cruise fares.
April highlights: Spring flowers in bloom, Peppercorn Ceremony in St. George’s Fall highlights: Perfect golfing weather, Bermuda Gombey Festival (October)
Pros: Good value, comfortable touring weather, less competition for restaurant reservations Cons: Ocean can be cooler for swimming (especially April), some seasonal businesses may have limited hours
Off-Season (November–March)
While fewer cruise lines operate Bermuda itineraries during winter, those that do offer significant value. Temperatures remain mild (60s°F) compared to the Northeastern U.S., making Bermuda a pleasant escape from winter, though too cool for extensive beach time.
Pros: Lowest prices, authentic local experience, festive holiday decorations in December Cons: Some attractions may have reduced hours, cooler temperatures limit water activities, rougher seas possible
Hurricane Season Considerations
Bermuda’s hurricane season technically overlaps with the Atlantic hurricane season (June through November), but the island’s northerly location and robust infrastructure make it less vulnerable than Caribbean destinations. September has historically seen the most tropical storm activity affecting Bermuda.
Travel tip: Consider travel insurance with hurricane coverage if cruising during peak storm season (August-October).
Tips for Planning a Bermuda Cruise
Packing Essentials
Bermuda’s dress code is more formal than most tropical destinations, reflecting its British heritage:
- Daytime attire: Resort casual is appropriate (collared shirts for men in many restaurants)
- Evening wear: Smart-casual for most venues on the island (many upscale restaurants and clubs enforce dress codes prohibiting jeans and requiring collared shirts)
- Beach gear: Standard swimwear, cover-ups, and water shoes for rocky beach entries
- Exploration essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, light rain jacket, sunscreen, and insect repellent
- Formal nights: Don’t forget appropriate attire for your ship’s evening dress code
Booking Shore Excursions
Bermuda’s popularity means the best shore experiences often sell out:
- Book popular tours (especially Horseshoe Bay transfers and catamaran sails) well before your cruise
- Consider independent options for potential savings, especially for simple beach transfers
- Plan at least one early morning excursion to avoid midday heat and cruise crowds
- Research private tour options for family groupsthey can be surprisingly affordable when split among 4-6 people
Practical Tips for Maximum Enjoyment
- Book a balcony cabin if possible, especially on the starboard side when approaching Bermuda, for spectacular coastal views
- Purchase the ship’s internet package to use the excellent Bermuda tourism app for island navigation
- Bring Bermudian currency (equivalent to US dollar and used interchangeably) or credit cards (widely accepted)
- Save a port day for ship enjoyment if you’re on a 3-day Bermuda stay, consider spending one morning enjoying the uncrowded pool deck or spa
- Consider trip insurance for hurricane season sailings
- Plan for transportation Bermuda’s public ferry system is efficient and scenic, while buses reach most attractions; tourists cannot rent cars but can rent scooters or electric minicars
Conclusion
A Bermuda cruise offers the perfect balance of tropical paradise and cultural richness, all wrapped in the convenience of a floating resort that transports you seamlessly to this mid-Atlantic gem. Whether you’re drawn to the famous pink beaches, fascinated by colonial history, or simply seeking a convenient yet exotic escape, Bermuda delivers an experience that stands apart from typical Caribbean cruises.
The island’s proximity to the Eastern Seaboard makes it an accessible luxurya place where you can be strolling cobblestone streets among pastel buildings just a day or two after leaving home. From the moment you glimpse those famous shores from your ship’s deck to your final Swizzle cocktail before departure, Bermuda captivates with its unique blend of proper British charm and laid-back island spirit.
As cruise lines release their 2025 itineraries, now is the perfect time to start planning your Bermuda adventure. Whether you choose a quick 5-day getaway or a longer exploration, those pink beaches and turquoise waters are calling and they’re just a cruise away.