Over the centuries, hundreds of ships have sailed to Bermuda. The first people to have inhabited the island were survivors of a shipwreck, before English settlers arrived and Bermuda became an important location for the British Royal Navy. The boats that arrive at the island today are far removed from the ships of yore — these glittering cruise liners dock at Bermuda not in search of land or a military outpost, but paradise.
If you’re an intrepid traveler considering journeying aboard one of these ships, the team at Bermudaful Island Tours will be there to welcome you to our slice of heaven. We have taken plenty of cruise guests on our Tours in Bermuda, whether they are here for a shore excursion or a multi-day stay.
We’ve created this guide to cruising to Bermuda and what to expect, including the different ports, what to do on the island, and when best to embark on your trip. If you have any questions about our tours, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!
Cruise Lines To Bermuda
Up to 200 cruise ships arrive in Bermuda each year, with a number of different lines to choose from. Below is a list of some of the most popular cruise lines to arrive in Bermuda:
- Carnival Cruise Line: With departures from Baltimore, New York, and Norfolk, Carnival Cruise Line offers trips ranging between 4 and 7 days.
- Celebrity Cruises: Sail from New Jersey for a week-long cruise to Bermuda with Celebrity Cruises aboard their exceptional Celebrity Silhouette.
- Disney Cruise Line: For the perfect family vacation, the Disney Cruise Line offers 5 to 6-night itineraries departing from New York.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: The Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the most frequent visitors to Bermuda’s shores, offering 4 to 7-day cruises from the US East Coast.
- Royal Caribbean Cruises: With cruises lasting up to 9 days, Royal Caribbean cruises offer immersive journeys from Baltimore and Cape Liberty.
You may have heard tales of ships and airplanes mysteriously disappearing outside Bermuda, but we can assure you that your journey will be perfectly safe. If you’re interested in untangling the lore surrounding the infamous triangle, read our blog unpacking the Most Realistic Theory about the Bermuda Triangle.
Cruise Ports in Bermuda
Upon your arrival in Bermuda, you will dock at one of the three main cruise ports, the Royal Naval Dockyard, the Hamilton Passenger Terminal, or Pennos Wharf.
Royal Naval Dockyard: Most travelers arrive at Royal Naval Dockyard, located at the western tip of the island. It’s Bermuda’s largest and busiest port, consisting of King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf. This is where many of the biggest cruise ships arrive, placing you within walking distance of shops, restaurants, museums, and dolphin encounters.
Hamilton Passenger Terminal: Smaller, luxury cruise ships often dock at Hamilton Passenger Terminal in the capital city. This central port places you right in the middle of Bermuda’s cultural and commercial heart, with boutique shopping and great dining available on the bustling waterfront.Pennos Wharf: If your ship is small enough, you’ll dock at Pennos Wharf in St. George’s, located on Bermuda’s quieter east end. This charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of colonial history and hidden beaches.
How to Get Around Bermuda
One thing that surprises many cruise passengers is that renting a traditional car isn’t allowed for tourists in Bermuda. But don’t worry, there are plenty of easy options for getting around.
Public transportation in Bermuda is excellent. Bermuda’s ferry system is fast, scenic, and a great way to travel efficiently on the island, with multiple ferry stops available. Buses are reliable and connect all the major attractions. You can download the Shorelink app, which allows you to see the bus and ferry schedules and purchase fares.
For more independence, you can rent an electric mini-car. These vehicles are big enough for two people but small enough to handle Bermuda’s narrow roads. Just remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road! Taxis are also readily available, often in the Royal Naval Dockyard, Hamilton, and St. George’s, as well as outside of hotels. One of the more unique and enjoyable ways of getting around Bermuda is by joining a tour or arranging a custom trip. At Bermudaful, we pick up guests for all of our Bermuda Island Tours directly from the Royal Naval Dockyard, transporting you in a comfortable minibus to all of the top spots on the island!
When to Cruise to Bermuda
Cruises to Bermuda operate year-round, but cruise season on the island runs between April and November. This is when the majority of cruises are operating, with the high season falling between June and August.
Late spring and early summer, particularly May and June, are ideal for visiting. The weather is sunny, the ocean is warm enough for swimming, and the island is in full bloom. Fall can also be a great time to cruise, especially in September and October, when crowds thin out and the sea is still warm.
If you’re cruising in July or August, expect hotter days and bigger crowds, but also a buzzing atmosphere. And remember, Wednesday Harbor Nights bring music, dancers, and vendors to Hamilton every week from May until August!
What to Do When Docked in Bermuda
There’s no shortage of things to do when your ship docks in Bermuda, whether you have a day or a week. One of the must-see spots is Horseshoe Bay Beach, famous for its blush-pink sand and turquoise surf. It’s easy to reach by bus or taxi, and well worth the trip. If you’re docked in St. George’s, head to Tobacco Bay for calm waters and fantastic snorkeling.
History buffs will love exploring St. George’s, with its 17th-century architecture and forts, while adventure seekers can descend into the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, a surreal underground world. In Hamilton, stroll along Front Street, do some shopping, and pop into local galleries.
For more inspiration, read our blogs on 10 of the Best Things to Do in Bermuda and Unique Things to Do in Bermuda for First-Timers!
Join a Bermudaful Island Tour!
When you’ve booked your cruise and arrived on the island, the Bermudaful team will be ready to show you around! With us, you’re guaranteed some of the best sightseeing on the island — as recognized by our 2025 Viator Experience Award! Whether you join our Full Island Bermuda Day Tour or our Half Island Tour of Bermuda, you’ll enjoy our award-winning service.
If you’d like a more personalized experience, we can also arrange a Private Tour in Bermuda just for you and your group! However you want to explore the island, you can simply get in touch with us and we will make it happen.
