Bermuda Cruise Port: Docks, Getting Around and What’s Nearby

While many assume that Bermuda is one of the many island nations in the Caribbean, it is actually a British Overseas Territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Unsurprisingly, Bermuda is also a popular destination and departure point for many cruise lines. If you are considering booking a cruise in Bermuda, you will almost certainly stop at the Bermuda Cruise Port. To help you know what to expect, we will explain everything you need to know about the port. From the port’s location to descriptions of nearby attractions, this guide will equip you with all the essential information you need.

Do you want to learn how to make the most of your time in Bermuda? Let’s get started!

Bermuda Cruise Port Location and Accessibility 

The Bermuda Cruise Port is a part of Bermuda’s historic Royal Naval Dockyard. The port was first built by Britain’s Royal Navy in 1795, so it almost acts as a fully functional naval museum. In addition to acting as Bermuda’s busiest cruise ship port, it is also home to the Bermuda National Museum and two major piers – King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf. 

Cruise ships almost exclusively dock along Kings Wharf, located along the small island nation’s western edge at 5 Freeport Drive, Sandys MA 01, Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda. 

When discussing the location of anything in Bermuda, it’s important to remember that it is a tiny nation, so everything is relatively close. In fact, the entire land area of the entire archipelago is just 21 square miles. 

The port’s cruise terminals are approximately 20 miles from Bermuda’s L.F. Wade International Airport, which cruise passengers can easily access via taxi, shuttle, or rental car. This drive usually takes about 45 minutes, mainly on the country’s main transitway, Middle Road.

For perspective on just how small Bermuda is, the airport is on the other side of the country, but you can still easily reach it in under an hour. Although you can take the island-wide public transit bus, we recommend taking a taxi to and from the airport, as you will save a lot of time. 

While traveling to and from the airport via taxi or rental car, you will enjoy some truly stunning views of the country’s coastal beauty. Once you arrive at the cruise port, you will have no trouble finding one of the three public parking lots within a short walk of the two main wharves.

Parking is also free; however, those leaving a car overnight must use the long-term lot beside the Clocktower Mall, a duty-free shopping destination built directly into an old British Navy facility. 

Cruise Lines Operating Out of Bermuda Cruise Port 

Since Bermuda is uniquely and conveniently located off the United States East Coast, it is an incredibly popular stop for many of the world’s most reputable cruise lines.

Most of the major cruise lines offer itineraries that either visit or depart from Bermuda, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line.

Terminal Facilities and Services 

Despite its small size, Bermuda punches above its weight economically. With one of the highest GDPs in the world, it is no surprise that Bermuda’s main port boasts modern infrastructure and well-equipped cruise terminals. 

Expect a wide range of amenities to ensure you can enjoy a seamless and comfortable embarkation and disembarkation process. With spacious, air-conditioned waiting areas, modern restrooms, and public Wi-Fi, you will not have trouble navigating the terminals. With that said, Wi-Fi is not free, but multi-hour packages can be purchased through your device.

The cruise facilities are also designed to be mobility scooter and wheelchair-friendly, so all passengers can enjoy a convenient experience in the port. There are also well-marked taxi pickup lines just outside of the port facility.

As we will discuss in greater detail, there are also plenty of restaurants, convenience stores, duty-free shops, and even a museum located within the 24-acre Royal Naval Dockyard where the cruise terminals are situated, so there is plenty you can do if you arrive too early to board your cruise ship. 

Seasonal Weather Conditions in Bermuda

Bermuda is a year-round travel destination, but knowing what temperatures and weather conditions you should anticipate is important. Not only will this help you decide when to book your cruise, it will also help you pack appropriately. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Summer Season (June to August)

Daytime temperatures usually range between 75° to 85° F, providing visitors with warm and pleasant conditions for exploring the island. While this is the most popular time to visit, the summer months also happen to be Bermuda’s wet season, with brief showers occurring at least once per week. Thunderstorms also occur; however, Bermuda rarely experiences serious tropical storms or hurricanes during the summer. 

Pack light, breathable clothing. Don’t forget sun protection, as the UV rays can be quite intense during the summer in Bermuda. 

Fall Season (September to November)

Bermuda cools off during the fall, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 70° to 80° F. The weather is still comfortable for outdoor exploration and activities, but it can cool off a bit at night, so you may want to pack warming clothing for the evenings. 

Rainfall decreases, but showers can still occur. Light layers are recommended if you plan on being outdoors. 

Winter Season (December to February)

While the temperature drops slightly, winters are still mild in Bermuda, especially compared to New York City, USA, where many visitors fly in from. Expect daytime temperatures between 65° and 70° F, with it dropping a further 10° F in the evenings. Rainfall is rare during the winter, but gusty winds can make it feel cooler than it is. 

Light jackets and sweaters are a good idea; however, you may want short sleeves and light pants for the daytime.

Spring Season (March to May)

Temperatures slowly warm throughout the spring, with the average sitting between 70° and 75° F. With these warmer temperatures, tourism begins to ramp up. Rainfall also increases during the spring, but showers are brief and shouldn’t impact your outdoor plans. 

While major storms are rare, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on notifications from your cruise line about potential departure delays. Make sure you pack light, comfortable clothing and a sweater for the cooler evenings. Packing a rain jacket is also a good idea if you spend time outdoors in Bermuda.

Nearby Amenities and Attractions 

We have already discussed the fact that it is possible to drive across the entirety of Bermuda in less than an hour, so it’s likely to enjoy everything the island has to offer, even if you are only there for a short time. 

With that said, visiting cruise passengers can enjoy a wide array of shops, restaurants, cafés, and more just within walking distance of the port. The port serves as a gateway to Bermuda’s rich and unique history, with the Royal Naval Dockyard and the National Museum of Bermuda sitting directly beside the cruise port.

The Royal Naval Dockyard is Bermuda’s most visited site, which is unsurprising when you learn just how much you can do within the grounds. 

History buffs can discover the important role the Dockyard played for the British Empire, as well as the role it played during the War of 1812 and the American War of Independence, by visiting the National Museum of Bermuda. This vital link between the New and Old World functioned as the Royal Navy’s supply and staging point. 

The museum is less than a 10-minute walk from Kings Wharf and built into an oceanside fortress. The gardens and grounds surrounding the museum are well-maintained, and you can read plenty of outdoor exhibits to discover the island’s rich maritime history. The museum has two playgrounds on its grounds, so it is also a kid-friendly way to spend an afternoon.

If museums and statues aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to stay entertained. Dolphin Quest Bermuda is beside the museum, making it closer to the cruise port. Here, you can watch dolphin shows, feedings, and even pay extra to swim with dolphins! We highly recommend buying your tickets online ahead of time, as they are in high demand.

By walking 10 minutes in the opposite direction of the museum and dolphin park, you can visit the Clock Tower Shopping Mall for duty-free shopping. There’s also the Bermuda Craft Market, Bermuda Fun Golf Park, and FryDay’s Trampoline Park. 

Take time to try some Bermuda favorites at Anchor Restaurant, Bar & Lounge or Frog & Onion Pub. You’ll also find plenty of stands selling ice cream, cold drinks, and various other treats. 

Port Distance from Popular Bermuda Attractions 

If you want to go beyond the Royal Naval Dockyard and see more of the island, you can easily take a taxi or shuttle bus to some of the island’s most iconic sites and attractions. 

We highly recommend visiting the picturesque town of St. George’s. Here, you’ll find the first English settlement and a functioning town that acts as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Given that the town and its well-preserved colonial buildings are just 12 miles from the cruise port, it is worth visiting.

Horseshoe Bay Beach and Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse are both about 8 miles away, so even with Bermuda’s notoriously slow speed limits, you should be able to reach them with a 20-minute cab ride. Turtle Hill Golf Club can also be found here, so if you’d like to rent some clubs and enjoy golfing island-style, the area is a great place to spend the day. 

We also recommend visiting the Crystal Caves to see one of the island’s most incredible natural features. This underground cave system has inspired artists for centuries. Even though it is on the other side of the archipelago, it’s still less than an hour’s drive.

Popular Beaches and Transportation to Them 

Beachgoers will rejoice when they discover just how many pristine beaches Bermuda is home to. 

Snorkel Park Beach is located within walking distance of the cruise port, while others will require taking a taxi or shuttle. Horseshoe Bay Beach is renowned for its pink sand and turquoise waters. As discussed, it’s about a 20-minute cab ride.

Elbow Beach is another popular spot, as it’s just outside Hamilton, the capital city of Bermuda. Hamilton and the beach are about a 30-minute cab ride away, so they’re easily accessible.

If you really want to explore the full breadth of the island, you can find your way to Tobacco Bay Beach, which is on the other side of the island. While quieter than the other beaches, it offers amazing snorkeling and unique rock formations.

Read Also: IDEAL Bermuda Hotels for Cruise Ship Visitors

The rocks protect the beach from major waves, making it a breeding ground for tropical fish and sea turtles. It may be nearly an hour’s drive away, but the beach is also bookended by Fort St. Catherine and the Five Forts Golf Club, so there is plenty to do nearby. 

Transportation in Bermuda 

Bermuda may be small, but there are plenty of ways to get around. One of the most interesting ways to explore the island is to rent an electric microcar. These little cars are an affordable and fun way to whiz around the island and explore everything it has to offer. Rentals are available just outside of the cruise port.

You can also download the Hitch App, a Bermuda-specific ride-share app that functions like Uber. You will get fare estimates and live updates on arrival times. You’ll also notice plenty of taxis hanging around the ferry terminals, and they can take you anywhere on the island. 

There are also four public ferries that can take you around Bermuda. They save time and offer a unique way to get around. A major ferry terminal is right beside the cruise terminals, so you can easily get from one side of the island to the other. 

Unlike many of the islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda has a high standard of living. This means the island is covered with stores and shops selling designer clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

If you want an iconic memento of the island, visit stores carrying Bermuda’s most notorious exports. Lili Bermuda Perfumery has been selling locally-made perfumes in St. George’s since the 1730s.

No visit to Bermuda is complete without picking up a pair of Bermuda’s most iconic fashion stable – Bermuda shorts. TABS Bermuda is known to carry the most authentic pairs and is located in the heart of downtown Hamilton. However, you can find TABS shorts in just about any clothing retailer on the island.

Remember, shoppers don’t have to travel far, as there is a full-scale mall right inside the Royal Naval Dockyard. 

Dining Near Bermuda Cruise Port

Again, Bermuda has a high GDP, so dining out at restaurants is normal for residents and visitors alike. You’ll find upscale restaurants scattered throughout the island, especially in the main population centers. 

If you want to try a true taste of the island, fried fish sandwiches are a national obsession. Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy arguably serves up the most authentic Bermuda-style fish sandwich, and it is located in Hamilton. There’s also The Swizzle Inn, the oldest pub in Bermuda.

For a more formal dining experience, check out Village Pantry Restaurant. With locally sourced ingredients and a refreshingly unique atmosphere, this island favorite can also be found in Hamilton.

For those not looking to travel far, Anchor Restaurant Bar & Lounge or Frog & Onion Pub are great options located within the Royal Naval Dockyard just steps away from the cruise port. Make sure you order a Rum Swizzle, the official cocktail of Bermuda.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you walk to the beach from Bermuda cruise port?

Yes, Snorkel Park Beach is just a short walk from the cruise port, while other beaches require transportation via taxi, ferry, or microcar rental. 

What part of Bermuda do cruise ships dock? 

Cruise ships dock on the island’s western end in the parish of Sandys. It’s the same port the British settlers and navy used for hundreds of years. 

Do you have to book an excursion in Bermuda?

While booking ahead of time isn’t mandatory, it’s a good way to ensure that you get to experience the exact type of excursion you would like. Bermuda is a popular destination, so certain activities can be booked ahead of time. Most cruise lines allow you to book through them, which is a good idea, as it ensures you will be returned to your ship in time for departure.