map of bermuda cruise port

Bermuda Cruise Port Guide – Best Things To Do And See

Are you sailing to Bermuda and looking for the best excursions and things to do while docked in the cruise port? From picturesque pink sandy beaches, to underground caves, to history and culture right at the Royal Naval Dockyard cruise port, Bermuda has a lot to offer cruise goers.

Cruising to Bermuda

We typically cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line . The free booze gets me every time …

Not only does NCL offer complimentary open bar packages with many sailings, their promos often include free shore excursions, wifi, open dining, and additional third and fourth guests. This makes cruising with a family of four more affordable and, with the additional comps, fun for parents, too! We sailed on NCL’s Escape from New York to Bermuda for a weeklong, family-friendly vacation. Of course other cruise lines sail to and from Bermuda, as well, typically from New York, Boston, or elsewhere on the east coast.

Related:  Norwegian Escape Ship Review

When cruising to Bermuda, it’s typical to dock in the cruise port for three to five days. Cruisers can use the ship as a home base and enjoy the island during the day and during the overnights, providing a unique in-port nightlife experience not typical of cruises. Most ships will dock at the Royal Naval Dockyard/King’s Wharf on the west side of the island. The Bermuda ferry system stops right at the dock and provides easy access to the rest of the island, but there is plenty to do right at the cruise port itself.

The Cruise Port: Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda

Royal Naval Dockyard was once a principal Western Atlantic base and home of Victualling Yard for the Royal Navy. Today, it’s known as King’s Wharf and welcomes thousands of cruise goers annually. Passengers step off of their ships to find shopping, history, dining, and plenty of gorgeous coastline. Without having to go far, visitors can find the following things to do while their cruise is docked in Bermuda:

National Museum of Bermuda

The National Museum of Bermuda is just footsteps away from King’s Wharf. Inside Bermuda’s largest fortress, you can find military history and cannons, shipwreck artifacts, art, and views for miles! The National Museum is also home to Dolphin Quest Bermuda ,  where visitors can swim with dolphins.

Dockyard Pastry Shop

Not far from the dock and National Museum, you can enjoy breakfast or afternoon tea at   The Dockyard Pastry Shop and Bistro . The pastries are incredible and it has that authentic British charm you look for in Bermuda. I have a distinct memory of stopping here, in the pouring rain, taking refuge under their awning with a nice, hot cup of coffee while my toddler devoured his chocolate pastry. It was a simple, yet incredibly special and authentic memory from our recent trip.

Snorkel Park Beach

Walkable from the cruise ship, Snorkel Park Beach is a great family beach spot. Though there’s a small cover to gain access, the beach area has a bathroom, a bar, and water sports (for purchase). Snorkel Park Beach is a great spot for your last day on Bermuda since you don’t have to worry about getting back to the cruise port or relying on public transportation.

Bermuda Fun Golf

Bermuda Fun Golf is touted as the world’s best mini golf course. The 18 hole mini golf course is modeled after some of the most challenging holes in Bermuda, Scotland, and the US. It’s located just next to Snorkel Park Beach and offers panoramic views of Bermuda’s beautiful sunsets. Cocktails and snacks are available at their “Caddy Shack.”

Clocktower Mall

Bermuda’s Clocktower Mall, once a warehouse for the British Navy, contains a few major outlet shops, as well as touristy gifts and handmade and local souvenirs. The walls are three feet thick in some places and the two hundred foot towers show the current time and the time of high tide. Clocktower Mall is a great place to pick up some last minute souvenirs and gifts.

Eat at the Anchor

Just a short walk from the Clocktower Mall is the Anchor Restaurant Bar and Lounge. Do yourself a favor and order a wahoo sandwich from the takeout counter.  I swear it’ll be the best thing you eat in Bermuda!

Frog and Onion Pub

The Frog and Onion, founded in 1992 by a Bermudian ( Onion ) and a Frenchman ( Frog ), is Bermuda’s only brew pub. Located inside the dockyard, The Frog and Onion was once a cooperage, or a workshop that built and repaired barrels, casks, and kegs so that provisions could be loaded onto cargo ships. The cooperage and adjacent Victualling Yard were converted to a s torehouse in the 1940s and eventually the restaurant and the Dockyard Brewing Company.

Head into Hamilton

Everything listed above is within walking distance of the cruise port. But with three or more days in Bermuda, you probably want to explore other parts of the island. Bermuda has a great public transportation system, including busses and ferries. Typically, there will be an information tent set up to purchase tickets right at the dock and get directions. It’s easy and affordable to get to Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital and enjoy what the area has to offer:

Bermuda’s capital has no shortage of shopping, dining, and gorgeous pastel colored, harbor front buildings. You can find everything from book stores to high end clothing shops to rooftop bars in the easily walkable city.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Enter through Bermuda’s oldest limestone moongate (read more about the moongates  here ) to find mosaic footpaths, gardens, sculptures, a koi pond, and towering royal poinciana. It’s the perfect place to seek some shade, enjoy a picnic, or go for a leisurely walk.

Harbour Nights

If you’re in Bermuda on a Wednesday in the summer, I’d recommend going to Hamilton for Harbour Night. Our guide at the Crystal Caves recommended Harbour Night for a fun, authentic Bermuda experience. From 7-10 pm, Front Street is closed down for a street fair with shopping, entertainment, dancing, and food vendors. We had some pretty amazing street-side jerk chicken.

Take the Ferry From the Cruise Port to St. George, Bermuda

If you’re cruising on NCL, take advantage of the complementary ferry from the cruise port to St. George, on the other side of Bermuda. It’s a great, free option, especially with kids and it provides amazing views of the coastline without booking and paying for a boat tour.

When you step off the ferry at St. George, enjoy the following things to do on Bermuda’s east end:

Tobacco Bay

It’s fair to say that Tobacco Bay is the most beautiful beach I’ve ever been to. The beach boasts some gorgeous, jagged coastline rock formations that tower above crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. Since the water is calm, it’s a great place for families, too. Bathrooms, a restaurant, and a bar are on site.

The Unfinished Church

On the walk to Tobacco Bay, you’ll pass Bermuda’s unfinished church. Construction of the Gothic church began in 1874, but was never completed.

Crystal and Fantasy Caves

Bermuda’s Crystal and Fantasy Caves are a short bus ride from the ferry terminal at Saint George. The caves, full of beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and clear pools of water, were formed when sea levels were much lower and have since become submerged.  They were discovered in 1905 by two boys searching for a lost cricket ball and were subsequently opened as a tourist attraction by the property owner at the time.

We only toured Crystal Caves since we had a cranky toddler in tow.

Swizzle Inn

The Swizzle Inn is Bermuda’s oldest pub and the perfect spot to grab an authentic swizzle. Located at the same bus stop as the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, The Swizzle Inn is a great spot to grab lunch or a cocktail after some sightseeing.

Did this Cruise Port Guide to Bermuda Help?

Bermuda was one of my absolute favorite destinations, especially as a cruise goer. From the gorgeous beaches, to the rich British history, to the endless options for families Bermuda is a destination with something for everyone.

Cruising to Bermuda? Are you planning to see any of these attractions when your ship docks in Bermuda? What would you add to this list?

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Bermuda Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Bermuda Port

Welcome to Bermuda cruise port!

Bermuda, the shipwreck capital of the world, is located in the North Atlantic Ocean and not in the Caribbean Sea as many think. It is a British Island Territory known for its perfect blend of British and American culture, soft sand pink beaches, stunning marine life, and a golfer’s paradise.

With its capital city and the main seaport Hamilton, Bermuda is a top cruise destination welcoming around 150,000 visitors each year. In this Bermuda cruise travel guide, read about:

• Bermuda cruise port (Bermuda cruise terminal, getting around the port)
• 7 best things to do in Bermuda port and best Bermuda shore excursions

Visit also our cruise guides to  Grand Cayman , Labadee , St Maarten , Nassau , Freeport , Key West

Bermuda Cruise Port

Cruise ships dock at the Royal Naval Dockyard which consists of two terminals: King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf , both located next to each other. Large cruise ships dock at King’s Wharf, a naval dockyard, ferry, and cruise ship terminal. Smaller ships usually dock at Heritage Wharf.

The historic areas, museums, shops, and restaurants are located within a short walking distance from the piers. There is a small terminal building with a Visitor Centre and there is often free wifi available.

Getting Around & Local Transportation

There are different ways to get around Bermuda. If your ship stays in port longer than a couple of hours, your best choice is to get a bus/ferry day pass , as it is more convenient and economical. You can get a 1-day pass or a multi-day pass.

You can use a 1-day pass across all transportation zones for both buses and ferries. If you decide to use the ferry/bus once or twice, then it will be cheaper for you to get a token. Day passes and tokens can be purchased at the tourist information center near the cruise terminal.

To get to Hamilton, take bus #8 in front of the Clock Tower Mall building approximately a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal. Check the bus timetables and fares on the Government of Bermuda’s official website

Sea Express is a company that operates water ferries that are a quick and convenient way to get around the island. There are four different ferry routes: Blue Route, Pink Route, Green Route, and Orange Route. The closest ferry station is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the cruise terminal. Check out/download the Bermuda Ferry schedule

• Blue Route will take you to/from the Royal Navy Dockyard to Hamilton and the ride takes around 20 minutes.
• Orange Route is available only during summer months to/from the Royal Navy Dockyard to St. George and the ride takes around 45 minutes.
• Pink Route (Hamilton – Paget- Warwick) and Green Route (Hamilton – Watford Bridge – Cavello Bay – Rockaway) are also available but commonly used by commuters.

There is an official bus/ferry ticket kiosk right at the terminal , and here you can get your tickets (however, if you want to buy more than a 2-day pass, you need to go to the post office or get it in Hamilton). Transportation tokens can be also paid directly on the bus or ferry but you will need to have the exact fare in change.

Taxis in Bermuda are metered but not cheap and are the best option at night when the bus and ferry services are reduced. Taxis are either cars or small vans that can accommodate between 4 – 7 people. If you would like to hire a taxi per hour, it is also possible and rates are stipulated by the government. Wheelchair-accessible taxis are also available but limited.

The taxi station at the Royal Navy Dockyard is located right outside the cruise terminal and a ride to Hamilton City takes 20-25 minutes (subject to traffic). Read more about Bermuda taxi fares here

There is a free trolley service from the ship through the Dockyards at King’s Wharf. It is very convenient for people with walking difficulties as it makes several stops along the way so you can hop on/hop off. It allows you to easily access some of the Dockyard’s restaurants and places of interest, however, they operate every 10-15 minutes and might be crowded.

Bermuda Port – Useful Info

• The port area is neat, well-organized, and wheelchair accessible.
• Visitors are not allowed to drive in Bermuda, therefore there are no car rentals on the island .
• Scooters are popular amongst visitors and rental places are available all around. Honestly, I do not recommend doing it especially if it’s your first time in Bermuda. If you are planning to explore on your own, please make sure to get yourself familiarized with the Bermuda traffic system and behaviors. Bermuda roads are narrow and winding so always wear a helmet and bear in mind that riding a scooter in a foreign country might be a little risky. Also, keep in mind that Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, and people drive on the left side of the road.
• The official currency in Bermuda is the Bermudian Dollar (BMD; symbol $) and 1 USD equals 1 BMD. US dollars are widely accepted on the island, however, make sure you get the change in dollars as cruise lines do not offer exchange service for Bermuda currency.
• Bermuda has a mild, semitropical climate with little rainfall during the year.
• L.F. Wade International Airport is Bermuda’s only international airport and is located 34 km/21 miles (a 55-minute drive) from the Royal Naval Dockyard cruise terminal.
• Cruise lines sailing to Hamilton Bermuda include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and MSC Cruises .
• Explore Bermuda tours and activities
• Search the best Caribbean cruise deals

7 Best Things to Do in Bermuda Cruise Port

1. king’s wharf.

You can explore the Royal Navy Dockyard on foot, or take a guided tour to learn all about Bermuda and its history. Whatever you choose, below is the list of must-see attractions:

• Royal Navy Dockyard – The primary base of the British Navy for more than 150 years, the Royal Naval Dockyard is home to numerous shops specializing in handmade goods, arts and crafts.
• Bermuda Craft Market and Bermuda Arts Center – Great places to shop for authentic handicrafts, handmade jewelry and sea-glass ornaments. They are located less than a 10-minute walk from the pier.
• Clock Tower Shopping Mall , located across the marina, is another place where you can find interesting souvenirs and specialty stores.
• For history lovers, the National Museum of Bermuda housed in historic military buildings is a must! You will learn about the incredible, 500-year-old history and culture of Bermuda while exploring exhibits and local art. The museum overlooks the port of Bermuda and offers wonderful ocean views.
• Snorkel Park – A 5-minute walk from the National Museum of Bermuda, you’ll stumble upon this family-friendly park where you can swim and relax at the beach, snorkel in shallow waters, enjoy water sports (gear rental, kayaks, pedal boats, and jet ski safaris), and park amenities including Hammerheads Bar & Grill.
• Bermuda Fun Golf – The golf course is located right next to Snorkel Park and offers beautiful ocean views.
• Dolphin Quest Bermuda – Situated at a stone’s throw from the National Museum of Bermuda, this marine center offers dolphin interaction programs and a fantastic experience for both kids and adults!

Explore Royal Naval Dockyard tours

2. Crystal and Fantasy Caves

The spectacular cave was discovered by accident in 1907 by two young kids in their search for their lost ball. Take a guided tour of the most famous Bermuda subterranean cavern and admire the marvelous limestone stalactite and stalagmite formations. You can also walk across a crystal-clear underground lake.

To get to the Crystal Caves, take the ferry from the Royal Navy Dockyard over to Hamilton (20 minutes) and then take bus #1 or bus #3 to the caves (30 minutes).

Visitors must be able to navigate and climb 81 steps inside the cave. Unfortunately, this attraction is not wheelchair accessible. Non-slippery footwear is recommended.

Explore the Crystal and Fantasy Caves tours

3. St. George’s Town

Located on the east end of Bermuda, the town of St. George’s is the oldest British settlement in the New World. This UNESCO World Heritage site was founded in 1612 and was Bermuda’s capital city until 1815.

Stroll through the cobblestone streets of St. George’s to Kings Square , explore the oldest fort, Bermuda Heritage Museum , St. Peter’s Church , and roofless ruins of the neo-Gothic Unfinished Church .

To get to St. George’s town from the Royal Naval Dockyard, you can take the Orange Line ferry that will take you directly to St George’s Market Wharf, located only a few minutes’ walk from Kings Square. You can also take Bus Routes 1, 3, 10, and 11 from Hamilton Central Bus Station to St. George’s, and the ride takes approximately 1 hour.

Check out St George’s Town tours and activities

4. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

There are numerous shipwrecks and colorful coral reefs around the island boasting incredible wildlife teeming with parrotfish, turtles, butterflyfish, and snappers. Many of those reefs are located in shallow waters allowing you to snorkel from the beach, yet my best snorkeling experiences have been from a boat.

Sail across the Great Sound bay , snorkel and dive around the shipwrecks of the Constellation and Montana , and explore the wreck of the Sea Fern located inside the Nonsuch Island nature reserve.

Besides snorkeling and diving, you can go helmet diving, snuba, paddleboarding, kayaking and so much more! If you rather choose to stay dry, you can admire the colorful reefs and wrecks through the many glass-bottom boat tour options.

Explore Bermuda snorkeling and water activities tours

5. Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse

Constructed in 1846, Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse is one of the oldest iron-cast lighthouses in the world. Learn about the history of Bermuda and the construction of the lighthouse through the different exhibitions you will encounter as you climb up the 185 steps to the balcony.

From the top, you can admire magnificent 360-degree views of Southampton Parish and the West End. In the lighthouse area, you will also find a restaurant, golf clubs, and several beautiful beaches including Horseshoe Bay and Sinky Bay Beach.

Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse is located around 15 km/9.5 miles from Kings Wharf Bermuda. To get to the lighthouse, take bus #8 from the Royal Navy dockyard to Hamilton and get off near Henry VIII restaurant, from where there is a 5-10 minute trek to the lighthouse.

Another option is to take bus #7 from the Dockyard to Hamilton and get off at Waterlot Inn restaurant bus station, from where you need to walk 10-15 minutes. Unfortunately, there is no elevator at the lighthouse.

Check out Gibbs Hill Lighthouse tours

6. Golfers’ Paradise

Bermuda is a popular destination for golfers, and it is not a surprise as the island has the largest number of golf courses per square mile in the world. There are 9 golf courses on the island and the following ones are the top 3 choices:

• Mid Ocean Golf (18 holes) – Located in St. George’s parish, a clifftop Mid Ocean Golf is ranked the #1 Golf course in Bermuda and one of the best in the world. Mid Ocean is quite expensive compared to other courses and the rate varies depending on the time of the year. Due to the popularity of this golf course, reservations should be made as much as 3 months in advance. To get there, you can take the Orange ferry line from the Dockyard to St. George’s and then take bus #1 to the golf club.
• Tucker’s Point Golf Club (18 holes) – Located in St. George’s parish, the golf club is part of the Rosewood Resort and offers great ocean views and the harbor. Reservations should be made at least 48 hours before your visit. From the Dockyard, you can take the Orange ferry line to St. George’s and then take bus #1 or bus #3 to the golf club.
• Port Royal Golf (18 holes) – Located in Southampton Parish, this golf club is well-known for its spectacular ocean views, green lush scenery, and oceanside cliffs. It is recommended to make your reservation in advance. From the Royal Navy Dockyard, you can take bus #7 to Hamilton and get off at the Middle Road stop.

7. Bermuda Beaches

Bermuda is well known for its famous pink sand beaches and azure waters. Most of the swimming beaches are located on the south shore of the island while on the eastern side of Bermuda, you can experience some snorkeling and diving.

7.1. Horseshoe Bay Beach

Nestled on the south shore, in Southampton parish, Horseshoe Bay is probably the top-rated tourist destination in Bermuda famous for its beautiful soft sand beaches and picture-perfect setting. Surrounded by picturesque limestone cliffs, this horseshoe-shaped pink beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, so you should expect large crowds during the summer months.

Amenities like umbrellas and snorkeling equipment are available for rental, but you can bring your own towel as well. You can get some food at the nearby bar-restaurant if you get hungry, and for those enjoying scenic views, there is a jogging path that leads to the cliff with spectacular views.

With its crystal clear water and powdery sand, the beach is friendly for both adults and kids. To get to the beach, take bus #7 from Dockyard to Hamilton via the south shore beaches and the trip should take around 25 minutes.

Explore Horseshoe Bay tours and activities

7.2. Church Bay Beach

This snorkel paradise is located in a peaceful sheltered bay on the South Road in the Southampton parish, only a 5-minute drive from Horseshoe Bay. It has a small sandy beach tucked in Church Bay Park, a great diving and snorkeling spot. However, beware because the water on this beach is deeper than other beaches in Bermuda.

The water can be choppy sometimes, it’s rocky and it’s got seaweed, so it’s not really recommended for small kids. The beach is off the beaten track and has no amenities on it, so don’t expect crowds. It can also be challenging for people with walking difficulties as there is a long wooden stairwell down to the beach.

To get to Church Bay Beach from Bermuda cruise port, take bus #7 from Dockyard to Hamilton via the south shore beaches and the trip should take around 25 minutes.

7.3. Tobacco Bay Beach

Another amazing location for snorkeling is located in a sheltered bay in St. George’s Parish, on the far east end of the island. This sandy beach is known for its scenic, craggy coastline, great snorkeling, and shallow, clear water.

The beach offers amenities (chair/umbrella rentals, showers, restrooms), water activities (kayaking, paddle boarding), and there is a bar-restaurant nearby where you can get food and drinks.

From Bermuda cruise port, you can take the Orange ferry line to St. George’s and then a 20-minute bus ride to Tobacco Bay Beach from the St. George’s Visitor Services Centre in King’s Square.

7.4. Warwick Long Bay Beach

Located in Warwick parish, this gorgeous pink sand beach is Bermuda’s longest beach and is considered the best beach for snorkeling. The water is a little wavy so I recommend it for experienced snorkelers and strong swimmers as currents can be strong.

There are no facilities on the beach (restrooms are available). The beach can be reached on foot from Horseshoe Bay and is connected via a walking trail to Jobson’s Cove Beach.

To get there, take bus #7 from Bermuda cruise port to Hamilton via the south shore beaches and the trip should take around 40 minutes.

7.5. Jobson’s Cove Beach

This beautiful pink sand beach is located in Warwick Parish and is known as a popular spot for wedding proposals. Jobson’s Cove is a tiny beach that offers calm waters and it’s a great place for swimming and snorkeling. Make sure you bring everything you need as there are no facilities in the area.

Wrapping Up

Bermuda is absolutely wonderful so make sure you plan your stay to get the most out of your day! Locals are friendly, the sites amazing and not to mention the beaches of unmatched beauty. Bermuda cruise port is fully accessible and offers a variety of options for people of all ages, guaranteeing you and your family a safe, unforgettable, and memorable stay.

Visit also our cruise port guides to Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao , Cozumel , Costa Maya , St Maarten , St Thomas , San Juan , Tortola , St Lucia , Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , Barbados , Antigua , Grand Turk

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

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Kings Wharf cruise port

Bahamas - caribbean - bermuda.

• Coordinates 32.326, -64.834
• LOCODE BMKWF
• Local Time 2024-03-30 22:14

Kings Wharf cruise ship schedule

• Temperature

Map of Bermuda

Kings Wharf, Bermuda

Port schedule.

Kings Wharf, Bermuda cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 03 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Splendor 829 passengers 03 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 07 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Oceania Marina 1.447 passengers 08 Apr 2024 - 10:00
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 09:00
• Norwegian Escape 5.218 passengers 10 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 10 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Norwegian Joy 4.620 passengers 11 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Grandeur 829 passengers 12 Apr 2024 - 10:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 14 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Celebrity Equinox 3.420 passengers 14 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Norwegian Joy 4.620 passengers 17 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 09:00
• Island Princess 2.657 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Norwegian Joy 4.620 passengers 24 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Celebrity Silhouette 3.463 passengers 25 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• MSC Divina 4.202 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 12:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Carnival Glory 3.581 passengers 29 Apr 2024 - 09:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 02 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Splendor 829 passengers 03 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 05 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Oceania Marina 1.447 passengers 08 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 09 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Norwegian Escape 5.218 passengers 10 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 10 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Norwegian Joy 4.620 passengers 12 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Grandeur 829 passengers 12 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Celebrity Equinox 3.420 passengers 14 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Norwegian Joy 4.620 passengers 19 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Norwegian Getaway 4.819 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 16:00
• Island Princess 2.657 passengers 22 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Norwegian Gem 2.873 passengers 23 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• Celebrity Silhouette 3.463 passengers 25 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Norwegian Joy 4.620 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 00:00
• MSC Divina 4.202 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 12:00
• Carnival Glory 3.581 passengers 29 Apr 2024 - 17:00

Bermuda Beaches Near Cruise Port: 9 Spectacular Options By King’s Wharf

By: Author David Chapman

Posted on Last updated: October 17, 2023

Categories Destination Tips , DESTINATIONS

Taking a cruise to Bermuda can be an exciting experience! Although Bermuda has three main ports — King’s Wharf, Hamilton Port, and St. George’s Port.

The King’s Wharf at the Royal Naval Dockyard tends to be the busiest cruise ship port on the island, making it the main docking area for visitors. As your ship docks, your thoughts might start to turn to where the closest beaches are.

With that in mind, here are some of the best Bermuda beaches near the main cruise port to delight the whole family, adults and children alike.

9 Bermuda Beaches Near Cruise Port of King’s Wharf

Bermuda is home to many beautiful beaches, enticing about 805,000 tourists in 2019. You can often find easy walking routes to most of them but you can also take advantage of Bermuda’s public transportation, including buses, taxis, ferries, and moped and bicycle rentals. (Note that tourists cannot rent cars on the island.)

Rates for the bus and ferry vary based on the island’s 14 zones, but generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3.50 to $5 for an adult ticket. A child’s ticket is typically slightly cheaper. If you choose to take a taxi, initial fares hover at about $5, with an additional charge of $3 to $5 per mile. Prices hinge on the taxi you choose to take. 

If a bicycle or moped rental is more your style, expect to pay at least $50 for a moped and around $30 to $40 for a bicycle, depending on where you rent. Of course, if you’re looking to save money, walking is always free, and Bermuda is an impressively walkable island. 

Here are nine beautiful Bermuda beaches near the main cruise port.

1. Snorkel Park Beach

Snorkel Park Beach is an easy 10-minute walk, or about a three-minute drive, from King’s Wharf. During the day, it’s a lovely spot for families. The sand is beautiful, and the water is shallow and clear, making it perfect for children who might be afraid of sea creatures. Reflecting its name, this beach offers snorkel rentals for the whole family.

The beach usually hosts family-friendly events on weekends, but they do have a beach club and bar. So, if you’d rather not be around people drinking, it might be best to consider alternative destinations. What’s more, by nighttime, the beach is open to adults only , as they turn it into a nightclub where you’ll find DJs, dancing, and fun drinks.

2. Sea Glass Beach

Sea Glass Beach is about an eight-minute drive from the cruise port or a half an hour’s walk if you want an adventure on foot. Depending on the size of your family, you can probably expect to pay around the same amount for bus tickets or a taxi ride.

This spot is a relaxing place to hang out and enjoy the sun. It’s also where a lot of sea glass washes up, hence the name. While you can look at and pick up the sea glass, Bermuda prohibits you from taking any home . Still, Sea Glass Beach is a charming place for families to explore. However, it doesn’t have amenities or lifeguards.

3. Somerset Long Bay Beach

Somerset Long Bay Beach is about a 13-minute drive from King’s Wharf. There isn’t a ferry that can take you from the port to this area, so your best options would be to take the bus or a taxi. Just be cautious, as this beach lacks amenities and lifeguards.

While the beach might be quiet and unsupervised, there is a lot of open space to play games such as frisbee or soccer. Make sure to pack a lunch or plan on visiting one of Bermuda’s many tasty restaurants afterward.

4. Daniel’s Head Beach and Park

Daniel’s Head Beach is one of the quieter of the many Bermuda beaches near the cruise port. It’s only minutes away from Somerset Long Bay Beach, so the best transportation to reach this beach would probably be either the bus or a taxi. If you take the ferry, expect multiple stops zig-zagging through the island before you get close to your destination. 

The beach is about a 15-minute drive from the port and is slightly off the beaten path, so you might need to do a little walking even after your transportation drops you off. This beach and park area has beautiful spacious views of the water. It’s an ideal spot for some family water sports fun, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. 

This secluded area is an excellent option if you want to check out the local sea life with your family. Be sure everyone brings their camera!

5. Church Bay Beach

Church Bay Beach is a little inlet located on the southwestern part of Bermuda’s coastline. It’s about a 20-minute drive from the cruise port, or you could take a minimum of two ferry rides to get close to it. Just keep in mind that the ferry rides will put your travel time well over 20 minutes, and you’d still need transportation from the ferry dock to the beach.

The inlet has a small sandy coast that surrounds Church Bay, which boasts crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Rocks on either side of the area protect the bay from rough water, making it a calm place to swim for children and adults alike. Those features also make it a great place for snorkeling and exploring sea life in peace.

6. Horseshoe Bay Beach

Horseshoe Bay Beach is about a 25-minute bus or taxi drive from King’s Wharf. Otherwise, you could take a few ferry rides to get to the vicinity of the beach and then take a taxi. 

It’s one of the island’s most well-known beaches, so it’s more likely to be crowded than other spots on this list. However, it offers beautiful pink sand, which gets its coloring from the shells of plankton-like organisms called foraminifera . With such enchanting surroundings, Horseshoe Bay is ideal for families wanting to hang out, swim, and enjoy the island views. 

You might see some moon jellyfish floating around in the calm, crystal-clear waters, but don’t feel alarmed. Moon jellyfish, or Aurelia aurita , can get to the size of dinner plates, but their sting isn’t harmful. 

The beach has large coral reefs located all around the bay, which afford snorkelers gorgeous views and the chance to catch sight of local sea life. There’s also a beach bar for you to grab some food if you or the kids are hungry. 

7. Angle Beach

To get to Angle Beach, you have the option of taking a 30-minute bus or taxi ride or taking a few ferry rides over to the general area. The beach is on the other side of Horseshoe Bay Beach, so you could easily walk between beaches if you find that one is busier than the other. Angle Beach tends to be less crowded since there aren’t any food or amenities available. 

Like Horseshoe Bay Beach, the waters are rather calm due to the surrounding reefs and rocks that break the waves. It’s a great place to float around, swim, and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding South Shore Park.

8. Hidden Beach

Despite its mysterious name, Hidden Beach is only minutes away from Angle Beach. If you look at a map of Bermuda, it’s slightly to the right. Your best transportation option would be to take a bus or a taxi to Horseshoe Bay Beach and then walk over to Hidden Beach.

The beach appears like a hidden, quiet cove, making it the perfect spot for you to relax and get away from the more crowded tourist areas. Here, you’ll find crystal-clear waters that will have you feeling like you’re on a personal island getaway.

Climbing the rocks can keep kids entertained for hours while you relax on the beach. Bermuda can get into the high 80s depending on the time of year, but the rocks at this cove provide lots of shade. So, if you or your children don’t want to deal with the hot sun, this could be the perfect spot for your family.

9. Warwick Long Bay Beach

Warwick Long Bay Beach is the final entry in this list of the best Bermuda beaches near the cruise port. It’s about half an hour’s drive from the port and is slightly further down the coastline than Hidden Beach. The sandy coastline of this beach parallels South Road, so it’s easy to find and walk to, which is especially great if you have small children. 

While there aren’t any lifeguards or amenities, there is plenty of room for playing games, building sand castles, and swimming without being on top of other people. Coral reefs line the waters, providing visitors with an explorer’s paradise. In addition, there are some beautiful hiking trails and a nearby playground to check out if anyone gets a little restless.

Closing Thoughts

With nine Bermuda beaches near the main cruise port, you’ll have plenty of options for planning a fun excursion for the whole family from the King’s Wharf at the Royal Naval Dockyard.

David Chapman

Contributor

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Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54