Did you know that Bermuda is not technically part of the Caribbean? The tropical oasis boasts the stunning beaches and warm climate we associate with Caribbean islands, but in fact, it’s considered part of North America.
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 665 miles off the coast of North Carolina. It’s made up of 138 islands, though some are quite small and uninhabited. Bermuda’s capital city, Hamilton, is a charming cruise port often called on during Transatlantic and coastal North American cruises.
Just what makes Bermuda so special? We think Mark Twain put it best, when he famously said, “You go to heaven if you want—I’d rather stay here in Bermuda.”
Bermuda is perhaps most famous – or infamous, we should say – for the Bermuda Triangle. Miami, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico each serve as one point of this mysterious, fabled region where ships and airplanes have disappeared. Though the folklore of the Bermuda Triangle is intriguing, it’s not based on scientific evidence. In fact, according to History.com, tragedies are no more frequent in the “Bermuda Triangle” than in other high traffic ocean regions.
Things To Do In Bermuda
Bermuda may be small, at just over 20 square miles, it packs a punch when it comes to things to do. Here’s what should be on your Bermuda cruise to-do list.
Go Shipwreck DivingAlthough the treacherous mythology of the Bermuda Triangle may be a myth, there are more than 300 shipwrecks in the surrounding waters. Clear, shallow, turquoise waters allow for great visibility when diving.
Relax on Pink Sand BeachesBermuda is also known for its stunning pink sand beaches. What makes Bermuda beaches pink? Tiny bits of coral and other red-hued organisms wash up on the beach to give the sand its rosy tint. The result? Only the most Instagrammable beaches in the Atlantic.
Bike the Railway TrailCycling Bermuda’s Railway Trail delivers stunning seaside panoramic views that one simply can’t experience when traveling by car. The trail’s terrain is relatively flat, and the scenery is beautiful.
Explore Subterranean CavesAmong the most breathtaking natural attractions in Bermuda are the island’s subterranean caves—the most famous of which is Crystal Cave in Hamilton Parrish. Here, stunning stalagmites and stalactites and glimmering crystal pools give the cave an eerie, almost otherworldly feel.
Sample Local LibationsDon’t leave Bermuda without sampling the local libations, including renowned Gosling’s Rum. It’s the key ingredient in both of Bermuda’s unofficial national drinks, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy and the Rum Swizzle. A Dark ‘n’ Stormy combined Gosling’s Rum with spicy ginger beer, while the Swizzle combines the rum with fruit juice (usually lime, orange, and pineapple juices).
Snorkel in Church BayWe’ve already mentioned that Bermuda’s clear waters make for excellent diving. Well, they’re perfect for snorkeling, too! One of the best places to snorkel in Bermuda is Church Bay, near Hamilton. A series of reefs close to the shore is home to plenty of colorful tropical fish.
Visit the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and ZooA visit to the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo will help you become acquainted with the incredible marine life you’ll see when snorkeling. The large aquarium hosts sharks, moray eels, barracudas, and more. At the zoo, you can learn about endangered Green Turtles and conservation efforts to protect them.
Golf the Day AwayIf you’re a golf lover, you probably already knew that Bermuda is a golfer’s paradise. But did you know that Bermuda actually boasts more golf courses per capita than anywhere else in the world? Playing a round on one of the island’s eight courses is a great way to spend your day in port.
This isn’t all you can do in Bermuda! Check out our Hamilton, Bermuda, shore excursions for more ideas.