Royal Naval Dockyard Bermuda Cruise Port Guide

Made up of 138 islands, Bermuda should be on everyone's bucket list. When you cruise to Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda you shouldn't miss out exploring the island and its many treasures, including pink sandy beaches and clear blue water. Explore the extensive reef system and shipwrecks that make this island ideal for snorkel enthusiasts and divers. Not to forget the beautiful nature reserves and caves that form Bermuda’s stunning natural landscape.

When you embark on a Bermuda cruise, you will be amazed by both the land and sea as you explore the beauty of this unique island. Come to Bermuda you will have a bermudaful time!

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Top Things to Do in Royal Naval Dockyard Bermuda

The Reef and Shipwrecks

Bermuda is famous for its history of the Bermuda Triangle and thanks to its extensive reef system there are more than 300 shipwrecks all around Bermuda. Seeing a shipwreck while visiting the island is one of the top things to do in Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, during a cruise.

Two of the most famous shipwrecks are the Constellation and the Montana. The first reason they're famous is because they're right on top of each other. It is believed that the Constellation hit the Montana.  The second reason they are famous is that the Constellation inspired Peter Benchley to write the book “The Deep”, which later was turned into a very successful movie in the 70s that gave Bermuda a fair bit of fame.  Snorkeling and scuba diving are a great way to see these shipwrecks. 

Pink Sandy Beaches

Bermuda is famous for its pink sandy beaches and visiting one is another top thing to do in Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda. Tiny red and pink organisms that grow beneath the coral reefs, just off the shore, cause the color of the beach. When they die, they fall to the ocean floor, mix with bits and pieces of crushed shell and coral, and wash ashore. This is how these beaches form and then appear in shades of pink.

In Bermuda the south shore between Horseshoe Bay Beach and Warwick Long Bay Beach has the best pink sandy beaches. The most famous & photographed beach is Horseshoe Bay Beach, where you can spend a few hours of relaxation at the dreamy pink shoreline.

St. George

Go on a little time travel trip and step back in time as you stroll the brick streets of St. George. St. George was one of the first British towns to be established in North America. The town was Bermuda's former capital and is, since 2000, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 1815 the capital was moved from St. George to Hamilton. While visiting St. George, you can see notable landmarks including St. Peter's Church, founded in 1612; Bermuda’s famous Unfinished Church; and the 18th century Town Hall.

Gibbs Lighthouse

This lighthouse is one of the oldest cast iron lighthouses in the world and was built in 1846. The Lighthouse offers panoramic views of Bermuda and its beautiful shorelines and is a must to visit. To get to the top of the lighthouse to see the impressive views, visitors must climb approximately 185 steps to the balcony, but the view will be worth it.

Crystal Caves

Bermuda is home to many interesting caves, but the most famous caves are definitely the Crystal Caves. When entering the caves be amazed by the deep, clear underground pools of azure water, incredible formations and cave ceilings with rare chandelier clusters and delicate crystallized soda straws. This is a location not to be missed and is a wonderful visit for the whole family.

Bermuda Aquarium & Zoo

The Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo, is the home to cockatoos, sea horses, and over 75 different species. Founded in 1926 this government owned and operated aquarium offers a variety of activities to visitors, such as arts and crafts, animal feedings, and more. Although the aquarium is small compared to others of its kind, it is a must see for families as kids typically love it.

Horseshoe Bay Beach

Famous Horseshoe Bay Beach is the most photographed beach in Bermuda. This pink sand beach invites its visitors to enjoy the ultimate Bermuda beach day. Enjoy amenities at the beach like bars, showers, bathroom facilities, and sun loungers for rent.

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Food and Drink Spots Near the Royal Naval Dockyard Cruise Port

Swizzle Inn – Home of the Rum Swizzle

Grab great food and drink at one of Bermuda's most famous pubs: The Swizzle Inn on Baileys Bay (original) or The Swizzle on South Shore. Bermuda has a long history of rum that started back in 1850 with Gosling's Rum, and at these restaurants you can try the island’s official and unofficial national drinks: the Rum Swizzle and the Dark ‘n’ Stormy.

 

Frog & Onion Pub and Dockyard Brewing Co.

Located in the historic Royal Naval Dockyard, the Frog and Onion possesses authenticity and character and features great pub fare and Bermuda's only brewery. Stop by for fish and chips and some of Bermuda’s finest ales.

 

The Original Horton’s Bermuda Black Rum Cakes

Experience where the first Rum Cakes, "Black Rum Cakes," were created in Bermuda more than 30 years ago. These legendary rum cakes are the ultimate dessert in Bermuda. The recipe has been imitated many times, but many believe it has never been matched. These Black Rum Cakes are available at the Bermuda Craft Market at the Royal Naval Dockyard.

 

Devil’s Isle Coffee

Coffee lovers should make a beeline to Devil’s Isle Coffee in Hamilton. The 100% Arabica beans are hand-roasted and expertly blended using a small-batch process that brings out their unique flavor profiles. Do not miss out on the tasty snacks and sandwiches available as well that will pair perfectly with your coffee.

 

Bermudian Fish Chowder Bites - Fish Croquettes from Marcus'

Bermuda’s signature dish is fish chowder. Superstar chef Marcus Samuelsson has reimagined the soup as a tasty croquette at his restaurant, Marcus'. The fritters combine snapper, scallops, chorizo, and spices that are ground up, formed into oblongs and then fried up crispy and brown. They're served with a rum-spiked aioli for an unusual, only-in-Bermuda treat.

Culture & History of Bermuda

Bermuda was believed to have been discovered by accident by Juan de Bermudez in 1505 while he was the captain of La Garza, a Spanish vessel. Because it was so small, the island group remained uninhabited and unsettled until 1609. Bermudez claimed the island in the name in Spain, however the Spanish never inhabited the island. The Spanish also called the Island Devil’s Isle; it earned this nickname due to the trickery reefs in proximity of the island and the strange sounds (now believed to be the White-tailed Tropicbird or Bermuda Longtail) sailors would hear when landing on the island itself.

In 1609 a fleet of nine ships sailed from England to Jamestown, Virginia, under the order of the Virginia Company. One ship went astray and ended up at the shorelines of Bermuda; this ship was the “Sea Venture.” It shipwrecked on Bermuda’s reef. All 150 crew and passengers survived the sinking. The Captain then ordered for two new ships to be built out of the shipwreck and once the task was completed they continued their journey to Jamestown. In 1612 the Virginia Company sent a ship to settle the island of Bermuda and these first settlers established the town of St. George. The island came later under official British control and is today a British Overseas Territory.

Royal Naval Dockyard Port Facilities & Location

When in port in Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, the Royal Naval Dockyard offers a complimentary trolley that allows visitors with walking difficulties to explore the area. It makes several stops in the Royal Naval Dockyard and runs throughout the day, but stops in the evening.

The dockyard has a variety of souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants. Visitors also have the chance to visit the National Maritime Museum, an interesting museum about Bermuda’s maritime history.

Transportation in Royal Naval Dockyard Bermuda

White Trolley

This is a complimentary Trolley that takes guests around the complex. The Trolley stop is at the transportation area between the two wharfs.

 

Public Bus System

Bermuda has a bus system that runs all around the island. Tickets and day passes can be purchased at the Royal Naval Dockyard. Visitors should keep in mind that these are public buses with several stops on the way and therefore travel time is longer than taxis or the public ferry.

 

Public Ferry

The Public Ferry is a popular way to independently explore the island, especially Hamilton and St. George. The pick up location for the ferry is in walking distance to the ship berths at the Royal Naval Dockyard. From the Dockyard to Hamilton the ferry takes approximately 25 minutes each way, though travel time depends on the ferry type used and the weather. From the Dockyard to St. George it is 45 minutes each way and operates four times a day so be sure to check the times and make sure you can return before your ship departs.

Visitors wishing to use the ferry need to keep in mind that long lines may occur for the ferries. Please bring water and be protected from the sun.

 

Taxi

Taxis are available all over the island and the approximate cost for a taxi is $20 for 15 minute taxi ride. Taxis are metered, however, drivers will give an approximate from experience when inquired. Taxis in towns such as Hamilton can be found at taxi stations, which are usually located close to malls, hotels, or tourist spots. Not all taxi drivers accept credit cards so inquire modes of payment with the cab driver prior to using a cab.

Shopping Near the Royal Naval Dockyard Cruise Port

The Royal Naval Dockyard has a variety of shops & bars available. Visitors can also find a Mall (clocktower Mall) as well as a pharmacy.

You won’t want to miss out on the Crafts Market where you can discover some of Bermuda’s artistic souvenirs. The Dockyard Glassworks Gallery and Studio offer a variety of handmade glass and demonstrate their skills throughout the day to visitors in live shows.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

Bermuda’s Currency is the Bermuda Dollar, which has the same value as US$.

One Bermuda Dollar is divided in 100 Cents. Visitors may use US$ to purchase just about anything around the island as it is widely accepted, though the change may be given in Bermuda Dollars. Visitors may ask for change in US$ if they wish, but need to express this.

Credit cards are accepted in most places, however it is recommended to double check before.

Tipping is welcome in Bermuda and expected for a job well done. In restaurants a tip of 15% to 17% is often already included in the bill; in that case additional tipping is not necessary, but appreciated. Taxi drivers generally expect a tip of 15% on top of the taxi fare, especially if they have done some heavy lifting.

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