Cruise Diva's FOCUS is on
BERMUDA CRUISING
Beauty & Tranquility
by Linda Coffman
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Lush & lovely--Sonesta Beach Resort
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The inevitable first question everyone asks is about the beaches, "Is the sand really pink?" Yes, it is! And the water is crystal clear. Bermuda's palette is pastel... pink, coral, green, and every shade of blue. The beaches, architecture, and water surrounding Bermuda display a rainbow of soft color accented by white roofs and colorful flora.
Bermuda delights her guests with with notable charm and reserve. British formality is the rule, with subtle African influences simmering just below the surface--most evident in the popularity of Gombey music and dance. Stubbornly conservative, afternoon tea is the order of the day and traditional British values predominate. Politeness and neatness in dress are highly appreciated by native Bermudans.
Getting around Bermuda is relatively simple using public transportation, either buses or ferries. A ferry ride is a must, even if you aren't going anywhere in particular--the most pleasant way to see Bermuda is from the water. Visitors are sometimes startled to see businessmen on mopeds sporting coat, tie, dress shirt, and... Bermuda shorts! It looks so easy to zip about on a scooter and, because cars are not available for rent, many tourists get their first taste of free-wheeling in Bermuda. Avoiding "Road Rash" is paramount to seeing the sights on a moped--pick up a copy of the local rules of the road from the Bermuda Road Safety Council when you rent one. Fasten your helmet and drive on the LEFT.
While Bermuda has dozens of resorts, small hotels, and cottages, a land vacation can be pricey when you consider that the average hotel charges about $10 per person for breakfast. The best way to enjoy a Bermuda holiday is by ship. Cruises depart weekly from Boston and New York City, and less frequently from other ports such as Philadelphia and Baltimore. After spending a day and a half at sea, your ship will berth either in Hamilton, St. George, or King's Wharf (the Royal Naval Dockyard). The most desirable itineraries are those that include the former two city ports because the Dockyard's location is isolated, although new facilities offer a few shopping diversions and pubs. After spending a couple nights in either Hamilton or St. George, your ship will move to the other port for the remainder of your Bermuda stay. Ships at the Dockyard generally don't reposition. Walking tours in Hamilton and St. George are a delight, just pick up a map in the cruise ship terminal and you're on your way.
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The Royal Naval Dockyard--King's Wharf
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Cruising "season" coincides with Bermuda's "high season"--April through October. A word of caution, this is also Atlantic "Hurricane Season" and your itinerary could be severely impacted if one blows your way. Sailing time to and from the US can range from mirror calm to rough and rocky, although the latter is uncommon.
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More about Bermuda Ports of Call
Bon Voyage!
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