Frequently Asked Questions

Where will I go on a Bermuda cruise?
Bermuda cruises typically depart from a port along the east coast of the United States and usually include one or more ports in Bermuda.

When is the best time to take a Bermuda cruise?
The Bermuda cruise season runs from April to early November.

How long do Bermuda cruises last?
These trips typically last five to 11 nights.

Will I need a passport or visa?
All cruises now require proof of citizenship. On some itineraries, a certified copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or government-issued photo I.D. are sufficient, on others a passport is required. Visas may also be required on the more exotic itineraries. Your cruise counselor will advise you on documents you will need depending on your itinerary.

Is English spoken?
English is widely spoken in Bermuda.

What is the time difference?
The time in Bermuda is one hour ahead of the Eastern Time Zone.

What is the local currency?
The local currency in Bermuda is the Bermuda dollar. The U.S. dollar is also widely accepted.

Is tipping a common practice?
Most restaurants automatically add 15% gratuity, so be sure to review your bill thoroughly. Hotels typically add a 10% service charge to your bill. For taxi drivers a tip of around 10% is appropriate.

What should I wear?
Casual resort wear, including shorts and T-shirts, is the standard daytime attire for most cruises. Bring a variety of footwear, including low-heeled or rubber-soled shoes for walking on deck, sandals for beach excursions, sturdy walking shoes for guided tours and a pair of dressier shoes for formal dining. You can check your ship's dress codes for options suitable for nighttime, but most restaurants encourage slacks and nice dresses during evening meals.

What should I pack?
Think about the kinds of activities you will want to try -- a round of golf or a relaxing day at the beach, for example -- and pack accordingly. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and swimsuits, protective hats, good walking shoes and windbreakers. Also, remember to pack all of your medications, prescription or otherwise, in a bag you can keep with you as needed.

Is the water safe to drink?
Most resorts and restaurants filter their tap water, though bottled water is available almost everywhere.

What sort of medical precautions do I need to take?
Shots aren't usually necessary for visitors from North America, but it never hurts to check with your health care provider and discuss the countries you'll be visiting.

What types of electrical outlets are used?
U.S. cruise companies use the standard 110-volt outlets. International guests will likely need converters and adapters.

How do I make a telephone call from Bermuda?
Resort hotels and public phone booths offer direct dialing for international calls. Calling cards also are available for sale in tourist-friendly markets. U.S.-based cell phones might not work everywhere.

Are hotel rooms outfitted with air conditioners?
Many of the hotels in Bermuda have air conditioning. If recycled air is important to you, make sure to consult your travel counselor before booking a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay.

What is the shopping like? What souvenirs should I buy? Can I haggle over prices?
Bermuda is considered by many to be a shopping mecca. Good buys include liquor, antiques, collectibles, books, tobacco and “Bermudiana” items like Bermuda shorts and coins commemorating the 375th anniversary of the island's settlement. You’ll also find imports from Great Britain and Ireland, such as fine china, crystal, and cashmere sweaters and tweed jackets. Front Street in Hamilton has some of the best shops in Bermuda. There is no sales tax in Bermuda, but the items are not necessarily duty free. Price haggling is not acceptable in Bermuda.

How do I get around?
You can explore much of Bermuda on foot, and walking tours are a great way to experience Hamilton and St. George’s. There are also several options for public transportation, including buses, taxis and ferries. Scooter and moped rentals are available. Shore excursions purchased through your cruise line highlight top attractions and include transportation and a guide.

Can I rent a car?
Visitors are not allowed by the Bermuda government to rent cars.

What can I do there?
Bermuda is known for its excellent golfing opportunities and is home to six world-class golf courses. Its famous pink-sand beaches are perfect for relaxing, and there plenty of coral reefs for snorkeling. Visit the Royal Naval Dockyard, catch a cricket match or take a carriage ride through the historic district.

Do you have any photography tips for travelers to Bermuda?
There's plenty of natural beauty to capture, so be sure to bring plenty of gear. Users of "point-and-shoot" digital cameras should pack rechargeable batteries, a charger, electric adaptors and high-capacity memory cards. If you're bringing a digital video camera, don't forget the long-life batteries, charger, adaptors and converter. Make sure photography is permitted before shooting in museums, churches and cathedrals; in some cases, you'll just be asked to turn off your flash.

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