DESTINATIONS - Bermuda
Why go there?
With its soft red coral beaches, Bermuda is one of the world's most beautiful islands and a magnet for the wealthy and stylish. It has kept its status as a rich man’s playground by keeping a tight rein on tourism and operating a strict licence system limiting the number of ships allowed to call there.
Though this has been relaxed to some extent by the granting of short-term licences - raising cruise passenger capacity to 230,000 in 2004 - there is still a strong sense of exclusivity.
Why cruise there?
Cruises to Bermuda generally stay at the island for four or five days, allowing plenty of time to explore and enjoy. But they also add relaxing days at sea and a stay in New York or Boston to the package, creating a more varied and interesting holiday.
When would I go, what will the weather be like and what should I pack?
May to mid-November are the sunniest months on Bermuda, when rainfall is minimal and the weather delightfully subtropical. Pack light clothing, a wrap for evenings and a ‘just in case’ umbrella.
What are the options?
A typical Bermuda flycruise itinerary will take ten days, sail round-trip from New York or Boston and spend four to five days at the Bermudan capital of St George. This is an ideal cruise for adding on pre- or post-cruise stays; most lines offer their own packages. Golf courses are everywhere.
What to do ashore?
Excursion options will include island tours, snorkelling and watersports expeditions but - with four of five days at their disposal -many travellers will be interested in hiring a car and doing their own thing.
Which cruise lines go there?
Lines selling Bermuda cruises in the UK include
What type of traveller goes there?
Upmarket beach lovers and pleasure seekers; those who enjoy the buzz of a city break combined with a few days’ R&R in lovely surroundings.
