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Kings Wharf Bermuda: The Dockyard Cruise Port Guide 2026

 
 
 
 
 
Topics
Where is Kings Wharf 
A Quick History 
Things To Do 
Tours/Excursions 
Where to Eat and Drink 
Shopping 
Nightlife 
Getting Around 
Facilities
 
Cruise ships at Kings Wharf and Heritage Wharf 
Cruises at Dockyard Port Bermuda 
Photo: Kansasphoto, flickr, cc by 2.0 
 
If your cruise itinerary says "Kings Wharf, Bermuda" and you are trying to work out what that actually means on the ground, you are in the right place. I have been writing about this port since 2008, and today it is still the single busiest patch of pier in the country. 
 
This guide walks you through where Kings Wharf is, what is genuinely worth your time, how to get out of the dockyard cheaply, and the small logistical traps that catch first-time visitors. 
 
 

Where Is Kings Wharf Bermuda?

 
Kings Wharf is the cruise pier at the western tip of Bermuda, in Sandys Parish, on Ireland Island North. It sits inside the Royal Naval Dockyard, often shortened to "the Dockyard".  
 
On a map of Bermuda, picture the island as a fish hook curving from east to west. The hook ends in the Dockyard, and Kings Wharf is right at the tip. 
 
The whole port area covers about 24 acres, so everything inside is walkable. From Hamilton, the capital, you can be at the Dockyard in roughly 20 minutes on the Blue Route ferry or about an hour by public bus. 
 
See the map of Kings Wharf and Dockyard to know more about its location and layout. 
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Kings Wharf, Heritage Wharf and the Dockyard, Sorted Out

 
Most cruise lines list "Kings Wharf" as the port. Technically Kings Wharf is just one of two berths. The second berth, Heritage Wharf, was added in May 2009 and sits in line with Kings Wharf so two large ships can dock back to back. The container of both berths plus all the shops, museums, beaches and restaurants is the Royal Naval Dockyard. 
 
The strip of land you walk down after stepping off the ship is called North Arm, and the land end is about 380 yards from the pier. That short walk is where you first hit taxis, the train trolley stop, and the bar and restaurant cluster. 
 

A Quick History You Will Actually Use

 
The British began building this dockyard in 1809 after losing their Atlantic ports in the American War of Independence. Convict labor from England and enslaved people from the island did the building, and a yellow fever epidemic killed many of them. You can walk over to the Royal Naval Cemetery in Sandys, a short bus ride away, and read the headstones for yourself. 
 
The fortress called The Keep, built in the mid-1800s to defend the dockyard from western waters, now houses the National Museum of Bermuda. The pond inside The Keep, once used to load ammunition, is today the dolphin lagoon at Dolphin Quest. 
 
Royal Navy operations wound down through the 1950s and ended completely in 1995, after which the dockyard was redeveloped as a cruise port and tourist complex. In 2024, Bermuda welcomed over 535,000 cruise visitors, and the great majority of them came through these two berths. 
 

Kings Wharf Bermuda Things to Do

 
Here is the short answer to "is there enough to do without leaving the Dockyard?" Yes, for a day. For longer cruises, get out at least once. 
 

National Museum of Bermuda

 
Inside The Keep, the National Museum of Bermuda is the most substantial cultural site in the port. Eight Grade I listed buildings sit on a 16-acre site, with exhibits covering shipwreck archaeology, the slavery period, Bermuda's links to the West Indies and the Azores, naval heritage and tourism history. 
 
National Museum of Bermuda (Fort Complex) 
National Museum of Bermuda 
 
The Queen's Exhibition Hall in the museum holds over 1,500 artifacts pulled from the island's shipwreck record and early settlement, including silver coins, colonial pottery, navigation instruments and a large period cannon. It is the single best room in the museum if you want to understand how Bermuda was discovered and settled. 
 
The Commissioner's House at the top of the hill has a huge wall mural that walks you through 400 years of island history, and the ramparts give you sweeping views over the Great Sound. The huge wall mural that runs up the staircase, a 400-year history of Bermuda painted by a Bermudian artist, is worth the climb on its own. 
 
  • Hours April to October: daily 9am to 5pm. 
  • Hours November to March: daily 10am to 5pm. 
  • Last admission 4pm. 
  • Adult admission applies; children's rate is lower. 
    •  
    Pro-Tip: The Dolphin Quest lagoon is inside the same fort and the museum ticket gets you in to watch the trainer-led sessions. If you want to actually touch or swim with the dolphins, that is a separate paid program and you book directly with Dolphin Quest. Cruise excursion desks mark these up significantly. 
     

    Snorkel Park Beach

     
    The closest beach to the cruise berths is Snorkel Park Beach, a 6-7 minute walk from the pier through North Arm. It is a man-made white-sand beach tucked against the fortress wall. 
     
  • Standard admission for 2026: $20 per adult. 
  • Children under 12: free. 
  • Open 9am to 5pm daily during the cruise season. 
  • Hammerhead Bar and Grill is on site for food and drinks. 
  • Snorkel gear and chair rentals available. 
    •  
    Snorkel Park Beach, Dockyard 
    Snorkel Park Bermuda 
    Photo: James Willamor, flickr, cc by-sa 2.0 
     
    The water is calm and clear and there are submerged features like cannons that kids enjoy. On select cruise-call nights, the beach transforms into Snorkel Park Beach Club for late-night DJ sets, fire pits and live music, 18 and over only. 
     
    If you have a couple of hours and want something quieter, walk about 20 minutes from the main Dockyard gate along Cockburn Road to the twin Sea Glass and Black Bay Beach. These two small coves sit side by side, and over decades the sea has tumbled the discarded glass shards into smooth, frosted pebbles in green, brown and white. Late afternoon is best, the sunset from Black Bay is one of the better ones on the west end. 
     
    Pro-Tip: Snorkel Park is convenient, not spectacular. If you have a day and reasonable mobility, take the public bus #7 or a minibus shuttle out to Horseshoe Bay or walk south along the cliff trail to Warwick Long Bay for the real pink-sand experience. See Beaches near Dockyard to know about wonderful beaches that are easily reachable from Kings Wharf. 
     

    Art, Craft and the Cooperage Buildings

     
    The Old Cooperage Building was built in 1831 to make barrels for naval supplies. Today it holds the Bermuda Craft Market (cedar work, pink sand jewelry, banana-leaf dolls, sea glass charms), the Frog and Onion Pub with its in-house brewery, and the Media Lounge movie theater. 
     
    Old Cooperage Building, Bermuda 
    Cooperage Building, Bermuda 
    Photo: Captain-tucker, CC BY-SA 4.0 
     
    Next door, the Bermuda Arts Center keeps a working studio with local painters, photographers and printmakers. Jon Faulkner Gallery displays handmade pottery, and Studio 8 Glass in Clocktower Mall runs glass-fusion workshops where you can make your own piece in about 30 minutes. 
     
    Two outlets you may still see referenced in older guides have closed: Dockyard Glassworks (a glass blowing studio that once made glass items and figurines) and the physical Bermuda Rum Cake Company bakery. The rum cakes themselves are still sold at other shops on the island. 
     

    Bermuda Fun Golf

     
    The 18-hole mini course next to Snorkel Park has holes modeled on signature greens from real courses in Bermuda, the US and Scotland. There is a small bar and grill called The Caddy Shack at hole one and hole nine. Late afternoon round, just before sunset, is the move. 
     
    See Bermuda Fun Golf for details. 
     

    Take a Walk through the Dockyard

     
    For the full step-by-step walking route through the dockyard, with every landmark in order, I keep a separate page so this guide does not become a doorstop. See the Self Guided Walking Tour of Royal Naval Dockyard for the details. 
     

    Kings Wharf Bermuda Excursions and Tours

     
    This is where cruise passengers spend the most money, often unnecessarily. The cruise line's shore-excursion desk packages the same boat tours, taxi tours and dive trips that you can book on the ground for less. 
     
  • Glass-bottom boat tours over reefs and partially submerged shipwrecks. 
  • Snorkel cruises to outer reefs, usually with island drinks included. 
  • Sunset sailing on catamarans across the Great Sound. 
  • Jet ski tours to Ely's Harbor and under Somerset Bridge, the smallest drawbridge in the world. 
  • Helmet diving with Hartley's, which lets non-swimmers walk on the seafloor in a weighted helmet. 
  • Kayak and paddle board tours along the coast. 
  • Reef and deep-sea fishing, both group and charter. 
  • Eco-adventure tours that combine hiking, cliff jumps into blue holes, and cave swimming. 
  • Segway Tour: If you want to cover the whole Dockyard and nearby attractions without walking it, the Segway Tour is a popular hop-on option. 
  • Cycle and Railway Trail tours starting from Somerset. 
    •  
    See Tours and Excursions in Bermuda to get details about each tour I mentioned above including the best operators, tour description and booking options. 
     
    Pro-Tip on Booking: Three reasonable ways to book. Viator in advance online for guaranteed slots. The Island Tour Center kiosk near the cruise pier for walk-up bookings, with a five-dollar admin fee per booking and possible queues. 
     
    The Visitor Service Center has touch-screen kiosks where you can book without an admin fee but availability is also subject to the same constraints. If you are sailing in peak July or August, book popular tours like helmet diving and sunset sails before you board the ship. 
     
    Check Tours & Book 
    Rates by Viator 
     

    Where to Eat and Drink at Kings Wharf

     
    The Dockyard has a working cluster of restaurants and bars, with more outlets opening seasonally during the April to November cruise window. The currently operating staples are: 
     
  • Frog and Onion Pub inside the Old Cooperage. British pub fare, a working brewery (the Dockyard Brewing Company), and one of the largest front bars on the island. Ask about the brewery tour and beer sampling, and try the in-house Frog Grog rum, named after a 19th-century admiral, or the in-house Bermuda Stout or a Hammerhead Lager. There is an on-site games room and a gift shop here as well. 
  • Bonefish Bar and Grill, near the ferry dock, with an outdoor patio over the water. Grilled seafood, steaks and Bermudian dishes. 
  • Anchor Restaurant, Bar and Lounge, near the main road entrance. Strong breakfasts, decent Sunday brunch, and Indian dishes on the menu. 
  • Cafe Amici at the Clock Tower Mall corner for traditional Italian, all day. 
  • Hammerhead Bar and Grill at Snorkel Park for casual burgers and fish and chips with your feet in the sand. 
  • The Dockyard Cafe at 12 Dockyard Terrace for coffee and baked goods. 
  • Alex and Pete's Bermuda Artisan Ice Cream on Dockyard Terrace for handmade flavors including Bermuda rum. 
  • Bermuda Fudge Company kiosk on Dockyard Terrace, half-pound and one-pound blocks. 
  • The Rum Barrel, a glass gazebo selling duty-free Gosling's rum and branded merchandise. Hours vary by season. 
    •  
    Pro-Tip on local food: If you want to try genuinely Bermudian dishes, ask for fish chowder with black rum and sherry peppers added at the table, or codfish breakfast. Cassava pie shows up around Christmas. Anchor and Bonefish both list local fish like wahoo and rockfish in season. 
     

    Shopping at Kings Wharf

     
     
    Clocktower Mall, Dockyard Bermuda 
    Clocktower Mall, Bermuda 
    Photo: P. Hughes, cc by-sa 4.0 
     
    The Clock Tower Mall is the air-conditioned anchor for shopping, recognizable by its twin 100-foot towers (one keeps clock time, one keeps tide time, a navy holdover). Inside are around twenty boutique stores covering jewelry, Bermuda longtail charms, perfumes, Scottish woolens, fine china and apparel. 
     
    Outside the mall, Crown and Anchor sells locally designed nautical-themed clothing in what was once a ship captain's house. Island Outfitters opposite the Visitor Service Center stocks souvenirs, hats, flip flops and local jams. Makin Waves on Camber Road has watersport gear and beachwear. Dockyard-Pharmacy carries US and European medicines, sunscreen and basic provisions. 
     
    Island Outfitters and Crown and Anchor 
     
    Photo: Charles Lewis, Shutterstock 
     
    For serious shopping, take the 20-minute Blue Route ferry to Hamilton's Front Street. See Shopping in Hamilton to know about the stores and their offerings. 
     

    Nightlife and Evening Entertainment

     
    Most cruise passengers head back to the ship by dusk. If you stay out, your options are Frog and Onion for a pub night, Snorkel Park Beach Club for the open-air dance scene on cruise nights, the Media Lounge movie theater inside the Cooperage building, and the seasonal Destination Dockyard weekly evening event in summer with live Bermudian music, food vendors and Gombey performances. 
     
    During summer on every Wednesday, when the Harbor Nights Street Festival takes place on Front Street in Hamilton, the Bermuda Government extends the Blue Route ferry operation between the Dockyard and Hamilton until late evening so that cruise visitors can easily participate in the unique cultural festival of Bermuda. 
     

    Getting Around: Transport at Kings Wharf

     
     

    Public Buses

     
    Bus #7 runs along the scenic South Road past the pink-sand beaches including Horseshoe Bay. Bus #8 takes the faster Middle Road. Both connect Dockyard with Hamilton in about an hour each way. The only Dockyard bus stop now is in front of Clock Tower Mall, a 10 to 11 minute walk from the cruise pier. The old stops at North Rock car park and the National Museum have been retired since April 2019. 
     
    There is no direct bus to St George. To go by bus you transfer at Hamilton's central bus terminal to bus #1, 3, 10 or 11. Transfers are free. 
     
    See Bermuda Bus Service for detailed information including routes, fares, schedule, bus zones and bus stops. 
     

    Public Ferries

     
    The ferry dock sits about 5 minutes from the cruise berths, past Bonefish Bar and Grill. 
  • Blue Route: Dockyard to Hamilton, year-round, about 15 to 20 minutes. 
  • Orange Route: Dockyard to St George, seasonal late April to early November, about 40 minutes. 
    •  
    The Orange Route is the easiest way to see St George in a single port day. Sit on the top deck for the views of Admiralty House, Shelly Bay and Fort St Catherine. 
     
    Blue Route Ferry leaving Dockyard, Bermuda 
    Ferry at Bermuda Dockyard 
    Photo: James Willamor, flickr, cc by-sa 2.0 
     
    NCL runs its own private high-speed catamaran, the Spirit of St George's, between Dockyard and St George for its own passengers only. Seats are not guaranteed. 
     
    See Bermuda Ferry Service to get complete details about all ferry routes, fares and schedules. 
     

    Tickets, Tokens and the Shorelink App

     
    The Government of Bermuda now runs the Shorelink app for digital tokens, ticket booklets and one to seven day transportation passes, paid by credit or debit card. You can still buy a 1, 2 or 3 day pass and physical tokens at the Dockyard Visitor Service Center, but queues at the VSC after a ship docks are long. The app skips the line. 
     
  • 1-Day adult transportation pass: $19 
  • 2-Day: $31.50 
  • 3-Day: $44 
  • 7-Day: $62 
  • Children rates roughly half 
  • One-way bus or ferry token: $2.75 to $4.50 depending on zones 
    •  
    Cash is still accepted in exact change on buses (bus drivers usually accept dollar bills as well but you won't get any change back). 
     
    See Bermuda's Bus Fares for details. 
     

    Taxis and Minibus Beach Shuttles

     
    Taxis line up at the end of North Arm. All are metered and government regulated. Blue Flag taxis have a blue flag or insignia on the bonnet and the drivers are certified tour guides at the same hourly rate (sometimes a little more), which is good value if you want a customized island tour. See Bermuda Taxi Service. 
     
    Private minibus beach shuttles run from near the cruise piers to Horseshoe Bay Beach at roughly fifteen-minute intervals during the day when ships are in port. One-way fare is $7 cash, no booking needed. First shuttle from Dockyard around 8am, last shuttle from Dockyard around 3pm, last shuttle back from Horseshoe around 6pm. 
     

    Minibus Island Tours from Dockyard

     
    Several private minibuses, holding 15 to 30 passengers each, run scheduled island tours out of Dockyard during the April to October cruise season. The half-day tour lasts 3 to 4 hours and covers the western end, Somerset Village, Southampton, Warwick and finishes in Hamilton. The full-day tour adds St George at the eastern end, a south-shore beach stop, and Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, with a lunch break. 
     
    Drivers double as guides with an onboard mic and audio system. These are sold on a per-person basis from the kiosks near the cruise piers, no reservation needed for set departures, or you can charter a minibus privately for your own group. If you are a party of 2 to 7 and want flexibility instead of a fixed route, a Blue Flag taxi tour is the better fit. 
     
    See Minibus Tours of Bermuda for complete information. 
     

    Scooter, Bicycle and Twizy Rentals

     
    Oleander Cycles and Elbow Beach Cycles (ScooterMart) both have outlets in Dockyard for scooter and bicycle rental. See Scooter Rentals in Bermuda and Bicycle rentals in Bermuda for complete details. 
     
    Current Vehicles rents the Twizy, a small two-seat electric microcar produced by Renault that has become Bermuda's signature alternative to a scooter. It is enclosed, easier to drive than a moped, and has charging stations including one at the Dockyard. If you cannot ride a two-wheeler, this is your best option for a day of independent island exploration. Overnight parking near the cruise pier is free. See Mini Car rentals in Bermuda. 
     

    Free Electric Tram Shuttle

     
    A free electric tram circulates inside the Dockyard when ships are in port. It loops past Clock Tower Mall, the museum and the cooperage area. Hop-on hop-off. The stop is at the land end of North Arm, just to the left after you walk off the ship. 
     
    Dockyard Electric Tram Bermuda 
     

    Facilities at Kings Wharf

     
    Visitor Service Center at 2 Dockyard Terrace, run by the BTA, about 450 meters from the cruise piers. Free Handy Reference Map, brochures, transport passes and tour booking touchscreens. Hours are typically Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:30am to 4pm, Wednesday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm. 
     
    Wi-Fi Internet: Free at the Visitor Service Center (network "BERMUDA"). Paid Bluewave Wi-Fi blankets the rest of the Dockyard. An unlocked phone with a local SIM is the smoothest option. 
     
    ATMs: At Clocktower Mall and outside Frog and Onion. Bermuda dollars are 1:1 with US dollars and US cash is accepted everywhere. 
     
    Restrooms: Inside Clocktower Mall and at Victualling Yard. 
     
    Old red phone booths near Frog and Onion still work, mostly kept as a photo prop. 
     
    Dockyard Phone Booths 
    Photo: mldestefano/Pixabay 
     

    Best Time to Visit Kings Wharf

     
    Cruise season aligns with Bermuda's high season, May to October. Air temperature sits in the 80s Fahrenheit, water is warm, and every restaurant and tour operator is running. April and November are shoulder months with fewer ships and some seasonal closures. Winter (December to March) is quiet, the Orange Route ferry pauses, and many tour operators wind down. See Weather in Kings Wharf. 
     

    A Final Pro-Tip for Cruise Passengers

     
    On your last day in port, do not stray far. All-aboard time is typically 90 minutes before departure and the queue back through security tightens as it approaches. 
     
    If your ship leaves in the afternoon, spend the morning in Hamilton or St George via ferry and the afternoon inside the Dockyard so you are five minutes from your gangway. If it leaves in the evening, you have time for one more pink-sand beach run by bus #7 to Horseshoe Bay. 
    About the Author
    Raj Bhattacharya By Raj Bhattacharya
    Raj has been writing about Bermuda since 2008, when he launched bermuda-attractions.com, one of the longest-standing independent guides to the island. A Certified Bermuda Specialist (Bermuda Tourism Authority), his work draws on personal visits, local contacts in Bermuda, and questions and trip reports from thousands of readers over the years.
     
     

    Related Articles

     
     
    1) Check out Bermuda Cruises to know about the currently scheduled cruises to Bermuda, review of the cruises, on board amenities, schedules and more. 
     
    2) Sandys Parish: Other great attractions, restaurants, hotels etc in the parish. 
     
    3) Bermuda Ports: About all the ports in Bermuda including Hamilton City and St. George. 
     
    4) Kings Wharf day trip tips 
     

    Viewers' Stories and Comments

     
     
    Tim (May 2023) 
    Hi, We are cruising to Bermuda in June. We want to rent a scooter to be free to travel around for at least one day. I noticed that most rental locations in the Dockyard area close at 5PM. 
     
    If we rent starting at 10:00 AM til 10:00 AM the next day, is there a possibility to return the scooter after hours or a safe place to park it for the night so I can return the scooter the next morning. Thank you for your help. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) May 2023 
    Hi, there is scooter parking right next to the cruise pier at Royal Naval Dockyard. You can safely park your scooter there overnight. A scooter usually comes with a lock; you should lock it when unattended. 
     
    Bernadine Greer (July 2022) 
    Please advise of the most reliable mode of transportation from cruise port to Horseshoe Bay Beach. I've been reading reviews on the cruise blogs of the unreliability of taxis, buses etc. 
     
    The shuttle is what I would prefer being a senior and having done the hill before. The cruise company offers reliable transportation but at a premium price of approx 50.00 per person. Thank you. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) July 2022 
    Hello, You should be able to get the shuttle service both ways ($7 each way). Try to avoid the public buses... when cruise ships are in port, there are long queues for buses and there can be a long wait before you are able to board an overcrowded bus. 
     
    There are also taxis, but they are much more expensive. Note that the Shuttle service from Dockyard starts at around 8am and their last service from Horseshoe is at around 5:30pm by which time all cruise passengers would have left the beach. 
     
    Cathy (May 2022) 
    Greetings.... I have a question. We are arriving by cruise ship in the next couple of weeks. Our ship docks at dockyard at 11:30 AM. I see a ferry leaving at 11:45 going to St George. 
     
    Is there any chance, this ferry will depart a little bit later than that to accommodate the cruise ship passengers ? The ferry after that one would be 3:00, not really giving us much time there since the last ferry back to dockyard is 6:00. Thank you so much !! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) May 2022 
    Hello, it takes only 3-4 minutes to walk down to the ferry dock from the cruise berths. Cruise passengers queue up to get off as soon as the cruise ship docks and many walk down to the ferry dock. 
     
    You should have enough time to board the ferry if you are ready to deboard and walk. The ferry will wait until all in the queue have boarded or the ferry gets full. 
     
    Sharon (January 2020) 
    Are all ship services open and available for use by passengers while in port such as meals, activities, shows at night, food, bars, and casino? I'm assuming you sleep on the ship. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) January 2020 
    Cruise lines making regular calls to Bermuda (including NCL, RCI etc) keep their casinos open between 9pm to 5am while on port. Shops in the cruise ships are usually closed but all other onboard services including food, bar, shows remain open. 
     
    Charlie (December 2019) 
    Is it possible to safely ride a bike from the cruise dock at Kings Wharf to the start of the Railway Trail at Somerset and Beacon Hill Rd? Or do you suggest taking transit? Thanks 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) December 2019 
    The road is quite narrow with 2-way traffic between dockyard entry gate all the way to Somerset. While some do it, it may not be quite safe for tourists biking first time in Bermuda. 
     
    A private transit with a bike is also not quite doable as buses or taxis won't allow a bike on board. There is a guided bike tour available at Dockyard that offers boat/bus a transit + exploring the western section of the railway trail. Go through the Bike tour on railway trail page for details. 
     
    Jo Wright (May 2019) 
    We are wanting to rent either scooters or minicars for 24hrs while our ship is docked.  Is there available public parking near the cruise ship terminal?  Is the area safe enough to leave a rental? Thank You. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) May 2019 
    Yes there is a parking near the cruise berths and that's safe. All cruise passengers park their rentals there. 
     
    Lori B (April 2019) 
    Hello! I am trying to determine the best way to travel from Kings Wharf to St George with stops along the way back to the ship. I'm thinking we should take a ferry one way to St George.  
     
    After exploring there, we want to take the bus back to the ship so that we can stop at different locations, such as The Swizzle Inn, Warwick Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Somerset Bridge, and maybe other places but thats the basic path Im thinking of so far. 
     
    Is it best to continue on by bus to the dockyard or take the ferry from Somerset Village at that point?  Also wondering if there is some type of combination bus/ferry pass. Thank you for your assistance. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) April 2019 
    Hi, there is a transport pass (works for both public buses and ferries) which you can purchase at the Royal Naval Dockyard (referred as Kings Wharf by the cruise lines but it happens to be the name of the pier). You can get it right next to the pier ...expect long queues though. 
     
    Somerset village is almost next to the dockyard... both are in the same parish (Sandys)... so why take a ferry from Somerset which might take you elsewhere?  
     
    Take a bus from St. George... bus #10, 11, 1 or 3... all good for gulping rum swizzles at Swizzle Inn. Continue on one of these buses to get to Hamilton city (preferably #10 or 11 because the route is shorter). 
     
    At Hamilton City you have two options... if the rum swizzle is too much on you by now, take the ferry (blue route) straight back to the dockyard (20 minutes), otherwise take bus #7 to Warwick Long Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Somerset Bridge etc... the same bus would take you to the dockyard... however at Somerset Bridge, you will also get bus #8 to get to the dockyard. 
     
    Not sure how will you time this 'Basic Path', but if time still permits, try to visit Gibbs Hill Lighthouse near Horseshoe Bay Beach. St George to Dockyard by bus (with a transfer at Hamilton) would easily take more than two hours non-stop. Good luck! 
     
    Karen Gaither (October 2018) 
    A year or two ago we visited Bermuda on the celebrity cruise ship the Summit. A small train came right to the door of the ship to take passengers to the clock tower to shop.. It seems now we have to walk to the end of the dock. 
     
    Being seniors who really can't walk that distance (the cruise ship managed to get my 86 year old husband to the end of the dock we took the train.. But found ourselves stranded when we were done.. Spoke to cruise ship they suggested we contact you.. We are trying to plan our annual cruise Sept 1 of 2019 and would like to know if the service has been improved.. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) October 2018 
    Hello, the authorities at Royal Naval Dockyard (WEDCO) can give you the official response. The trolley train (a free shuttle) moves through the dockyard during summer and between 8:30am to 6pm. 
     
    It stops at various points within the dockyard including several attractions, shops, restaurants etc and one can hop on and off. Cruise ship passengers can board the train at the stop located at the end of North Arm (a 120-meter walkway from the cruise berths). It won't come right up to the cruise piers. 
     
    Michelle P (September 2018) 
    Hi - Does the Fun Bus still run from St George (2018)? Is there any easier way to get to Gombeys from the Dockyard? Also - what would be the best beach for easy access for an 86 year old - short walk, soft sand and facilities? Thanks so much  for your help! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) September 2018 
    Hi, the direct fun bus from dockyard to St. George/St. Davids was introduced only as an experimental case and there is no such regular service.To get to Gombeys bar on Clearwater beach at St. Davids, you can take a ferry to St. George and then bus #6 (not all services reach Clearwater, so ask the driver). 
     
    Snorkel Park Beach is within dockyard itself, short walk from the piers and has all facilities. There are regular services of beach shuttles (minibuses) from the dockyard to Horseshoe bay beach. The beach shuttle goes right up to the parking lot and then it's a short walk to the beach. Horseshoe has all facilities. One way fare is $7 per person. 
     
    Stephen Todaro (September 2018) 
    Just found out that the Norwegian Escape will not be visiting Bermuda as scheduled next Wednesday. Was this decision made because the port was closed by Bermuda authorities or did Norwegian make the decision. Best Regards, 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) September 2018 
    It seems Norwegian is cancelling cruise calls to Bermuda because of hurricane Florence. 
     
    Karen (August 2018)  
    Hi first I want to thank you for all the details on your side. It's very helpful. I am traveling with a group of 20 to Bermuda via cruise. Since we have elderly and young kids, I am trying to plan the best way to get to horseshoe bay without chaos. I am sure everyone on the boat will be rushing to get tickets at the dockyard. I want my family to be set and not having to line up for a long time. Do you have any contacts that I can reserve the minibus ahead of time or even hire the driver for a day? 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) August 2018 
    Hi, minibuses in Bermuda can usually seat up to 15 persons. There are several companies that offer minibuses to private groups for transfers and tours. Here are few minibus operators...  
     
    Ricky's Minibus (Email: Email: [email protected]), 
    Brown's Minivan (Email: [email protected]), 
    Bermuda Triangle Tours (Email: [email protected]), 
    Titan Express has buses with a capacity of 24 (Email: [email protected]). 
     
    Scott (August 2018) 
    When renting a scooter for 24 hours, is there a place to park them if your staying on the ship? Thanks for your time. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) August 2018 
    Yes, there is ample scooter parking near the cruise piers at Royal Naval Dockyard (the main cruise port). 
     
    Cristina Gentile (April 2018) 
    Hello! Coming into the dockyard on a cruise in July. Just wondering what the closest and best beach option would be. I don't want to be taking a few buses or other modes or transportation to get there so looking for the easiest option. I know snorkel park is right there but just wondering your suggestion. Daniel's Head? I'm into photography so definitely want a cool atmosphere aside from beautiful water. I know Jobson's Cove has cool rock/cove areas but that is a hike from dockyard, no? Thanks! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) April 2018 
    Hi, there are hardly any sidewalks once you go out of the dockyard (cruise port) main gate. While Snorkel Park is located within the cruise port area itself, it's a man-made commercial beach and is not ideal for photography. Black Bay and Sea Glass beaches are about 20-minute walk from dockyard. They are small beaches. Sunset view from Black Bay is excellent. You need a transport for most other beaches. Bus stop for Jobsons Cove is about 40-minute away from dockyard by bus. Suggest you go through the page Beaches in and around dockyard. 
     
    Erica Gonzalez (July 2017) 
    Catching a mini bus or cab was very easy. We docked at the Royal dockyard and as soon as you walk down the pier the taxi stand is there. We were a group of 19 and the transportation officers were very helpful in trying to get us in 1 minibus but they ended up having to split us into 2. The driver was friendly and informative. It was only $7pp each way to Horseshoe Beach. Definitely look forward to returning and have no concerns about catching cab or minibus instead of paying the cruise line for transportation to the beach and only get to be there 2 hours.  We caught the minibus at 11am and didn't head back until 4pm. 
     
    Susan Fahl (June 2017) 
    Sorry to bother you but you have a webcam at kings wharf that is brilliant, I watch it all the time BUT could someone do something about the audio or speaker that is attached to it. It is getting worse by the day, you cant make out the hooters, the bell nothing any more it is getting so bad. It cant be that hard to repair the speaker or something so that the sound is better thanks. 
     
    Erica (March 2017) 
    Hi, I just found your site and the information is very helpful.  I am traveling with a group of 21 and not interested in booking transportation through cruise line to Horseshoe Bay.  You were the only site I found with rates on the shuttle. I wanted to know if they can accommodate our group and where would I go to board or pay for it? thanks 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, March 2017) 
    Hi, most shuttles are 15-seaters, few have larger capacity. Shuttles line up near the cruise pier. You can pay directly to the driver or buy tickets in front of the shuttles. 
     
    Laura Cohen (July 2016) 
    You mentioned in one of your transportation questions that the quickest way to obtain the 15 ticket (for bus and ferry) travel option from the Dockyard (arriving Wednesday am on the Celebrity Summit) would be for one member of my group to go to the Mangrove Post Office in Somerset and then bring the tickets back to the pier. I found the appropriate bus schedule and determined that the earliest buses to Somerset were at 8:50, 9:20, 9:50 and 10:20. 
     
    I'd just like to ask (because I couldn't find a specific list of times at EACH stop in both directions) about what time a bus might depart Somerset, going back to the Dockyard. I assume it will take a good 1/2 hour for my husband to locate the Post Office - Mangrove/Somerset, purchase the tickets and find his way back to the bust stop, but want to make sure that we don't waste the whole first morning just trying to get organized. 
     
    Additionally, I was wondering if you have any idea how long the lines (at the Dockyard) are to purchase the 1 day passes, as my husband was thinking of either bringing exact change for that first bus ride to Somerset vs. buying a 1 day pass, just for himself, so that the first round-trip to Somerset isn't a total waste of money. 
     
    Thanks for being so patient with all of our complex tourist questions. Your patience clearly knows no bound and you are to be congratulated on helping so many strangers to enjoy Bermuda to the fullest! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, July 2016) 
    Hi, it takes 53 minutes (on an average) for a bus to reach Somerset from Hamilton and another 9 minutes to reach dockyard. So refer to the bus schedule (of route #7 or 8), add 53 minutes to the start time at Hamilton, and you will get the timings when the buses would be at Somerset while heading towards dockyard. Unfortunately, there is no other easier way to know. 
     
    Here is another option, instead of taking a bus, your husband can take a ferry to Hamilton (paying by cash). Takes 20 minutes one way. Tickets, passes and tokens are available at Hamilton ferry terminal itself. He can then return by the next ferry. This may be easier. If he can take the first ferry at 7:30am, he can be back at the dockyard by 9am. Check the ferry schedule for all timings. 
     
    Sometimes there are long queues at the Visitors Information Centers (VICs) at the dockyard, particularly when more than one cruise ships are on port. In such a case, it's better to avoid the VICs located next to the berths, and instead walk down to the one few minutes away. Chances are that this VIC would have a shorter queue. 
     
    Jeannie (July 2016) 
    Hello!  I will be visiting Bermuda at the end of August.  Very excited as I have been wanting to visit for over 15 years.  Just finally making this happy!  :) Anyway, my question is that we will be docking at the Royal Naval Dockyard.  Can we get either passes or tickets there still using a credit / debit card and / or cash? Thank you!  :) 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, July 2016) 
    Only one-day pass is available at the dockyard. You can however pay by cash in both bus and ferry in exact change in either US or Bermuda currency (only coins). You will get all passes, tickets and tokens at Hamilton ferry or bus terminal. 
     
    Robyn Fransen (July 2016) 
    We are sailing in on NCL Dawn on the 10/7/16 sailing and would like to go to the aquarium and crystal caves for a day.  I don't believe we will be doing any other traveling around the island so after reading all the information it would appear that purchasing tokens would be the least expensive but appears that they are not available at the dockyard.  Is there anywhere close to the pier that they are available or at that point are we just better off paying cash fare?  Thank you so much for your help! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, July 2016) 
    Pay in cash for the Hamilton ferry. At Hamilton ferry terminal you can buy tokens or even tickets for rest of your travel (up and down). 
     
    Carol Szymendera (July 2016) 
    Raj, My family and I will be cruising to Bermuda (Kings Wharf) next week. Some is us would like to visit Horseshoe Bay and are somewhat confused about getting there. From what we are reading, there was a shuttle from the pier but it was discontinued. Now we are reading that there is a shuttle/cab service at $7. per person each way. Can you please help us figure this out. Thank you so much. Your articles have been very helpful answering many of our questions and we are looking forward to visiting Bermuda as a family! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, July 2016) 
    Last year the shuttles were run by the dockyard management. This year these are private shuttles. To the cruise passengers, there is no difference. There are shuttles to the beach with one-way fare of $7 per person. 
     
    Cliff (June 2016) 
    You have to take a short walk away from the royal naval dockyard to reach the public bus area. There is a canopy and chairs set up for your wait, but when the driver arrived, he only took a few people saying he had to "leave room for the locals". Mini buses by the dock are the best way to get to Horseshoe Bay - $7 one-way and do like we did--explore!!! Traveled by NCL cruise ship, 1st week June 2016. 
     
    Louis Iocco (April 2016) 
    The VICs in Dockyard do not sell ticket or token for the bus for 4 adults going to horseshoe bay. We were obliged to pay in cash BUT, bill is not accepted (quite crazy !!). So obliged to find 20 coins of 1 dollar. Welcome to French tourists in Bermuda. 
     
    Alex Witte (March 2016) 
    Can someone tell me from the Royal Naval Dockyard where is the closest place for me to buy the 15 ticket booklet and what bus or route to take to get to there and approximately how long. Thanks. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, March 2016) 
    You get bus/ferry tickets at Somerset Post Office - about 10 minutes by bus (#7 or 8). Also at Hamilton Bus/Ferry Terminal (take Blue Route Ferry - 20 minutes to Hamilton ferry). 
     
    Kim Baker (February 2016) 
    Our family will be visiting Bermuda this summer on the Norwegian Breakaway. Horseshoe Bay is on our list of places to visit. Our 10 year old daughter has special needs and uses a wheelchair. Will the mini bus from the Dockyard to Horseshoe Bay be able to accommodate her and her wheelchair- it folds up like an umbrella stroller. Also, do you know if Horseshoe Bay has a sand wheelchair available for rent once we get to the beach? 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, February 2016) 
    Hi, usually the beach shuttles do not take wheelchairs of any kind. However you can make a request to the driver. Sometimes depending on how full the bus is and extra space availability, they may allow. Beach wheelchairs are available on rent at Horseshoe bay beach but in limited number. You should not depend on that particularly on high season. Your best option would be to take a taxi (most take folding wheelchairs in the boot). 
     
    Carrie (January 2016) 
    Can you please tell me exactly which buses to take and how to get from Royal Naval Dockyard to Gibbs lighthouse then to horseshoe bay beach and back to the royal naval dockyard? Thanks. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, January 2016) 
    Take bus #7 from Dockyard. For Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, get off at Lighthouse Road stop on South Road (about 30 minutes by bus). From there a walk for bout 220 yards along Lighthouse Road and then left into St. Anne's Road for 100 yards to reach the lighthouse. After the visit, get back to South Road. You can then walk for about a mile along South Road (towards east) or take bus #7 again. You will reach Horseshoe Road which goes downhill to Horseshoe Bay Beach (about 450 yards). From the beach you walk back up (there is also a shuttle) to the South Road bus stop. Take bus #7 for dockyard (going towards west). You will be back at the dockyard in about 35 minutes. 
     
    Chris (August 2015) 
    Dear Sir, Is the paid WiFi at Royal Naval Dockyard (Kings Wharf and Heritage Wharf) able to be used in the cruise ship? Range wise? Thank you! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, August 2015) 
    Yes if you are closer to the cruise pier (i.e. landside). Wi-fi signal may be weak towards the water side. 
     
    Cathy (August 2015) 
    We are arriving on the Celebrity Summit next week . Can you please tell me the closest place to the dockyard where I can purchase books of 15 transit tickets. Thanks 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, August 2015) 
    Take a bus and go down to Mangrove Bay Post Office (closed on weekends) or take a ferry to Hamilton ferry terminal - you can get book of tickets at both places. Buy token or pay by cash for the first time. 
     
    Pat Fleming (July 2015) 
    I have a map of Bermuda that was sent to me and it says the dockyard is a WiFi hot spot. How does that work? If I have my IPad can I use it free or do I need to get a card or something to use it? 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, July 2015) 
    Not free. You can pay online from your iPad or Laptop with your credit card and use the wifi. 
     
    Lisa Shire (April 2015) 
    Hi, Once docked at King's Wharf, where can I purchase the Booklet of 15 Tickets for the ferry? In your info, it looks as if that is not available at the Visitor's Center. What would be the closest place, in proximity to the cruise ship, to make this purchase. Thank you so much! 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, April 2015) 
    Hi, Nearest place from Kings Wharf to get bus/ferry tickets is Mangrove Bay Post Office located at Somerset, Mangrove Bay Road (8am to 5pm, Mon-Fri). Take bus #7 or 8 from the dockyard and go down to the post office (8 minutes ride), pay one way fare in exact change (Bermuda or US currency). 
     
    Stephen Rescsanski (February 2015) 
    A very comprehensive, easy to find information about Bermuda and what it offers. Well done. Web site almost a secret that should not be. Been to the pub at the Dockyard and never knew it had a brew tour, dine and taste. Ditto minivans and the easy to find cost for 'Regular' service from the dockyard. One question 16.99 total trip or free to the beach and 16.00 to get back or take alternate way?(Just the way the cost is stated). Have recommended your site to several others. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, February 2015) 
    Thanks for your comments. $16 is the total round trip fare from the dockyard to the beach and back. 
     
    Deborah Perry (June 2013) 
    We are interest in purchasing a 3day pass. Are the passes available at the Kings Wharf Docksite? Does the bus + Ferry run from Kings Wharf 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, June 2013) 
    Hi, yes, you will get the passes from the visitors information center located at the dockyard itself (close to the cruise ship pier). There is a ferry dock at the dockyard. You can take the Blue Line ferry for Hamilton City (20 minutes) and Orange Line ferry for St George (35 minutes). Bus #7 and 8 run between dockyard and Hamilton (takes about 1 hour). Bus #7 goes by the beautiful south shore beaches including Horseshoe Bay Beach. 
     
    David McLaughlin (June 2013) 
    I am going to be cruising to Bermuda in July and will be there for three days. We were wondering what time the stores/activities close during the week at the Dockyard as we would rather explore elsewhere and then come back to the Dockyard but not sure of the hours. Thanks, 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, June 2013) 
    Hi, The stores at the Clocktower Mall in dockyard (about 25 of them ) are open from 9am to 6pm during summer. On Mondays they usually stay open until 10pm because of the ongoing weekly festival 'Destination Dockyard' held at the dockyard complex. Regards, 
     
    Sladjana (June 2013) 
    Can I rent a scooter near Kings Wharf? 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, June 2013) 
    Yes you can. Oleander Cycles has a branch at the dockyard and rents scooters (phone: 441/234 2764) 
     
    Paul (June 2013) 
    Where can I buy Coors light, or any other American domestic beer in King's Warf, Bermuda? 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, June 2013) 
    Hi Paul, I'm not sure if you can get Coors Light in the dockyard. But you will get Budweiser, Bud Lite etc at Bonefish Bar and Grill located at the Dockyard (Kings Wharf area). A bottle costs $6.95. The Bonefish bar is located next to the dockyard ferry point. 
     
    Susanne (May 2013) 
    I will be visiting Bermuda, via Royal Caribbean cruise, on Aug5+6. The cruise ship offers many excursions, but I'm wondering if I can access the beach and town on my own. What is in walking distance from the dock? Can we walk to the craft market and snorkel park easily? Can snorkel equipment and lounges be rented there? How would we get into the town to see the colorful buildings? What do you recommend. We will only be in Bermuda all day on Monday Aug 5 and till 4pm on Tuesday 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, May 2013) 
    Hi, Yes the Craft Market and Snorkel Park Beach are inside the dockyard complex and within easy walking distance from the cruise pier. You can rent snorkel gears, lounge chairs and umbrellas at Snorkel Park, but they are quite expensive. There are several other great attractions in the dockyard which you can explore on foot. 
     
    You can easily access Hamilton City (the capital and the main commercial center) by ferry. Take the blue route direct ferry after lunch. It takes only 20 minutes to reach Hamilton from dockyard. You can then walk around and explore the place. Go through the self guided Hamilton Tour 
     
    I suggest that you buy a 2-day transport pass from the visitors information center at the dockyard (right next to the pier). That will give you unlimited hop on/off access to both buses and ferries for two days. On the second day, explore some of the beautiful south shore beaches like Horseshoe bay beach, Warwick Long Bay beach, Church Bay Beach, Elbow Beach etc. The bus #7 from dockyard goes by all these beaches, and you can hop on and off. On your return, you can again take bus #7 to get back. 
     
    Crystal Johnson (May 2013) 
    I know the cruise ships usually sell stamps but if they dont't do you know if I can purchase stamps at the Visitor's Center? Also, are their mailboxes at port (King's Wharf) or do I need to go to a post office to mail post cards? 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, May 2013) 
    You will get postage stamps only in Post Offices. I haven't seen any mailbox in the dockyard. Here is a link to all the post offices in Bermuda: Bermuda Post Offices 
     
    Richard Dempski (February 2013) 
    Hi, Do all three Visitor Information Centres at Kings Wharf sell buss/ferry passes. I would think that they get very crowded when the ship lets 3000 people off at one time. Are there any other places at the Dockyard that we can pick up a pass? Can a pass be bought and sent to the U.S.? This is a great website! Thank you for your help.  
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com, February 2013) 
    Hi, Passes are available at all the Visitor Information Centers (VICs). Only if you know somebody in the island, can the passes be bought in advance and sent across. There is no other way, since the passes are available and issued only in the island. Other than the VICs, there is no other place issuing passes in the dockyard. Another option is to take a bus, pay exact change and go to the nearest Post Office in Sandys to buy the passes. This is however possible during the regular office hours on week days only. Regards. 
     
    Carole Holding, Bermuda (January 2013) 
    Raj, its me Carole holding, Happy new year. Just read yesterday your comments about Bermuda Duty Free Shopping. I own and operated for 3 years now a large duty free shop in Dockyard at Heritage Wharf, the only shop there which services the Norwegian Cruise line and other ships who berth at Heritage Wharf pier during the cruise season!!!  
     
    Though you should know... The approximate 900 sq. ft. shop also sells a large variety of my products at below normal Bermuda retail prices that are offered in all my other shops because of this duty free location. I also offer daily RUM tasting and rum cake tasting to passengers at this pier. Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Breakaway as well as selling Duty Free liquor to passengers. 
     
    Kathryn Correia Grossman 
    The reason that the huge ships can get into the Kings Wharf and Heritage Wharf but not the Hamilton Docks is a quietly kept historical secret... under Brezhnev's rule and the days of the cold war and extreme spying (1980), a Russian submarine was spotted just off Bermuda spying on the US submarines that docked in Dockyard and St. Georges. Ronald Reagan enacted the Star Wars Project in response to Russia doing all they could to spy and access American War technology. 
     
    The U.S. Government wanted their nuclear submarines to sail into Bermuda right to the dock without surfacing so satellites could not detect them. They contacted with the Bermuda and British Government and put out to tender a $1 million dollar job to dynamite and dredge the Bermuda channel and the dockyards area which my father won the contract for. It was either 1978 or 1984 I believe. The entire channel was dredged and blasted to a very deep level. It was a quietly done project. The bid my father submitted went to Virginia. That's the reason the big ships can birth there and not in other parts of Bermuda. Town Cut in St. George's was also dredged. During the dredging canons were dug up, old Bermuda bottles and British navy memorabilia were donated to the Dockyards by my father. 
     
    Margie Riley 
    I am coming to Bermuda (dockyard) on a cruise ship with about 80 passengers, most of them students. I would like to take them to Horseshoe Bay. Is there a bus that I can hire for this? Also, is there anyplace near the cruise ship port that this group can perform? They are a high school band. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) 
    Hi, Contact Beeline Transport to see if they can help for Horseshoe transfer. You will get their contact info here: Bermuda Tours by Bus. Contact WEDCO (West Development Corporation running administration of the dockyard) for performance venue. Email: [email protected]; Phone: (441)234-1709 
     
     
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