Bermuda’s pink sandy beaches might seem a world away from the bustle of the Big Apple, but dozens of cruises depart from New York for the island every month.
Front Street in the heart of Bermuda’s colourful capital (Photo: Kino via Unsplash)
Bermuda is a popular pit stop on most cruises from North America for good reason. From its jaw-dropping marine life to upmarket restaurants, the island serves up unique thrills for every type of traveller. Different cruise liners offer different itineraries, but you can get to the island and back in as little as four days, all while soaking in the luxury amenities of a cruise. Cruises either depart from the Manhattan or Brooklyn Terminal and dock in Kings Wharf. With so many to choose from, we’ve selected five of the best cruises to Bermuda from NYC based on itinerary, customer reviews and value for money.
4 Nights with Norwegian Cruise Line
This short and sweet cruise is perfect for those looking for a quick shot of sunshine with minimal annual leave. Departing from New York at 5 pm on a Friday, passengers can enjoy a whole day in Kings Wharf, Bermuda’s historic British naval base and gateway to the tropical island. The port is well set up for tourists, with a slew of restaurants, boutiques and maritime sights, as well as dozens of water activities, from kayaking to fishing tours. Aboard the Norwegian Joy, there’s the all-new Thermal Suite – an exclusive adults-only complex with Beach Club and private cabanas, a two-level race track and high-spec fitness facilities. From $479 per person
5 Nights with Norwegian Cruise Line
The Norwegian Getaway, one of NCL’s most popular liners (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line)
If one day on the island feels too fleeting, this five night cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line is an excellent option. Passengers are treated to two full days in Bermuda, with plenty of time to explore the island’s famous pink-sand beaches, historic monuments and renowned golf courses. Back on board the Norwegian Getaway, four-course meals, late-night casinos and all-night dancing awaits. The Getaway is one of the company’s most sociable ships, with a three-deck open space designed for mingling. An excellent option for those looking to socialise as well as sight-see. From $499 per person.
6 Nights with Carnival Cruises
Guests are guaranteed a good time with Carnival Cruises, which prides itself on its “full-on-fun”. The Carnival Venezia offers a dizzying calendar of stage shows, musical performances and deck parties, water parks and rollercoasters, themed restaurants and casinos. This itinerary includes three full days at sea to make the most of the ship’s offerings, as well as two days in Bermuda. Like most liners, ships dock at Kings Wharf though Carnival is particularly good at organising excursions, from world-class golf courses to underwater shipwrecks to proper afternoon tea. This is one for active families who don’t shy away from organized fun. From $499 per person.
7 Nights with MSC Cruises
The Yacht Club aboard the MSC Meraviglia (Photo: MSC Cruises)
Those looking to spend longer on the island should opt for a cruise that docks in the port for a few nights, like this eight-day trip aboard the MSC Meraviglia. Passengers get a full three days to explore, with plenty of opportunities to arrange trips from the popular port. The itinerary includes two full days at sea – ample time to make the most of MSC’s newest ship. Adults can enjoy access the the MSC Yacht Club, Aurea Spa and the upmarket Galleria Meragiglia, while little ones will love the multiple pools, kids clubs and family-friendly entertainment. From $419 per person.
17 Nights with MSC Cruises
This epic 18 day cruise combines three full days of sand and sunshine in Bermuda, with five days in the colder climes of North America and Canada. Cruises depart from Manhatten and stop at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda for three days, before moving on to New York, Boston, Sydney (Canada), Charlottetown, Saint John and Portland. The itinerary includes seven glorious days at sea aboard the MSC Meraviglia in between. From $1039 per person.