When considering the best time to go on a cruise, there are multiple factors that have to be accounted for — namely the region you want to sail. The best time for a Caribbean cruise isn’t going to be the same as the best time for a northern Europe or Alaska voyage, for example. Other factors like cost, weather, and crowds might also be things you take into consideration.

To help you figure out when you should best aim for taking a cruise, we’re breaking down our recommendations by region.

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How to Pick the Best Time to Go on a Cruise

Caribbean and Bahamas

There isn’t necessarily any “bad” time to cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas, with the region welcoming cruise ships all year-round. However there are things to take into consideration, such as hurricane season which runs from June through November. Prices tend to be a bit cheaper from September through November, because of this and because kids are back in school.

Weather and crowd-wise, we recommend taking a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise in the January to mid-May time period, not counting school break weeks. The weather is more mild this time of year, it’s not hurricane season, and crowds shouldn’t be quite as heavy when school is in session.

Alaska

The Alaska cruise season generally runs from mid-April through September; cruise ships don’t sail in the region when it’s at its coldest throughout the winter. Of the cruising season, there isn’t a clear-cut answer when it comes to when is “best.”

To avoid crowds, choose a voyage during the shoulder season in April, May, or September. The least rainy month is May, while the warmest (and busiest) will be July and August. Certain times of the Alaska cruise season also increase your chances of seeing wildlife and/or the Norther Lights.

Mediterranean

Cruise ships sail in the Mediterranean all year long, but the primary season runs from April into early November. For more mild weather and less crowds than during the busy summer season, aim for a Mediterranean voyage in early May or September.

For the lowest crowds, look for one of the few voyages sailing in the winter or early spring. If you’re looking for warmth and sunbathing weather, June and July are good bets — avoid August if possible due to the hottest temperatures and highest crowd levels.

Mexican Riviera

There isn’t really a “bad” time to cruise to Mexico’s west coast, as the weather ranges from balmy to hot the majority of the year, and cruise ships sail there year-round.

For warm weather that isn’t too hot and the best chance at no rain, look to visit the Mexican Riviera during the winter and into early spring. As long as you avoid time periods where kids are off from school (Christmas break, winter break, spring break, etc.), you’ll also encounter fewer crowds during this timeframe.

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Bermuda

The Bermuda cruise season generally runs from late March into early November. For mild weather, cheaper cruise fares, and fewer crowds, try to sail right at the beginning of the season in April or May. If you don’t mind spring break crowds, Good Friday and Easter is a fun time to visit Bermuda as there are lots of fun treats to eat and a Good Friday kite flying event at Horseshoe Bay Beach.

If enjoying the fanfare of a yacht racing event is more your speed, try to plan your cruise for the end of April at the beginning of the Bermuda International Invitational Race Week.

Northern Europe

Though cruises are available in northern Europe year-round, you’ll find the largest amount of voyages during the warmer months in spring, summer, and the beginning of fall. The best season to take a cruise in northern Europe weather-wise is in the summer from June through August. If you’re okay with cooler weather and want fewer crowds, opt for a sailing in September or October.

Canada/New England

The best time to visit Canada and New England is highly subjective based on what your goal is in going there. If you want the warmest, sunniest weather to explore quaint coastal towns and cities on the northern Atlantic seaboard, July and August are your best bets.

But many travelers head to this region specifically to see the dazzling fall foliage, in which case the best time to visit is October. September can be a good middle ground, because crowds will thin out (as school is back in session) but the weather will still be warm. There’s also a chance to see the start of the leaves changing towards the end of the month, though it varies from year-to-year and is never guaranteed.

Australia/New Zealand

Cruises sail Down Under year-round, and there is no cut-and-dry answer as to when the best season is to sail. Different parts of the region experience different weather in relation to the seasons, and it comes down to what’s most important to you.

For sunny skies and hot days in many parts of the continent where cruise ships sail, take a cruise during the austral summer. Since the seasons are flipped for the northern and southern hemispheres, that means during our winter season, from around December through March.

Waiting until at least February or March is a good idea for avoiding crowds, as Australian and New Zealander kids’ summer break generally runs from mid-December through January. For a voyage in northern Australia, consider March or later, as the cyclone season runs through February.

Hawaii

Like many other regions, there isn’t really a “bad” time to visit Hawaii. Certain times of year are preferable than others based on one factor, but another time of year will be more desirable based on another factor.

If you want more mild weather that isn’t in the rainy season, consider April to May or September to October. For the least chance of a rain shower (but the hottest temperatures), take a cruise to Hawaii in June, July, or August. For the best prices, look into voyages that sail in November and early December.

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Comments

What’s your best time to go on a cruise? Which of these regions have you visited on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share what time of year you like to vacation.

The post How to Pick the Best Time to Go on a Cruise appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Ship Overview

Norwegian Joy is the second of four ships in NCL’s popular Breakaway Plus Class. Originally designed for the Chinese market when she launched in 2017, Norwegian Joy received a makeover in 2019 to appeal to the American market before setting sail in Alaska.

This ship is nearly 168K gross tons with a capacity of just over 3,800 guests at double occupancy. Since Norwegian Escape bears a closer resemblance to the Breakaway Class of ships, Norwegian Joy was the first vessel to debut many of the features and attractions that cruisers have come to love on this class of ships, like the Speedway, laser tag, and Galaxy Pavilion.

Yet, she does still retain other popular amenities that are no longer present on the newer ships in the fleet like a complimentary mini golf course and the adult-only Spice H2O.

Not to mention, the ship features the forward-facing Observation Lounge, two pools and whirlpools, a spa, the deck 8 Waterfront promenade, and Vibe Beach Club. There’s also two production shows, Footloose and Elements; however, Footloose will be ending as of October 28, 2023. Additionally, guests can find Beatles tribute bands in The Cavern Club; comedy shows in The Social; and all your other typical cruise activities from trivia to a silent disco and the GLOW party.

When it comes to dining, Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator of the Freestyle approach. Thus, Norwegian Joy features several specialty restaurants including the signature steakhouse Cagney’s, Le Bistro, Teppanyaki, and more. There’s also three complimentary main dining rooms, The Local Bar & Grill, and the Garden Café buffet. When you get thirsty, there’s plenty of bars to grab a drink too, including two of our favorites, the Sugarcane Mojito Bar and the District Brewhouse, along with two Starbucks locations.

Don’t worry, Norwegian’s Free at Sea has you covered with a free open bar, specialty dining, and even more perks. This offer features a Premium Beverage Package and 2-meal specialty dining package for a 7-day cruise (balcony and above). It is important to note that guests still need to pay the 20% gratuity on these free perks at the time of booking. Guests can also upgrade to the Free at Sea Plus for more inclusions like Starbucks.

Given we have sailed on all three of her sister ships, we were eager to complete the class with this cruise on Norwegian Joy. Plus, this Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda featured 3 days in port giving us plenty of time to explore onboard and ashore.

While we were actually sailing on this cruise, Norwegian Cruise Line announced some updates coming to Norwegian Joy in 2024. Some of these enhancements include the addition of a thermal suite to the Mandara Spa which will take the place of the Galaxy Pavilion and an expansion of the Vibe Beach Club which will replace the laser tag arena. Norwegian Joy will also see the addition of staterooms and the redesign of some Haven suites.

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Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 1

A Last Minute Cruise

With some changes to our July travel plans, we decided to book this rather last minute Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda. Using our Norwegian Cruise Line credit card reward points, we secured a guaranteed balcony cabin at a significantly discounted rate.

It had been over 7 years since we last cruised to Bermuda, and we couldn’t wait to get back. While we do live in the Boston area, we opted for a New York to Bermuda cruise instead of a Boston to Bermuda cruise simply because of the ship.

We really like NCL’s Breakaway Plus Class of ships. Having just sailed on Norwegian Encore to Alaska, we decided it was time to check out Norwegian Joy.

So, we took the approximately 4 hour drive into NYC the day before the sailing. Securing a hotel reservation at Ink48, we were just minutes away from the Manhattan cruise terminal on embarkation day.

It’s Embarkation Day

We opted to park at the cruise terminal and secured a reservation online in advance of our sailing. The parking fee is $45 per day, but your vehicle is conveniently stowed right onsite at the terminal.

Even though we had a 9:30 AM arrival time, we opted to head over a bit later. We checked out of the hotel around 10:30 AM and took the quick drive to the Manhattan terminal. Parked and our bags dropped off with porters, we headed into the terminal to begin the check-in process.

The terminal was actually quite busy, but the process only took about 20 minutes. We were assigned boarding group number 26, then proceeded to wait about an hour until we were allowed to board the ship. It was very hot in the terminal building–it seemed as though the air conditioning was not working.

Given that it was a rainy and wet day in NYC, the indoor areas of Norwegian Joy were fairly crowded already by the time we boarded around 12:30 PM. We headed straight to Deck 6 to make our remaining reservations. This included reservations for the comedy shows and racetrack in The Social. (We had already made reservations for the two productions shows, Elements and Footloose, online prior to the cruise.

Heading next door to Teppanyaki, we attempted to make additional dining reservations. Given our last minute booking, most of the specialty restaurants were sold out pre-cruise. Thankfully, we were able to secure a few additional restaurants.

With these loose ends tie up, and the weather preventing our normal “ship tour”, we decided to have lunch in the main dining room. Even though it was busy, we didn’t wait too long for a table.

While we had commented that the MDR food during our recent Encore sailing was much better than we remembered, this was not the case on Joy. My cobb salad was drenched in dressing and Don’s pork chop was rather dry and bland.

Are the Rooms Ready Yet?

Approaching 2 PM now and the rooms still not ready, we walked around the indoor spaces trying to grab some photos and videos where we could. We were able to secure shots of many of the specialty restaurants and the theater during this time.

We stopped in at our muster station near the theater to complete this mandatory requirement as well.

Now almost 3 PM, we decided to grab some Starbucks, which is included in the Free at Sea Plus. We needed this afternoon pick-me-up and a break from lugging around our carry-on bags.

Finally, an announcement was made around 3:30 PM that the cabins were ready. This is the latest we have ever experienced on any of our 70+ cruises.

We booked a guarantee balcony cabin and a couple weeks before the sailing were assigned cabin 13166. This BA category cabin is located on the portside, fairly close to the forward bank of elevators. This cabin was nearly identical to our cabin on Norwegian Encore a few weeks prior.

Given our luggage had already arrived, we took some time to capture content of our cabin and then unpack prior to sail away. We always make time to unpack and get settled in on embarkation day using our tried and true cabin hacks.

Since the rain had temporarily stopped, the sail away party on the pool deck was still a go. Albeit still very humid, we made our way up to Deck 16 for the rather uneventful party. With the ship not departing until close to 6 PM, we grabbed a sail away drink and some rail space on the sundeck to watch the New York skyline pass us by.

Our First Night Onboard Norwegian Joy

Back to our cabin around 6:30 PM, we changed up for our first specialty dinner at La Cucina. This Italian restaurant has been replaced by Onda on newer ships, so it had actually been several years since we dined here.

I started the meal with a margherita pizza, and Don ordered the calamari. We debated a pasta dish but ended up foregoing it and going straight to entrees instead. Don did the osso bucco, and I ordered the chicken cacciatore. While the food was good, it didn’t compare to Onda. Of course, we still couldn’t pass up some dessert. So, we finished up the meal with the cannoli and ricotta cheesecake.

Following dinner, we made our obligatory stop into the logo shop. But alas, there were no ship ornaments for our vacation tree.

Then, it was off to the theater for the first show of the cruise. Tonight, there was a headliner magician, Po, with his FANtast show. While there were some decent illusions including some Chinese fan acts, it was a pretty typical cruise ship show.

Where to next? Don won this battle, so to the District Brewhouse we went. With a drink in hand, we listened to the NCL favorite piano entertainer, Beau Tahana, for about a half hour before deciding to call it a night.

Tomorrow was our first sea day on Norwegian Joy.

Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 2

A Sunny Sea Day

Day 2 of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda was a sea day. We were up at 6:30 AM to get the day started. Don was working his full-time job the first few days of this trip, so he headed off early to get some photos and videos while I got ready.

It was a sunny and nice morning. To his surprise, the chair hogs were already out and about. This was a foreshadowing of how busy it was going to be all week.

Returning to the room with our morning Starbucks, we did work until lunchtime. For lunch today, we headed to The Local Bar & Grill. This complimentary venue is one of our go-to’s on NCL ships. Going with our classic choices, I did the chicken salad sandwich and Don did chicken wings. These never disappoint!

Now, it was time for a little sun. While it was almost impossible to find lounge chairs at this hour, we watched the Sexy Legs competition and explored some of the outdoor amenities like the laser tag, race track, and Spice H2O. The racetrack on Norwegian Joy is certainly smaller than other ships in this class, so we watched quite a few wipeouts on the turns.

The adults-only Spice H2O is a complimentary area aft on Deck 17. It features a bar and a large whirlpool. We do miss this space on newer ships in the fleet.

Dress Up or Not Night

Since this was NCL’s Dress Up or Not Night, the only specialty dinner reservation we could get was early at 5:30 PM. Thus, we had to curtail our sun time earlier than we would have liked. In any case, we headed up to the Observation Lounge for our afternoon coffee then back to the cabin to cool off and get ready for dinner.

Ana and Emily at this Starbucks were by far the best service we had on the ship all week! Not only were they great baristas, they were also friendly and already knew our drink orders by Day 2.

Tonight’s dinner was at Cagney’s, NCL’s classic steakhouse. To our surprise, we were greeted by a long line down the hallway when we arrived to the specialty restaurant for our reservation. It actually took about 20 minutes for us to be seated. Though, we did eventually get a nice table at the very aft of the venue overlooking the ship’s wake.

For starters, I went with a Caesar salad and Don tried the oysters along with his usual crab cake. Unfortunately, Cagney’s does not have a chicken option or a vegetarian dish on the menu. So, I asked the waitress for grilled chicken as my entrée with which she obliged. This time around, Don went with ribeye as his entrée. He actually enjoyed this steak better than his recent filet on Encore.

To round out the meal, we both went with the best dish on the menu– the OMG caramel-butterscotch cheesecake. You can’t beat this dessert!

The Crowds Continue

Out of dinner before 7:30 PM, we decided to head over to the Cavern Club. Knowing it was a longshot, we were hoping to get into tonight’s showing of Beatlemania. That was a big no! Actually, the Cavern Club on Norwegian Joy is even smaller than its counterparts on Bliss or Encore. This meant that passengers lined up close to an hour in advance to get seats.

If we can’t listen to the Beatles cover band, then we might as well continue our bar crawl. Next up was Malting’s Whiskey Bar. This venue’s location is another difference on Norwegian Joy. It is located on Deck 6 near The Social and Teppanyaki on this ship. This meant the bar was in a nice secluded spot and was a good size, but it did also mean that The Social was smaller than its newer counterparts.

While at Malting’s, you need to try the Blackberry Bourbon Smash. This cocktail is on tap and quite tasty.

After enjoying our cocktails for a bit, we headed over to the Atrium for this evening’s 8:30 PM game show Sing It If You Know It. While we don’t really like that the game shows are held in the Atrium on NCL, they are still always a good time.

Next up was our first visit to my favorite NCL bar, the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. Grabbing our go-to raspberry guava and jalapeno cucumber mojitos, we eventually made our way to the theater for our 10 PM showing of Footloose.

Footloose does require reservations, and unfortunately, this signature production show will no longer be featured on Norwegian Joy after October of this year. It’s unfortunate as we did think this show was much better than the one later in the week, Elements. We enjoy the Broadway shows, yet NCL seems to be phasing them off of their ships, which makes Royal Caribbean the clear winner when it comes to onboard entertainment.

The full runtime of the Footloose production was quite long, not ending until around 11:45 PM. Thus, we decided to call it a night after this performance. Tomorrow was another sea day, but we did need to turn our clocks ahead one hour to get ourselves on Bermuda time.

Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 3

Another Glorious Morning

Day 3 of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda was another sea day. Don had to work again this morning, so it was a similar routine. We were up by 6:30 AM, when he headed out to continue capturing content and returned with our morning coffee.

After a few meetings, we grabbed a late breakfast just before the buffet closed at 10:30 AM. It was quite busy making it difficult to find a seat. The only saving grace for me were that there were several omelet stations available with only short lines. The food was on par to what we have come to expect from a cruise ship buffet. Still, with so many other options, we prefer to avoid the Garden Café when possible.

Given it was another nice day, we took some time after breakfast to get outside and explore more of the ship. Norwegian Joy still has a complimentary mini-golf course aft on Deck 19 above the Speedway. Though, it seemed a bit forgotten.

During our travels, we also stopped in at the outdoor Sugarcane Mojito Bar. This spot does not serve the signature bar menu from indoors but rather a small sustainable cocktail menu–think Metropolitan Bar on Prima Class ships. Since the drink of the day was the croissant mai tai, one of Don’s favorites, he couldn’t resist getting one.

We also made an appearance at the Star Wars trivia in the Atrium occurring at 12 PM. While we didn’t officially play, Don tried to convince me that he knew all the answers. He insisted that the questions were much easier than the Star Wars trivia session in which we recently participated on a Royal Caribbean ship.

A Race to the Finish

After the trivia session, we went back to our room for a little work and to change up for our 2 PM reservation for the Joy Speedway. Guests will need closed-toe shoes to participate in this attraction.

This racetrack was the first built, and therefore, it might be the most difficult course to navigate. Being smaller than the courses on sister ships, the turns are much tighter and took a bit of driving skill to not crash. With some aggressive passing, Don did finish in first place, but I took home a nice third place finish as well.

Now, we had a couple more hours to enjoy the outdoors before our early dinner this evening. So, we grabbed a Starbucks and chilled on the Waterfront–it was almost impossible to find any seating on or near the pool deck.

Tonight’s dinner was in the Manhattan Room, and the only reasonable reservation time we could get was 5:15 PM. Much like our lunch in the MDR earlier this week, nothing really wow’ed us.

I opted for the Waldorf salad and chicken madeira, which was nothing like the same entrée I had a few weeks prior on Encore. Don went classic with a Caesar salad and NY strip steak, and we also split the rigatoni primavera. The pasta dish was perhaps the highlight of the meal. We rounded out our dinner with the brownie s’more and tiramisu which were both pretty good.

An Entertaining Evening

Following this early dinner, it was a mad dash to get in line for the 7:30 PM Beatles show at the Cavern Club. Arriving approximately 35 minutes early, there was already a line of 20 or more people deep. We did get seats tonight, but the venue is very small.

Honestly, this particular cover band was not very good in comparison to those we have seen in the past. Thus, we did not even attempt to return to another show later in the cruise.

From the Beatles show, it was downstairs to the Atrium for NCL Joy’s Newlywed Not So Newlywed game show. This show is always entertaining. In fact, the newlywed couple who was seated right beside us in the audience got picked to be one of the couples.

We scooted out of this game show just before it ended to secure seats for our 10 PM comedy reservation. The Social hosts two comedians during the week, each with typically one show a night. These shows do require reservations or you can attempt to go standby. Comedy show reservations can not be made prior to the cruise–only once onboard in the Social on embarkation day.

Tonight, we had a reservation to see Dean Edwards. He was actually one of the better cruise ship comedians that we have seen in a while. He was topical and got into a good flow with the audience.

After the comedy show, we rounded out our evening with some espresso martinis in the Observation Lounge. Unfortunately, by the time we arrived, the piano music was just ending so we didn’t get to listen to much of her set.

Tomorrow was our first of three days in Bermuda. It had been over 7 years since we last visited, so we were excited to return.

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Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 4

Time for Some Exploration

Day 4 of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda was our first day in port. Given that Bermuda is very easy to navigate with public transportation, we opted to do most of our exploring on our own. A bonus of sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line is that they also offer a free shuttle to St. George at set times each day.

We were up by about 7 AM with some coffee and continental breakfast items from the Observation Lounge. Once the ship we cleared, we headed ashore around 9 AM.

Our plan for the day was to take the 20-minute ferry ride from the Dockyard over to Hamilton. From here, we would visit the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, have some lunch at the Swizzle Inn, then head back into town to explore more of Hamilton. Every Wednesday evening in the summer is the Harbour Nights street festival which we were looking forward to checking out this evening.

While we realize that we could have taken the free NCL ferry to St. George to reach the Caves as well, we opted to pay the nominal fee for this shorter public ferry ride. Purchasing tokens from the visitor center, we hopped aboard the 10:30 AM ferry.

Upon arrival, we secured a taxi to the Caves which cost just under $30. Of note, you may want to download the HITCH app which is sort of like the Uber equivalent in Bermuda.

When we arrived at the Caves, we still needed to wait in line to purchase tickets and get wristbands even though we technically called in advance to make reservations. You can purchase individual cave visits or a combo ticket. Individual adults tickets are $24 or combo tickets are $35.

Each cave visit is approximately 30 minutes. The Crystal Cave is the larger and more popular of the two; though, I liked the Fantasy Cave better. Of note, both caves do have 80+ stairs, with the stairs in the Fantasy Cave being steeper.

If the stairs don’t make you break a sweat, the humidity will!

Here Come the Storms

With our cave tours complete around 1 PM, we made our way across the street to the Swizzle Inn, Bermuda’s oldest pub and home to the famous Rum Swizzle. Here, we were greeted by only a short line of guests waiting for a table. Not bad.

That was until the weather took a quick turn. Black skies, gusty winds, and downpours lead to flying umbrellas, scurrying outdoor diners, and us trying to take cover under an awning. It was almost like a scene of out Twister. As no one wanted to leave the restaurant in this weather, it ended up resulting in a much longer wait for a table than we anticipated.

Eventually, we got a table along with some rum swizzles, and Don sampled one of the famous fish sandwiches. By the time we finished eating, the rain had mostly subsided, but the skies still looked stormy. So, we had to decide whether we would catch an earlier ferry back to the Dockyard or attempt to stick around for Harbour Nights in downtown Hamilton.

We walked back over to the caves for a taxi. After talking to other guests who reported waiting an hour and asking the office to call some cabs, it was apparent that everyone wanted a taxi at once due to the storms and it was going to take a while. Remembering an advertisement we saw earlier in the day, Don decided to try the HITCH app.

With spotty cell service, we actually weren’t sure if our request went through or not. Luckily, it did and after about 30 minutes, we were finally in a taxi back to Hamilton. At this point, we had to decide if we would take the 5 PM ferry back or stick around with the next ferry not leaving for another 1.5 hours.

We walked around Front Street a bit, grabbing a special edition Bermuda Vineyard Vines shirt and taking a photo with the Bermuda sign. But, with more black clouds rolling in, we decided to cut our losses and head back to the ship. As much as we wanted to check out the Harbour Nights, the weather was too iffy to chance it.

And, we made the right decision, as we later heard from other passengers that the event was cancelled due to weather anyway.

Impromptu Dinner and a Show

Back onboard, we showered up for our impromptu evening on Norwegian Joy. With no dinner plans, we decided to walk up to Q Texas Smokehouse around 7 PM. The venue was pretty quiet, so we were able to get a table without any issues.

The Neilly Rich Duo was playing some country hits which we enjoyed during our meal. While Don is typically a fan of this BBQ restaurant, we both agreed that this visit didn’t live up to our previous experiences. Our apps and desserts were good, but the entrees were a let down.

We sampled the Lone Star chili and deviled eggs as starters along with some smoked peach margaritas. For an entrée, I ordered the turkey breast and Don the pitmaster. My turkey was rather dry and Don’s pitmaster contained a rather anemic portion of brisket and spare rib. The mason jar banana pudding and bread pudding did close out the meal on a high note though.

With no formal plans for the evening now, we stopped in at the Cavern Club for the ADDA Band performing some Elvis Presley before checking out the headliner act in the main theater, Cliché. The Travelers Duo was a pretty impressive aerial cirque-style show.

We then closed out the evening with some espresso martinis and the duo in the Atrium. Arvin and Emily both had great voices and were some of the better cruise ship entertainers we have seen in a while.

Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 5

Another Rainy Morning

Day 5 of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda was our second day in port. We had a Bermuda Triangle cruise excursion booked for this evening. Our original plan was to spend the day at Horseshoe Bay Beach, but the weather was not in our favor again today.

When we woke up around 7 AM, it was raining. The forecast showed rain until at least 11 AM. With the weather looking more promising tomorrow, we decided that we would take the free NCL ferry over to St. George today and go to Horseshoe Bay for a few hours tomorrow before our departure.

Now, we needed to decide if we would take the 9 AM ferry or the 11:15 AM ferry. Given the schedule and 45 minute travel time in each direction, we opted for the 9 AM ferry to give us a little more time to explore. Heading out into light rain, we thankfully made it onboard the ferry before the heavy rain swept through.

By the time we arrived to St. George, we thought we were in the clear. We briefly walked around the historic streets and Town Square before deciding to take a mini-bus to Tobacco Bay Beach. This was mainly to avoid the uphill walk to the beach and St. Catherine’s Fort. We figured we would tour these spaces and eventually make our way back downhill to the Unfinished Church and other landmarks in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Well, our plans were deterred again. Shortly after arriving at the beach, it started to rain. Thankfully, we hadn’t purchased chairs yet, so we donned our ponchos and walked over to St. Catherine’s Fort. Just as we arrived, so did the torrential rains and wind.

Starting to get discouraged by the weather, I decided we should start to make our way back towards the ferry. I didn’t want to stick around until 3 PM in the rain, so we needed to be back in time for the 12:30 PM ferry.

Along our way back, we did stop at the Unfinished Church for some photos. Of course, by the time we arrived at the ferry, the weather had pretty much cleared. Nonetheless, we took the 12:30 ferry back to the Dockyard. Along the route, we hit more torrential rain…at least we had cover this time.

I See the Sun

Back at the Dockyard by around 1:30 PM, the sun was finally starting to break through the clouds. Thankfully, this was the turning point in the weather for our cruise. So, we decided to walk around the Dockyard a bit, doing some shopping and grabbing a drink at the Frog and Onion Pub.

Back to the ship a little after 3 PM, we grabbed our afternoon coffee and snacks from the Observation Lounge. We did a little work, before showering and changing up for the evening.

We opted for an early dinner at Food Republic so we could head back out for our evening Bermuda Triangle cruise. When we arrived at 5:30 PM, we were the only guests in the restaurant. Still, the food was great as always. Though, it does get pricey when paying a la carte (we only had 4 specialty dining meals this cruise).

Between the two of us, we enjoyed some sushi, Korean fried chicken, lettuce wraps, fried rice, shrimp pad thai, and dumplings.

Out of dinner before 7 PM, we headed upstairs to grab our bags then back ashore. With the overnight stays in Bermuda, guests can come and go as they please. We were still undecided if we would stay out in the Dockyard after our tour or head back to the ship. The 90’s party occurring in Spice H2O was swaying me.

Getting Lost in the Bermuda Triangle

Taking a few photos at dusk first, we met our tour for 7:30 PM. This 90-minute glass-bottom boat excursion took us out to the Bermuda Triangle to explore the underwater life and shipwreck with some narration along the way.

Honestly, the best part of the tour was catching an amazing sunset. The glass-bottom scenery was pretty underwhelming. We did see some fish and coral, but we expected more in terms of Bermuda Triangle history, myths, etc.

Back to the harbor around 9:30 PM, we agreed to head back onto the ship. Dropping off our bags in our cabin, it was off to listen to some 90’s jams. We like the idea of holding these parties in Spice H2O; however, the area did get quite crowded. From *NSYNC, to Vanilla Ice, to Sir Mix-a-lot, we sung along–no dancing though–for the next hour or so.

When the party ended around 11 PM, we called it a night.

Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 6

A Morning of Pink Sand and Sun

Day 6 of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda was our final day in port. Alas, it was a sunny morning! Up around 6 AM, Don met with our onboard contact to get a pre-arranged tour of the Haven and Vibe Beach Club, so we could have some photos and videos of the area.

Back with our morning coffee, we headed off the ship by 8:30 AM. Grabbing a taxi outside the ship is super easy, and we only waited a few minutes. There are also mini-buses available for $7 per person. Before long, we set off in our private taxi for the approximately 25 minute drive to the beach.

When we arrived, the beach wasn’t too crowded yet. So, we quickly purchased two chairs and an umbrella then walked all the way to the far end of the beach to take some photos and videos before it got too busy.

You can purchase chairs, umbrellas, or tents at the entrance and then choose where on the beach you would like to set up shop. Current prices are $20 per chair or umbrella and $40 for a tent that fits 4 chairs under it.

For the next 3 hours, we enjoyed the pink sand, sun, and ocean water. With Celebrity Millennium also in port with us, we weren’t sure what time that ship’s all aboard was and didn’t want to get stuck waiting in a huge taxi line. Thus, we packed up and headed to the taxi stand around 12:30 PM.

We were able to hop in a shared taxi right away and were back to the Dockyard around 1 PM. With our all aboard not until 2:30 PM, we beat the crowds to the Local for some lunch. Grabbing our afternoon coffee, we then headed back to our cabin to relax and do a little work before dinner.

This Wasn’t What We Planned

Tonight, we had dinner at Teppanyaki at 7:30 PM and a reservation to see the second production show of the cruise, Elements, at 9:30 PM. Unfortunately, the cruise director made an announcement that a member of the cast had been injured and the shows would be cancelled for this evening.

With that said, we attempted to get into Teppanyaki early thinking that maybe we could go standby for the second comedy show tonight to free us up for Elements tomorrow if the show went on. That plan didn’t work, so we grabbed drinks at Maltings until our reservation time.

While this hibachi experience is always a fun time, our waiter was a bit MIA for most of the meal. He forgot my cocktail and never even came by to check in on us or refill our water glasses.

The hibachi tables also felt tighter than those on other ships. We felt rather squished into a table of 10, right next to another table of 10 with the two chefs trying to work simultaneously.

With Don’s scallop allergy, the chef usually prepares everything else first saving the scallops (if anyone ordered them) until the end. However, his dish just showed up out the kitchen way before any of our meals were cooked. This meant his meal was cold by the time he waited for the rest of the table to be served.

We also made it out of dinner just minutes too late to make the comedy show. Oh well. Instead, we grabbed some cocktails at the Sugarcane prior to the GLOW party occurring on the pool deck at 10:30 PM. This party was packed, so we only stuck around for about a half hour before heading back inside to the Atrium for some espresso martinis and music with Arvin and Emily.

Tomorrow was already our last day of the cruise. The good news was that we would be gaining back our hour of sleep tonight to get back on to ET prior to our arrival in New York.

Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Day 7

A Day of Relaxation

Day 7 of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda was a final sea day as we cruised back to New York.

Sleeping in until about 7 AM, we got ready and headed out for breakfast at the Local. This complimentary option is a great alternative to the buffet on NCL ships.

Following breakfast, it was time for some relaxation on the Waterfront. This is a great outdoor space for some fresh air away from the crowded and noisy pool deck. While the captain did his best to avoid the bad weather, our sunny morning turned into intermittent rain and clouds as the day progressed.

Nonetheless, we spent close to 3 hours here before deciding we needed a change of scenery. We may have grabbed some frozen drinks during our time here too.

With a crowded pool deck, we ended up grabbing our afternoon coffee and just heading back to the room to pack instead. Finished around 3 o’clock, we made our way back outside for an afternoon walk.

Our Final Night on Norwegian Joy

Our dinner tonight was at Ocean Blue for 6 PM. We had not dined at this NCL seafood restaurant in a while, but during our recent sailing on Encore, I noticed the newer menu had a chicken dish. So, we decided we would give it a try this trip.

It was actually better than we remembered. While the food was great, the service was rather slow, taking 2+ hours for our dinner.

I enjoyed the clam chowder and wedge salad as starters, and Don ordered the shrimp cocktail and gumbo. For entrees, I did the brick chicken and Don the cioppino minus the scallops. Everything was to our liking, and this ended up being our favorite meal of the cruise.

We did have a comedy show tonight at 9 PM with the second comedian, Joe Larson. However, when the cruise director announced that Elements was a go for this evening, we had already made the decision to skip the comedy show in order to see this production.

Thus, we headed to the Atrium after dinner to catch a few rounds of Battle of the Sexes. When we noticed a huge line forming at theater for the 9:30 PM Elements, we joined the chaos. And I mean chaos. Luckily, we were able to score some seats close to our usual spot, but others were not so lucky–and were not happy about it.

I guess we were expecting more from this show. After having seen both the magician and aerial acts earlier in the week (also featured in this show), it felt like this show was just a combination of the two along with a bit more visual effects.

Now, we are not sure how much of the show was altered due to the performer’s injury, but it felt like a pretty typical cruise ship show. This was surprising as we usually rank NCL among the likes of Royal Caribbean when it comes to signature production shows.

After the show, it was our tour-de-bars. Grabbing one last drink at my favorite bar, the Sugarcane Mojito, we then headed to the District Brewhouse. Here, Don was able to grab one last beer at his favorite bar while we were entertained by Beau. If you are a frequent NCL cruiser then you know that Beau is a very unique and entertaining musician. So, what better way to close out our cruise.

Well, since it had become our trend all week, why not grab one last espresso martini in the Atrium before retiring for the evening. After all, we did not have to be up too early tomorrow as disembarkation only started around 8 AM.

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Norwegian Joy Cruise to Bermuda Review – Disembarkation

We Didn’t Expect This

The saddest day of our Norwegian Joy cruise to Bermuda had come–disembarkation day! Last evening, we put one of our suitcases outside and would carry off the other one. Since we were driving rather than flying, we did not have to worry about the weight of the luggage.

With self assist scheduled to begin around 8 AM and priority (which we were given by NCL) to begin shortly after, we set our alarm for 6 AM. Showering, getting ready, and enjoying our morning coffee, we were ready around 7:30 AM.

Self assist was initially called around 7:30 AM and was paused shortly after due to congestion. We should have known better, but we decided to wait until around 8 AM when priority was called before exiting our room. Barely making it down 2 flights of stairs, we came to a standstill.

We have NEVER been backed up a stairwell like this on disembarkation day! The even more troubling part was that only self assist and priority tags had even been called. Surely, all these people did not belong to these two groups.

In any case, we were stuck here now. Snaking down 3 flights of stairs, back to the casino, and back around, we finally exited the ship 1.5 hours later. Thankfully, it was clear sailing from here.

On the Road Again

Grabbing our second suitcase, we were through CBP, used the restroom, and to our car in the parking garage in under a half hour. Exiting the garage was efficient, and we were on the highway without too much New York traffic.

While it’s not cheap at $45 a day, we would definitely utilize this parking lot in the future for convenience.

Hitting some traffic through CT, it took us a little over 4 hours to get home. Still, it was better than a day spent in airports.

Now, we would have a bit of time at home until our next scheduled trip. Our next cruise is at the end of August for our anniversary. We will be sailing on an 11-day cruise on Celebrity Beyond to Italy, Turkey, and Greece. Since we have not been to many of these ports before, we are really looking forward to this trip. So, as always, be sure to follow along with our upcoming adventures.

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Are you looking to cruise without a passport? For U.S. citizens, passports are not required for all cruises. While we do recommend having a passport just in case, these are the top cruise destinations you can visit without one.

Can you cruise without a passport?

Yes, you can cruise without a passport (in certain situations). For U.S. citizens, a passport is not required for closed loop cruises. A closed loop cruise is a cruise that begins and ends in the same U.S. port.

For a closed loop cruise, a birth certificate and a government issued ID are the only forms of documentation required. The birth certificate must be the original or a certified copy with the raised seal. A photocopy will not be permitted.

Keep in mind that these requirements are for U.S. citizens only. For all other nationalities, a passport is generally required to cruise.

Of course, if you are traveling internationally, U.S. citizens will need a passport. A passport is required for all international flights and for any cruise that embarks or disembarks in a foreign country.

Further, passports are also required for cruises that begin and end in different locations (open loop cruises).

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Where Can I Cruise Without a Passport?

You can cruise without a passport to the Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations, and the good news is that you can cruise the Caribbean without a passport. Many of the newest mega-ships from contemporary cruise lines visit popular islands in the Caribbean region. There are also several U.S. departure points for Caribbean cruises.

The Caribbean offers that picturesque tropical vacation of which you are dreaming. With itineraries generally divided into Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean routes, you will have plenty of choices when it comes to a Caribbean cruise.

Which islands are visited does vary slightly by the cruise ship and cruise line. However, all islands offer a variety of popular activities like beach breaks, island tours, snorkeling, and historic and cultural tours. There will also be adventure activities like zip lining and off-road tours at most ports of call.

Again, do keep in mind if you decide to cruise without a passport, you might not be able to get off the ship in certain locations. For example, the Caribbean island of Martinique requires that all cruise passengers have a valid passport to go ashore.

You can cruise to the Bahamas without a passport

The Bahamas is another popular cruise destination that you can visit without a passport. Normally, these cruises depart from the East Coast of the United States, primarily from Florida homeports. If you are looking for a shorter duration cruise or just a quick getaway, then a Bahamas cruise is definitely for you.

While you are probably familiar with Nassau, Bahamas, this region is also home to many cruise line private destinations. These private islands offer exclusive access for passengers sailing with the cruise line. These islands usually offer included food, beach access with loungers, and other amenities.

For instance, MSC Cruises has a brand new Bahamian paradise at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Virgin Voyages has its new Beach Club at Bimini. Additionally, who could forget Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay. There is also Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay, Carnival Cruise Line’s Half Moon Cay, and Princess Cays.

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You can cruise without a passport from Seattle to Alaska

For many, the seasonal cruise destination of Alaska is high on their bucket lists. An Alaskan cruise even lures those who wouldn’t necessarily consider a cruise. These vacations are more about the destination than the cruise ship. Cruises to Alaska appeal to nature lovers, photographers, and explorers. On an Alaskan cruise, you can set off in search of glacial vistas, wildlife encounters, and some of the freshest seafood.

Most major cruise lines offer sailings in this region. The most popular U.S. embarkation port for Alaska cruises is Seattle. Though, there are also roundtrip cruises from Vancouver and one-way itineraries.

These itineraries usually include port stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, Alaska. These itineraries can visit Victoria and Vancouver, British Columbia as well. These ports of call offer a variety of shore excursion options from helicopter rides over glaciers, to whale watching, bear sightings, salmon bakes, and historic gold route tours.

Keep in mind that even though you are not required to have a passport to cruise to Alaska, some excursions like the White Pass Railway in Skagway may require a passport.

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Do you need a passport for Hawaii?

The accessibility of the Hawaiian islands makes it a popular cruise destination especially for those looking to stay within the United States.

Most Hawaiian cruises depart from the island of Oahu, visiting the Big Island and Maui. Some cruises also visit the island of Kauai. With attractions like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and a selection of luaus, Oahu definitely requires a couple days to explore either pre-cruise or post cruise.

The Big Island‘s landscape is very diverse with volcanoes, mountainous terrain, beaches, rainforests, and everything in between. One of our favorite excursions was a helicopter ride over the island.

An over-night visit to the island of Maui is common on a Hawaiian cruise as well. Some of Maui’s most popular attractions include the Road to Hana and Haleakala Crater.

Several cruise lines normally have ships making stops in the region. As the only ship sailing in Hawaii year-round, NCL’s Pride of America is an easy choice. This Americana-themed ship usually sails a 7-night round-trip itinerary from Honolulu offering a comprehensive Polynesian experience.

You can cruise without a passport to Bermuda

If you are looking to cruise without a passport, Bermuda is another popular choice. This British territory is home to some of the friendliest people and arguably the best beaches and natural landscapes in the Atlantic. 

Given that the island is further north than many of the other popular tropical destinations, the weather is a bit more seasonal here. Therefore, cruises to Bermuda generally occur from April to October. Still, that is almost half of the year to find some vacation time to enjoy all that Bermuda has to offer.

Many of the major cruise lines usually have ships that visit Bermuda. Most even offer two or three day stays to enjoy this beautiful location. You can use this time to explore Kings Wharf and other popular stops like St. George’s and Hamilton.

A Bermuda cruise might be the perfect choice for those living in the Northeastern United States as there will be no flying involved. Most Bermuda cruises leave from New York or Cape Liberty, New Jersey. A few also depart from Boston, MA, Baltimore, MD, and occasionally some southern ports like Florida.

You can go on a Mexican Riviera cruise without a passport

For those living on the West Coast, the Mexican Riviera might be the perfect destination to which to cruise without a passport.

Ports in the Mexican Riviera, like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, offer amazing beaches, immersive cultural and historical experiences, and a festive atmosphere day and night. The Mexican Riviera is much like the Caribbean for West Coasters.

Like many of the tropical cruise regions, there are plenty of beach breaks, island tours, food tastings, and nature excursions to experience in the Mexican Riviera. Plus, there are exclusive offerings like whale watching, cultural shows like Rhythms of the Night, and some unique landscapes that you can’t find in the Caribbean.

Mexican Riviera cruises most often depart from California homeports from brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also sails this region.

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Do you need a passport to cruise Canada and New England?

Last but not least, you can also cruise without a passport to Canada and New England. Canada/New England cruise itineraries are seasonal, running from May to October with the majority of sailings occurring during the Fall.

As native New Englanders, we sometimes take the fall foliage for granted. However, this seasonal change is a sight to behold for many.

Popular ports of call include Boston, MA; Bar Harbor, ME; Portland, ME; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and St. John, New Brunswick. Each of these ports offers its own historic and coastal charm.

In our homeport of Boston, you can learn more about the founding of the United States by trekking the Boston Freedom Trail. You can dive into the history of the Titanic when in Halifax. Or, you can see the Victorian era architecture and historic homes of Portland and visit Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor.

Our local cuisine is another great reason to cruise to Canada and New England. Portland is home to the one and only Maine Lobster, but the waters off these coasts are home to other seafood delights as well. You can enjoy a rich and creamy cup of New England clam chowder or some Rhode Island style calamari. There are also plenty of sweet treats including maple syrup, whoopie pies, and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream from nearby Vermont.

Like Bermuda cruises, popular embarkation ports for Canada/New England cruises are in the Northeast. New York, Cape Liberty (NJ), Baltimore, and Boston are the most popular.

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If you are taking a Bermuda cruise this year, you might be wondering what you should pack. We detail what we pack for our trips in this Complete Bermuda Cruise Packing List to help eliminate your pre-cruise stress.

This list includes toiletries, outfits, and everything in between. Even if you are a seasoned cruiser, you might find a few additional items that will be helpful on your next cruise.

Scroll Down to Get Our Downloadable Bermuda Cruise Packing List

Bermuda Cruise Basics

Bermuda is certainly one of the top cruise destinations. This slice of paradise lures cruisers with beautiful weather, rich history, and pink sandy beaches.

Unlike the Caribbean or Bahamas though, Bermuda is a seasonal cruise port. Much like Alaska, this means that you will only be able to cruise to Bermuda during select months of the year. 

Located much farther north than other tropical locales, the weather in Bermuda gets cool in the winter. While the weather in the off-season of December to March might be acceptable for golfing, this time of year is certainly not beach weather.

Thus, no cruise ships sail to Bermuda during the winter months.

Related Post: Bermuda Cruise Planning Guide

Bermuda cruise season generally runs from late April/early May through the end of October/early November. As with most seasonal cruise regions, the shoulder seasons are when prices tend to be the lowest. While July might offer some of the warmest weather, it tends to be the most expensive month to take a Bermuda cruise.

So, depending what time of year you plan to visit Bermuda, your Bermuda Cruise Packing List might differ slightly.

Our Bermuda Cruise Packing List

Toiletries

In this Bermuda Cruise Packing List, we list all the toiletries we pack for our cruise vacations.

Yes, many cruise lines do provide some essential shower products, but we still prefer to bring our own. Even if you don’t pack as extensively as we do, the essentials should include medications, suntan lotion, and hand sanitizer.

Now more than ever, you can never have enough hand sanitizer. In 2021, you might also want to pack some disinfectant wipes and/or Lysol disinfectant spray to sanitize your cabin and other high traffic touchpoints.

Since irons or steamers are not allowed onboard cruise ships, we also find Downy wrinkle release very helpful for keeping our clothes as wrinkle-free as possible.

Related Post: Do I Need a Passport to Cruise to Bermuda?

Other Useful Items

Besides necessary travel documents and passports, we have accumulated a list over the years of “other” items that we find essential for a cruise to any destination.

Many of these are inexpensive common household items.

Given that cruise ship cabins are small, you will need to maximize the space. Magnets (We use the 40 lb. ones) come in handy for hanging hats, day bags, and other items on your cruise cabin walls. 

Additionally, we use an over the door shoe organizer, not for shoes, but rather to store toiletries and other small items to free up counter space.

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We also never cruise without towel clips. The clips will secure your towel to the lounge chair so it doesn’t blow away. Further, a Yeti water bottle will help to keep a cold drink cold or a hot drink hot for hours, even at the beach!

Some other useful items include a luggage scale to help ensure you are not over your airline’s weight limit and cruise luggage tags. These plastic sleeves help to protect those paper cruise tags on your suitcases.

Additionally, we always pack Ziploc bags and trash bags. Why you ask?

Ziploc bags are great for storing wet items or waterproofing items, while trash bags are handy to store dirty laundry over the course of the week.

Related Post: Top Things to Do in Bermuda on a Cruise

In terms of electronics, a mobile cruise-approved power strip is essential as outlets are very limited in cruise cabins. You will likely want a portable power pack to keep your devices charged when going ashore as well. You might also find one of these cord organizers very helpful to keep all the chargers in one convenient location.

Clothing

Our Bermuda cruise packing list outlines all the potential clothing items you will want to pack for your next cruise vacation. Regardless of travel destination or the time of year, we group outfits into daytime use and nighttime use.

For a standard 7-day cruise with a pre-cruise hotel stay, we typically plan eight daytime and eight nighttime outfits, choosing items that can be re-purposed for a couple uses.

Of course, you should consider how you are going to spend your days when packing for your cruise. For instance, if you plan to beach it up or snorkel the entire time, you will probably only pack bathing suits for daytime use.

If you have shore excursions planned, you will want to pack outfits to fit those requirements, including comfortable walking shoes.

Further, you should consider the temperature during the time of year that your are cruising to Bermuda. The weather in Bermuda is temperate which means it never really gets too warm in the summer, and there is always a light breeze.

So, packing a few layers is essential as it could get cool in the evenings.

You should always pack a raincoat too.

Most importantly, your Bermuda cruise packing list should include clothing items that are multi-purpose.

Related Post: Everything You Should Book Before Your Cruise

A 7-night cruise typically has 1-2 “formal” nights depending on the cruise line, so you will want to pack your formal attire as well if you choose to dress for the occasion.

Otherwise, “resort casual” outfits are appropriate for the main dining room and around the ship. You should also keep in mind that most Bermuda cruises have overnight stays in port. Thus, you might be spending some evenings ashore rather than on the ship.

In 2021, you won’t want to forgot your newest fashion accessory either- face masks!

Downloadable Cruise Packing List

Packing for a vacation shouldn’t be stressful. So, feel free to download a copy of our complete Bermuda Cruise Packing List for 2021 and use this as a check list while packing for your next cruise.

Comments

What items do you find essential to pack for a Bermuda cruise? Are there any items on your packing list that we have forgotten? Drop us an anchor below to share your cruise packing tips.

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You might be considering a beach escape to Bermuda this summer, especially if you live in the Northeast United States. In this Bermuda Cruise Planning Guide, we outline everything you need to know before taking a Bermuda cruise. Learn all our insider cruise tips and hacks to plan and execute the perfect cruise vacation.

Everything You Need to Know Before Taking a Bermuda Cruise

Best Time of Year to Take a Bermuda Cruise

Bermuda truly offers cruisers a slice of paradise with beautiful weather, rich history, and pink sandy beaches. Unlike the Caribbean or Bahamas though, Bermuda is a seasonal cruise port. So, when you visit the area is important. Factors like weather, price, and crowds should all be considered.

Located much farther north than the Bahamas or Caribbean, the weather in Bermuda gets much cooler in the winter. While the weather in the off-season of December to March might be acceptable for golfing, this time of year is certainly not beach weather. Thus, no cruise ships sail to Bermuda during the winter months.

Bermuda cruise season generally runs from late April/early May through the end of October/early November. As with most seasonal cruise regions, the shoulder seasons are when prices tend to be the lowest. While July might offer some of the warmest weather, it tends to be the most expensive month to take a Bermuda cruise.

Related Post: Top Cruise Destinations

It also tends to have the most crowds. The busiest time of year for cruises to Bermuda usually coincides with warmer weather and summer break.

Yes, you will be able to enjoy the beaches, shopping, historical sites, and Rum Swizzles anytime during the Bermuda cruise season. Although, when taking into account the weather, prices, and crowds, we suggest that the best time of year to take a Bermuda cruise is early in the season (late April/early May). While later in the season will be comparable in terms of pricing and crowds, there is always the chance of hurricanes.

How Much Does a Bermuda Cruise Cost?

It is important to first note that overall Bermuda cruises tend to be more expensive than similar trips to the Bahamas or Caribbean. Still, Bermuda cruise fares fluctuate considerably depending on a few factors. The cruise line, itinerary, and time of year will all weigh heavily on pricing.

If you have flexible vacation time, choosing the right time to take a Bermuda cruise can have a big impact on your budget. As mentioned above, the middle of the summer, which coincides with the best weather and school break, will usually be the most expensive.

Bermuda cruises also vary in terms of length. Depending on the departure point, itineraries can be as short as 4 or 5 days. They can also be longer than a typical 7-day cruise if they include stops in Canada/New England or the Bahamas/Caribbean. Of course, the length of the cruise and itinerary will impact pricing. So, be sure to compare all your options.

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Further, the cruise line and cruise ship you choose will also dictate the cost of your Bermuda cruise. While not as populous with cruise ships as the Caribbean or Bahamas, you will still have a decent ship selection for a Bermuda cruise. Many major cruise lines have at least one ship sailing to Bermuda for at least part of the season.

Though, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises have the largest presence in Bermuda.

Generally speaking, the newer ships from each cruise line will be more expensive than some of the older ships in the fleet as there is more demand for these vessels.

Other factors to consider when determining pricing are the embarkation port, stateroom category, and shore excursions.

Related Post: Do I Need a Passport for a Bermuda Cruise?

Best Cruise Lines for a Bermuda Cruise

As mentioned previously, you will not have as much of a selection of cruise ships when planning your Bermuda cruise. So, besides your cruise line preferences, you should also consider the departure port and itinerary.

While Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises have the largest presence in Bermuda year-round, other more luxury brands like Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, and Silversea do visit Bermuda. Further, Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises also call in Bermuda periodically during the season.

Most ships will port at the Royal Naval Dockyard, though some smaller ships might have occasional visits to the ports of Hamilton or St. George (You can still visit from the Royal Naval Dockyard via ferry). Depending on the length of your cruise, many itineraries will have at least one, if not two, overnight stays on the island. Some select, longer itineraries might also combine a visit to Bermuda with northern ports of Canada/New England or head south to the Bahamas and Caribbean. Thus, finding the perfect itinerary for you is important.

While Florida is often referred to as the cruise capital of the world, you will probably have to head elsewhere for a cruise to Bermuda. Cruises to Bermuda are usually pretty popular with cruisers from the Northeast United States as many are within driving distance to a cruise port.

For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line offers round-trip sailings from Boston, MA and New York, NY. In 2021 and 2022, Carnival Cruise Line will sail to Bermuda from Baltimore, MD; New York, NY; and Norfolk, VA.

Additionally, Celebrity Cruises sails from Cape Liberty, NJ, while Disney Cruise Line sails from New York, NY. Royal Caribbean also offers sailings from Cape Liberty, NJ and Baltimore, MD. For the first time in 2022, they will also begin offering trips from Port Canaveral, FL.

So again, your choice for a Bermuda cruise might be driven more by the departure point or itinerary than the cruise line. Although, within brands, Norwegian Cruise Line does offer a few ships from two different departure points, and Royal Caribbean also offers a few ships from two different homeports.

Related Post: Major Cruise Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Top Bermuda Cruise Shore Excursions

Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches, but there is so much more. From rich history, shopping, and dining, there will be plenty to fill your days and nights in Bermuda. Admittedly, you will not be able to see and do everything during one visit, so you will have an excuse to plan another cruise to this beautiful location.

Of course, when most people think Bermuda, they envision Horseshoe Bay Beach! This beach has been voted one of the world’s best beaches, so get there early as it can get crowded. Horseshoe Bay Beach is approximately 30 minutes away from the cruise terminal ( Kings Wharf or Heritage Wharf) and can be reached via taxi or bus.

Other popular beaches include Elbow Beach, Church Bay, Warwick Long Bay, Jobson’s Cove, and Tobacco Bay Beach. Each beach offers its own unique charm.

If you want an in-depth historical tour, we suggest taking the ferry directly from the Dockyard to St. George (about 45 minutes) to spend your day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Arriving by ferry, Kings Square is only a short walk. From here, you can take a self-guided tour or one of the guided tour options. Along the way, you can see sights including Town Hall, Bermuda National Trust Museum, the Bridge House, the Old State House, St. Peter’s Church, and the Unfinished Church, among others.

Beyond the downtown area, there is St. Catherine’s Fort (and beach). St. Catherine’s Fort is arguably one of the most impressive historical structures on the island and well worth the admission fee for some exploration.

You may also want to visit one of the many parks including Queen Elizabeth Park. Other popular stops include the Bermuda Historical Society Museum, the Bermuda Cathedral, Fort Hamilton, Hamilton Harbor, and the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo.

Related Post: Expert Tips for Planning Shore Excursions

You will also want to reserve a day to venture into nearby Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital city. A ferry ride is the quickest way to get there from the Dockyard (20 minutes). While in Hamilton, you will want to check out the world-class shops and restaurants near Front Street. Be sure to grab a drink at the Swizzle Inn, Bermuda’s oldest and most famous pub.

Other popular shore excursion options in Bermuda include a visit to the Crystal and Fantasy Caves or a trip into the Bermuda Triangle. Of course, you can also stay more local, as there is plenty to explore in the Royal Naval Dockyard itself. Once a strategic navy base, this area has been transformed into a tourist attraction. You can visit the National Museum of Bermuda for a recount of Bermuda’s rich history, along with much more.

Top Bermuda Cruise Tips

Regardless of your cruise destination, there are some tried and true cruise tips that are essential for planning and executing the ideal cruise vacation. We hope you learned from this Bermuda Cruise Planning Guide that you should know what’s included in your cruise vacation and what things will cost you extra.

That way, you can budget accordingly.

Once you have decided on your cruise, there are several helpful tips that can save you some money. These range from booking early, to booking a guaranteed cabin, to using a travel agent, and more.

In terms of pre-cruise planning, now more than ever, it will be important to download the cruise line’s app (if applicable) to your smart phone. There are also things you will want to book before your cruise, like restaurant reservations, entertainment if available, and shore excursions.

Further, you should decide which packages, if any, you want to purchase, and monitor the cruise line’s website for pre-cruise sales and promotions. The most popular package is a beverage package. You will want to weigh the pro and cons to decide if a drink package is worth the investment for you. Another popular package, especially on Norwegian Cruise Line, is the specialty dining package.

When it comes to packing, you should know what to include on your packing list. Our downloadable guide outlines everything you need to pack including toiletries, clothing, and electronics. While you might find it surprising, there are also many household items that will come in handy during your cruise vacation.

Of course, you will also want to make sure that you do not pack any of these prohibited items. Items like an iron will get your suitcases sent to the “naughty room”.

Bermuda Cruise Planning Guide: Additional Tips

Finally, your cruise day has arrived! And yes, there are even more cruise tips to ensure every part of your cruise vacation is smooth sailing. Don’t worry, we have you covered.

• Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise
• Top Things to Do on Cruise Embarkation Day
• Everything You Need to Know About Tipping on a Cruise
• Tips for Using Your Smartphone on a Cruise
• How to Not Gain Weight on a Cruise
• How to Avoid Getting Sick on a Cruise
• Space Saving Hacks for Your Cruise Cabin
• Guide to Cruise Ship Internet and WiFi
• Why You Should Stay on the Ship at a Port of Call
• Tips for a Stress Free Disembarkation

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Did you find this Bermuda Cruise Planning Guide helpful? Are there any other cruise hacks that you would add to this list? Drop us an anchor below with your insider Bermuda cruise planning tips.

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Bermuda is a top cruise destination, and for good reason. The 181-island British overseas territory is located in the north Atlantic Ocean. Most cruise ships dock in the Royal Naval Dockyard, but Bermuda’s capital city of Hamilton is easily reached by ferry for shopping, restaurants, and the famous Swizzle Inn. The historic St. George can also be reached via ferry for a day of exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bermuda truly offers cruisers a slice of paradise with beautiful weather, rich history, and its famous pink sand beaches.

Unlike the Caribbean or Bahamas, Bermuda is a seasonal cruise port. The cruise season generally extends from late April to early November. Much like Alaska, when you visit the area is important. There are actually several factors to consider when determining the best time to cruise to Bermuda.

When Should You Plan a Cruise to Bermuda?

Best Time to Cruise to Bermuda: Weather

Bermuda is located 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Being much farther north than the Bahamas or Caribbean, the weather gets much cooler in the winter. During the off-season of December to March, the temperatures can drop into the 50’s (Fahrenheit). While this weather might be acceptable for golfing, this time of year is certainly not for beach lounging. Thus, no cruise ships sail to Bermuda during the winter months.

However, the weather in Bermuda is temperate and semi-tropical which means it never really gets too warm in the summer, and there is always a light breeze. This makes it the perfect summer escape.

Further, there is no real rainy season in Bermuda. Though, October tends to be the wettest month. Late August to October is prime hurricane season in the area, but Bermuda is less frequently hit by storms than the Caribbean.

In general, the months of June, July, and August tend to have more Caribbean-like weather. However, with this optimal weather comes increased crowds and increased price. So, you will have to weigh these factors carefully when deciding what’s the best time for you to take a Bermuda cruise. For the best prices, we tend to book our Bermuda cruises a year in advance.

Best Time to Cruise to Bermuda: Price

It is important to first note that overall Bermuda cruises tend to be more expensive than similar trips to the Bahamas or Caribbean. Still, Bermuda cruise fares fluctuate considerably depending on a few factors. Pricing can range widely depending on the cruise line/ship, itinerary, and time of year.

As mentioned earlier, Bermuda cruise season generally runs from late April through the end of October/early November. As with most seasonal cruise regions, the shoulder season is when prices tend to be the lowest. 

For those looking to save money, the best time of year to take a Bermuda cruise would be either early or late in the season. Besides having lower fares, you will have greater choices for cabins and can score the perfect mid-ship balcony at a reduced cost.

While July might offer some of the warmest weather, it tends to be the most expensive month to take a Bermuda cruise.

Bermuda cruises also vary in terms of length. Depending on the departure point, itineraries can be as short as four or five days. They can also be longer than a typical seven-day cruise if they include stops in Canada/New England or the Bahamas/Caribbean.

Of course, the length of the cruise and itinerary will impact pricing. So, be sure to compare all your options.

Best Time to Cruise to Bermuda: Crowds

There are also certain times of the Bermuda cruise season that are preferred if you would like to avoid crowds. The busiest time of year for cruises to Bermuda usually coincides with warmer weather and summer break.

To avoid the crowds, you should skip cruising in the middle of the season. June, July, and August will have peak crowds — especially July. If you cruise during this time, be prepared to share Horseshoe Bay Beach with thousands of other cruisers.

Inevitably, other popular tourist attractions and activities will also be more crowded this time of year.

If you take a Bermuda cruise during the shoulder seasons, you will not only save money but you will avoid the crowds, especially families. In late April/early May kids are usually still in school, and they are usually back to school by late August/early September. The number of families and kids will of course vary based on the cruise line and cruise ship you choose.

Popular mega-ships from brands like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Disney Cruise Line inevitably have more families onboard.

Best Time to Cruise to Bermuda: Ship Selection

While not as populous with cruise ships as the Caribbean or Bahamas, you will still have a decent ship selection for a Bermuda cruise. Many major cruise lines have at least one ship sailing to Bermuda for at least part of the season. Many cruise ships even stay for one or two nights, giving cruisers more time to explore.

While Florida is often referred to as the cruise capital of the world, you will probably have to head elsewhere for a cruise to Bermuda. Cruises to Bermuda are usually pretty popular with cruisers from the northeast United States as many are within driving distance to a port that offers sailings there.

For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line offers roundtrip Bermuda sailings from Boston, Massachusetts and New York, New York. In 2025 and 2026, Carnival Cruise Line will sail to Bermuda from New York City and Norfolk, Virginia.

Royal Caribbean sails from Baltimore, Maryland and Cape Liberty, New Jersey to Bermuda, and Virgin Voyages will be offering a handful of Bermuda cruises from New York in 2025 and 2026. In 2025, MSC Cruises’ ship MSC Meraviglia will also be offering Bermuda sailings out of Brooklyn, New York. Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Silhouette also offers cruises this year and next from Cape Liberty — two of which are longer 10-night sailings that include calls to Martha’s Vineyard and Charleston.

While the Big 3 (Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean) currently have the largest presence in Bermuda, other more luxury brands also call there including Oceania Cruises and Azamara Cruises.

Further, select smaller ships might have occasional visits to the smaller ports of Hamilton or St. George.

Conclusion

Yes, you will be able to enjoy the beaches, shopping, historical sites, and Rum Swizzles anytime during the Bermuda cruise season. Although, when taking into account the weather, prices, and crowds, we suggest that the best time of year to take a Bermuda cruise is early in the season (late April/early May).

We cruised to Bermuda for the first time back in 2016 on Anthem of the Seas in late April. We were able to experience all this British territory has to offer with fewer crowds, and the weather was still fabulous!

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The two most important decisions you need to make when booking a cruise vacation is picking your cruise ship and your cruise location. While some cruisers will pick their vacation based soley on the ship, like the mega-ship Icon of the Seas which is a destination in itself, most will be guided by the cruise destinations they want to visit.

Whether it is a warm and sunny Caribbean island or a bucket list location like Antarctica, where to cruise is a big factor when reviewing potential vacations. With more and more locations now accessible by cruise ship, the options for cruising are practically endless. If you are looking to book your next trip, these are the top cruise destinations you need to visit.

Top Cruise Destinations You Need to Visit

Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations. In fact, nearly 13 million visited the region via cruise ship in 2023, and Caribbean cruises made up over 40% of the total cruises taken.

Many of the newest mega-ships from contemporary cruise lines visit popular islands in the Caribbean. If this is your first cruise, you will likely choose a 7-day Caribbean itinerary given the number of options available.

The Caribbean offers that picturesque tropical vacation that you have probably seen all over social media. Itineraries in this region are generally divided into Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean routes.

Popular Eastern Caribbean ports of call include St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands. Western Caribbean islands that are frequent stops for cruise ships include Jamaica, Honduras, and Belize, as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Finally, there is the Southern Caribbean, which includes Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Some Southern Caribbean itineraries also include St. Lucia, Barbados, and Antigua.

Many cruise ships alternate Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from week to week. Which islands are visited does vary slightly by the ship and cruise line. However, all islands offer a variety of popular activities like beach breaks, island tours, snorkeling, and historic and cultural tours. There will also be adventure activities like zip lining and off-road tours at most ports of call.

Bahamas

Another one of the top cruise destinations in the world, especially for cruises of shorter duration, is the Bahamas. Normally, these cruises depart from the East Coast of the United States. In fact, a majority of these cruises leave from Florida homeports.

While you are probably familiar with Nassau, Bahamas and its endless supply of beautiful beaches, this region is also home to many cruise line private destinations. These private islands offer exclusive access for passengers sailing with the cruise line. These islands usually offer included food, beach access with loungers, and other amenities.

These destinations have come a long way over the years, and this year is shaping up to be the best year yet. From re-imagined and upgraded islands to completely new destinations like Carnival’s Celebration Key, there are many options from various cruise lines.

MSC Cruises has its Bahamian paradise at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Disney Cruise Line now has TWO private retreats, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay. Holland America’s Half Moon Cay is scheduled to receive an upgrade, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay is getting a pier. Not to mention, there’s the fan-favorite Perfect Day at CocoCay and Virgin Voyages’ adult-only Beach Club at Bimini.

Alaska

Alaska is a seasonal cruise destination, but it is certainly one of the best in our opinion. If you haven’t visited Alaska yet, you definitely should. In fact, a cruise is the easiest way to visit this region.

An Alaskan cruise often lures those who wouldn’t necessarily consider a cruise otherwise because of its natural beauty and wildlife. These vacations are more about the destination, and they appeal to nature lovers, photographers, and explorers.

Along with glacial vistas, wildlife encounters, and some of the freshest seafood, Alaska hosts some of the newest and most innovate ships. In fact, all major cruise lines offer sailings in this region, usually on multiple ships. Some are more family-friendly, some are more enrichment-focused, and some even offer off-the-beaten-path expedition experiences.

Popular port stops include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, Alaska. These itineraries often visit Victoria and Vancouver, British Columbia as well. These ports of call offer a variety of shore excursion options from helicopter rides over glaciers, to whale watching, bear sightings, salmon bakes, and historic gold route tours.

If you want to cruise Alaska, you will need to do so in the summer. Alaska cruise season generally runs from May until September. These cruises also tend to be more expensive than Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Mediterranean

If you enjoy history and culture a Mediterranean cruise might be the perfect fit. In fact, second to the Caribbean, over 18% of all cruises occur in this region, with a large number of ships homeporting in the area during the summer months. Though, some cruise lines do sail this region year-round.

You will have plenty of options when it comes to choosing a cruise ship in this region. Many mainstream cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises visit the Mediterranean as well as more luxury brands like Viking Cruises and small-ship brands like Atlas Ocean Voyages.

There are over 20 countries that make up the Mediterranean region. Mediterranean cruises are typically divided into Eastern and Western itineraries. Western Mediterranean cruises typically visit popular ports of call in Spain, France, and Italy. While Eastern Mediterranean cruises typical visit Greece, Turkey, and Croatia.

Mediterranean cruises are usually port intensive, visiting multiple destinations over the duration of the trip. The port visits are also usually very long days as many of the popular tourist attractions are located quite a distance from the cruise ports, as is the case with Rome and Athens.

While this region does offer beautiful beaches and coastline, it is likely that you will spend much of your time ashore exploring historical sites and sampling the local cuisine.

Bermuda

If you have cruised the Bahamas and Caribbean before and want to visit someplace different, you can find some of the same beautiful weather and sandy beaches on a cruise to Bermuda. This British territory is home to some of the friendliest people and arguably the best beaches and natural landscapes in the Atlantic. It’s no wonder that there are more and more ships calling on this seasonal port every year.

Given that the island is further north than many of the other popular tropical destinations, the weather is a bit more seasonal here. Therefore, cruises to Bermuda generally occur from April to October. Still, that is almost half of the year to find some vacation time to enjoy all that Bermuda has to offer.

Many major cruise lines have ships that regularly visit Bermuda, with most offering two or three days to enjoy this top cruise destination. You will need this time to explore Kings Wharf and other popular stops like St. George’s and Hamilton.

Given its location, a Bermuda cruise might be the perfect choice for those living in the Northeastern United States as there will be no flying involved. Most Bermuda cruises leave from New York or Cape Liberty, New Jersey. A few also depart from our homeport of Boston, MA.

Mexican Riviera

Another top cruise location is the Mexican Riviera. More and more cruise lines are beginning to shift ships to the West Coast. Who could blame them?

Ports in the Mexican Riviera, like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, offer amazing beaches, immersive cultural and historical experiences, and a festive atmosphere day and night. The Mexican Riviera is much like the Caribbean for West Coasters.

Popular cruise lines in this region include Carnival Cruise Line which offers different departure points in Southern California. Princess Cruises also offers a few different itineraries in the region. Other cruise lines do offer some sailings in the Mexican Riviera, like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line, though options are a bit more limited.

Like many of the tropical cruise regions, there are plenty of beach breaks, island tours, food tastings, and nature excursions to experience in the Mexican Riviera. Plus, there are exclusive offerings like whale watching, cultural shows like Rhythms of the Night, and some unique landscapes that you can’t find in the Caribbean.

Canada/New England

Like many of the other top cruise destinations, Canada/New England cruise itineraries are seasonal. The season runs from May to October with the majority of sailings occurring during the Fall. As native New Englanders, we sometimes take the fall foliage for granted. However, this seasonal change is a sight to behold for many. So, a host of cruise ships from most brands call on some of our favorite spots from mid September to the end of October.

Popular ports of call include Boston, MA; Bar Harbor, ME; Portland, ME; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and St. John, New Brunswick. Each of these ports offers its own historic and coastal charm. In our homeport of Boston, you can learn more about the founding of the United States by trekking the Boston Freedom Trail. You can dive into the history of the Titanic when in Halifax. Or, you can see the Victorian era architecture and historic homes of Portland and visit Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor.

Our local cuisine is another great reason to cruise to Canada and New England. Portland is home to the one and only Maine Lobster, but the waters off these coasts are home to other seafood delights as well. You can enjoy a rich and creamy cup of New England clam chowder or some Rhode Island style calamari. There are also plenty of sweet treats including maple syrup and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream from nearby Vermont. Not to mention, the micro beer renaissance in the United States got started with a couple of Boston brands, Harpoon Brewery and Sam Adams. 

Further, fall cruises to Canada and New England are the perfect time for some wildlife sightings. Most notably, it is a great time for some whale watching in the Bay of Fundy.

Northern Europe

Whether you want to cruise to Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic capitals, or even the British Isles, Northern Europe is another top cruise destination. We have had the pleasure of exploring many stops in this region and all are equally as stunning. From the majestic Norwegian fjords, where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a picture-perfect backdrop, to the medieval charm of the Baltic capitals, every port offers something unique. There’s also the dramatic landscapes of Iceland and the chance to spot polar bears on Arctic expeditions.

More and more cruise ships are visiting these regions every year— from mainstream lines like Celebrity, Princess, and Holland America, to luxury and expedition lines as well.

If you decide to sail the British Isles, you’ll visit charming ports in Great Britain and Ireland. In Belfast, you can visit the Giant’s Causeway, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. Or, live a day in the Game of Thrones by visiting popular filming locations including the Dark Hedges. Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, Scotland, as well as the Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands, are also popular stops.

In Ireland, you can visit Dublin and Cork. Dublin is home to many popular attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, the Old Library at Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Temple Bar, St. Stephen’s Green, and so much more. While in Cork, you can visit the Blarney Castle and even kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

Norwegian Fjords itineraries typically stop in the popular city of Bergen, Norway, as well as some combination of other ports including Oslo, Stavanger, Geiranger, Alesund, and Flam. Some itineraries even cross into the Arctic with stops in Tromso. While others include stops in Reykjavik and Akureyri, Iceland. Here, you can visit the famous Blue Lagoon, stand between two tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park, and marvel at waterfalls, geothermal fields, and volcanic landscapes.

Baltic cruises typically feature stops in Helsinki, Finland; Tallinn, Estonia; Stockholm, Sweden; and Copenhagen, Denmark. With so much medieval architecture, historic churches, and one of a kind landmarks, there will be a photo opportunity around every corner.

Hawaii

We took our first cruise to Hawaii back in 2019 and loved it. The accessibility to the chain of islands makes Hawaii a top cruise destination.

Most Hawaiian cruises depart from the island of Oahu, visiting the Big Island and Maui. Some cruises also visit the island of Kauai. With attractions like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and a selection of luaus, Oahu definitely requires a couple days to explore either pre-cruise or post cruise.

The Big Island of Hawaii is very diverse. Its landscape ranges from volcanoes, mountainous terrain, beaches, rainforests, and everything in between. A Hawaiian cruise itinerary is likely to include a stop at Hilo which is on the east side of the island as well as Kailua-Kona on the west coast of the island. One of our favorite excursions was a helicopter ride over the island to marvel at the volcanoes, lush landscapes, and rugged coastline.

Further, an over-night visit to the island of Maui is common on a Hawaiian cruise. Some of Maui’s most popular attractions include the Road to Hana and Haleakala Crater.

Several cruise lines have ships making stops in the region. However, as the only ship sailing in Hawaii year-round, NCL’s Pride of America is an easy choice. Featuring some familiar favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki, in addition to some unique Hawaiian themed venues, Pride of America serves as a great backdrop to your long days ashore.

Cruise ships from other brands typically sail this region while repositioning before and after the Alaska cruise season.

Australia/New Zealand

Another bucket list cruise destination is Australia and New Zealand, which we recently had the chance to experience for ourselves. It’s no wonder why as this region offers beautiful weather, iconic landmarks, sprawling beaches, and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. While Australia does offer year-round cruises, you will find the most selection during the months of October to May.

Most major cruise lines now offer cruises in this region with Sydney being the most popular embarkation port. Being such a vast continent with such varied landscapes, it is difficult to know where to begin planning a cruise Down Under. However, Australia’s beautiful coastline makes a cruise the perfect way to explore this region. We suggest you do a bit of research on ports of call before choosing your itinerary.

If you want to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, pick a cruise that heads north. These itineraries will likely still start in Sydney but will visit ports like Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, Port Douglas, and Brisbane. Alternatively, if you want to explore more of Southern Australia, pick an itinerary that includes ports like Melbourne, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

Beyond the urban city centers, there is so much to explore in Australia. From well-known attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, to UNESCO World Heritage sites, wineries, beaches, wildlife, and the famous Great Barrier Reef, there will never be a lack of things to do during your visit.

In addition to Australian destinations, these cruises often include ports of call in New Zealand. New Zealand offers opportunities to live out your Lord of the Rings fantasy, cruise through Fiorland National Park, hike the stunning landscapes, and learn more about the indigenous Maori people.

While a few days in Australia or New Zealand are not nearly enough time to take in all the region has to offer, you can certainly visit some of the highlights. Adding a few days pre-cruise or post cruise is also recommended, especially to overcome jet lag prior to embarking on your cruise.

Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the top cruise destinations for adventurous travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the most remote and untouched regions on Earth. Unlike any other cruise destination, Antarctica offers jaw-dropping landscapes, massive icebergs, and snow-covered peaks, creating an otherworldly backdrop for exploration. And wildlife lovers will be in awe of the abundant marine life, from playful penguins and seals to pods of whales gliding through icy waters.

Expedition cruises to the White Continent provide thrilling opportunities for zodiac landings, kayaking, and even setting foot on the continent itself. With strict visitor regulations to preserve its fragile ecosystem, an Antarctica cruise offers an exclusive and immersive way to experience this great wilderness.

For cruisers who have explored the world’s other top destinations and are seeking something truly extraordinary, Antarctica is the ultimate bucket-list voyage. And lucky for you, more and more cruise lines are visiting the region each year. However, do your research carefully before booking this trip of lifetime. Some cruise lines have larger ships that sail the region, but we suggest you pick a smaller expedition vessel that allows you to actually visit the continent.

We sailed to Antarctica with Atlas Ocean Voyages, which offered the perfect mix of cruise amenities and ashore experiences for us. Viking, Silversea, and Seabourn also have expedition ships in the region as do more adventure-focused brands. There are even some itineraries that eliminate the need to cross the notorious Drake’s Passage.

Japan/Asia

Japan and other Asian cruise ports are rapidly gaining popularity as top cruise destinations, offering a perfect blend of ancient traditions, modern innovation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Japan, in particular, has become a standout destination for cruisers. Ports like Tokyo and Yokohama offer an exciting mix of neon-lit streets, historic shrines, and vibrant food scenes, while Kyoto and Hiroshima provide a deep dive into Japan’s cultural and historical heritage. There also the opportunity to see highlights like cherry blossoms and the majestic Mt. Fuji. With Japan’s welcoming atmosphere, it’s an easy and accessible cruise destination that offers something for every type of traveler.

Beyond Japan, other Asian cruise ports are also attracting more ships. Cities like Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore are already well-established cruise hubs, offering a mix of high-energy city life, rich history, and incredible food. Meanwhile, destinations like Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, Thailand’s Phuket, and South Korea’s Busan are gaining traction.

With cruise lines increasing their presence in the region, it’s never been easier to explore Asia by sea. Japan is certainly high on our bucket list. We will also be venturing to Singapore for the first time to check out Disney Cruise Line’s newest and most innovative ship, Disney Adventure.

Galapagos

The Galapagos will forever be memorialized as the inspiration behind Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species. You too can take home some memories from these dynamic and diverse islands found off the coast of Ecuador during your cruise to the Galapagos.

With more ships visiting the region, the Galapagos is becoming another top cruise destination on many travelers’ bucket lists. If you are planning a cruise to this region, research the itineraries closely as all cruise lines offer a variety of experiences visiting several of the 20+ islands that make up the Galapagos archipelago.

Generally, Galapagos cruises are categorized into Inner Loop and Outer Loop cruises. These cruises may also include pre-cruise or post cruise land tours that visit Ecuador’s capital of Quito or Peru’s Machu Picchu. Have your cameras ready as wildlife and dramatic land formations abound at every stop. Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, sea turtles, penguins, and iguanas are just some of the creatures you will discover.

Celebrity Flora offers “Galapagos Glamping” at its finest. Celebrity Flora is a 100 passenger vessel that is purpose-built for the region. It offers all-suite accommodations for one of the most luxurious cruises in the Galapagos. Additionally, Lindblad, Silversea, and HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), among others, all have at least one expedition ship offering cruises to this famed destination.

European Rivers

European rivers are becoming one of the top cruise locations due to their unique blend of immersive cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and intimate travel. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises take passengers directly into the heart of Europe’s most historic and charming cities without the hassle of long transfers. Sailing along iconic rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Rhone, or Elbe, travelers can witness picturesque countryside, medieval castles, and UNESCO heritage sites right from their ship.

These smaller river ships typically offer a more all-inclusive atmosphere and a more relaxed and immersive way of travel. Whether it’s tasting wines in Bordeaux, exploring historic castles along the Rhine, or soaking in the vibrant Christmas markets of Germany and Austria, these cruises provide curated experiences for history buffs, food and wine enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Many river cruise lines include guided shore excursions, and some even offer privileged access to top sites allowing you to avoid the crowds.

With European river cruises surging in popularity, cruise lines continue to introduce innovative ships with more luxurious amenities, wellness programs, and even themed sailings. We’ve recently had the chance to sail the Seine River with Viking and the Danube with AmaWaterways and can certainly see the appeal.

Comments

What are some of your top cruise locations? How many of these regions have you visited so far? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite cruise itineraries.

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Located 600 miles off the coast of North Carolina, Bermuda’s location, temperate climate, rich history, and pink sand beaches make it a popular cruise destination, with the season running April to October. If you are cruising to Bermuda and wondering what you should see and do during your visit, look no further than our list of the Best Things to Do in Bermuda on a Cruise. 

Admittedly, you will not be able to see and do everything during one visit, so you will have an excuse to plan another cruise to this beautiful location.

Best Things to Do in Bermuda on a Cruise 2019

Make it a Beach Day

When you think of Bermuda, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the gorgeous pink sand beaches. So naturally, visiting one of these beaches makes our list of the Best Things to Do in Bermuda on a Cruise.

If your cruise ship is docking at Kings Wharf or Heritage Wharf, the Snorkel Park Beach is your closest option. There is a $5 admission fee, chairs, and umbrellas available to rent. For amenities, there is a beach bar and grill, and onsite snorkeling and watersport options for additional fees.

Although this man-made area can offer plenty of fun in the sun, we suggest venturing out a bit further to the parish of Southampton.

Horseshoe Bay beach is approximately 30 minutes away from the cruise terminal and can be reached via taxi or bus (bus #7). This beach has been voted one of the world’s best beaches, so get there early as it can get crowded. If you want to explore a bit more of the South Shore beaches, there is a walking trail that leads to Jobson’s Cove and Warwick Long Bay which is great for snorkeling.

If you are willing to venture even further from the Dockyard, Tobacco Bay beach, located in St. George, is another beautiful beach. Although no pink sand, it too is among the best beaches in Bermuda and another great snorkeling location. Tobacco Bay beach can be reached by taking the Orange Ferry from Kings Wharf to St. George.

Take an Island Tour

Whether you choose to book a pre-arranged shore excursion with your cruise company or take a self-guided tour of the island, there is plenty to see!

If your cruise ship is docking in Kings Wharf or Heritage Wharf, the Royal Naval Dockyard is within walking distance. Once a strategic navy base, this area has now been transformed into a tourist attraction with the National Museum of Bermuda providing a recount of Bermuda’s rich history.

Also located in the area are the Bermuda Craft Market, Bermuda Rum Cake Company, Bermuda Clayworks, and Dockyard Glassworks, all which warrant a visit.

Related Post: Exploring the Royal Naval Dockyard

Continuing further east on the island, you will want to secure some photos of the Somerset Bridge, the smallest drawbridge in the world, and the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, one of the world’s oldest cast iron lighthouses.

If you have the time to venture even further, a trip to Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital city is in order. A ferry ride on the Blue line is the quickest way to get there from the Dockyard (20 minutes).

While in Hamilton, you will want to do some shopping on Front Street, the commercial hub of this city. You may also want to visit one of the many parks including Queen Elizabeth Park. Other popular stops include the Bermuda Historical Society Museum, the Bermuda Cathedral, Fort Hamilton, Hamilton Harbor, or the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo.

Be sure to grab a drink at the Swizzle Inn, Bermuda’s oldest and most famous pub, while in the area.

Visit Historic St. George

If you want a more in-depth historical experience than just a basic island tour, we suggest taking the Orange line ferry directly from the Dockyard to St. George (about 45 minutes) to spend your day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Arriving by ferry, Kings Square is only a short walk. From here, you have a few different options to explore the downtown area. You can take a self-guided tour or one of a few different guided tour options. 

Along the way, you can see sights including Town Hall, Bermuda National Trust Museum, the Bridge House, the Old State House, the Tucker House Museum, and St. Peter’s Church, among others.

While in the area, you might also be able to catch the ducking stool re-enactment which takes place at 12:30pm. You can cross the small bridge into Ordnance Island to see a replica of the Deliverance or take the short uphill walk to the Unfinished Church as well.

Beyond the downtown area, there is much more history to explore in the eastern end of St. George. You can opt to walk (uphill) or take a mini-bus to St. Catherine’s Fort (available for purchase at the Visitor’s Center). St. Catherine’s Fort is arguably one of the most impressive historical structures on the island and well worth the $7 admission fee for some exploration.

St. Catherine’s Beach (Gates Bay) is located adjacent to the fort and is a hidden gem.

Once at St. Catherine’s Fort, you can choose to do a little more exploring on your own. Within walking distance to the fort is Tobacco Bay Beach, Alexandra’s Battery, and Gates Fort. Or, you can simply take the mini-bus back to downtown.

Related Post: A Walking Tour of Historic St. George’s Bermuda

Explore the Crystal and Fantasy Caves

If you still have any time, or energy, left after your historical tour of St. George, you might want to hail a bus or taxi to the Crystal and Fantasy Caves located on the outskirts of Hamilton. This is 25 minutes from Kings Square, St. George; alternatively reached via ferry from the Dockyard to Hamilton followed by a bus or by taxi from the Dockyard. 

Discovered in 1907 by 2 teenaged boys, these caves have been made accessible for visitors and have since become known as “Bermuda’s True Hidden Treasures”.  

The Crystal and Fantasy Caves are open from 9-5pm daily, with guided tours leaving every 20 minutes. Admission price is $24 for each cave or $35 for a combination ticket.  Do plan on approximately 30 minutes to explore each cave. Of note, there are stairs in each of the caves, but those in the Crystal Cave are more gradual whereas those in the Fantasy Cave are steeper.

Venture into the Bermuda Triangle

If just reading about all the walking and adventure in the previous options made you tired, then you might want to delve deeper into the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle with a relaxing glass bottom boat tour.

Bermuda Triangle tours are available in both the day and evening and are led by knowledgeable guides who will provide some history of the island and this mysterious area as well as the marine life.

These 1.5-hour journeys afford beautiful views of the island and an up-close experience with the marine life and coral formations all while staying comfortable and dry. These tours can be booked through your cruise line or through local vendors.

If you prefer to get more up close and personal with the sea life and coral formations, Bermuda Triangle snorkeling tours are also available.

In addition to the natural wonders around you, you will have the opportunity to snorkel within various shipwrecks in the area like the Vixen, Montana, or Constellation to name a few. Learn a bit of history about these shipwrecks then set out to explore them. Don’t worry, the staff promises you won’t get lost!

Comments

Have you visited any of these attractions during a trip to Bermuda? What are your Best Things to Do in Bermuda on a Cruise? Drop us an anchor below to tell us about your experiences in Bermuda to help your fellow cruisers make the most of their time in port.

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