This archipelago may seem like a long way to reach by boat, but it’s definitely worth exploring.
Cruising in open waters is a challenging task. Add to that a few overnights before reaching land, and, for some, it can seem a bit overwhelming. But part of the cruising allure is discovering places you’ve never been. Yet, every two years, around 165 sailboats leave the shores of Newport, Rhode Island, and race 636 miles to Bermuda with owners and crew seeing the islands for the first time, second time, even 20 times through this tough offshore event. So it is feasible to cruise over.
Many may not know that Bermuda is an archipelago of 181 islands, islets, and rocks, but due to its compact layout and the larger islands connected by bridges, it can appear as one landmass. While the climate is mostly sunny and mild with blue skies, reaching the islands by boat isn’t always the same.
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The cruise involves navigating a long ocean distance that may be sunny with a light breeze, but can also involve rough weather, Gulf Stream currents and its eddies, and varying ocean depths that can affect both. A seaworthy boat with sufficient fuel, reliable navigation systems, safety equipment, and crew familiar with the boat are essential commodities, as is your passport. Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, and visitors must clear customs with proper documentation. Boaters can use the “Sail Clear” system for an expedited process.
Bermuda has a sub-tropical climate, but is seasonal, considering it’s on a similar latitude to North Carolina, about 643 miles to the west. Whether you’re sailing or flying across, temperatures can vary from 55 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months and between 75 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Late spring is usually the best time to sail over.
What to Discover in Bermuda
Bermuda is full of adventure, yet has the laid-back vibe to just relax. There are three distinct areas: The Royal Naval Dockyard (West End), Hamilton (Central Bermuda), and St. George’s (East End). From historical sites to pink-sand beaches to fishing and diving the reefs and shipwrecks, the island nation is a blend of cultures, history, and natural wonders.
The diversity of its people—British, Portuguese, African, and Native American—offers the palate a culinary bonanza of flavors, such as a local favorite of fried wahoo on fresh-baked raisin bread with coleslaw and hot sauce. The mix of traditions also brings about diverse activities such as colorful costumes during festivals or the African Diaspora Heritage trail that includes the National Museum of Bermuda and the Tucker House Museum in Barber’s Alley. A rich history that started back in the early 1500s is seen in many buildings and locations, including the Royal Naval Dockyard, the Old State House, and many more.
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What to Do
Bermuda is known for its pink-sand beaches, which are created from pulverized shells and corals. With about 64 miles of coastline, beaches are found throughout the archipelago from those full of resort guests to the hidden ones that may take some agility to reach. The naturally stunning scenery with crystal-clear waters make them all beautiful. One popular spot is Horseshoe Bay Beach, a crescent-shaped, soft-sand entry into the water with rock outcroppings for snorkeling. Grab a swizzle at the Rum Bum Beach Bar or rent a chair or snorkel gear to enjoy the day.
Bermuda has many historical sites, including the Unfinished Church in St. George’s, Gibbs Hill Lighthouse for an awesome panoramic view of the islands, the Old Bermuda State House built in 1620, and the 19th century Royal Naval Dockyard that is now a shopping and dining district and home to the cruise ships that visit its shores.
Bermuda also has its natural wonders to visit, such as the family friendly Crystal Caves and Blue Hole Park with its coastal cliffs, caverns, and lagoons. Bermuda also is a golfer’s paradise with seven world-class courses. The Port Royal Golf Course is the site of the PGA Tour Butterfield Bermuda Championship. The surrounding scenery at every location is stunning.
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What About Bermuda Marinas?
There are numerous marinas throughout the islands to settle in for a nice stay after your crossing. On the East End, you’ll find Captain Smokes Marina, St. George’s Dinghy & Sports Club, and St. George’s Marina & Superyacht Dock, accommodating vessels to 70 feet in length at the Town Docks and 492 feet in length at the Superyacht Dock.
In the central region are Princess Marina at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, Royal Hamilton amateur Dinghy Club, and Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. On on the West End, you’ll find Caroline Bay Marina and Pier 41 Marina at the Royal Naval Dockyard, accommodating 100 yachts to 100 feet in length.
This is just a touch of the fun to be had in Bermuda, so click on the QR code to see a three-day itinerary and more.
-by Pamela Stephens
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