What Cruise Line Goes to Bermuda Top Picks for 2024

Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean lead the pack as the top cruise lines sailing to Bermuda in 2024, offering frequent departures and immersive island experiences. With convenient round-trip itineraries from major East Coast ports, these cruise lines provide the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and pink-sand beach access. Whether you’re seeking luxury, family fun, or flexible dining, these top picks deliver unforgettable Bermuda getaways.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises offers luxurious Bermuda voyages with premium amenities and stunning pink-sand beach access.
• Royal Caribbean delivers family-friendly itineraries with thrilling onboard activities and convenient King’s Wharf stops.
• NCL provides flexible Freestyle Cruising and longer stays for immersive island exploration.
• Disney Cruise Line is ideal for families seeking kid-approved adventures and character experiences in Bermuda.
• Carnival Cruise Line features budget-friendly 5-7 day sailings perfect for first-time Bermuda visitors.
• Holland America excels in mid-sized ships offering refined cultural and culinary experiences on the island.
• Book early for best pricing, especially during peak spring and fall sailing seasons.

Why Bermuda Should Be on Your Cruise Bucket List

Bermuda—just saying the name evokes images of pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and pastel-colored homes nestled in a subtropical paradise. For decades, this British Overseas Territory has been a dream destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. And what better way to experience it than by taking a cruise? Cruising to Bermuda offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and exploration, allowing you to wake up each morning to a new island view without the hassle of flights or hotel changes. But with so many cruise lines offering Bermuda itineraries, the big question remains: what cruise line goes to Bermuda—and more importantly, which one is right for you?

As someone who’s sailed to Bermuda multiple times—on everything from family-friendly mega-ships to intimate luxury vessels—I’ve learned that not all Bermuda cruises are created equal. The island’s compact size (just 21 square miles!) means you can explore its rich culture, historic forts, and vibrant marine life in just a few days. But the cruise line you choose will shape your entire experience: from the onboard vibe and dining options to the ports you visit and the excursions you can book. In this guide, I’ll break down the top cruise lines sailing to Bermuda in 2024, sharing honest insights, practical tips, and real-world examples to help you pick the perfect ship for your next island getaway.

Top Cruise Lines That Sail to Bermuda in 2024

If you’re wondering “what cruise line goes to Bermuda,” you’ll be happy to know the answer is: quite a few! From classic American brands to premium European lines, Bermuda remains a popular destination thanks to its proximity to the U.S. East Coast and its year-round appeal. Below are the standout cruise lines offering Bermuda itineraries in 2024, each with its own personality and perks.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury Meets Island Vibes

Celebrity Cruises has long been a favorite for travelers who want a touch of elegance without the stuffiness. Their Bermuda sailings—typically 7-night round trips from Cape Liberty (Bayonne, NJ)—are among the most popular in the industry. The Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Reflection are the primary ships on this route, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for couples and solo travelers.

What makes Celebrity stand out? The “Bermuda Overnight” experience. Unlike many lines that dock for just one day, Celebrity often stays overnight in King’s Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard), giving you extra time to explore after sunset. You can catch a local jazz night, enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside bistro, or even take a moonlight swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Onboard, you’ll find a sophisticated vibe: think rooftop gardens, craft cocktail bars, and a world-class spa. The Blu restaurant (included for suite guests, available for others) offers a refined take on Bermuda-inspired cuisine. One traveler I spoke with raved about the grilled wahoo with mango salsa—“it tasted like the island itself,” she said.

Pro tip: Book a balcony cabin if you can. The views of Hamilton Harbour at sunrise are unforgettable. And don’t miss the Artful Traveler program, which features local Bermudian artists and cultural talks during your cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising at Its Best

NCL is the go-to for travelers who want flexibility. Their “Freestyle Cruising” concept means no set dining times, no dress codes, and a wide range of activities—perfect for families and multigenerational groups. The Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Gem regularly sail to Bermuda from New York and Boston, with itineraries ranging from 5 to 10 nights.

One of the biggest draws of NCL’s Bermuda cruises is the “Stay and Play” option. You can extend your stay on the island for an extra night or two, turning your cruise into a mini vacation within a vacation. This is ideal if you want to dive the coral reefs, visit the Crystal Caves, or just relax at Horseshoe Bay Beach without feeling rushed.

Onboard, the vibe is energetic and fun. The Escape features a ropes course, aqua park, and even a full-sized bowling alley. For foodies, the Ocean Blue seafood restaurant and Food Republic (Asian fusion) are must-tries. I once spent an entire afternoon at the Spice H2O adults-only area—sunbathing, sipping a rum punch, and watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

Keep in mind: NCL’s Bermuda sailings can get busy, especially during school breaks. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider booking a longer itinerary or traveling in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October).

Royal Caribbean International: Adventure and Innovation

If you’re looking for high-energy fun and cutting-edge amenities, Royal Caribbean is hard to beat. Their Anthem of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas offer Bermuda cruises from Cape Liberty and Baltimore, with a focus on onboard entertainment and family-friendly activities.

What sets Royal Caribbean apart? The sheer number of things to do. The Anthem has a skydiving simulator, a surf machine, and even a robotic bar where drinks are mixed by AI. For kids, the Adventure Ocean program is top-notch, with themed activities like “Pirate Treasure Hunt” and “Under the Sea Science Lab.”

When it comes to Bermuda, Royal Caribbean docks at King’s Wharf for 2-3 days, giving you ample time to explore. Their excursion options are extensive: snorkeling at Tobacco Bay, visiting the Bermuda Aquarium, or taking a glass-bottom boat tour. I once booked a “Pink Sand & Rum” tour—a perfect mix of beach time and local culture—and it remains one of my favorite cruise experiences.

One caveat: the ship’s size (over 4,000 passengers) means it can feel crowded at peak times. If you’re traveling with young kids or elderly relatives, consider booking a suite or concierge cabin for priority access to elevators and dining.

Cunard Line: Classic Elegance and Transatlantic Flair

For a more traditional, refined experience, Cunard is the answer. The Queen Mary 2—the world’s only true ocean liner—offers seasonal Bermuda cruises from New York, often as part of longer transatlantic or Caribbean itineraries. These sailings are perfect for travelers who appreciate old-world charm and formal elegance.

Cunard’s Bermuda cruises are shorter (typically 3-4 nights), but they’re packed with sophistication. The onboard dress code includes formal nights, afternoon tea in the Queens Room, and live music from the ship’s orchestra. If you love the idea of sipping champagne on the deck while a string quartet plays, this is your cruise line.

One of the unique aspects of Cunard’s Bermuda itinerary is the “Bermuda Heritage Experience.” Guests can attend lectures on the island’s history, participate in a rum-tasting session, or even take a guided walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. George’s. A friend of mine who sailed with Cunard loved the “Tea & Talk” event, where a Bermudian historian shared stories of the island’s colonial past.

Keep in mind: Cunard’s Bermuda sailings are less frequent and often more expensive than other lines. But if you’re looking for a nostalgic, romantic getaway, it’s worth the splurge.

Choosing the Right Bermuda Cruise for Your Travel Style

Now that we’ve covered the “what cruise line goes to Bermuda” question, the next step is figuring out which line fits your personality. Bermuda is a versatile destination, and the right cruise line depends on what you value most: relaxation, adventure, culture, or luxury. Here’s how to match your travel style to the perfect ship.

For Families: Prioritize Fun and Flexibility

If you’re traveling with kids (or teens who act like kids), you’ll want a cruise line with plenty of activities, kid-friendly dining, and flexible schedules. NCL and Royal Caribbean are your best bets. Both lines offer:

• Dedicated kids’ clubs with age-specific programs
• Water parks, rock walls, and arcade games
• Family cabins with connecting rooms or extra space
• Buffet-style dining with familiar options (pizza, burgers, mac & cheese)

Pro tip: Book a “Family Oceanview” cabin on NCL’s Escape. It’s larger than a standard room and includes a bathtub—a lifesaver when traveling with little ones.

For Couples: Romance and Relaxation

For a romantic escape, focus on intimacy, fine dining, and scenic views. Celebrity Cruises and Cunard shine here. Look for:

• Adults-only areas (Celebrity’s Retreat, Cunard’s Queens Grill)
• Specialty dining with candlelit tables (Celebrity’s Le Petit Chef, Cunard’s The Verandah)
• Spa packages with couple’s treatments
• Overnight stays in port for sunset strolls

I once surprised my partner with a “Bermuda Sunset Dinner” on the balcony of our Celebrity cabin. The ship was docked in Hamilton, and we watched the lights twinkle on the harbor while eating fresh lobster and drinking local Gosling’s rum. It was pure magic.

For Adventure Seekers: Active Exploration

If you’re all about snorkeling, hiking, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, Royal Caribbean and NCL offer the most excursion options. Both lines partner with local guides to provide:

• Snorkeling at the famous Blue Hole or Church Bay
• Kayaking through mangrove forests
• Hiking the Railway Trail (a scenic path along the old train route)
• Scuba diving to shipwrecks like the Mary Celestia

One traveler told me she booked a “Bermuda Bike & Brew” tour through Royal Caribbean. She cycled through the countryside, stopped at a local brewery, and even met a family who invited her to a traditional Bermudian dinner. “It felt like I was truly part of the island,” she said.

For Luxury Travelers: Refined Experiences

If you’re willing to splurge for a top-tier experience, Celebrity Cruises (with their Edge class ships) and Cunard are the way to go. Look for:

• Butler service and private lounges
• Exclusive shore excursions (like a private tour of the Bermuda National Gallery)
• Premium beverage packages with top-shelf liquor
• Spacious suites with panoramic views

On a recent Celebrity Edge cruise, I splurged on a suite with a “Magic Carpet” (a movable platform that serves as a restaurant, bar, or lounge). It was over-the-top, but watching the sunset from 16 stories up while sipping a martini? Worth every penny.

Best Time to Cruise to Bermuda (And How to Save Money)

Timing matters when it comes to Bermuda cruises. The island’s peak season (May-September) offers the best weather but also the highest prices and crowds. Here’s how to find the sweet spot between weather, cost, and availability.

Peak Season: May to September

Summer is Bermuda’s busiest time. The weather is warm (75-85°F), the beaches are packed, and the island hosts events like the Bermuda Music Festival and Cup Match (a cricket tournament). If you’re traveling with kids, this is ideal—school’s out, and the water is perfect for swimming.

But beware: prices skyrocket. A 7-night cruise from Cape Liberty can cost $1,500-$2,000 per person in peak season. To save money, book early (6-12 months in advance) or consider a last-minute deal. Royal Caribbean and NCL often offer “Flash Sales” with discounts of up to 30%.

Shoulder Season: April, October, November

This is my favorite time to cruise to Bermuda. The weather is still pleasant (70-80°F), but crowds are smaller and prices drop. I once booked a 10-night NCL cruise in October for just $900 per person—a steal for a balcony cabin.

Shoulder season also means better availability for excursions. During a trip in April, I snagged a last-minute snorkeling tour at Tobacco Bay. The water was a bit cooler, but the coral was vibrant, and we had the beach almost to ourselves.

Winter: December to March

Bermuda’s winter is mild (65-75°F), but it’s the least popular time for cruises. Only a few lines (like Cunard and Celebrity) offer winter itineraries, and they’re often repositioning ships. The upside? Deep discounts and a more authentic experience. You’ll see locals enjoying the island without the tourist rush.

Pro tip: Pack layers. While Bermuda is subtropical, the ocean breeze can be chilly in winter. A light jacket and a sweater are essential for evenings.

Ports of Call and Shore Excursion Tips

Bermuda’s compact size means most cruises dock at the same two ports: King’s Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard) and Hamilton (the capital city). Here’s what to expect—and how to make the most of your time onshore.

King’s Wharf: The Main Cruise Hub

Most large ships dock at King’s Wharf, a former British naval base turned tourist destination. The area is walkable and packed with attractions:

• Bermuda Craft Market: Local artisans sell handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles
• National Museum of Bermuda: Learn about the island’s maritime history and shipwrecks
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours: See coral reefs and marine life without getting wet
• Snorkel Park Beach: A calm, family-friendly beach with rental gear

Tip: Buy a Bermuda Transportation Pass at the dock. It gives you unlimited bus and ferry rides for 1-3 days, making it easy to explore beyond the port.

Hamilton: The Capital City

Smaller ships and ferries often dock in Hamilton, a charming city with pastel-colored buildings and a lively waterfront. Must-sees include:

• Front Street: The main shopping district, with boutiques, cafes, and the famous Bermuda Perfumery
• City Hall & Arts Centre: Home to rotating art exhibitions and cultural events
• Harbour Nights (Wednesdays in summer): A street festival with music, food, and crafts

One of my favorite Hamilton experiences was a “Rum Swizzle” tasting at Swizzle Inn, Bermuda’s oldest pub. The drink (a mix of rum, citrus, and bitters) is a local favorite—and dangerously delicious.

Excursion Tips for First-Timers

• Book early: Popular tours (like scuba diving or the Crystal Caves) sell out fast
• Check the weather: Rain can cancel snorkeling or boat tours
• Bring cash: Many local vendors don’t accept cards
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Bermuda protects its coral reefs

I once made the mistake of booking a snorkeling tour without checking the forecast. It rained all day, and the tour was canceled. Lesson learned: always have a backup plan (like visiting the museum or a spa).

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

While Bermuda is the star, the cruise ship itself is part of the experience. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from each line—from dining to entertainment.

Dining: From Casual to Gourmet

All major lines offer multiple dining options, but the quality varies:

• Celebrity: Best for foodies. The Le Petit Chef (a 3D animated dining experience) is unforgettable
• NCL: Best for variety. 20+ restaurants, including a Brazilian steakhouse and a teppanyaki grill
• Royal Caribbean: Best for families. The Windjammer buffet has kid-friendly options
• Cunard: Best for tradition. Afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and scones

Pro tip: Try a local Bermudian dish onboard. Many ships feature “Bermuda Night” in the main dining room, with dishes like fish chowder, codfish cakes, and rum cake.

Entertainment and Activities

Each line has a different vibe:

• Royal Caribbean: Broadway-style shows, laser tag, and escape rooms
• NCL: Live music, comedy clubs, and “Howl at the Moon” dueling pianos
• Celebrity: Classical music, art auctions, and guest speakers
• Cunard: Ballroom dancing, lectures, and afternoon tea dances

On a Cunard cruise, I attended a “Bermuda History” lecture by a local historian. It was fascinating—and made my onshore explorations even more meaningful.

Spa and Wellness

If you’re looking to relax, the spa is a must. Celebrity’s The Spa and Royal Caribbean’s Vitality Spa offer treatments using local ingredients like Bermuda cedar and seaweed. I once had a “Pink Sand Body Scrub” at the Celebrity spa—it left my skin feeling amazing.

Tip: Book spa treatments on port days. The spa is less crowded, and you can enjoy the facilities (like the thermal suite) without the rush.

Data Table: Cruise Lines to Bermuda at a Glance

Cruise Line	Typical Itinerary	Best For	Average Price (per person)	Unique Feature
Celebrity Cruises	7-night, Cape Liberty to King’s Wharf (overnight)	Couples, luxury travelers	$1,200-$2,000	Overnight stays, Blu restaurant
Norwegian Cruise Line	5-10 night, NYC/Boston to King’s Wharf	Families, adventure seekers	$900-$1,600	Stay & Play option, Freestyle dining
Royal Caribbean	7-10 night, Cape Liberty/Baltimore to King’s Wharf	Families, thrill-seekers	$1,000-$1,800	Skydiving simulator, surf machine
Cunard Line	3-4 night, NYC to Hamilton	Romantic getaways, traditionalists	$1,500-$2,500	Formal nights, afternoon tea

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Bermuda Cruise

So, what cruise line goes to Bermuda? The answer depends on you. Whether you’re a family looking for non-stop fun, a couple seeking romance, or an adventurer craving underwater exploration, there’s a cruise line that fits your style. Bermuda’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality—and the right ship will help you experience it all.

As you plan your 2024 Bermuda cruise, remember: it’s not just about the destination. It’s about the journey. The late-night laughs at the pool bar, the sunrise views from your balcony, the taste of your first rum swizzle on a pink-sand beach. These moments—small and big—are what make a cruise unforgettable.

So go ahead, pick the line that speaks to you. Pack your swimsuit, your curiosity, and an open heart. Bermuda is waiting—and it’s every bit as magical as you’ve imagined.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise line goes to Bermuda most frequently?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer the most frequent sailings to Bermuda in 2024, with multiple ships docking at Royal Naval Dockyard. Their itineraries often include overnight stays, giving passengers extra time to explore the island.

Which cruise lines visit Bermuda during the summer season?

Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises all feature Bermuda in their summer 2024 schedules. These sailings typically run from May through October, aligning with Bermuda’s peak tourism season.

Are there any luxury cruise lines that go to Bermuda?

Yes, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer luxury voyages to Bermuda with high-end amenities and all-inclusive packages. Their smaller ships often dock in Hamilton for a more immersive experience.

What cruise line goes to Bermuda with the best onboard activities?

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas and Norwegian’s Breakaway stand out for their extensive onboard entertainment, including rock climbing, Broadway shows, and water parks. Both are top picks for families and active travelers.

Do any budget-friendly cruise lines sail to Bermuda?

Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises provide affordable 2024 Bermuda itineraries without sacrificing key amenities. Their shorter 5- to 7-day cruises are ideal for cost-conscious travelers.

Which cruise lines offer overnight stays in Bermuda?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean often include overnight stays in their Bermuda itineraries, allowing guests to experience the island’s nightlife and attractions after day-trippers depart. This is a popular feature for first-time visitors.