While I am not ecstatic to pay $80 for this fee, I basically consider it another port charge. This is not applicable only to cruise passengers, but to EVERYONE entering Bermuda, by ship or air. Even Bermuda residents who have left the country, whether for pleasure or work, are required to pay this fee . . . every time they leave and return to the island.
Personally, we plan to get off and enjoy a nice lunch in Hamilton. . . providing some added income to the restaurant owner who did not have tourist/visitor business for a very long time. Yes, I realize the government will benefit from our limited spending in the island, but so will a few locals.
I also recognize that we are all entitled to our own perceptions and reaction / response to the situation.