Just back from Bermuda

[enyaw]

I’ve just returned from my Explorer of the Seas cruise to Bermuda. Everything was outstanding. The ship is in great shape -- and Bermuda is breathtaking! I wanted to give you all an idea on what we did for the two days that the ship was docked on the West End (Kings Wharf). We decided that the first day was our “sightseeing/shopping” day and the second was the “beach/relaxation” day.

 

***Day 1, October 3rd , 80-85 degrees, lots of sun :)

 

On Tuesday, we arrived in Bermuda, about 8:00am. After disembarking we walked onboard the ferry bound for St. George. This was the Orange Route -- which only runs Monday-Friday (and we purchased the passes onboard the Explorer at the Shore Excursion desk). With taking the St. George ferry -- we decided to see Bermuda from the “top”. After the 45 minute ride was over (which was gorgeous) , it was time to see the town. Thanks to the Frommer’s Bermuda guide, it had a sample St. George waking tour -- taking us from the middle of town to the Unfinished Cathedral and everything in between. St. George is a cute town, with narrow streets and cute cafes. Spent a couple of hours there, and then boarded the #11 bus to the Crystal Caves. The caves are located between St. George and Hamilton. The bus actually drops you off across the street from the Swizzle Inn and after a short walk around the corner, there was the entrance to the caves. What a sight! You really have to see one or both caves. Truly amazing. We only did one cave (Crystal) and spent some time waling the property. After that, back on the bus for a sightseeing trip to Hamilton. We pulled into the bus depot and made our way to Front Street. We shopped, had a great lunch at the Port of Call Restaurant and then back on the ferry to King’s Wharf. It was a busy day -- and I needed a nap before dinner!!

 

***Day 2, October 4th, 75- 80 degrees, mostly cloudy

 

So, the previous day was filled with sunshine and warmth -- it was typical that our beach day was going to be cloudy. We made the best of it. After breakfast onboard the Explorer, it was time to hop the ferry to Hamilton and find Shelly Bay. We decided to skip Horseshoe and Elbow Beach and wanted a more “private” experience. According to the Frommer’s guide, they were right! Shelly Bay was on the #10 bus line and it was gorgeous. Only 2 other people were there. The sand isn’t as pink as the others, but if you look closely -- the pink is there. The water was a bit chilly and crystal clear….but very very shallow. Sand was soft --- and with a bit of a sun & cloud mix -- it turned out to be fine. I highly recommend it … and if you have kids, there’s a playground on-site to keep them busy, too. After spending a couple of hours there, it was back to Hamilton for some additional sights we missed and a couple more gifts to pick up.

 

Like I mentioned, I was in need of help before leaving for Bermuda. Thanks to all of you for the suggestions -- and I hope you can use this to help you. Again, ask questions….I’ll be happy to help you if I can. I loved Bermuda soooo much. Can’t wait to go back!! :)

[cruisingbug]

Thanks for the info!

[southrncruisr]

Thanks for your post. It was great that you gave us the route #'s for the buses. We are planning our 2 days very similar to what you did.

[Jerboy]

You said the orange route ferry from Kings Wharf to St. George only runs Monday - Friday? Is there a ferry route to St. George that runs on the weekend (specifically Saturday when I'll be there) ? :)

[enyaw]

Glad that I could be of help! Bermuda is a great place! Enjoy.