Snorkel Park, Bermuda
You docked at Kings Wharf Bermuda, now called Heritage Wharf, but your ship is only in port for a day or two? What do you do? Well, don’t panic if you didn’t book a shore excursion. DIY – Do it yourself! Within walking distance of the ship, there is the Royal Navy Dockyard. Each time we return to Bermuda, we see this area just keeps on growing with new activities, shops and vendors. Check out the WebCam! They even have a courtesy shuttle from the ship’s gangway over to the information booth to save you some walking. From that location, you can catch the Water Ferries to Hamilton or St Georges. Just be sure to check the Ferry schedules so that you allow plenty of time to get back to your ship! The information center is very helpful and also sells some souvenirs. If you are looking for lunch near by, check out the Frog and Onion pub (http://frogandonion.bm/). Also, past the Information Center, you will find a Bonefish Grill, and some local shops and cafes. There is also a museum, and if you walk the path to the one end, you run into Snorkel Park Beach.
Snorkel Park Beach is a private beach and does have an admission, but there is also a bar on the beach, so ask if there is a fee if you just going to the bar. There are signs posted. We also spotted a Mini Golf course near the Snorkel Park entrance too. From the ship, follow the walkway over to the information center and go to your right. Follow that street down to the back side of the Dockyard. Snorkel Park, the Museum, and the cafe’s are all there. If you are in a time crunch, and really do not have time to get to some of the other beaches, such as Horseshoe Bay Beach, Snorkel Park is an alternative. It is a smaller beach and since there are usually 2 cruise ships in port at a time, you do want to get there early if you intend on renting a chair (probably before 11am). You can also rent snorkel gear and there are reefs to see at Snorkel Park beach. The beach area is smaller than Horseshoe Bay Beach, so check out my article on Horseshoe Bay Beach if you want to do your own excursion to that beach.
Royal Navy Dock yard, Kings Wharf Bermuda
There are limited activities in the area, and typically there are taxi’s right outside the Ship’s gangway if you plan to use a Taxi to get around. There are a few options for you to travel in Bermuda. Taxi, Mini-Bus, or the Water Ferries. The Public Transportation tickets for the Bus and Water Ferries are sold right outside the Gangway, or over by the Information Center. In 2014, the cost was around $5.00 US 1 way, or you can purchase an all day pass. There was a children rate that was less money. Just be sure to check the timing so you make it back to your ship on time! If you are staying in the port area because of the time crunch, the Royal Navy Dockyard is an opportunity. As always, watch your time so you have ample time to walk back to the ship before sailing.
Snorkel Park Beach Bar