How Long Does It Take to Cruise to Bermuda?
Quick Answer
2–3 days at sea each way from East Coast ports. Most Bermuda cruises are 5–7 night round trips, with 1–3 full days docked on the island.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
Cruising to Bermuda from the US East Coast takes 2–3 days at sea in each direction, depending on your departure port. The total round-trip cruise is typically 5–7 nights, which includes 1–3 days docked in Bermuda at the Royal Naval Dockyard, Hamilton, or St. George's.
Sailing Times from East Coast Ports
| Departure Port | Distance to Bermuda | Sailing Time (one way) | Typical Cruise Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York/Cape Liberty, NJ | 770 miles | ~2 days | 5–7 nights |
| Baltimore, MD | 830 miles | ~2 days | 5–7 nights |
| Norfolk, VA | 680 miles | ~1.5–2 days | 5–7 nights |
| Boston, MA | 770 miles | ~2 days | 5–7 nights |
| Charleston, SC | 850 miles | ~2–2.5 days | 7 nights |
| Fort Lauderdale, FL | 1,050 miles | ~2.5–3 days | 7–9 nights |
What to Expect on the Voyage
Sea Days
Bermuda cruises are known for having a higher ratio of sea days compared to Caribbean itineraries. From New York, you'll typically have one full sea day on the way down and one on the return. The ship travels at approximately 18–22 knots, covering the roughly 770 nautical miles in about 36–40 hours.
Time in Bermuda
Most cruise lines dock in Bermuda for 1–3 full days, which is a major advantage over Caribbean island-hopping cruises. This extended stay allows passengers to thoroughly explore the island. Ships typically dock at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Sandys Parish, though some smaller vessels use Hamilton or St. George's harbor.
Cruise Lines Offering Bermuda Itineraries
Several major cruise lines operate regular Bermuda sailings during the season (April through October):
- Norwegian Cruise Line — frequent departures from New York, Boston, and Norfolk
- Royal Caribbean — sailings from Cape Liberty, NJ and Baltimore
- Celebrity Cruises — departures from Cape Liberty, NJ
- Carnival Cruise Line — departures from New York and Norfolk
- MSC Cruises — seasonal departures from New York
Bermuda Cruise Season
Bermuda cruises run from April through October, with peak season in June through August. The island's subtropical climate makes winter cruising impractical due to rougher seas in the North Atlantic. Shoulder months (April–May and September–October) often offer the best combination of pleasant weather and lower fares.
Cost and Booking Tips
- Expect to pay $500–$1,500 per person for a 5–7 night Bermuda cruise from the East Coast, depending on cabin type and cruise line.
- Book 4–6 months ahead for the best selection, especially for summer sailings.
- Bermuda requires no passport for US citizens on closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same US port), though a passport is strongly recommended.
- Shore excursion costs in Bermuda range from $50–$200 per person, though the island is easy to explore independently via bus and ferry.
Sea Conditions
The open Atlantic crossing to Bermuda can be rougher than typical Caribbean routes. Seas of 4–8 feet are common, and occasional storms can produce larger swells. If you are prone to seasickness, consider booking a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck and bringing motion sickness remedies. Modern stabilizer systems on large cruise ships help significantly, but the crossing is noticeably more active than sheltered Caribbean waters.