Getting around Bermuda
Visiting Bermuda is not just about hitting all the attractions or visiting all of the beaches. Traveling around the island and seeing the natural beauty on your own is one of the best ways to truly experience the uniqueness of Bermuda.
Bermuda Buses
Before automobiles were allowed in Bermuda, the island installed the Bermuda Railway system as transportation across the islands. The railway did not succeed as planned and a bus system was setup to take over for the public transportation system. The bus system is still in place today more than 50 years later. There are bus stops all along the main roads on the island and buses run every day. Bus passes and tickets are available depending on the amount of time you plan to stay on the islands and use the bus as your transportation.
The buses service all of the major attractions, as well as, the main tourist beaches and hotels. It is easy to spot the buses as they sport a pink and blue paint job unique to Bermuda and as a testament to Bermuda’s pink sand beaches and clear blue water.
Bus tickets and passes can also be used on the ferries. The ferry boat system provides a convenient way to see the islands from the water. Some of the ferry boats are faster than the regular boats and are an excellent way to get from one end of Bermuda to the other.
Scooters are Popular in Bermuda
Because of the space limitations in Bermuda, residents of the islands are encouraged to use scooters as their primary mode of transportation if they cannot use the public bus and ferry systems. The widespread use of scooters has led to many scooter rental locations throughout the island. Tourists cannot rent automobiles in Bermuda and are restricted to using either the public transportation or renting scooters.
The easy learning curve and the economic value of the scooter make it a perfect mode of transportation, especially for those visiting the island. The scooters can hold up to one driver and one passenger. Helmets are required by persons of every age due to the hazards posed by the high traffic and very thin roadways.
Bermuda Driving Regulations
Driving regulations in Bermuda follow those of Great Britain since Bermuda is a British territory. This means that driving is done on the left side of the roadway and speed is measured in kilometers per hour. New drivers in Bermuda need to make sure to take a bit of time to get accustomed to the rules and regulations of the island. Posted speed limits should always be followed and general driving etiquette should be observed at all times.
Biking and Walking
Biking or walking is also a popular means of transportation. If you are planning on going from one end of the islands to the other or even halfway across the islands then biking, walking or jogging may not be the most efficient way to travel. For short distances, however, biking or hiking can be a wonderful way to get to your destination. The old Bermuda Railway Trails are open for bikers and hikers and provide more than 22 miles of trails on which to explore.
Horse and Carriage
Horses and carriages are not necessarily a means of long distance travel but they are good for a short excursion around the city of Hamilton. The horse carriages are exclusive to Hamilton and St. George, but there are also locations around the islands where horses are available to ride on the island trails.
Taxis are Popular with Tourists in Bermuda
Taxis are a popular method of getting around the island for many tourists. Taxis are available immediately upon getting off the plane, and you generally do not have to wait for a taxi to become available. Many of the hotels offer taxi service to guests, as well. The taxi rates are set by the Bermuda government, so you do not have to worry about getting the best rates. Taxis with a blue flag on the hood show that the driver is qualified to give guided taxi tours of the Bermuda islands.
Boats
A final mode of transportation around the Bermuda islands is by boat. Boating to Bermuda is a popular but serious voyage, but many visitors to the islands do a bit of boating while they are there. Deep sea fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and just touring on the ocean are all common activities.
Regardless of how you decide to get around on the islands, there is a lot to see and much of the fun is the way that you choose to arrive at your destination. Try multiple ways of traveling and find which one works best for you schedule, your budget and is the most enjoyable for you. Book now!
