Bermuda
Hidden island treasures
Bermuda
Immersed in the warm turquoise waters of the Sargasso Sea, the chain of islands that is Bermuda is ringed by tricky reefs. That makes it one of the world's top boating and diving destinations. With its rich-colored houses and large mansions drowning in abundant greenery and odorous bougainvillea and frangipani, their step-like white roofs designed to catch rainwater, Bermuda feels like a polished piece of pastoral England transferred into a warmer climate. But Bermuda is much more than that - with British, North American, African, Portuguese, and West Indian connections adding to the unique cultural melange. In spite of its small size – just 20 miles by 2 miles – Bermuda's museums and art galleries add scents of downtown elegance and its many forts captivate history lovers, while its mixed topography makes it perfect for all manner of boating, water sports, hiking, golfing, or just lounging on a picture-perfect pink-sand beach. And with plenty of easily accessible yacht charters and boats for rent everywhere – Bermuda is the perfect boating destination for boat lovers and yacht enthusiasts from all over the Globe.
Some gorgeous itineraries
We've selected some of the best routes for this destination
A Tour of Bermuda (5 days)
Top locations in Bermuda
See top spots for boating in the area
Hamilton
Its bustling harbor streets filled with colorful 19th-century houses that blend with polished office buildings plus the bay behind filled with yacht charters and boats for rent, Hamilton is a welcoming and appealing capital city. And in spite of its tiny size, it is a city: its dense grid of streets contains Bermuda's government buildings, some museums, parks, and a significant variety of places to eat, drink, and party. It has been the country's capital since 1793 when its strategic location and deep port saw the seat of operations move here from St George's. During the day, the streets are filled with smartly attired office workers, the men formal in their Bermuda shorts and knee-length socks; and in the evenings, revelers take their place along the seafront promenade.
Cooper's Island Nature Reserve
This 77-acre nature preserve made up of woodland, unspoiled beaches, salt marsh, and rocky shores was introduced to Bermudians in 1995 when the US Navy pulled out. Nature trails run through a mixed forest of remaining Bermuda cedars and olivewoods, mixed with introduced growths of Brazilian pepper and allspice. The seven beaches are quiet and perfect for snorkeling, and the salt marsh is a vital habitat for herons, kingfishers, and giant land crabs. So whether you are into diving, exploring nature, or just lounging on your yacht charter's sun-drenched decks, this splendid piece of heaven will be the perfect spot to explore.
Fort St. Catherine
The most notable of Bermuda's 91 forts has initially been built on this rocky point in 1614 and was expanded five times since. A drawbridge leads into an air-conditioned museum, featuring dioramas of the garrison through the centuries and reproduction of the Crown Jewels. Head down into the underground tunnels to see the gunpowder warehouse, shell lift, and armaments room. Costumed mannequins depict living conditions inside the fort. From the walls, you can see the rocks that shipwrecked the Sea Venture. The fort is easily accessible by boat, so a yacht charter or a boat rental is an excellent option to reach this famous Bermudian landmark while enjoying the sun and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Bermuda.