23/07/2016
Bermuda Ferries: Your Essential Guide to Island Travel
Bermuda's turquoise waters and picturesque coastline make ferry travel not just a mode of transportation, but a truly enchanting experience. Whether you're arriving on a cruise ship at the Royal Naval Dockyard or exploring the island's charming towns, the ferry system offers a scenic, efficient, and often the most practical way to get around. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about Bermuda's ferry services, from understanding the routes and schedules to navigating fares and ensuring accessibility for all.
Understanding Bermuda's Ferry Network
Bermuda's public ferry service is operated by 'Sea Express,' a division of the Bermuda Marine and Ports Department. The system is comprised of four colour-coded routes, each catering to different parts of the island and serving distinct purposes:
- Pink Route: Connects Hamilton with various stops along Harbour Road in Paget and Warwick. This route operates year-round and is primarily for commuters, with restrictions on scooters.
- Blue Route: The workhorse for many visitors, this route provides fast ferry service between Hamilton and the Royal Naval Dockyard (Kings Wharf/Heritage Wharf). It operates year-round and is a popular choice for cruise ship passengers. Scooters are not permitted on this route.
- Green Route: This is a commuter-focused route connecting Hamilton with Watford Bridge, Cavello Bay, and Rockaway in Southampton and Sandys. It operates only on weekdays and allows scooters to embark at Hamilton and Rockaway.
- Orange Route: This is a seasonal route, typically operating during the summer months, connecting the Royal Naval Dockyard directly with St. George's. It's a highly sought-after route for those wishing to visit the historic town of St. George directly from the Dockyard, though it has specific operational days and times. Scooters are not permitted on this route.
Ferry Schedules: Planning Your Journey
The ferry schedules are dynamic and can vary significantly based on the season, day of the week, and even specific events. It's crucial to consult the latest schedule before you travel. Here's a general overview:
- Blue Route (Hamilton – Royal Naval Dockyard): This is the most frequent route. Weekday services often start as early as 7:30 am and can run as late as 10:30 pm, with increased frequency during peak hours. Weekend service typically begins around 8:00 am and concludes by 8:30 pm. Special services may operate during events like Hamilton Harbour Nights on Wednesdays.
- Orange Route (Royal Naval Dockyard – St George): This seasonal route usually runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays with specific morning and afternoon departures from both ends. Tuesdays and Fridays may have a morning departure from Dockyard and an afternoon return from St. George. It's vital to check the exact operational days and times as they can change year to year. This route generally does not operate during the winter months (November to April).
- Pink Route (Hamilton – Paget – Warwick): This route runs daily, with more frequent services on weekdays. Weekday services usually start around 7:15 am, with departures roughly every hour until the last ferry at 6:20 pm. Weekend and public holiday schedules are slightly reduced.
- Green Route (Hamilton – Watford Bridge – Cavello Bay – Rockaway): This route is primarily for commuters and operates on weekdays only, offering morning and evening services.
Key Takeaway: Always aim to arrive at the ferry stop a few minutes early, as ferries often operate on a strict schedule and boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis. For the most up-to-date information, it's recommended to check the official Bermuda Ferry Schedule, often available as a PDF download from the government's marine and ports department website.
Fares and Payment: How to Pay for Your Ferry Ride
Bermuda's ferry fares are generally considered good value, especially when compared to other transport options on the island. You have several ways to pay:
- Cash: While accepted, paying with cash is the most expensive option and requires the exact fare in coins. Notes are not accepted. For example, on the Blue, Green, and Orange routes, a cash fare for an adult is $5.00, while on the Pink route, it's $3.50.
- Tokens: Tokens are cheaper than cash. An adult token for the Blue, Green, and Orange routes costs $4.50, and for the Pink route, it's $2.75. Tokens cannot be purchased on the ferry itself but can be bought at Visitor Services Centres, the Hamilton Ferry Terminal, and sub-post offices.
- Tickets: Books of 15 tickets are also available. A book for the Blue, Green, and Orange Routes costs $37.50, making each ride $2.50. For the Pink Route, a book of 15 tickets costs $25.00, with each ride costing approximately $1.67. These are a good option for those taking a few ferry trips.
- Transportation Passes: This is often the most cost-effective and convenient option for visitors, especially those planning multiple journeys. Passes offer unlimited travel on both buses and ferries. They are available for various durations: 1-day ($19.00), 2-day ($31.50), 3-day ($44.00), 4-day ($48.50), 7-day ($62.00), 1-month ($69.00), and 3-month ($169.00) for adults. Children's passes are also available at reduced rates. A significant advantage of the pass is that holders can take scooters on the Green Route ferry free of charge, whereas non-pass holders pay an extra $4.50.
Where to Buy: Tokens, tickets, and transportation passes can typically be purchased at Visitor Services Centres (like the one at Dockyard), the Hamilton Ferry Terminal, and some sub-post offices. It's advisable to purchase these in advance of your ferry trip rather than relying on cash for every journey.
Accessibility on Bermuda Ferries
Bermuda's ferry service is committed to accessibility. The modern fast ferries (catamarans) are designed with accessibility in mind, with lower decks that are generally wheelchair accessible. However, direct ramp access to the ferries is typically only available at the main ferry terminals: Dockyard, St. George's, Hamilton, and Rockaway. Other smaller ferry docks may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, requiring extra caution during embarkation and disembarkation.
Scooter and Wheelchair Policy:
- Scooters: Generally, scooters and mopeds are not permitted on the Blue and Orange Routes. They are allowed on the Green Route, with a fee for non-pass holders. There have been instances where scooters might be allowed on the Orange Route at an extra cost if there isn't much rush, but this is not guaranteed and subject to the crew's discretion. It is always best to check directly with the ferry staff.
- Wheelchairs and Transport Chairs: Limited-size wheelchairs are generally accommodated, especially on routes serving major tourist destinations like St. George's. Transport chairs are also usually permitted, but it's recommended to speak with the ferry crew before boarding to ensure smooth passage.
Important Note: Bermuda is not always considered handicap-friendly. While the ferry service makes efforts, relying solely on ferries for accessibility might require careful planning and confirmation of dock accessibility for your specific route.
The user comments provide valuable insights into common queries and potential challenges:
Can cruise passengers get to St. George if the Orange Route isn't running?
If the Orange Route (Dockyard to St. George) is not operating (typically in winter), cruise passengers will need to take the Blue Route ferry from Dockyard to Hamilton, and then catch a bus (routes #10 or #11) to St. George. This journey can take significantly longer, potentially half a day dedicated to travel.
Are pedal bikes allowed on ferries?
Generally, pedal bikes are not permitted on the Orange Route. While the rules can sometimes be ambiguous regarding pedal bikes versus electric bikes, the trend has been to disallow bikes on many routes due to reduced frequency and potential crowding.
Can I reserve ferry tickets in advance?
No, ferry tickets, tokens, or passes cannot be reserved in advance for specific ferry runs. Boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis. For large groups, especially those with elderly members, arriving at the ferry terminal well in advance is crucial to secure seats.
What if my cruise ship arrives late?
Be mindful of the last ferry departures, especially if your cruise arrives in the late afternoon. If you miss the last ferry, your options will be limited to buses or taxis, which can be significantly more expensive and time-consuming.
Can I use my transport pass for luggage?
While there are no explicit restrictions on carrying luggage on ferries, it's important to manage it efficiently, especially during busy periods. There is no provision to buy a seat for luggage; it must be stowed appropriately.
What about NCL's private ferry service?
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) sometimes offers a private ferry service for its passengers between Dockyard and St. George. This is a separate service from the public ferries and is exclusively for NCL guests. It's advisable to confirm the schedule and availability with NCL onboard.
Ferry vs. Other Transport: Making the Right Choice
While buses are a readily available option, ferries often provide a more pleasant and direct experience, especially for longer distances across the water. Taxis are convenient but are considerably more expensive, with hourly rates regulated by the government (typically around $50-$55 per hour for a small taxi). Hiring a taxi for a few hours is an option for exploring specific areas if ferry routes are not convenient.
Comparison Table: Ferry vs. Taxi for Island Exploration
| Feature | Ferry | Taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower, especially with passes/tokens | Higher, hourly rates apply |
| Scenery | Excellent, water views | Good, road views |
| Speed | Generally faster for water routes | Variable, dependent on traffic |
| Accessibility | Limited to main terminals for ease | Door-to-door service, generally accessible |
| Capacity | Large capacity, but can be crowded | Small groups, flexible stops |
| Booking | No reservations, first-come, first-served | Can be booked in advance or hailed |
Conclusion
Bermuda's ferry system is an integral part of the island's charm and a highly recommended way to experience its beauty. By understanding the routes, schedules, and payment options, you can make the most of your travels. Whether you opt for a convenient day pass or individual tickets, the ferry offers a unique perspective of Bermuda, connecting its vibrant towns and historical sites with efficiency and unparalleled scenic views. Always check the latest schedules and fare information before your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey across the crystal-clear waters.
If you want to read more articles similar to Bermuda Ferries: Your Guide to Island Travel, you can visit the Taxis category.