Bermuda's coast is lined with pastel cottages, old stone houses and larger estates that are hard to see from the road, and the best view of them is from the water. The Famous Homes and Hideaways Cruise is a narrated boat trip that takes you along the shoreline to see those houses and the secluded coves and inlets in between, and it carries a 4.9 rating from more than two hundred travellers. As the boat moves slowly past, the crew explain who has lived in the grand properties, from long-established island families to well-known visitors and residents, and point out the architecture, with its white stepped roofs, thick limestone walls and sheltered gardens. Because you stay on board throughout, the cruise suits all ages and abilities, including older travellers and families with small children, and there is no swimming or climbing involved. It is also a good first activity on a first visit, since it gives an overview of the coastline and the layout of the island before you decide where to spend your time on land. The mood is easy and conversational, and the views of the water and the houses make for good photographs.
What to expect
The route and the properties pointed out can vary with conditions, tide and the operator's choices, so treat the details as an introduction rather than a fixed list. Expect commentary on the history of the houses, the families linked to them and the way Bermudians built to withstand storms and collect rainwater. The boat usually stays close to the shore, so you get a close-up look at the cliffs, coves and docks, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photographs from the deck.
Seating is typically on benches, with some shade, but the sun can be strong, so bring a hat and sunscreen, and a light jacket in case it is breezy.
Practical points
Confirm the meeting point, departure time and duration when you book, since they can differ by season. The operator runs other cruises and snorkel trips from the Dockyard area, so this one may depart from a similar spot, but check the details rather than assuming. Sailings depend on weather and minimum numbers, and rough seas can alter the route, so book early in your stay in case a day is cancelled.
Out of season there are fewer departures. Bring a camera, wear non-slip shoes and keep valuables secure. Those prone to seasickness should take tablets beforehand and sit toward the middle of the boat.
Who it suits and what to pair it with: the cruise is ideal for travellers who prefer a gentle, informative outing over a swim, for mixed-age groups and for anyone who is curious about how Bermudians live. It makes a calm counterpart to a more active day of snorkelling or a Segway ride in the Dockyard, and it fits well before or after a visit to the National Museum of Bermuda.
If you want to see marine life rather than houses, choose the glass-bottom boat instead, and for a more social experience with swimming and drinks, the catamaran cruise is the better choice. Whichever you pick, the water gives a different and often more beautiful view of the island than the road ever can.
What to expect
The experience
A narrated boat cruise along the shoreline past waterfront houses, coves and inlets, with no swimming required.
Best time
A calm, sunny morning or afternoon, when the water is flat and the light shows off the pastel colours.
How long
About ninety minutes; confirm the duration and meeting point when you book.
Tips
Bring a hat, sunscreen and a light jacket. Sailings depend on weather and minimum numbers, so book early in your stay.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want an easy, informative first look at the coastline and its houses.
- Families
- Suitable for most ages since you stay on board, but young children need supervision near the rails.
- Couples
- A relaxed outing with plenty of photographs, followed by lunch on the waterfront.
- Pair with
- The National Museum of Bermuda, the Dockyard Segway tour and a catamaran cruise.
- Time needed
- Two hours with check-in.
Good questions
Do I need to swim?+
No. You stay on board throughout and there is no swimming or climbing.
Who lives in the houses?+
The crew explain which families and well-known residents are linked to the properties, but the route and details vary, so treat the commentary as an introduction.
Where does it leave from?+
Confirm the meeting point when you book. The operator runs several cruises from the Dockyard area.
Does it run in winter?+
Sailings depend on weather and minimum numbers, and there are fewer departures out of season. Check availability when you book.
Is it good for children?+
Yes, for most ages, since it is a calm, dry outing. Keep young children close to you near the rails.
