A sunset sail is one of the most popular ways to spend an evening in Bermuda, and the Restless Native Catamaran Sunset and Swizzle Cruise is among the best reviewed, with a 4.8 rating from more than three hundred and sixty travellers. The idea is simple: a catamaran sets out in the late afternoon or evening, the crew serve rum swizzles, the island's signature cocktail of rum and fruit juice, and the boat cruises along the coast while the sun drops toward the horizon and the sky turns orange and pink. Catamarans are stable and spacious, with netting or deck space to sit and lounge, so the experience suits mixed groups, couples and friends. The mood is relaxed and social rather than formal, with music, conversation and a good chance to see the coastline from the water, including cliffs, coves and waterfront houses that are hard to appreciate from the road. It is also a gentle activity, with no swimming required, making it suitable for most ages and abilities, and it makes a pleasing counterpart to a morning snorkel or a day at the beach.
Planning the evening
Sunset times change through the year, so the departure time moves with the season, and the operator sets sailings to suit. Check the time when you book and arrive a little early for check-in. Because the sail is outdoors, dress in layers, since it can be breezy and cool once the sun goes down, and bring a light jacket even in warm months.
Flat, non-slip shoes are best on deck. Bring a camera or phone, but keep it secure, and consider a small bag for valuables. Confirm the meeting point and what is included, such as the number of drinks and any snacks, when you book.
What affects the trip
Sailings depend on weather and a minimum number of passengers, and cloud can mute the colours of the sunset, though the cruise is pleasant in any case. Out of season, there are fewer departures and the evening air is cooler, so check availability and book early in your stay in case a sailing is cancelled.
If you are sensitive to motion, take tablets in advance and sit toward the middle of the boat. Alcohol is part of the experience, so children are usually better suited to a daytime catamaran cruise with snorkelling, and the operator can advise on soft drink alternatives.
Who it suits and what to pair it with: couples, friends and groups celebrating a special occasion will enjoy it most, and it is an excellent way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. Pair it with a Dockyard day, with dinner in Hamilton afterwards, or with a morning on a south shore beach. If you want something more active, the daytime catamaran cruise includes a swim and snorkel stop, while the glass-bottom boat is better for families with small children.
For travellers who like the idea of a private sail, other charters are available, but the shared cruise is the better value and more sociable choice. Arrive a little early, introduce yourself to the crew, and ask where the best spot is to watch the sun go down, because the view changes with the heading of the boat.
What to expect
The experience
A shared evening catamaran sail along the coast with rum swizzles on board and views of the sunset from the water.
Best time
A clear, calm evening, when the sunset colours are strongest and the sea is flat.
How long
About two hours; confirm the departure time and meeting point when you book.
Tips
Dress in layers, wear non-slip shoes and keep valuables secure. Sailings depend on weather and minimum numbers.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and friends who want a relaxed, scenic evening on the water.
- Families
- Better for older children and teenagers, since drinks are part of the experience; ask the operator about soft drink options.
- Couples
- One of the most romantic evenings on the island, with the sunset and a swizzle in hand.
- Pair with
- A Dockyard day, a Hamilton dinner and a morning at the beach.
- Time needed
- An evening.
Good questions
What is a rum swizzle?+
Bermuda's signature cocktail, made with rum, fruit juice and bitters. Soft drink alternatives are usually available.
What time does it leave?+
Departure times follow the season's sunset, so confirm the time when you book.
Do I have to swim?+
No. The cruise is a sail and a sunset, with no swimming required.
What if the weather is bad?+
Sailings depend on weather and minimum numbers. Check the cancellation terms when you book and allow a spare evening if you can.
What should I wear?+
Layers, because it can be breezy after dark, and non-slip shoes. Bring a light jacket.
