Expert: Nan - 4/9/2008

Question
I will be taking a cruise to Bermuda in early June.  I happen to like the excursions offered by the cruise line but since we're docking at King's Wharf and not Hamilton, I can't find any excursions which tour the island, which would be very helpful since we're only there for a day. We could take the ferry or bus to get to Hamilton and could pick up a tour there if available. This is the only port Royal Caribbean doesn't offer an excursion, I guess because of the distance between King's Wharf and Hamilton.  Do you have any suggestions re an excursion that we can take to see some of Bermuda but still allow time for shopping? Will the carriage drivers be as knowledgeable as the taxi drivers and where would we find the taxis with the blue lights?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hello Rita,

I've cut and pasted below one of my answers to a similar question about a year ago about Blue Flag taxi tours:  

According to the 2005/06 "Destination Bermuda" guide, taxis can be hired by the hour, day or mile (a full day is six consecutive daylight hours).  Rates are per cab for one person, up to a maximum of six for normal transportation and general sightseeing.  Special all-inclusive, pre-sold tours vary in price per person.  All taxis are metered and tariff-fixed by law.  Certified "Blue Flag" taxi tour guides are available on request for touring.

I've just spoken with Freda at the Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU) Taxi Co-op (441-292-4476) to get current pricing for a sample six-person tour. Those rates are: $56.00 per hour with a minimum of 3 hours.  Gratuities are not included in this pricing.  She suggests that you call her directly to book your tour so that you're not waiting around for a taxi in Dockyard. (I have no affiliation with Freda or her taxi company by the way.)  Be sure to ask for a Blue Flag or Blue Bonnet tour guide.  The pricing is the same.

The previous two paragraphs were lifted from one of my answers to a similar question last year.  Back to your question today....

Remember that Bermuda's economy relies primarily on the tourism industry so it's reasonable to assume that folks like carriage drivers know as much as taxi drivers.  Remember, too, that Bermuda is a small place and you can see it from end to end easily in one day and still have time for plenty of shopping.

A ferry trip to Hamilton and back is a wonderful way to see Bermuda, but, having been on a cruise ship for a while, you may consider a taxi tour by land to be more of a different experience for you. Though there is shopping in Dockyard (Kings Wharf), you'll find more in Hamilton and even St. George.  Again, you can do all of these places in one day.

Please don't hesitate to ask more questions.  I'm planning my July trip now and would be glad to assist you further.

Nan