Expert: Michael - 4/15/2004

Question
Hi Michael,

My girlfriend and I are planning to cruise from NYC to Bermuda either the last week of August or 2nd week of September. We hear mixed things about the weather--some say it's high hurricane season. We'd love your expert opinion on this.

We are not golfers nor shoppers, and would like to spend our time on small, quiet beaches, snorkeling, and also just enjoying the natural flora and fauna of the area. Could you also recommend some uncrowded beaches where we can snorkel off the beach in or near St. George and Hamilton (that's where our ship will be docking)? Thanks so much.

Griffin

Answer
Hi Griffin,

You are planning a wonderful trip.  Both of you will love the island(s).  The seven inhabitable islands are connected by a causeway or small bridges.  Matter of fact most would consider it one island.  Fantastic.

All the years Linda and have been going were in October.  We have recently changed to late September and early August.  The weather is a bit warmer than October.

You probably know that the hurricane season runs June thru November, yet they are rare.  My opinion is that a trip to Bermuda should never be squashed due to fear of the weather.  However, as the fall season nears the North Atlantic gets treacherous and I feel that is why the cruise ships stop operating in October.  August and September are prime.  Perfect.  The seas at this time are comfortable.

As for quiet beaches I will recommend for when in St. George that you snorkle from Archillies Bay around to the left (as facing the ocean) all the way to Tobacco Bay.  From Tobacco you can either walk back, or snorkle back.  You need not go way out away from the shore, rather stay along the shoreline.  A good variety of fish, some reefs, clear water and in a few areas, especially when starting of you may stand.  

When you are docked in Hamilton take bus #11 to the southshore.  Ask the driver if you like, to let you off at Warwick Long Bay.  Walk down some path you find to the beach.  From there walk to your right along several fabulous pink sand beaches.  You will pass Stonehole, Jobsons Cove, a couple of others, and end up at the famed Horseshoe Bay.  Do bring youre snorkle gear along, a couple of towels and ask the ship to pack to a lunch and drinks.  Jobson Cove would be the perfect setting for the two of you to relax and take it all in.  Idyllic.

The half mile or so walk will take you along the beautiful pink sand beaches and aqua marine waters, along dunes and over gigantic coral (volcanic rock) formations.  There are full services at Horseshoe Bay and the bus can be picked up at the top for your trip back to Hamiton.

Do spend some time in the pubs.  I would recommend the White Horse Tavern in St. George and Blackbeards down at Archillies Bay.

Happy planning!
Michael