Expert: Michael - 7/3/2002

Question
We are cruising to Bermuda and my husband wants to snorkel there.  Do we need to go on some type of excursion boat out to snorkel or can we just go to a certain beach and walk in ourselves?  He will have his own equipment with him.  
Thank you.
Ann

Answer
Hi Ann Doody,

On the island of Bermuda you can find snokeling from the shoreline.

If you are docked in St. George, then a ten to twelve minute walk to Tobacco Bay will be the ticket.  Tobacco Bay is relatively shallow and where the ocean meets the bay it drops a bit deeper and this is where snorkeling is worthwhile.  I.E. Colorful fish and sea growth.  All around that area is interesting.

If you are docked in Hamilton then jump on Bus #7 to Church Bay.  Do pick up both a Handy Reference Map and Bus Schedule at the Visitor's Service Center as you exit the ship.  Or call the Bermuda Department of Tourism at (800)BERMUDA and request they send those to you.

If you are docked at HM Dockyard you will find a Snorkeling Park.  I have never snorkeled there, but it is available.  Church Bay is also handy from the Dockyard on Bus #7.

Excursion boats are too available that would take you out to the reefs.  If you are so inclined, wait till you arrive and pick up a copy of Bermuda Today (a small weekly publication for visitors) and you will find operators.  This would be less expensive than scheduling from the ship.

Ann, don't hesitate to write if you have any further inquiries.

Happy planning!
Michael