How to Get Around Bermuda Without a Car

Bermuda’s compact 21-square-mile layout makes it incredibly accessible, whether by land or sea. Visitors can rely on reliable public systems, rentals, or on-demand services to reach beaches, historic sites, and vibrant towns without hassle.

Public Transportation Essentials

Bermuda’s public transport network stands out for its affordability and coverage. Pink buses with blue stripes and efficient ferries connect key areas like Hamilton, St. George’s, and Royal Naval Dockyard.

Bus Network Overview

The island features 11 bus routes divided into 14 zones, departing frequently from Hamilton’s Central Terminal on Washington Street. Buses operate daily, with schedules available via the official Shorelink app for real-time tracking and purchases. Routes like numbers 1, 3, 10, and 11 offer scenic coastal paths to Hamilton, passing exclusive neighborhoods and pink-sand beaches.

• Key Routes: Route 1 (exclusive areas to Hamilton), Route 3 (residential beauty), Route 10/11 (coastal views), Route 7 (beach-lined return from Hamilton to Dockyard).
• Fares: Zone-based; use app for tokens or exact change onboard.
• Note: No wheelchair access on buses; plan accordingly.

Ferry Services for Scenic Travel

Four public ferry routes provide breezy alternatives, departing from Hamilton’s Front Street Terminal. Popular blue route hits Hamilton from Dockyard in 20 minutes; orange to St. George’s in one hour. Pink and green serve Warwick, Paget, and more.

Exact change required or pre-buy via Shorelink; limited accessibility at some docks.

Rental Options for Independent Exploration

For flexibility, rent vehicles suited to narrow roads and 20 mph (32 kph) limits. Drive on the left, wear helmets where required.

Electric Vehicles and Twizys

Twizy electric cars offer fun, eco-friendly rides without full licenses for short-term rentals. Ideal for covering ground leisurely over a weekend.

Two-Wheeled Adventures: Bikes and Mopeds

Bikes, e-bikes, and mopeds (18+) rent for $30-35 USD daily from spots like Scooter Mart or Elbow Beach Cycles. Locals favor mopeds near Dockyard for beach runs; stop spontaneously at alleys or sands.

• Rental Tips: Helmets mandatory; max speed 20 mph.
• Providers: Smatts Cycles, Island Tour Centre.

Taxis and Rideshares: Convenient and Quick

Hail taxis at hotels, airport, Hamilton, St. George’s, or Dockyard. Apps like Hitch, Ride Bermuda, or Island Go simplify bookings. Hotels arrange pickups; rates are metered.

Horse-Drawn Carriages for Nostalgia

Experience history with carriage rides from Hamilton’s Front Street, St. George’s King’s Square, or Dockyard. Hooves on cobblestones pair with storytelling of Bermuda’s past.

Practical Travel Tips and Rules

Download Shorelink and Google Maps (updated with routes/stops as of 2025) for planning. Buses/ferries: 45-minute Hamilton-Dockyard trips. Walking suits compact Hamilton; ferries/bikes extend reach.

• Apps: Shorelink (tokens/passes), rideshares.
• Costs: Bus/ferry day pass ~$20; taxis vary by distance.
• Accessibility: Ferries limited; buses none.
• Driving: Left side; no visitor car rentals.

Regional Navigation Strategies

Hamilton: The Central Hub

Buses converge here; ferries depart nearby. Walk to shops, or hop Route 7 for coastal beauty.

St. George’s and East End

Route 1/3 from Hamilton; ferries for scenery. Carriages add charm.

Royal Naval Dockyard and West End

Ferries (20 min to Hamilton), buses (45 min), mopeds for beaches. Route 7 return dazzles with pink sands.

South Shore Beaches

Buses to Warwick/Paget; bikes for Horseshoe Bay access.

Best for Cruise Visitors

From Dockyard: Hourly ferries, buses, or mopeds. Combine bus to Hamilton + ferry back for views. Shore excursions optional but public options save money.

Budget Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a car in Bermuda?

No—public transport and rentals suffice for the small island.

Are buses and ferries wheelchair accessible?

Buses no; ferries limited—check with crew.

What’s the speed limit?

20 mph (32 kph) everywhere.

Can tourists rent cars?

No full cars; Twizys/mopeds yes.

How to pay for public transport?

Shorelink app or exact change.

Best app for planning?

Shorelink + Google Maps.

Sustainable and Safe Travel

Opt for electric rentals or public options to minimize impact. Stay safe: left-side driving, helmets, apps for updates. Bermuda’s systems ensure fun, efficient adventures across its turquoise shores.