How to Get Around in Bermuda

Going to Bermuda is like visiting the past and future all at once. You can trot past stunning historical sights on a horse-drawn carriage in the morning and navigate to a world-class restaurant in an electric vehicle by night.

There are countless ways to get around Bermuda. The island is full of exciting and quirky transportation options. You may not have the traditional ‘rent a car from the airport and go’ type of vacation, but it’s going to be an unforgettable adventure!

Let’s talk about your options for getting around in Bermuda.

Renting a Car in Bermuda

As alluded to at the outset, you won’t be able to rent a traditional gas-powered car in Bermuda. Tourists are not permitted to drive cars. While this may sound like a con at first, you’ll find there are plenty of pros to make up for the seeming inconvenience.

For example, you’ll enjoy being on vacation without breathing in smog, and you’ll be able to settle into a slower pace of life. Plus, you’ll have more opportunities to meet local Bermudians as you take advantage of other transportation options.

That being said, there are still options for renting a motorised vehicle in Bermuda. Check out these two great options:

Electric Car Rental

While you can’t rent a full-fledged SUV in Bermuda, you can rent a super-efficient, ultra-modern mini electric car. Also known as EVs (electric vehicles), these two-seater vehicles are eco-friendly and can get you across the entire island in an hour. In addition, their miniature size will allow you to explore all the amazing nooks and crannies of Bermuda.

EV Car Rental Companies in Bermuda

Here’s where you can rent an electric car in Bermuda:

• Bermuda Car Rental Ltd.
• Rugged Rentals
• Current Vehicles Ltd.
• Localmotion Ltd.

There are electric car charging stations throughout Bermuda for your convenience. The rental company will advise you on how often to charge and recommend where to charge the vehicle. Expect to pay between $100 and $200 per day for an EV rental in Bermuda. 

Electric Scooter and Moped Rentals

Moped Rental Companies in Bermuda

Here’s where you can rent a scooter in Bermuda:

• Elbow Beach Cycles
• Eve Cycles
• Oleander Cycles
• Smatt’s Cycle Livery Ltd.

Note: Many of the scooter rental companies listed above also offer pedal bike rentals and various kinds of motorised bicycle hybrids. 

What You Need to Rent a Vehicle in Bermuda

Some countries require tourists to have an International Driving Permit, which is essentially a translation of your national licence to carry with you when you drive in another country. However, since Bermuda does not allow foreigners to drive non-electric cars, no such permit is necessary. 

“No national driving licences or International Driving Permits recognized,” explains International Driver Permit. “Visitors are not allowed to drive a motorcycle or a car, but if they are over 16 years of age, they can hire a moped (up to 50 cc) without any licence or examination.”

Beyond mopeds, tourists are allowed to drive electric vehicles in Bermuda, as mentioned above. However, most electric vehicle rental companies in Bermuda require the driver to be 25 years of age or older and hold a valid driver’s licence in their country of origin. 

Many car rental companies will require a damage deposit, and most offer various options for insurance coverage, so it may be good to include those potential costs in your budget. 

Bermuda Taxi Options

Getting a taxi in Bermuda is very easy, especially from popular points of interest. Cabs are abundant, and all you have to do is raise an arm to hail one. 

“Along with getting you to your destination, many taxi drivers are excellent tour guides, eager to share stories behind Bermuda’s landmarks and customs – just ask,” advises the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “Taxis can usually be found outside larger hotels, near the airport or on the streets of the City of Hamilton, the Town of St. George or the Royal Naval Dockyard.”

Taxi Rates in Bermuda

Happily, the taxi rates are regulated by the Bermudian government, meaning you won’t have to negotiate or worry too much about getting ripped off. Taxi rates are based on the size of the vehicle and mileage.

At present, here are the taxi fares in Bermuda on Monday-Saturday from 6 am to 12 am:

• For a 1-4 passenger vehicle, the rate is USD $7.90 for the first mile and $2.75 for each additional mile (plus 25% on Sundays, public holidays, and between midnight and 6 am)
• For a 5-7-passenger vehicle, the rate is USD $9.95 for the first mile and $3.50 for each additional mile (plus 50% on Sundays, public holidays, and between midnight and 6 am)

Additionally, you can hire a taxi for sightseeing. In this case, the rate switches from per mile to per hour. Each hour of sightseeing costs USD $50 in a 1-4 person taxi and $70 in a 5-7 person taxi.
Insider Tip: Download the HITCH app (like a Bermudian Uber) for a more convenient way to book a ride in Bermuda. You can pay directly on the app and have the taxi pick you up. Please note that the rates are different from the public taxis.

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Bermuda

During your stay, don’t forget to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the quaint streets of Bermuda. While it’s not necessarily a taxi service, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. 

Horse-drawn carriage rides last 30-60 minutes and guides you through the sights and sounds of the historic Town of St. George. Operated by Bronco Stables Horse and Carriage Bermuda, this transportation option is a classy way to soak in some views and history while getting insider tips from the driver on the best local eats and things to do in Bermuda. 

Using Public Transportation in Bermuda

Buses and ferries are all over Bermuda. They offer a convenient, cost-effective, and down-to-earth (or sea) way of getting around Bermuda. 

Getting Around by Bus

Vibrant Bermudian buses are pink with blue stripes and frequented by locals and tourists alike. The main bus hub is Central Terminal on Washington Street in Hamilton. With over ten different bus routes on the small island, you’ll be able to visit the most popular Bermuda destinations with ease. Just remember to bring exact change! 

Bear in mind that a lot of locals use the bus for their daily commute, so you may want to travel midday to steer clear of the crowds. 
Here’s current information on bus fares in Bermuda, along with a bus schedule.

Catching the Ferries

From the Ferry Terminal on Front Street in Hamilton, you can hop on one of four different ferries for an extra scenic approach to navigating Bermuda. Beyond the main Ferry Terminal in Hamilton, you can take even more ferry routes from other docks. 

Check out the SeaExpress Ferry Service schedule to find route information and plan your voyage. Please note that the ferries don’t accept cash at all – not even exact change. You’ll need to have a ticket, token, or pass. 
Insider Tip: Get a bus and ferry pass! If you plan to take buses and ferries throughout your stay, invest in a Transportation Pass. It will save you from the hassle of rounding up exact change each time you need to hop on a bus or ferry. You can purchase a pass for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 7 consecutive days for unlimited use. There are several locations where you can buy a pass, including Hamilton Ferry Terminal & Hamilton Bus Terminal, Visitor Information Centres at the Dockyard and St. George’s, and some post offices.

Getting Around on Foot in Bermuda

Now that you know all the ways you can get around on wheels in Bermuda let’s not forget good old-fashioned foot power. You’ll find Bermuda is a lovely place to walk or pedal!

Walking Around Bermuda

From picturesque beach walks to strolling the streets while window shopping, your feet will get you far in Bermuda if you’re up for a bit of exercise. While you may wish to take an EV, moped, or taxi for longer journeys, Bermuda has some excellent walking trails and hikes to enjoy while you’re here.
Are you looking for some epic walk routes during your stay? Check out Bermudian.com’s list of 5 of the Very Best Bermuda Walks or the Bermuda Tourism Authority’s recommendations for Bermuda’s Favourite Beach Walks.

Cycling in Bermuda

Getting around by bike in Bermuda is hugely popular. Bermuda is a fantastic biking destination with stunning views, ideal weather, and relatively slow traffic. For example, one popular Bermuda biking experience is hitting the 18-mile Bermuda Railway Trail. It’s a must-do experience for any avid biker, historian, or nature-lover. 

Bermuda has several bike rental shops, some of which are listed above under the moped rental companies section.

Tips for Getting Around in Bermuda

Now that you know all of your transportation options, here are some insider tips for safe and smooth travels in Bermuda:

• Leave early for appointments. – Got dinner reservations? It might be best to hit the road a little earlier than you might at home. The speed limit in Bermuda never exceeds 32 KPH (20 MPH), and traffic jams are frequent. Give yourself some extra time, and enjoy the slow pace of island life. No rushing here.
• Remember to drive on the left side of the road. – If you’re from the States or another right-side-driving land, prepare your mind to adjust to driving on the left for the duration of your trip. 
• Don’t be offended if someone honks at you. – In Bermuda, honking is a way of saying ‘hello’ or ‘thank you’ to fellow drivers. On the whole, Bermudians are friendly, relaxed, and patient drivers and might use their horns to say ‘go ahead’ while pausing to let you in. Feel free to reply with a short honk back to say ‘thanks’. 
• Safety first. – Always wear your seatbelt when driving a vehicle or a helmet when driving a bicycle or moped. Remember, cyclists and scooter drivers both enjoy the same rights as cars on Bermudian roads.

Transportation Provided by the Docksider on Mullet Bay

Here at The Docksider on Mullet Bay, we are here to help our guests find the best options for getting around in Bermuda. Beyond offering insider tips and helpful information about car rentals and taking the bus, we also provide a couple of transportation options during your stay.

Airport Pick-up from L.F. Wade International Airport

We happily provide pick-up service from the L.F. Wade International Airport upon your arrival, along with a drop-off service for your departure flight. You provide us with your itinerary, and we’ll be there to deliver a stress-free, convenient shuttle between the airport and The Docksider on Mullet Bay. 

If you decide to rent an electric car or scooter, we will happily provide you with directions to The Docksider on Mullet Bay once you book your stay. However, please note that there are no EV car rental companies in the airport. The Docksider on Mullet Bay has plenty of room for parking once you get here.

Complimentary Bicycles

At The Docksider on Mullet Bay, we have two well-maintained bicycles waiting for you, along with all the safety gear you’ll need. 

Beyond the bikes, we’ve also mapped out a custom, self-guided biking tour around Bermuda, including breathtaking views and historical highlights. We’ll include the directions in your welcome package for you to enjoy!

We want you to have a fun, relaxing, convenient, and healthful stay at The Docksider on Mullet Bay. That’s why we’ve outfitted our private vacation rental property with thoughtful amenities like bicycles and so much more. 

Book your stay at The Docksider on Mullet Bay now for 2022!