The Ministry of Transport and Regulatory Affairs is advising that Bermuda will be bustling with activity this week as it prepares to welcome upwards of 9,300 visitors (see editor’s note below) to our shores.
Ministry officials note that six visiting cruise ships from 30 October - 2 November, and the added number of air arrivals, has resulted in an "unprecedented" short-term influx of visitors.
The Ministry will work to maintain the island’s regularly scheduled transportation service during this time.
In that regard, the Ministry takes this opportunity to strongly encourage the public to plan ahead for their personal transport requirements to avoid delays. The Ministry also specifically seeks and encourages the public's patience during this time.
Transport Minister Walter Roban notes that this week, Hamilton and St. George's will each host one ship, while one ship will anchor in Grassy Bay and another three cruise ships will berth in Dockyard.
Minister Roban said today, "This week, we are preparing to receive six cruise ship calls. This is an exciting and unprecedented time for Bermuda. In fact, on one day alone, this represents the largest number of cruise ship passengers in Bermuda's tourism history."
Minister Roban continued, "In 2018 our cruise ship season started in March and will end in December. I wish to commend the Bermuda Tourism Authority, who have worked diligently to extend the seasonality of the cruise ship season, which traditionally has been between April and September."
Minister Roban confirmed that industry partners have been planning for the influx of visitors since March of this year, and have increased various support services to ensure that "our visitors have the best possible experience while in Bermuda."
As an example, all Public Service Vehicles (such as taxis and mini-buses) will be in service to meet the transport demands; select community service vehicles and licensed hotel properties have been granted permission to operate their shuttles; increased public ferry lift has been added, including a supplemental ferry route to St. George and Hamilton from Dockyard; the BTA has increased their Visitor Service Centre team and Ambassadors; and, special events have been scheduled in Dockyard.
Minister Roban concluded, "We expect this will be a very busy time for our Island. This influx of visitors is good for Dockyard, Hamilton and St. George's; it’s good for our economy and it’s good for Bermuda. And we are encouraging all residents to support our efforts as we welcome these visitors to our shores."
Note:
On October 31, Bermuda is projecting to host 9,341 cruise ship passengers until 4pm, and 8,048 passengers from 4:30 pm through November 1.
Ships expected in Bermuda are:
- Oct 30-31 Carnival Conquest
- Oct 30-31 Hamburg
- Oct 31 AIDAluna
- Oct 31-Nov 01 Disney Magic
- Oct 31-Nov 01 Azamara Journey
- Oct 31-Nov 02 Norwegian Escape