Navigating Bermuda: The Ultimate Guide to Transportation Options in Hamilton

The first thing every family needs to know about Bermuda is that rental cars simply don't exist here. This isn't a suggestion or a limitation – it's the law! The island's narrow, winding roads and limited space led to a complete ban on rental cars for tourists, which has actually helped preserve Bermuda's natural beauty and limit pollution around its fragile reef ecosystems.

Instead, locals are permitted one car per household, which explains the remarkably uncongested roads despite the island's popularity. As someone who's passionate about marine conservation, I actually appreciate this eco-conscious approach – fewer vehicles means less runoff into the surrounding waters where magnificent coral reefs thrive.

During our first family trip, I was initially concerned about how we'd manage without a rental car, especially with two excited kids eager to explore every corner of the island. But I quickly discovered that Bermuda's transportation alternatives are not only sufficient but often more enjoyable than being behind the wheel yourself.

The speed limit throughout Bermuda is just 35 km/h (about 22 mph), which feels surprisingly appropriate once you experience the winding roads. This slower pace allows you to truly soak in the island's beauty – something my kids and I have come to appreciate during our visits. Just remember that Bermudians drive on the left side of the road, a remnant of the island's British heritage that takes a bit of getting used to if you're from North America.

If there's one image that captures the essence of transportation in Bermuda, it's couples and families zipping around on colorful scooters. These two-wheeled wonders are arguably the most popular way for tourists to explore the island, offering unmatched freedom and flexibility.

During our second visit to Bermuda, when my kids were teenagers, we finally felt ready to try the scooter experience. We rented from Oleander Cycles in Hamilton, which offers reliable vehicles and thorough safety instructions. The staff provided helmets (absolutely mandatory) and even gave my nervous daughter a quick practice session in their parking lot before we ventured onto the roads.

To rent a scooter in Bermuda, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, though no special motorcycle license is required. Most rental companies offer single and double-seat options, with the latter being perfect for a parent-child duo if your child isn't old enough to drive independently.

While scooters are undeniably fun, they're not without risks. The roads can be narrow and winding, and remembering to drive on the left requires constant attention. I always pack our travel first aid kit when we're planning scooter adventures, just to be prepared for any minor scrapes.

Cost-wise, expect to pay around $50-85 per day depending on the season and type of scooter. Many companies offer multi-day discounts, which is worth considering for a week-long stay. Gas is relatively expensive in Bermuda, but the good news is that scooters are incredibly fuel-efficient, and you won't need to refill often given the island's compact size.

For families watching their budget or those uncomfortable with scooters, Bermuda's public bus system is remarkably efficient and comprehensive. The distinctive pink and blue buses connect Hamilton to virtually every corner of the island, making them perfect for day trips to popular attractions like Horseshoe Bay Beach or the Crystal Caves.

During our first visit when my children were younger, we relied almost exclusively on the bus system. The experience was not only affordable but also gave us wonderful opportunities to chat with locals and get insider tips about the island. My kids still remember the friendly bus driver who pointed out a hidden cove where we later spotted a sea turtle!

Buses in Bermuda run regularly from early morning until about 9 PM, with service being more frequent during daytime hours. Most routes begin or end at the Central Terminal in Hamilton, making the city an ideal base for exploring. The main bus routes (1, 2, 7, 8, 10, and 11) connect Hamilton to popular destinations, with the #1 and #2 routes being particularly useful for reaching the south shore beaches.

For families, I highly recommend purchasing a transportation pass, which covers both buses and ferries. Options include 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, 4-day, and 7-day passes, with significant savings compared to paying individual fares. During our week-long stay, the 7-day pass was absolutely worth it. I keep our passes organized in a family travel wallet along with other important documents.

One important note about the buses: exact change in Bermudian or US dollars is required if you're paying per ride, and drivers won't provide change. Zones determine the fare (ranging from $3.50 to $5.00 for adults and $2.00 to $2.50 for children), so it's worth familiarizing yourself with the zone map available at the Central Terminal or online.

As a marine enthusiast who's explored coral reefs worldwide, I have a special appreciation for Bermuda's ferry system. These charming blue and white vessels offer not just transportation but a wonderful opportunity to view the island from the water – something I always encourage for families visiting coastal destinations.

The ferry service connects Hamilton to key points around the island, including the Royal Naval Dockyard, St. George's, and Rockaway. The Hamilton-Dockyard route is particularly popular and offers spectacular views of Bermuda's coastline. During our visits, we often planned our day around ferry schedules, using them as both transportation and a sightseeing opportunity.

On our most recent trip, we packed a compact binoculars which my marine-biology-obsessed daughter used to spot flying fish and, on one magical occasion, a pod of dolphins from the ferry deck! These unexpected wildlife encounters often become the highlight of our trips.

Ferry schedules vary seasonally, with more frequent service during summer months. The Blue Route (Hamilton-Dockyard) runs most frequently, with departures approximately every 1-2 hours. The Pink Route (Hamilton-Rockaway) and Green Route (Hamilton-St. George's) operate less frequently, so planning ahead is essential.

Like the buses, ferries are covered by transportation passes, making them an economical option when combined with other public transportation. Individual tickets range from $4.50 to $5.00 for adults and $2.50 for children, depending on the route. Ferries accept cash (Bermudian or US dollars) as well as tokens and passes.

For families with young children, I find the ferries particularly convenient – they're spacious, stable, and provide a welcome break from walking. My kids always looked forward to our ferry rides, especially the longer Hamilton-Dockyard route which offers plenty of time to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

When you're traveling with tired children after a long day of exploring, or you're carrying beach gear and snorkeling equipment to a remote cove, sometimes the convenience of a direct ride trumps budget considerations. That's where Bermuda's taxis and minibuses come in handy.

Taxis in Bermuda are readily available in Hamilton, especially around Front Street, the ferry terminal, and major hotels. They're easily identifiable by their blue color and official "TAXI" signs. All taxis are metered, with rates set by the government – approximately $7.90 for the first mile and $2.75 for each additional mile. Additional charges apply for extra passengers, luggage, and travel between midnight and 6 AM.

What makes Bermuda's taxis special is that many drivers are also certified tour guides who can provide informative commentary about the island. During our second visit, we hired a taxi for a half-day tour of the eastern end of the island, and our driver's knowledge of local marine ecosystems impressed even my coral-obsessed family!

For groups or families, minibuses offer an excellent alternative to standard taxis. These can accommodate up to 10-15 passengers and provide a more cost-effective option for larger parties. Many minibus operators offer customized island tours or can be chartered for specific transportation needs.

One of my favorite taxi experiences in Bermuda was using the service for an evening dinner in Hamilton. After a day of snorkeling and exploring, we cleaned up and took a taxi to a lovely restaurant on Front Street. The driver recommended a local spot we wouldn't have found otherwise, and even arranged to pick us up afterward. For evening transportation when buses run less frequently, taxis provide peace of mind, especially when traveling with children.

If you plan to use taxis frequently, I recommend collecting business cards from drivers you like and calling them directly for future rides. Most are happy to arrange pickups with advance notice, which is particularly useful for airport transfers or early morning excursions.

Hamilton itself is wonderfully compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent option for exploring the city center. As someone who values both budget-friendly travel and opportunities to appreciate local details, I've found that walking through Hamilton reveals charming aspects of Bermudian life that you might miss when using other transportation methods.

The city's core area, centered around Front Street along the harbor, is easily walkable and contains most of Hamilton's shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. From the ferry terminal, you can reach virtually any downtown destination within a 15-minute walk. This accessibility makes Hamilton an ideal base for families – we loved being able to stroll to restaurants in the evening without worrying about transportation schedules.

Beyond the practical aspects, walking through Hamilton offers delightful sensory experiences – the scent of frangipani flowers, the colorful pastel buildings, and the sound of local chatter at bustling markets. Some of our favorite family memories include impromptu discoveries while walking – a hidden garden, a local craftsperson selling coral-inspired jewelry, or a small bakery with fresh-baked Bermuda banana bread.

For families with young children, I recommend bringing a lightweight stroller that can handle the occasional uneven sidewalk. Hamilton has some hills, particularly as you move away from the waterfront, so be prepared for some light exercise! During summer months, plan your walking explorations for morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Some of Hamilton's most walkable attractions include the Cabinet Building and Senate Chamber, Sessions House, Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, Fort Hamilton, and the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute – a must-visit for families interested in marine life. The latter was a particular hit with my coral-loving kids, who spent hours exploring the interactive exhibits about Bermuda's reef ecosystems.