Which cruises depart from the Bahamas?

Bermuda is one of the most distinctive cruise destinations in the Atlantic. Unlike typical Caribbean itineraries that hop between ports every day, Bermuda cruises are famous for overnight stays, pink-sand beaches, British colonial heritage, and easy access from the U.S. East Coast. Royal Caribbean International has long recognized Bermuda’s appeal and periodically deploys some of its most popular ships to sail there.

This in-depth guide answers a common traveler question: Which Royal Caribbean ships sail from Bermuda? It also explains how Bermuda cruises work, what ships are most commonly assigned, how itineraries differ by season, and how to choose the best ship for your travel style. The content is based on Royal Caribbean’s official deployment information, historical sailing patterns, and guidance from reputable travel and government sources.

Important note: Royal Caribbean ship assignments can change by season and year. Where future deployment is not officially confirmed, this article clearly states that limitation.

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Bermuda Cruise Strategy

Before listing specific ships, it’s important to understand how and why Royal Caribbean sails to Bermuda, because this directly influences which ships are used.

Why Bermuda Cruises Are Different

Bermuda cruises are structurally different from Caribbean itineraries:

• Longer port stays: Many itineraries include 2–3 days docked in Bermuda

• Less emphasis on ship-hopping: Guests spend more time ashore

• Shorter sailing distance from East Coast ports compared to the Caribbean

Because of this, Royal Caribbean often assigns mid-sized or older large ships rather than its newest mega-ships, which are optimized for sea days and private-island experiences like Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Seasonal Nature of Bermuda Cruises

Royal Caribbean’s Bermuda cruises are highly seasonal:

• Primary season: April through October

• Peak months: May to August

• Limited or no sailings: Winter months due to cooler weather and Atlantic conditions

According to the Bermuda Tourism Authority and historical Royal Caribbean schedules, most sailings align with the island’s warm-weather tourism season.

Royal Caribbean Ships That Sail From Bermuda

Based on publicly available deployment schedules, historical itineraries, and official Royal Caribbean announcements, the following ships have sailed—or are most commonly assigned—to Bermuda routes.

Vision of the Seas

Vision of the Seas is one of the most frequent Royal Caribbean ships to sail from Bermuda in recent years.

Key Facts

• Ship class: Vision Class

• Passenger capacity: ~2,000

• Typical homeport for Bermuda: Baltimore (seasonal)

Why Vision of the Seas Is Used for Bermuda

Royal Caribbean frequently deploys Vision of the Seas to Bermuda because:

• Its size allows easier maneuvering and docking at Bermuda’s Royal Naval Dockyard

• It appeals to travelers who value destination-focused cruising

• It offers a relaxed onboard atmosphere that complements overnight port stays

Ideal For

• Couples and mature travelers

• First-time Bermuda visitors

• Guests who prefer classic cruising over high-energy attractions

• Expert insight: Vision Class ships are often favored for itineraries with extended port time, as noted in cruise fleet analyses published by travel industry outlets such as Cruise Industry News.

Enchantment of the Seas

Enchantment of the Seas has also historically sailed Bermuda itineraries, particularly from Baltimore.

Key Facts

• Ship class: Vision Class (extended)

• Passenger capacity: ~2,200

• Known deployment: Bermuda and Bahamas (seasonal)

What Sets It Apart

• Larger than most Vision Class ships after lengthening

• Spacious open decks, ideal for scenic Atlantic sailing

• Strong value pricing compared to newer ships

Best For

• Budget-conscious travelers

• Guests prioritizing itinerary over onboard thrills

• Travelers seeking longer stays in Bermuda

• Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on Enchantment of the Seas sailing every Bermuda season, as deployments vary year to year.

Liberty of the Seas (Limited / Select Seasons)

Liberty of the Seas, a Freedom Class ship, has sailed Bermuda itineraries in select seasons.

Key Facts

• Ship class: Freedom Class

• Passenger capacity: ~3,600

• Typical homeports: Bayonne (Cape Liberty), occasionally other East Coast ports

Why Liberty of the Seas Is Not Always Used

While Liberty offers more attractions than Vision Class ships, it is:

• Larger and more resource-intensive

• Less ideal for itineraries dominated by port time

However, when deployed, it provides a balanced experience for families and active travelers.

Best For

• Families with teens

• Travelers wanting more dining and entertainment options

• Guests who want a mix of ship and shore activities

Ships That Do Not Typically Sail From Bermuda

Understanding which ships do not sail from Bermuda helps manage expectations.

Oasis Class Ships

Royal Caribbean’s largest ships—such as Wonder of the Seas or Symphony of the Seas—do not typically sail from Bermuda.

Reasons Include

• Docking and infrastructure constraints

• Itinerary style mismatch (Bermuda favors port days over sea days)

• Higher operational costs

Icon Class Ships

Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ships are designed for:

• Caribbean itineraries

• Private island experiences

• Shorter port calls

As of now, there is no confirmed data showing Icon Class ships scheduled for Bermuda.

Common Homeports for Royal Caribbean Bermuda Cruises

Royal Caribbean sails to Bermuda primarily from U.S. East Coast ports.

Most Common Departure Ports

• Baltimore, Maryland (major hub)

• Cape Liberty, New Jersey (Bayonne)

• Boston, Massachusetts (select seasons)

These ports offer convenient access for travelers in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation and port authority data, Baltimore and Cape Liberty are particularly well-suited for mid-sized cruise ships.

Typical Bermuda Itineraries on Royal Caribbean

5-Night Bermuda Cruises

• Depart from Baltimore or Cape Liberty

• 1–2 sea days

• 2 days docked in Bermuda

7-Night Bermuda Cruises (Most Popular)

• Round-trip from Baltimore or Cape Liberty

• 2–3 days docked in Bermuda

• Balanced sailing schedule

Extended Bermuda & Caribbean Itineraries

• Combine Bermuda with Caribbean ports

• Less common

• Offered occasionally during repositioning seasons

Onboard Experience vs. Shore Experience: What Matters More?

Choosing the right ship depends on what you value most.

If You Prioritize Bermuda Itself

Choose:

• Vision of the Seas

• Enchantment of the Seas

Why:

• More time ashore

• Quieter onboard atmosphere

• Better value pricing

If You Want More Onboard Amenities

Choose:

• Liberty of the Seas (when available)

Why:

• Water slides and family activities

• Expanded dining options

• Larger entertainment venues

Comparison Table: Royal Caribbean Ships Sailing From Bermuda

Ship Name	Class	Passenger Capacity	Best For	Typical Homeport
Vision of the Seas	Vision	~2,000	Couples, destination-focused travelers	Baltimore
Enchantment of the Seas	Vision	~2,200	Budget travelers, relaxed cruising	Baltimore
Liberty of the Seas	Freedom	~3,600	Families, mixed interests	Cape Liberty

Step-by-Step: How to Confirm Which Ship Is Sailing From Bermuda

Royal Caribbean deployments change, so always verify.

Step 1: Visit Royal Caribbean’s Official Website

• Go to royalcaribbean.com

• Use the cruise search filter

• Select destination: Bermuda

Step 2: Check the Ship Details Page

• Click the itinerary

• Confirm ship name and sailing dates

Step 3: Cross-Check With Port Authority Calendars

• Baltimore Cruise Terminal

• Cape Liberty Cruise Port

These sources often publish seasonal ship schedules.

Step 4: Consult a Certified Travel Advisor

Travel advisors receive early deployment updates, sometimes before public announcements.

Health, Safety, and Entry Requirements for Bermuda Cruises

According to Bermuda Government and CDC guidance:

• U.S. citizens typically do not need a visa for short stays

• Passport validity requirements apply

• Health requirements may change during outbreaks

Always verify with:

• CDC.gov for travel health notices

• Gov.uk for international travel advisories

Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Bermuda Cruise Ship

Book Early for Summer Sailings

Bermuda cruises sell out faster than Caribbean cruises due to:

• Limited ships

• Seasonal demand

Choose Balcony Cabins Carefully

• Dockyard views can be industrial

• Mid-ship balconies often provide the best experience

Plan Shore Time Independently

Bermuda is one of the easiest cruise ports for self-guided exploration, according to consumer travel analyses published by Consumer Reports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which Royal Caribbean ship sails from Bermuda most often?

Vision of the Seas has historically been the most frequently deployed ship for Bermuda itineraries.

2. Do Royal Caribbean ships sail from Bermuda or just to Bermuda?

Royal Caribbean primarily sails to Bermuda from U.S. ports. Cruises that originate in Bermuda are rare.

3. Are Bermuda cruises good for first-time cruisers?

Yes. Longer port stays and easy transportation make Bermuda ideal for beginners.

4. Does Royal Caribbean offer all-inclusive Bermuda cruises?

No. Standard cruise fare applies, with optional drink packages and excursions.

5. Are Bermuda cruises family-friendly?

Yes, especially on ships like Liberty of the Seas when available.

6. What is the best month to cruise to Bermuda?

May through June offers warm weather with fewer crowds.

7. Can I use U.S. dollars in Bermuda?

Yes. Bermuda’s currency is pegged 1:1 with the U.S. dollar.

8. Are there overnight stays in Bermuda?

Yes. Most Royal Caribbean Bermuda itineraries include at least one overnight stay.

9. Is Wi-Fi available while docked in Bermuda?

Yes, both onboard and ashore, though speeds may vary.