Bermuda- Touring Southampton Parish

Photograph of Bermuda MopedA great way to start your tour is on the ferry from Hamilton to Somerset. Ferries leave the dock in Hamilton at 9 and 10 am. The 9 am ferry goes via the Naval Dockyard and arrives at Somerset Bridge Wharf at 10:15. The later ferry goes direct to Somerset and reaches its destination in just 30 minutes.

From the wharf, you can take a bus east on Middle Road into Southampton Parish. On your return trip, catch either a number 8 bus that will take you all the way back to Hamilton via Middle Road, or a number 7 that will take you to Hamilton via the scenic South Shore and the beaches.

Note: Remember that bus stops along the routes are marked by pink and blue poles. Those poles with a pink section at the top indicate the stops for Hamilton- bound buses; those with a blue section at the top
are outward-bound from Hamilton. To stop a bus you must stand by the pole. In places it might seem dangerous to do this, so always exercise extremecaution and be on the lookout for fast moving traffic.

If you’re going by moped or bicycle you can ride out to Somerset Bridge Wharf and follow the route, or you can take your rental with you on the ferry; it will cost an extra $3.50.

Photograph of Whale bay FortAssuming you’ve arrived at Somerset Bridge Wharf by ferry, you can grab either a number 7 or number 8 bus going east to Hamilton. From Somerset Bridge Wharf, you’ll travel east for about two miles to Whale Bay Road. Have the driver stop there and let you off. From Middle Road, walk down Whale Bay Road for about 700 yards. At the end you’ll find a secluded, rocky little bay with a pink-tinged sandy beach and crystal-clear waters overlooked by Whale Bay Fort, Stop 1 on your tour. The tiny fort – it’s more of a battery than a fort – is overgrown now, but it’s a pleasant spot where wildflowers and tropical plants grow in showy profusion. If you came by moped or bicycle you’ll have to leave it behind and walk down to the beach; it’s accessible only on foot. If you’ve brought along your swimming gear, now might be a good time to get changed and go for a dip in the ocean; you won’t find a better place.

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Know Before You Go!