Despite its mid-Atlantic position and considerable natural and sporting attractions, the island has not traditionally been a regular port for large luxury vessels. That has begun to change in recent years. As of the second quarter of 2026, the Bermuda Tourism Authority reports that Bermuda has welcomed 99 superyachts, more than double the 46 recorded during the same period in 2023.
New Infrastructure
In 2017, Bermuda hosted the 35th America’s Cup, bringing international attention and substantial investment to the island. One of the most significant developments in the time since the race is St. George's Marina and Superyacht Dock, a dedicated facility for vessels up to 150 metres. The ability to accommodate vessels of this size puts the marina among a relatively small number of facilities worldwide equipped to handle the largest superyachts in operation. Set within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. George’s, it pairs modern marina facilities with the historic town’s picturesque setting. An owner’s lounge, yacht agent, and concierge service make arrivals and stays straightforward. The marina is less than a ten-minute drive from the L.F. Wade International Airport, Bermuda’s only airport, making it convenient for private aviation, owner visits, and crew changes.
A Convenient Location
The British territory is well positioned between the East Coast of the United States and the Caribbean. At approximately 32 degrees north latitude, the island sits roughly 650 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, and about 1,000 miles north of St. Barth.
That location is particularly useful during the Atlantic hurricane season. Bermuda does experience hurricanes (hurricane season here is typically thought of as late August through October), but it lies outside the main Caribbean cruising grounds, making it a practical stop for yachts repositioning during the summer and early autumn.
Bermuda is also unusually convenient for American, British, and Canadian travellers, with no visa requirement for citizens of those countries.
Relaxed Yet Sophisticated
Bermuda's appeal is not purely practical. Unlike some of the world's busiest Mediterranean and Caribbean yacht destinations, the island retains a sense of privacy and restraint. There are no vast crowds, conspicuous nightlife districts, or paparazzi. In addition, Bermuda is regarded as a safe destination for tourists, generally holding a Level 1 travel advisory (the safest rating) from the U.S. Department of State.
However, this laid-back approach does not mean Bermuda lacks sophistication. The island is an established global financial centre, particularly in insurance and international banking, and that professional infrastructure extends into marine operations.
There is also a charming character to the Bermudian experience, from the pastel-painted buildings and distinctive white limestone roofs to the island’s famously warm hospitality. The white roofs are not merely architectural: Bermuda relies heavily on rainwater collection for its drinking water, with the stepped limestone roofs designed to channel rainfall into underground tanks. The design has even inspired a local gin, White Roof Gin from Bermuda Gin Co., which can be found at establishments around the island. It is a refreshing change from the island’s signature Rum Swizzle.
Expect strangers to greet you on the street (returning the greeting is customary) and be prepared to slow down. Bermuda operates on its own rhythm, and “island time” is very much a part of daily life. Taxis may take longer than expected, service can be leisurely, and plans do not always unfold quite on schedule, but for many visitors, that relaxed pace is part of the local charm.
Beyond the Yacht
The island's small size (about 21 square miles – roughly the size of Manhattan) makes it easy to explore, while its landscape provides a remarkable variety of experiences. St. George's itself is worth spending time in. The picturesque town has narrow lanes, historic buildings, gardens, and a distinctly old-world atmosphere, while the main town of Hamilton offers more contemporary shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. Private experiences can easily be arranged, from historic tours and fishing excursions to sailing trips, cave visits, and glassblowing workshops in the Royal Naval Dockyard.
Golf is another major draw. Bermuda has an unusually high density of courses for an island of just 21 square miles, and the Mid Ocean Club and Tucker's Point Golf Course are particularly appealing for those seeking a day on the course. Tennis is similarly well established, with courts at many of the island's hotels and private residences.
Bermuda's dining scene has evolved considerably in recent years, making time ashore worthwhile even for those accustomed to the personalized food aboard a superyacht. For a classic Bermudian experience, Fourways Inn in Paget combines historic surroundings, including cedar beams, original stone walls, and an 18th-century fireplace, with polished dining and traditional local dishes. In Hamilton, Intrepid at the Hamilton Princess offers an elegant setting for steak and seafood, while Harry’s, Port O Call, and Bolero are good options for a more central evening. For something particularly relaxed, the historic Hog Penny Pub is Bermuda's oldest licensed establishment and a charming place to stop for a casual meal. Several of the island's hotels also offer excellent restaurants, making it easy to arrange a memorable dinner without travelling far from the water.
Where to Stay
While a yacht may be home for much of the visit, Bermuda has a strong collection of luxury hotels for those who want to spend time ashore. The new St. Regis Resort is particularly convenient for those using the new yacht facilities in St. George's, while Rosewood at Tucker’s Point offers a more secluded resort setting. The Hamilton Princess, located in the centre of Hamilton near Front Street and many bars, shops, and restaurants, is well placed for exploring the capital on foot.
For something more intimate, The Loren at Elbow Beach offers a design-focused alternative with a quieter atmosphere and strong dining options. Those with access through friends or reciprocal club membership should consider the Coral Beach and Tennis Club, whose historic architecture, private beach, gardens, tennis facilities, and charming cottages offer a particularly traditional version of Bermuda. Many locals grew up spending their weekends and holidays on the patio and in the dining room of Coral Beach; it’s a beloved local favourite.
The Next Ten Years
The rise in superyacht arrivals could mark the beginning of something new for Bermuda. What the island has done, methodically and without a great deal of noise, is build the physical and operational infrastructure to support a serious superyacht season and then let the numbers make the case.
The infrastructure is now in place to handle some of the largest vessels in the world. The next question is whether Bermuda can match that scale with the level of hospitality, service and shore-side experience that their owners and guests expect. If it can, this may be the beginning of a very different chapter for the island.
