Bermuda • The Port of Kings Wharf

Port of Call Bermuda

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory or one of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories of which there are 14 that fall under the jurisdiction and sovereignty of the United Kingdom. They are the parts of the British Empire that have not been granted independence or have voted to remain British territories. Bermuda is located in the western Atlantic due east of Hilton Head South Carolina. Even though it is at a northern latitude it is a tropical island being washed by the warm currents of the Gulf Stream. The islands boast a lush landscape that includes a large number of cedars and palm trees. Famous for its beautiful beaches (one pink) it has long been a favorite destination for the wealthy from around the world that probably helps support a reasonably high standard of living for Bermuda.

Where You Dock

The northwest tip of the islands is home to British fortifications that date back to the 17th century and included the dockyards including Kings Wharf which is now home to the cruise piers. The British fortifications were greatly expanded during the American Civil War over fears of attack by the Americans and now house the Bermuda Historical Museum, a dolphin encounter, a glass blowing operation, a nice beach with snorkeling areas and a number of shops and restaurants. The dockyards are also the center of the areas water sport concessions and excursion boats.

Transportation

Taxis are readily available but the best way to get around is by public transportation. You can buy a one or two day pass that provides unlimited use of the ferries and buses starting at B$18. Bermuda is actually a set of islands very close together and arranged in the shape of a fish hook. The cruise port is located in the west near the tip of the hook. The town of St. George is near the hook’s eye to the northeast and the capital of Hamilton is near the inside bend of the hook. Most large beaches are on the coast across the island from Hamilton. The islands have about fifty miles of roads serviced by a very good bus system along with regular ferry service between those three major locations. There are also scooters and cars that can be rented but this is not recommended because of the narrow roads and the English left hand driving system.

Money

The local currency is the Bermuda Dollar and is kept on par with the US Dollar. American currency is readily accepted as well as most major credit cards.

Attractions

There is a lot to see and do right in the Kings Wharf area but don’t miss visiting Hamilton. There is a large fortification high above Hamilton with sweeping views of the city and beyond. Hamilton is also home to a number of historic buildings and some beautiful architecture. Good restaurants and great shopping are also a feature of Hamilton and a trip out to St. George is highly recommended. Almost everywhere you go in Bermuda boasts great scenery including pocket beaches, attractive seaside villages and historic landmarks.

Horseshoe Bay is perhaps the most famous beach in Bermuda. It has been rated the #8 beach in the world. A popular tourist spot, it lies on the main island’s south coast, in the parish of Southampton.

The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo is a facility located in Flatts Village, Bermuda. It was established in 1926 by the Bermuda government.

Crystal Cave is a cavern located in Hamilton Parish, close to Castle Harbour. The caverns are approximately 1,500 feet long, and 186 feet deep. The lower 60 feet of the cave are below water level.

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. Built in 1844 by the Royal Engineers, is the taller of two lighthouses on Bermuda, and one of the first lighthouses in the world to be made of cast-iron.

Bermuda Institute of Marine Science http://www.bios.edu/#!/who-we-are is a non-profit institute located in Hamilton and features a number of exhibits and programs.

Fort Hamilton Bermuda. Located in Hamilton City, Fort Hamilton is a picturesque site with lush gardens overlooking the harbor. It was built in the mid 1800s to protect the Hamilton Harbor and form a defense from American forces during their civil war.

Somerset Bridge. Advertised as the worlds smallest draw bridge (see our story about the bridge HERE). If you pay attention while taking the bus from Kings Wharf to Hamilton you will drive right across the bridge.

St. George. This is a picturesque town located at the far end of the islands from Kings Wharf serviced by bus or ferry.

Good Sites For Additional Information

Bermuda Tourist Board

Alaska’s Icy Straight Point Port of Call

General – This is a nature port on Chichagof Island which opened in 2004 and is only open when cruise ships are in. It was developed by the Native Tlingits and celebrates their culture. It is the ideal location for viewing wildlife and sea life. Hoonah, the only town on the island is described as the largest Tlingit Village in the state.

The Cannery Complex

Where You’re docked – Depending on tides and number of ships, cruise ships either dock or tender (sometimes both). In either case, arrival is near the adventure center which is the starting point for land tours. Going in the other direction, the boardwalk takes you to the old cannery complex which now houses a museum, local shops, restaurants and a display of the original cannery operation. The Fish House is also located in this area and it is the starting point for marine tours.

Transportation – There are very limited car rentals or taxi service. A sightseeing trolley is sometimes operational. If you plan to do more then a walking exploration, it is probably best to book a tour.

Icy Straight Point

Money – The US dollar is used here

Nearby Attractions:

The largest and highest zipline in North America is located at ISP. It runs 5330 feet and includes a 1300 foot vertical drop.

Hoonah Village is a short ride from where you come ashore. If a trolley is running it will be one of the stops. It is a very small community with only a few shops and restaurants.

The nature trail provides an opportunity to see native plants and possibly brown bears, bald eagles and the Sitka black tailed deer. If the weather is wet, trails can be very muddy so hiking boots are recommended.

Humpback Whale at Icy Straight Point

Porpoises and whales have been sighted from shore and anchored ships and several tours visit the Point Adolphus area, a prime location for whale watching.

  • NOTE: Cruise ships do not dock near town but dock right next to the Adventure Center which is the major attraction at this port.

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Piraeus, Greece the Port of Athens

General –  Piraeus is the seaport serving the city of Athens. This city is a major metropolis in its own right and the commercial area southeast of the port and near the sea has a number of excellent restaurants and attractions. While most passengers visiting this port for the first time will head out toward Athens and the Acropolis, if you have visited before consider spending some time discovering this remarkable port area.

Where You Dock – Most cruise ships will dock along the northwest side of the port. There is a good walking sidewalk around the port and if you walk north and than continue around the port off to the east you will reach the central district in less than half a mile.

Transportation – There are a number of ways to go from Piraeus to Athens. If you want to head out on your own the best bet is the metro but you can also take a bus or taxi. Rental cars are also available.

The metro can be used to travel from Piraeus to central Athens. A trip to Athens using the metro costs <€1. Also a free bus usually operates in the port taking passengers from the ships to the metro station.

The metro station is about one mile away from the cruise terminal, or a 15-20 minute walk around the harbor. After that, you have a 20-minute ride on the metro to Athens. If the shuttle isn’t running you can take bus (number 843) from the cruise port to the metro station. The ride should take no more than 5 mins. The cost of the ticket is 1€.

To get from Piraeus to the Acropolis by metro, take the metro from Piraeus to Thissio (15 mins). At the metro station follow the pedestrian avenue towards the Acropolis. The walk is another 10 minutes to reach the Acropolis.

Traveling from Piraeus to Athens on a bus will cost roughly €0.80. Due to the usual heavy traffic, you should avoid the bus if you don’t have a lot of time.

Taxis offer more flexibility. To get to Athens one would spend about €15. This will get one to the centre of the city. If you plan to travel to the airport, the price price could be about €40.

Money – Greece uses the Euro and US Dollars are not readily accepted.

Nearby Attractions:

Acropolis -First and foremost there is ancient Athens and the Acropolis and if you haven’t visited before this is not o be missed.

In Piraeus if you have free time visit the Greek Nautical Museum and the Piraeus Archeology Museum both within walking distance of the piers.

The Port of Kona, Hawaii

The Port of Kona or Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii

Kona is a favorite stop for cruise ships visiting the “Big Island” of Hawaii. Famous for its coffee, beaches and Volcano National Park on the island.

Where the Tenders Dock

There are no docking facilities so cruise ships anchor out, using tenders to get ashore. The tenders will dock right at the intersection of Palani Road and Ali’i Drive in the heart of town. Ali’i Drive runs along the waterfront and there are a number of restaurants and shops. Going straight up Palini about a mile will bring you to a Walmart, Post Office, Grocery and a Home Depot.

Transportation

The actual town is small and pedestrian friendly. If you want to get out into the countryside the best option is to rent a car which are available at a few agencies right in town.

  Along the waterfront in town

Currency

Hawaii is a state in the United States and the currency is the U.S. Dollar. ATMs are readily available and most credit cards accepted.

Attractions

Kailua-Kona is a town on the west coast of Hawaii Island (the Big Island) with a few sites located near town. Hulihee Palace is a former royal vacation home dating from 1838. Mokuaikaua Church, from the 1800s, is Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. On Kailua Bay, reconstructed thatched houses at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark are erected on the site of King Kamehameha I’s residence. There are a number of good coral reefs which located just off Kamakahonu Beach. Kona is also near to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park with some nice hiking trails.

Shopping strip along Ali'i Drive
Shops along Ali’i Drive

The “Big Island” of Hawaii is the largest and southern-most island in the State of Hawaii. It is home to The Volcano National Park which includes Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s most massive shield volcano. The other major town on Hawaii is Hilo on the southeast coast and another favorite stop for cruise ships.

https://www.thecraftsmart.com/cruise-life-shop

Juneau, Alaska -A Port of Call

A Day in Juneau

Probably the most isolated state capital in the United States and one of two that you cannot drive to (Hawaii). It is also one of the most frequented cities on Alaska cruise itineraries. Besides being isolated and the states capital it also has a lot to offer.

Where You Dock
Norwegian Pearl tied up at the AJ Dock

Docking facilities stretch from the waterfront right at the foot of the historic district for a mile southeast along the Gastineau channel. If you are lucky and your ship docks near town you are only steps from shops and restaurants. There is however no cruise terminal or public facilities readily available at the dock. Restrooms are available at the public library just a block from the Red Dog Saloon along with a number of stores and restaurants. There is also a shuttle service provided from the docks down the channel but it is not free (currently about $2 each way).

Historic downtown Juneau
Transportation

Besides the official dock shuttle there are taxis available at reasonable rates. To get to Mendenhall Glacier we would recommend the public bus service that departs from near the cruise ship docks. Current round trip fare to Mendenhall NPS Visitor Center is $30 per person. Outside of the historic district Juneau is actually a very large city in geographic size. If you really want to see the wider area there are also rental car agencies near town.

Money

Alaska is a state so the currency is the U.S. Dollar and most credit cards are welcome. You will also find a number of ATM machines available.

Attractions
Mendenhall Glacier

Wander the streets of Juneau’s historic district, shop, visit the infamous Red Dog Saloon where Wyatt Earp lost his guns in a poker game. Within just a few square miles, browse multiple museums and an arts centers celebrating Alaska’s Native heritage. See multiple totems, the Ancon Mural, visit the fascinating DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and be sure and go out to Mendenhall Glacier. Stop by one of Travel Juneau’s visitor information sites for a Downtown Walking Tour Map and be your own guide!

Take a cable car up to a mountain top high above the city or take a helicopter out to the Juneau ice field and walk on a glacier. Go salmon fishing or whale watching, there’s more to do than will fit in a day.

More information on the Mendenhall Glacier.

More information on the Salmon Hatchery.

The Greek Island Of Mykonos

Mykonos

The Greek islands attract people from all over the world and the most popular of these pieces of paradise is Mykonos. It features an exciting nightlife and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that attracts visitors of all ages who come for a number of reasons. The island is famous for partying, relaxation, picturesque villages and magnificent beaches featuring golden sands and the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea.The weather is usually great, the sky and sea compete to see which is the more spectacular turquoise and everywhere you look are sun bleached white stucco buildings. Spend time strolling thru narrow streets and alleys as you shop for art, local crafts and souvenirs. Cafes and restaurants are everywhere with seating that spreads out onto patios and porches each offering incredible views.

While visiting keep an eye out for the Pelican of Mykonos. Named Petros (Peter) he’s part of the traditions and culture of the island. This mascot of Mykonos strolls leisurely through the city’s many streets and alleyways.

Currently Petros the Pelican is a second generation mascot. He and his predecessor have made Mykonos their home since 1954. The original Petros passed away in 1985 and the current Petros quickly took his place. Both of these Pelicans have have their way into the hearts of the people of Mykonos as well as the many visitors to this enchanted island.

Where Your Ship Docks

Mykonos has a new cruise ship docking pier about a mile and a half from Mykonos City. Shuttle bus service is usually provided and there are good sidewalks around the waterfront but they can be steep in places.

Transportation

The island has a good bus system with routes that connect most towns with the many popular beaches. The Mykonos bus fleet includes 26 buses, some of which are provided especially for the island”s tourist visitors. The fare is between €1 and €3, depending on the distance traveled, and you can buy tickets directly from the driver or at the booths at the terminals. Taxis are also readily available.

Money

The local currency is the Euro (€) and ATM’s are conveniently located.

Attractions

Mostly the island is popular for the beaches with dozens to pick from. A couple of the most popular include:

Paradise beach and Super Paradise beach are 4 miles from Mykonos Town, they are sand beaches very popular with young people that come to play all day and late into the night. It also features diving and watersports and plenty of bars and clubs which flow out onto the beach. Paradise beach has a party vibe with good swimming in beautiful water. It’s also nudist friendly. You can reach the beach by taxi, boat or bus.

Ornos beach is well equipped with loungers and umbrellas along with many cafes and restaurants. There is good for windsurfing, diving and water skiing. It’s less than 2 miles from Mykonos Town, so it’s easy to get to by bus or boat. It’s located in a lovely bay with great views. Although it can get crowded, it is more relaxed than other beaches, so it’s an enjoyable place to spend the day.

The Mykonos windmills are the iconic feature of this island. The windmills can be seen from many points around the village of Mykonos, the island’s principal village and are the first thing you see when coming into the harbor as they stand on a hill overlooking the village.

The Aegean Maritime Museum – a non-profit institution founded in 1985. It’s dedicated to collect, study and promote Greek maritime history and tradition. It features a particular focus on the evolution and activities of the merchant ship, mainly in this historic region of the Aegean Sea. The Aegean Maritime Museum is housed in a traditional 19th century Myconian building, which is located at the centre of the Town of Mykonos.

The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos – a museum thats collections include exhibits dating from the Prehistoric to the Hellenistic period. The museum includes six rooms that include models and tomb artifacts of Rinia. Also featured are earthenware, Cycladic stoneware and ceramics dated from ninth and eighth century BC. The most popular display is the internment reliefs of the fall of Troy.

Shopping

Specialties include olive products like soaps and oils, spices along with local arts and crafts. Keep a look out for good buys in souvenir shops, high label designer clothes and shoes, art galleries and fine jewelry in the Greek design tradition.

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Mykonos Greece – where your ship docks, getting around, attractions to see, beaches to visit, currency and shopping. Part of the Cruise Ports of Call guides from Intend2Travel.