Bermuda’s transportation resources will be stretched to the limit this week with the arrival of six cruise ships due in port between today and Friday, November 2 with about 9,300 passengers on board.
As a result, the Ministry of Transport has called on the commuting public to make plans for transportation ahead of time due to the influx of visitors.
A spokeswoman said: “The ministry takes this opportunity to strongly encourage the public to plan ahead for their personal transport requirements to avoid delays.
“The ministry also specifically seeks and encourages the public’s patience during this time.
“The ministry will work to maintain the island’s regularly scheduled transportation service during this time. In that regard, the ministry takes this opportunity to strongly encourage the public to plan ahead for their personal transport requirements to avoid delays.
“The ministry also specifically seeks and encourages the public’s patience during this time,” she added
Transport minister Walter Roban said Hamilton and St George’s will have cruise ships in port, with another ship due to anchor in Grassy Bay and another three cruise ships will berth in Dockyard.
“This week, we are preparing to receive six cruise ship calls. This is an exciting and unprecedented time for Bermuda,” said Mr Roban.
“In fact, on one day alone, this represents the largest number of cruise ship passengers in Bermuda’s tourism history. In 2018, our cruise ship season started in March and will end in December. I wish to commend the Bermuda Tourism Authority, who have worked diligently to extend the seasonality of the cruise ship season, which traditionally has been between April and September.”
“This influx of visitors is good for Dockyard, Hamilton and St George, it’s good for our economy and it’s good for Bermuda. We are encouraging all residents to support our efforts as we welcome these visitors to our shores,” he added.
Industry partners have been planning for the uptick by increasing a number support services, including taxis and minibuses to meet the demand. Select community service vehicles and licensed hotel properties have been granted permission to operate shuttles.
Increased public ferry lift has also been added, including a supplemental ferry route to service St George’s and Hamilton from Dockyard. And the Bermuda Tourism Authority has also increased their Visitor Service Centre team with added events scheduled in Dockyard.
