Hamilton, Bermuda
It was time to make our way back to Europe after 12 months of incredible adventures. Here is a little summary to remind ourselves of the year we just experienced; it goes by so fast you need to pinch yourself it actually happened:
Alaskan Cruise (7 days)
North to South Pole Cruise (93 days)
Circumnavigation of South America Cruise (110 days)
Seven months at sea wasn't quite long enough, so we opted to cross the Atlantic by ship to bring us back to Europe for the remainder of 2023. This time was extra special as my parents were cruising with us to spend a few months travelling together; after four years between catchups, it was a great way to make up for lost time and a trip we treasure dearly. Thank you, Mum & Dad!
We were to embark on a 22-day back-to-back cruise, the first segment crossing the Atlantic and visiting Bermuda, Ireland, the UK, France, Belgium and the Netherlands, followed by a majestic 7-day cruise through the Norwegian Fjords, another bucket list item!
As part of our two-week Western Europe Transatlantic voyage on Celebrity Apex, we had the weather gods on our side. Our very first port after two days at sea as we left Florida in our rearview mirror was another of those ports that are hit and miss on a cruise; the weather is the dictator, whether you dock or not.
Welcome to Country No.70, our first destination on our Transatlantic crossing to Europe.
After two days sailing from Fort Lauderdale, we arrived in Bermuda's cosmopolitan capital, Hamilton. Bermuda, we have been told, is one of those stops on the crossing that is like winning the weather lottery, and we were in luck.
Upon disembarking the ship, you are immersed in crystal-clear turquoise waters boasting abundant tropical and local fish life; you are mesmerised by the sea life activity and the beautiful display of colours from all the different species. As we were docked at the Royal Navy Dockyard, you were deposited directly in the harbour surrounded by various vessels providing a marine parade as you wandered around.
As we disembarked, we were all mesmerised by the blue fish swimming in the crystal blue waters.
We continued our stroll around the charming and colourful seaside capital, full of history and beautiful architecture.
The clock tower was the main attraction, which housed a great selection of souvenir boutiques for all the avid cruise shoppers. Here is a fun fact about the clock tower with its twin clocktowers that rise 100 feet overhead; one displays the current time, while the other tells the day's high tide.
We enjoyed capturing the essence of the village, and with more time, you would definitely explore and enjoy the pristine beaches all nearby.
As we sailed away later in the afternoon, you were spoilt with million-dollar views and homes to match. Bermuda is definitely worth an extended stay to capture and experience all the goodness, local culture and undoubtedly an excellent culinary scene.