Bermuda Bliss: My Royal Caribbean Cruise Packing List (Don't Forget These!)

There’s a moment, standing on the top deck of a Royal Caribbean ship as it glides out of port, when the world seems to melt away. The city skyline shrinks, the sea breeze picks up, and the only thing on the horizon is the promise of adventure. For me, that promise often has a name: Bermuda. It’s a whisper of pink-sand beaches, the scent of saltwater and hibiscus, and the cheerful chime of tree frogs at dusk. It’s an island of refined charm and breathtaking natural beauty, a destination that never fails to capture my soul.

After more than two decades of sailing the world's oceans and writing about it, I can tell you that the magic of a perfect vacation lies in the details. And the most crucial detail, the one that sets the stage for a seamless, stress-free escape, begins before you even leave home: your packing list. A trip to Bermuda aboard a magnificent Royal Caribbean vessel is a tale of two destinations—the vibrant, floating resort that is your ship, and the enchanting island itself. Packing for one without considering the other is a rookie mistake.

This isn’t just another checklist. This is your insider’s guide, curated from years of experience, to ensure you have everything you need—and nothing you don’t—for the ultimate Bermuda cruise. So, let’s open that suitcase and begin crafting your perfect escape.

The Royal Caribbean Vibe: Packing for Your Floating Resort

Before we even talk about Bermuda’s shores, let’s talk about your home at sea. Royal Caribbean ships are marvels of engineering and imagination, designed to offer a dazzling array of experiences. One moment you might be scaling a rock-climbing wall high above the ocean, the next you could be sipping a perfectly crafted old-fashioned in a sophisticated jazz club. Your wardrobe needs to be as versatile as the ship itself.

The onboard atmosphere is one of relaxed fun, but with opportunities to elevate your evenings. Think of it as a premier resort where the scenery is constantly changing. Understanding this dynamic is key to packing perfectly.

Daywear at Sea: Casual Comfort is King

Sea days are your time to explore the ship and soak in the sun. Whether you’re lounging by the main pool with a piña colada, finding a tranquil escape in the adults-only Solarium, or grabbing a slice at Sorrento's Pizza on the Royal Promenade, your daytime attire should be all about comfort and ease.

• Multiple Swimsuits: This is non-negotiable. No one likes wriggling into a damp swimsuit. Pack at least two or three so you always have a dry one ready.
• Stylish Cover-Ups: A chic sarong, a light caftan, or a simple sundress is essential for walking from your stateroom to the pool decks or grabbing a casual lunch at the Windjammer Marketplace.
• Activewear: Royal Caribbean’s ships are packed with activities. If you plan to tackle the FlowRider surf simulator, hit the state-of-the-art gym, or play a game of mini-golf, be sure to pack athletic shorts, tops, and proper sneakers.
• A Good Sun Hat & Sunglasses: The sun reflecting off the ocean is powerful. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses are your best friends for protecting your skin and eyes.

Evening Attire: From Smart Casual to Formal Flair

As the sun sets, the ship transforms. The energy shifts from playful to polished. Royal Caribbean typically designates its evening dress codes as either "Smart Casual" or "Formal Night."

Smart Casual Nights: This will be the dress code for most evenings. Think of what you’d wear to a nice restaurant back home.

• For men: Collared shirts (polos or button-downs), nice trousers or dark jeans, and loafers or dress shoes.
• For women: A stylish dress, a skirt or trousers with an elegant top, or a fashionable jumpsuit.

Formal Night(s): This is your chance to shine! On a typical 5-night Bermuda cruise, you can expect one formal night. It’s an occasion to dress up, take beautiful photos, and enjoy the ship's finest culinary offerings, perhaps at a specialty restaurant like Chops Grille.

• For men: A suit and tie, or at the very least, a sports coat and slacks.
• For women: A cocktail dress, a formal gown, or an elegant pantsuit.

Feeling unsure about which dining package or specialty restaurant is right for you? Our team has dined in them all and can offer personalized recommendations. Have a quick question? Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for instant answers from a cruise expert.

Port of Call Perfection: Your Bermuda Packing Guide

When you see the iconic pastel-hued homes of the Royal Naval Dockyard come into view, your heart will skip a beat. You’ve arrived. Bermuda is a sophisticated island with a distinctly British flair, and packing for your days ashore requires a blend of beach-ready gear and smart-casual attire for exploring its charming towns.

Beach Day Bliss: Horseshoe Bay & Beyond

Bermuda's beaches are the stuff of legend, and for good reason. The sand truly has a soft, pink hue, and the water is a shade of turquoise so vivid it seems unreal. A day at Horseshoe Bay Beach or the more secluded Tobacco Bay is an absolute must.

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: This is critical. Help protect Bermuda's fragile and beautiful coral reefs by choosing a sunscreen free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
• Water Shoes: Many of Bermuda's most stunning coves are rocky. A pair of water shoes will save your feet and allow you to explore tide pools and climb over rock formations with ease.
• A Waterproof Phone Pouch: You’ll want to capture the beauty without risking your device. A simple, inexpensive pouch worn around your neck is a game-changer.
• A Light Daypack: Pack a lightweight backpack or tote bag to carry your essentials: sunscreen, a book, a water bottle, and a towel from the ship.

Town & Country: Exploring Hamilton and St. George's

Beyond the beaches, Bermuda boasts the UNESCO World Heritage site of St. George's and the bustling, sophisticated capital of Hamilton. These towns are for strolling, shopping, and soaking in the culture.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: I cannot stress this enough. From the cobblestone lanes of St. George's to the waterfront promenades of Hamilton, you will be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable sandals, stylish flats, or boat shoes are essential.
• Respectful Attire: Bermudian culture is a bit more formal than many other island destinations. It's customary to put on a cover-up or change out of your swimsuit before leaving the beach area to walk through town or enter shops and restaurants. A simple sundress or a pair of shorts with a polo shirt is perfect.
• A Light Rain Jacket or Umbrella: Tropical showers can pop up unexpectedly. A small, packable rain jacket or travel umbrella will ensure a brief downpour doesn’t dampen your day.

The sheer number of incredible shore excursions in Bermuda can be overwhelming—from catamaran snorkel trips to exploring the otherworldly Crystal Caves. The right choices can elevate your trip from great to unforgettable. Let our experts help you curate the perfect itinerary based on your interests. Plan Your Bermuda Adventure with one of our specialists today and get access to exclusive deals and insider knowledge.

The "Don't Forget These" Items: Small Things, Big Impact

These are the little things, learned over many voyages, that can make a world of difference to the quality of your cruise experience.

• A Lanyard for Your SeaPass Card: Your SeaPass is your room key, your credit card, and your ID on the ship. Keeping it on a lanyard is incredibly convenient.
• Magnetic Hooks: The walls of your stateroom are metal! A few strong magnetic hooks are a fantastic way to create extra storage space for hats, bags, and wet swimsuits.
• A Portable Power Bank: Between your phone, camera, and e-reader, you’ll want to ensure your devices are always charged, especially during long days in port.
• A Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and be eco-friendly. You can fill it up at various stations around the ship before heading out for the day.
• A Light Sweater or Pashmina: The air conditioning in the ship's theater, dining rooms, and casino can be quite cool. A light layer is always a good idea for the evenings.
• Any Necessary Medications: Pack a small bag with any prescription medications, as well as basics like pain relievers, antacids, and motion sickness remedies (just in case!).

Getting all these details right is what we do best. For more insider tips like these, and to ensure every aspect of your booking is flawless, from your stateroom location to your dinner seating, give our dedicated cruise specialists a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460. We're here to handle the minutiae so you can focus on the magic.

The Ultimate Royal Caribbean Bermuda Cruise Checklist

Here it is—a quick, scannable list to double-check before you zip up that suitcase.

Clothing & Apparel

• 3-4 Swimsuits/Bikinis
• 2-3 Swimsuit Cover-Ups
• T-shirts, Tank Tops, Polo Shirts
• Shorts/Skirts
• 2-3 Sundresses or Casual Day Dresses
• 1-2 Pairs of Trousers or Nice Jeans
• Evening Tops/Blouses
• Smart Casual Dinner Outfits
• 1 Formal Night Outfit (Cocktail Dress, Suit, etc.)
• Activewear/Gym Clothes
• Pajamas
• Undergarments & Socks
• Light Sweater, Cardigan, or Pashmina
• Packable Rain Jacket

Footwear

• Flip-Flops or Pool Sandals
• Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sneakers
• Water Shoes
• Dress Shoes/Heels for Evenings

Essentials & Accessories

• Passport & Government-Issued ID
• Cruise Documents & Shore Excursion Confirmations
• Sunglasses & Sun Hat
• Daypack or Beach Tote
• Small Evening Bag or Clutch
• Lanyard for SeaPass Card
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Portable Power Bank & Charging Cords

Your Unforgettable Journey Awaits

Packing for a Royal Caribbean cruise to Bermuda is about more than just filling a suitcase; it's an act of anticipation. Each item you fold—the vibrant swimsuit for a dip in the turquoise sea, the elegant dress for a celebratory dinner, the sturdy shoes for exploring centuries of history—is a promise of the memories you are about to create.

The gentle sway of the ship, the taste of a dark 'n' stormy on your balcony, the feeling of that uniquely soft, pink sand between your toes… it’s all waiting for you. With this guide, you’re not just packed; you’re prepared for bliss. Ready to make it a reality? Your journey to Bermuda is just a click away. Get a Custom Quote and let our experts craft your perfect getaway. Or, if you're ready to explore, use the powerful Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to discover available sailings right now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code on a Royal Caribbean cruise to Bermuda?

The dress code is generally casual during the day. In the evenings, it's typically "Smart Casual" (e.g., collared shirts and trousers for men, dresses or nice tops for women). Most 5- to 7-night cruises will also have one "Formal Night," where guests are encouraged to wear suits, cocktail dresses, or gowns, though it is not strictly mandatory in all dining venues.

Do I need a passport for a Bermuda cruise from the United States?

While U.S. citizens on "closed-loop" cruises (starting and ending in the same U.S. port) can technically travel with just a government-issued photo ID and an original birth certificate, we strongly recommend traveling with a valid passport. A passport is required to fly home from Bermuda in case of an emergency, providing a crucial layer of security and flexibility.

What is the best time of year to cruise to Bermuda?

The peak season for Bermuda cruises is from May to October when the weather is warmest and ideal for swimming and water sports. The shoulder months of April and November can also be lovely, with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, though the water may be cooler.

What currency is used in Bermuda?

Bermuda has its own currency, the Bermudian Dollar (BMD), which is pegged one-to-one with the U.S. Dollar (USD). U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere on the island, so there is no need to exchange your currency.

Can I use my cell phone on the ship and in Bermuda?

Your cell phone will work in Bermuda, but you should check with your provider about international roaming charges to avoid a surprise bill. On the ship, your phone will connect to the ship's cellular service, "Cellular at Sea," which is extremely expensive. The best option is to put your phone in airplane mode and purchase one of Royal Caribbean's Wi-Fi packages (Voom) to stay connected via apps and Wi-Fi calling.