Top Things to Do at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

You've finally made it to Bermuda and you're ready to explore all the island has to offer. A must-see stop is the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda, a historic naval base turned into a vibrant tourist attraction. There are so many activities and points of interest that you'll want a full day to experience it all.

The Dockyard is a slice of colonial history come to life, with enough activities to fill your Bermuda bucket list. Dive right in - you won't regret it!

7 Things to Know about The Dockyard

• The Dockyard can be interchangeably referred to as King's Wharf or Heritage Wharf, which are the piers in The Dockyard port where the large Cruise ships dock when visiting Bermuda

• If you arrived by cruise ship, you're already there. The Dockyard is located right next to the cruise ship pier. No need to figure out transportation or book an excursion, just walk off the ship and start your adventure!

• Along with the excursions purchased through the cruise ships, there are kiosks next to the ferry boats where you can arrange for tours and activities, and to purchase ferry tickets to different locations on the island

• The Dockyard has many attractions, including restaurants, bars, shopping, arts and crafts, a beach, mini-golf, a museum and dolphins, all of which you can find on a pleasant, leisurely walk through the area

• There are many transportation options (ferry, public and private buses, taxis, shuttles, scooters, and mopeds) available at The Dockyard to visit Bermuda attractions such as the city of Hamilton, the island of St. George, Horseshoe Bay Beach, and the multitude of other beaches and attractions

• It's free to visit! It costs nothing to roam around the area taking in the shops, the sites, and cultural activities. You can easily spend an entire day exploring without spending a dime.

• It's living history. The Dockyard is filled with over 150 years of history. You can see the historic fort, cannons, museum, and even the Commissioner's House which dates back to the early 19th century.

A Brief History of The Dockyard

The Dockyard was established by the British not long after their defeat in the American Revolutionary War. They began work on the project in 1809 and in 1814, as part of the War of 1812, the British launched their ships to attack Washington, D.C. and Baltimore from this location.

The Dockyard continued to operate until 1995 when it was officially closed. The Dockyard sat abandoned for the next 20 years until its first tenant moved in.

The National Museum of Bermuda was the first occupant of The Dockyard as we now know it today.

The success of that project spurred the government to invest more funding into the revitalization of the area, giving us the vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, art and culture that we see today.

Where is The Dockyard?

The Dockyard is located at the western end of Bermuda in Sandys Parish on Ireland Island. You can easily get there by ferry from Hamilton or St. George's, or by bus or taxi.

If you are cruising into Bermuda your cruise ship will most likely dock at Kings Wharf or Heritage Wharf, placing you right at The Dockyard.

The Dockyard Operating Hours

The Dockyard’s hours will vary by season. During cruise ship season, which is generally April to November, The Dockyard and its shops, restaurants, and attractions are open later in the day than during the off-season.

Be sure to check ahead to confirm the hours for the time of year that you are traveling.

Getting Around The Dockyard

The Dockyard is small enough to easily explore on foot, which is the quickest and most convenient way to get around. Just put on some comfortable walking shoes and start strolling along the cobblestone paths.

You can walk from one end of The Dockyard to the other in about 15-20 minutes. All the main points of interest like museums, restaurants, shops, and attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

However, if you want to give your feet a break or cover more ground, a trolley service makes circuits around The Dockyard. Hop on and off as you please at any of the stops.

The Dockyard Pastry Shop at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

The trolley ride provides an overview of the layout and points out highlights you may want to explore in more depth. The Dockyard trolley is free and operates from 8:30am to 6:00pm during the summer season.

Whether walking, trolleying or a combination of both, you'll thoroughly enjoy exploring The Dockyard at your own pace. The paths are pedestrian-friendly, with shade, some seating and plenty of signage along the way.

The Dockyard's compact size means you can experience all it has to offer without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you're arriving by Sea

When your cruise ship docks in Bermuda, chances are it will berth at Kings Wharf or Heritage Wharf at The Dockyard. These are the two docking piers and where most larger cruise lines berth their ships.

As you sail into the harbor, you'll be greeted by the scenic National Museum of Bermuda right along the dock, as well as the many pastel-colored buildings that make up The Dockyard. Once your ship has anchored, you'll disembark onto the pier to begin your Bermuda adventure.

King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

Here are some things to keep in mind when you arrive:

• Many cruise lines offer shore excursions that depart right from the pier. These guided tours are a great way to explore the island with ease

• If you want to explore on your own, taxis and ferries stationed at The Dockyard can take you into the town of Hamilton or St. George's, or to any of Bermuda's world-class beaches

• Stop by the Visitors Center Booth to learn more about your transportation options and to grab some free Wifi

• With so much to do right at The Dockyard, you could easily spend an entire day wandering its cobblestone streets, visiting historic sites and attractions, shopping for souvenirs, and dining on fresh seafood at one of the many dining locations

Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda Visitor Services Centre

A Walking Tour of The Dockyard: A Glimpse at History

A stroll through The Dockyard lets you step back in time, seeing historic structures such as the fort and the clocktower, which have been repurposed into modern indulgences for cultural, shopping, and restaurant venues.

Exploring The Dockyard is always one of our favorite things to do each time we cruise into Bermuda. We enjoy walking around the historic naval yard and occasionally taking in a meal at one of the restaurants at The Dockyard.

The fort at The Dockyard gives you a glimpse into Bermuda's history. Stop by the National Museum of Bermuda, which offers a glimpse into the Commissioners House, the residence of the naval base commander during the 19th century.

The massive stone structures, bastions, and ramparts are remarkably well-preserved, offering a peek into life at this key naval base for the British starting in the early 1800s.

• While we haven't had an opportunity to take one of the tours offered at The Dockyard, they do have three walking tours available:

  • A free historical walking tour is offered every Tuesday and Friday, May - October

  • There's also a free Meet & Greet with Captain Cahow, the Dockyard Pirate offered from May - December

  • Last but not least, there's also a free Living Arts Walking Tour available June - September.

Activities at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

What is there to See and Do at The Dockyard?

There's something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, shopper or just looking to soak in the atmosphere, The Dockyard has you covered.

Shopping at The Dockyard

The Clocktower shopping mall in The Dockyard is filled with shops and dining options to suit just about any taste. With a selection of stores featuring everything from souvenirs to restaurants.

Jon Faulkner at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

Just outside of the Clocktower Shopping mall you'll find a Diamonds International if you're shopping for jewelry, and on Camber Road you’ll find an assortment of shops including the Dockyard Pharmacy, Making Waves, and the Jon Faulkner Gallery.

Diamonds International at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

Shopping opportunities continue as you tour The Dockyard at the Bermuda Craft Market and Island Outfitters just to name a few.

Restaurants at The Dockyard

With dining options like Cafe Amici, The Dockyard Pastry Shop, Bonefish Bar & Grill and the Frog & Onion Pub you won't go hungry. We've eaten at the Bonefish Grill and the Frog & Onion pub in the past and have found them both to be enjoyable.

Bonefish Bar & Grill at the Royal Navy Dockyard Bermuda

What else can you do at The Dockyard?

There is so much more to do than shop and eat at The Dockyard.

You can go swimming at The Dockyard. Drop by Snorkel Park Beach to grab a bit of relaxation at the beach. Or visit the National Musuem of Bermuda where you can be introduced to over 500 years of Bermudian history in this unique and historical space.

While you're there, don't forget to stop by the Commissioners House and learn about its history as a home for the Commissioner in charge of The Dockyard before being converted to barracks for the Marines of the Royal Navy.

There's also a chance to arrange an opportunity to get up close and personal with dolphins at the Dolphin Quest housed in the museum. That's just a sampling of what you can do at the museum. If you're traveling with littles, be sure to stop by the Museum Playground & Playhouse.

You can shop for local crafts at the Bermuda Arts Center and if you're up for it you can also play a round of mini golf at Bermuda Fun Golf.

If you're looking for your own transportation, you'll also find a car rental and scooter rental location as well as Segway tours available at The Dockyard.

Final Thoughts: Is Royal Navy Dockyard Worth a Visit?

In our opinion, yes The Dockyard most certainly is worth a visit!

We believe that after exploring all that it has to offer, you'll leave with a new appreciation for Bermuda's rich naval history and culture. Between the historic fort, museum, shopping, dining, and all of the activities, you're sure to find something that sparks your interest.

In our view, The Dockyard is a treasure trove of adventure and discovery and we think you should take some time to explore all that it has to offer.

A trip to The Dockyard is a must for any visit to Bermuda. With so much to experience, you'll want to come back again and again.

Enjoy the Journey!

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