Brian Schwan
1/4/2025
As a family, we’ve been lucky to visit Bermuda a few times over the years, but it always manages to surprise us. Last spring, we traded in the chill of the Philadelphia suburbs for the turquoise waters of Bermuda aboard the Norwegian Getaway, departing from the heart of New York City. Spring in Bermuda? A perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. While the snorkeling lacked its usual sea life abundance, our time there more than made up for it with unforgettable experiences, stunning beaches, and classic Bermudian charm.
The Norwegian Getaway provided the ideal base for our spring break adventure. With activities for everyone, from water slides for the kids to quiet nooks and bars for the adults, it set the tone for a memorable vacation. Sailing from New York made it extra special—we watched the city skyline fade into the horizon and felt the excitement build as we headed south toward paradise.
This was the kids’ highlight of the trip, hands down. At the dolphin encounter in Bermuda, they got up close and personal with these incredible creatures. Watching their faces light up as they swam alongside the dolphins was worth every penny. It’s a memory they’ll treasure forever—and let’s be honest, the adults had a blast too.
One of our most magical moments was stumbling upon a hidden beach. With its soft pink sand and crystal-clear waters, it felt like we had stepped into a postcard. The kids played in the gentle waves while we soaked in the peace and beauty of the secluded spot.
We also splurged on a private catamaran for an afternoon. Complete with kayaks and paddleboards, it was the perfect way to explore the waters at our own pace. We paddled, swam, and simply lounged on deck with a drink in hand. Speaking of drinks…
No trip to Bermuda is complete without a stop at the Swizzle Inn for their famous rum swizzles. This classic island cocktail packs a punch, and sipping it in such a lively, laid-back setting always puts us in full vacation mode. It’s one of those traditions that never gets old.
For a more adrenaline-packed experience, we headed to the Blue Hole for some cliff jumping. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the thrill—and the views—are absolutely worth it. The kids were more adventurous than I expected, and their excitement was contagious.
While we didn’t fit in a fishing excursion this time, it’s something we’ve loved doing in Bermuda before. Renting a boat and having everything—gear, instructions, and local know-how—provided makes it a breeze. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to connect with the water and maybe even catch dinner.
Best Time to Visit: Spring is beautiful, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. While the snorkeling wasn’t as vibrant this time, there’s still plenty to enjoy above and below the water.
Pack Layers: Even in spring, ocean breezes can be cool, especially in the evenings. Bring a light jacket or sweater for the ship and shore excursions.
Explore Beyond the Beaches: Bermuda has so much more to offer, from caves and cliffs to its unique history and food.
Book Excursions Early: Popular experiences like dolphin swims and private catamarans fill up quickly. Plan ahead to secure your spot.
Whether you’re cliff jumping, paddling a kayak, or simply soaking in the beauty of Bermuda’s beaches, this island offers something for every type of traveler. As a family, we loved the balance of adventure and downtime. The kids got their thrills, and we adults had our moments of relaxation—and our rum swizzles.
Bermuda’s charm lies in its versatility. It’s a place where you can be as active or as laid-back as you want. This trip reminded us of the importance of carving out time for family adventures and shared experiences. As we sailed back to New York aboard the Norwegian Getaway, we were already dreaming of our next journey to this magical island.
So, whether it’s your first time or your fifth, Bermuda has a way of making every visit feel like the best one yet.
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