Pack the paperwork. Bring your cruise itinerary and documents, luggage tags and any mandatory confirmation numbers. Have cash or traveler's checks on hand, your medical and auto insurance cards, emergency phone numbers, two credit cards and any prescription medications. Note that some individuals may need to bring their airline tickets or recent vaccination records. Call your cruise line for a complete list of required documentation.
Check the weather before cruise departure. Depending on the port and season, cruises can travel great distances and encounter variable weather conditions. Pack for brisk winds while ocean-gazing on a cruise deck and bring motion-sickness medication for potential choppy, at-sea weather.
Learn about on-board dining. Visit the website of your cruise line to find out the scheduled ship's restaurant options and dining dress codes. Pack versatile outfits for both casual, buffet-style eating and sophisticated fine-dining. Consider the footwear options that will also be functional while in Bermuda.
Evaluate the cruise ship's abundant activities. Many cruises have on-board art auctions, comedy entertainment, musical theater, magic shows, dances and formal events. Check the full schedule on your cruise line's website and make a list of the activities you plan to attend. Pack attire that you can mix-and-match for each event.
Plan for leisurely at-sea afternoons. Prepare for an enjoyable cruising vacation by bringing items that can supplement hours on the sun deck or relaxing by the pool. Bring functional items (such as a bathing suit or work-out gear) and entertainment (like a book, crossword puzzle or mp3 player). Don't forget your camera and charger/batteries to capture stunning scenery along the journey.
Protect your skin. Sunshine is abundant in Bermuda; prepare for warm temperatures and long days of sunlight with a wide-brimmed hat, over-sized sunglasses, light layers and waterproof SPF lotion.
Pack for specific island activities. Do your research before cruise departure to Bermuda to sign up for guided activities. Consider options such as glass-bottom kayaking, cove swimming and coral reef snorkeling. Bring a bathing suit, waterproof shoes and mandatory gear for the activity. Although golfing in Bermuda is a popular pastime, consider renting clubs to avoid the hassle (and expense) of traveling with your own.
Dress for pleasant weather conditions. Bermuda enjoys warm, sunny days and refreshing, cool nights all year long. Consider bringing versatile items---such as lightweight, linen pants or cheerful, summer dresses---that are appropriate for both the cruising journey and on-island activities. Pack an umbrella for Bermuda's frequent, brief rainstorms, and always have a warm jacket or wrap handy, as island nights can be chilly.
Prepare to encounter spectacular island scenery in Bermuda. Don't forget a camera, sketch pad, guidebook, travel journal and binoculars to document the vacation. Enjoy the sights of pink sandy beaches, clear ocean waters, sub-tropical coral reefs, stunning rock formations, historic towns and parishes, colorful gardens, captivating wildlife species and mysterious ship wrecks.
Save some room in your luggage. Don't pack your suitcase until it's stuffed---save space to bring home tax-free gifts and keepsakes from Bermuda. As a British territory, Bermuda's shops often sell United Kingdom imports, such as wool, tweed and linen. Additionally, check out cedar crafts and jewelry made by local artisans.
