Crystal Caves Review

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Crystal Caves

  • Address: 8 Crystal Caves Rd., off Wilkinson Ave., Bailey's Bay, Hamilton Parish, CR 04
  • Phone: 441/293-0640
  • www.bermudacaves.com
Write a review | Avg. member rating: 4.4/5

Fodor's Review:

Bermuda's limestone caves have been attracting attention since the island was first settled. As far back as 1623, Captain John Smith (of Pocahontas fame) commented on these "vary strange, darke, and cumbersome" caverns. Nevertheless, it came as a surprise when two boys, attempting to retrieve a lost ball, discovered Crystal Cave in 1907. The hole through which the boys descended is still visible. But, thankfully, you can now view their find without having to make such a dramatic entrance. Inside, tour guides will lead you across a pontoon bridge that spans a 55-foot-deep subterranean lake. Look up to see stalactites dripping from the ceiling or down through the perfectly clear water to see stalagmites rising from the cave floor. Amateur spelunkers can also journey through geologic time at Crystal's smaller sister cave, Fantasy. After being closed to the public for decades, it reopened in 2001. Set aside 30 minutes to see one cave; 75 minutes if you plan to take in both.

  • Cost: One cave $18; combination ticket $26
  • Open: Daily 9:30-4:30; last combination tour at 4
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Member Reviews and Ratings

Reviewed by Talmidah from Canyon Lake, CA on 4/23/09
We toured Crystal Cave only and found it to be an interesting and visually stunning experience. There are a lot of steps, but our 7-month pregnant companion made it without too much trouble. We were impressed that it was open on Easter Sunday, when nothing else around was open. The staff was friendly and informative. There is a gift shop on the premises and it was a standard one with a little bit of everything: t-shirts, mugs, spoons, etc. with the addition of tumbled rocks and other geological gifts. A very nice site to visit!

Member Rating: 4.6
Ratings details: Experience: 5.0 Ease: 4.0 Value: 4.0 Don't Miss: 5.0

Reviewed by WineTraveller from Wilmington, DE on 3/22/09
First the downside - the cost. The price ($24/person) was a bit steep for what really amounted to about 90 minutes. On the other hand, this is a privately-run operation and it lacked for nothing (well-run, very clean facilities, excellent staff, the works!). Once you make your way to the bottom of the 80+ steps to the cavern (you're at sea level), the sheer beauty of this place overwhelms you and makes you forget the price! Fantastic excursion, just not for people who are claustrophobic. Also, if you don't like pontoon bridges that float on the water, avoid the Crystal Cave and go only to the Fantasy Cave (but do both if you have the time/money). Afterward, grab a good bite to eat at the Swizzle Inn just around the corner (5 minute walk away).

Member Rating: 4.2
Ratings details: Experience: 5.0 Ease: 4.0 Value: 3.0 Don't Miss: 4.0
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