leaving for Bermuda in 5 days!!!!!
 

Hello all...
First, let me say thank you to everyone talking about Bermuda for the past 3 months. I have learned quite a bit from your forums and consider this a crucial part of my research.
In March, a tree fell in to our home in NY, causing severe damage. Although my 11 year old son and I were in the home, we escaped unharmed. It was nothing short of a miracle. After staying in a hotel for a month, we moved in with my in-laws. LONG story short, the work is just starting tomorrow. So, when the going gets tough, the tough go to Bermuda!
We are staying at the Fairmont Southhampton. My question is sort of a general one...I keep hearing, "go before the cruise ships come in" and "make a reservation if the cruise ships are in." Well, can anyone tell me when the ships are in? How crowded will Horseshoe Beach be? Should I expect packed streets in Hamilton? And craziness at Snorkel Park? We leave for Bermuda July 5th...staying until July 12th... thanks

I am grateful you have weathered such a challenge so well...and that you are being rewarded with the perfect escape, BERMUDA. I hope you have a wonderful time.
The concierge at the Fairmont can give you the cruise schedule or you can check here
http://www.bermuda-online.org/cruises.htm
The Fairmont beach is private to guests of the hotel and is right next to Horseshoe Bay so while Horseshoe will be crowded you should be able to find an opportunity during your stay when it is not so bad. To get away from the crowds just start walking east until they thin, the South Shore beaches are ALL spectacular and you will find a corner to yourself.
It will be busy in town; but, not interfere with you and your son being able to enjoy the shops and restaurants. The Fairmont ferry will drop you off and you can have a grand time walking around. If the crowds do bother you step into Par La Ville Park and have a drink at Lemon Tree. Wonderful little place of respite right in the middle of town.

Have a marvelous time!

Ahhh I see...So, since the Veendam and the Norwegian Dawn both leave Bermuda at 5pm on Friday, theoretically, this would be a quieter time in Hamilton. Thanks for the info.

You do know you owe us a trip report when you return! Have fun.

Happy to do my part for the good of all Bermuda-bound folks!

When we were there (begining of Jun) the Veendam was in Hamilton. We didn't find any problem dining cause I think they all go back to the ship to eat. We usually ate around 7pm give or take.

Enjoy your trip!

Hi Golfer...I remember your advice about the balcony at the Pickled Onion...I already have reservations...Also at Hog Penny...other wise, we are going to wing it..My son can't wait to go to the Kentucky Fried Chicken...
Best place for casual meal at the Dockyard after helmet diving and searching for the glass beach?????

At Dockyard I would go with Frog and Onion Pub and if it is too busy, Beethoven's.

Have fun.