steviegene

Hello all,

Just booked our trip to Bermuda -- for 6 days in July!!
I am excited - although a bit nervous. I've never "done" the Carribbean in the summer!

Some questions to get our trip planning started.....
1. Scooter Rentals -- should we book in advance?
Is there a preferred place? What location would be closest to the Hamilton Princess?

2. Boat Rentals -- We want to rent a boston whaler or rubber boat for the day. Any suggestions on what the best place to do this is - and suggestions on where to go that would be within reasonable distance of rental site?

3. Snorkel Rentals -- Is there somewhere that rents snorkel gear for the week? Is there really enough snorkeling to make a week rental worth it -- or should we just rent it for the day when we rent the boat?

Thanks in advance !!!!!

steviegene

anyone?

txgirlinbda

Hi steviegene - will try to help you out as best I can.

1. There's a bike rental (by bike, we mean scooter) shop literally at the other end of the Princess parking lot. I don't know about quality over other places, but it's certianly convenient. There's also one withing walking distance of the Princess, two buildings up from Lobster Pot on the side street off Bermudiana Road. (Don't worry - it will be easy to find once you're here.)

2. Check out www.blueholewater.bm, the watersports center at Grotto Bay Hotel for the Boston Whalers rental. Also www.aquaticbermuda.com. I don't have power boat experience with either company, but I rent kayaks from Blue Hole all summer - I think the location would be good for exploring.

3. I think that most places that rent Boston Whalers include ice chests and snorkel equipment - don't quote me on that, but I'm partial to gear that hasn't been used by other people - if you're near a sporting goods store like Academy or Sports Authority, you should be able to pick up a decent snorkel set for a good price. As far as the snorkelling goes, you could do two spots a day all week and still not hit them all. My favorites are outside Tobacco Bay and around the edge of Ft. St. Catherines, Church Bay, and the outer edge of the right side (facing the water) of Shelly Bay. Admirality Park to Spanish Point is great too. Most of these places don't have facilities, so make sure you're carrying water, sunscreen, snacks, etc. Don't leave anything valuable on your scooter - rental scooters have different color license plates - so tourists are an easy mark for petty theft here, sadly. I have a small waterproof container that I just tie to me and let it float along while I snorkel. Speaking of waterproof - grab a few waterproof cameras at Walmart before you come over. You'll spend so much time at the beach and in or on the water, it will be worth it.

Let me know if I can help with anything else!!

cmcfong

I have rented scooters/bikes from both places txgirlinbda mentions and would recommend Oleander which is the one next to Lobster Pot. My personal favorite rental company is Elbow Beach Cycles. They have a great practice area and really good safety commitment. Have fun. Bermuda is another world.

steviegene

Thanks guys -- do I need to make a reservation in advance or can I just show up and expect to easily get a scooter?

cmcfong

I only call ahead if I want them to come and pick me up.

Roy098

I would not bother with calling ahead. In many cases you, or the hotel concierge, can call and they will drop them off. Additionally, several scooter shops operate annexes at different hotels.

Some excellent dining options while on the island:

1) The Newport Room at the Southampton Princess (now the Fairmount Southampton)

2) Tom Moore's Tavern (it isn't really a tavern, wear coat and tie)

3) Four Ways Inn

4)Ascots located in Hamilton