Land Excursion Question
 

Going to Bermuda on May 15th on the Celebrity. Want to know if we should pick an excursion from their menue, example: snorkling, rather than do it on our own. And if so = should we reserve it before we go or while we are on the ship? Has anyone done some of the ships excursions out of Bermuda? thanks

We haven't been on that particular cruise, but I can address part of your question. For peace of mind, it is best to book excursions through the ship. If you are not worried about getting back in time, then book them when you get to Bermuda from independent operators. We have done both, through the ship and independently. You save quite a bit of money booking them on your own, not through the ship. I've gotten great shore excursion information by just doing a search that says, "Bermuda shore excursions". Also, if you book through the ship, it's best to do it in advance. Some of them do sell out. That happened to us on one of the cruises. We had to take our second choice, which turned out great anyway!

I would do it yourself and save money. Bermuda is easy to do on your own. Since you will be there for a few days, you really don't have to worry about getting back on board in time for anything save dinner. If you miss dinner, you order room service! You use the ship as a hotel.

I would agaree w/Mary on going on you own in Bermuda - it is very simple to get around the island - enjoy!

Hello,

There is certainly nothing wrong with using the ship's shore excursions. They are well done and cruise lines use a reputable local supplier. They are impersonal, cookie-cutter and I've often found myself waiting for slower members of the shore excursion.

As a travel agent/cruise specialist, I always tell my clients that they are welcome to do their own shore excursion. Mopeds in Bermuda are a lot of fun! Sometimes I use my personal contacts in Bermuda with on-site suppliers or you can also check with the Bermuda tourism bureau. Their websites often have good advice on using taxis, or a good snorkeling company that has been inspected and checked for quality or a good local tour driver, etc. You might also check with the concierge desk at any of the big hotels in Bermuda.

But, be ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN to get back to the ship in extra time before the ship departs. Check and double-check the time before you get off the ship to do your own thing!

Please feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions!

Best Regards,
Julia