royal caribbean bermuda travel authorization

• Things To Do in Bermuda
• Weekly Happenings
• Sports & Recreation
• Food & Drink
• Water Activities
• Nature Activities
• Wellness & Spas
• View All Things to Do
• Places To Stay in Bermuda
• Hotels & Resorts
• Inns, Bed & Breakfasts, & Guest Houses
• Vacation Rentals
• Members-Only Clubs
• Private Islands
• Deals & Packages
• Accommodations Directory
• View All Places to Stay
• Discover Bermuda
• Island Regions
• Culture & Heritage
• Food Culture
• Festivals & Holidays
• Island History
• Explore Our Island
• Plan Your Trip
• Getting Here
• Weather & Climate
• Bermuda Arrival Card
• Getting Around
• Group Celebrations
• Weddings & Honeymoons
• Business Directory
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Get Inspired
• Bermuda Inspirers
• Travel Tips
• Natural Wonders
• Friend Getaways
• Itineraries
• View All Inspirations & Stories

• Search Close
• Mobile Menu

Getting to Bermuda has never been easier!

All you need is your valid passport and the bermuda arrival card.

We invite you to complete the digital Bermuda Arrival Card prior to your arrival on the island. The form is easy and will take less than 2-minutes and get you through faster. Once you complete the form you receive an email confirmation and present it to our border agents to help expedite processing on arrival. The Bermuda Tourism Authority is working to ensure an optimal visitor experience and observes international privacy protection standards. 

Please review our privacy policy .   

Effective November 14, 2022, Covid-19 testing and travel authorisation forms are not required to enter Bermuda. All air arrival visitors will need to fill out the arrival card. Cruise visitors are not required to complete any entry form. 

Bermuda In Your Inbox

We want to make you excited to check your mail. Stay in the loop on events, offers and what’s happening in Bermuda.

• Cruise News

Bermuda Travel Fee Removal: Earlier Schedule

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• November 7, 2022

The Bermuda Government has revealed that it is going to be ditching its travel authorization form and fee earlier than previously scheduled.

A press release on the Government of Bermuda website says “The Bermuda Government is pleased to announce the elimination of the travel authorisation (TA) process three weeks earlier than previously announced, a move which will streamline the overall travel experience for visitors.”

The requirement for an approved travel authorization, the associated $40 fee, and proof of vaccination or medical insurance will end on November 13, 2022.

According to Bernews , the Bermuda Tourism Authority will reinstate the Bermuda Arrival Card, a digital form for visitors which was in place prior to the pandemic, starting November 14th. This form captures data on visitors, generates tourism statistics for the country, and provides visitors with timely communications to enhance their stay, if they wish to receive them. This arrival card is an online form that can be completed in minutes prior to traveling to Bermuda.

MORE: Carnival Luminosa Enters Service in Australia

Previously, the Bermuda Government intended to end the use of the travel authorization form on November 30th.

“Bermuda’s tourism industry fully supports the decision to eliminate the travel authorisation and bring the island’s public health emergency orders to an end,” said Interim Chief Executive Officer at Bermuda Tourism Authority. “We are especially appreciative of our partners in the Ministry of Health for the collaborative approach to solving our shared challenges. This is exciting news that will help to restore a frictionless travel experience for our visitors.”

To fill out the Bermuda Arrival Card, travelers can go to BermudaArrivalCard.com , complete the form, and download it so it can be presented to immigration officials. There is no approval process or fee. All non-residents who travel to Bermuda as of November 14th must complete the arrival card even if they had previously completed a travel authorization form.

READ NEXT: Cruise Line Rolling Out Immersive Dining Experience on Two Ships

Recent Posts

Cruise passenger could face 12 years in prison after arrest in grand turk, royal caribbean cancels alaska cruise, guests must vacate by sunday afternoon, sun princess’ new godmother, hannah waddingham, has one very important tip to share with cruisers, florida man faces staggering $143,000 phone bill following vacation, share this post, related posts.

Carnival Firenze Gets an Italian-Style Christening at Long Beach

Oasis of the Seas Sky Suite Review 2024 [PODCAST]

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

• Royal Caribbean International

Bermuda travel authorization

By puggylicious , September 28, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International

Recommended Posts

puggylicious

I am aware of having to do the Bermuda travel authorization when cruising to Bermuda.  Royal Caribbean hasn’t sent anything about this requirement.  Have people been turned away from boarding the cruise because they hadn’t received the authorization?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

18 minutes ago, puggylicious said: Have people been turned away from boarding the cruise because they hadn’t received the authorization?

Some have reported that, yes.

I filed for our TA's but like you, I am very surprised that we got no notification from Royal Caribbean.  Glad I read Cruise Critic.  It does have the notice in the pages of legalize in your travel documents.

No Bermuda authorization, no getting on the ship.

I went to Bermuda travel authorization page on Monday for our October 8th Bermuda cruise on Mariner. Hopefully i did everything correct.

4 hours ago, puggylicious said: I am aware of having to do the Bermuda travel authorization when cruising to Bermuda.  Royal Caribbean hasn’t sent anything about this requirement.  Have people been turned away from boarding the cruise because they hadn’t received the authorization?

The first notification email we received from RCL was 7 days before our sail date. (Ironically on the same day that we received the TA from the Bermuda government.

On our August Mariner cruise to Bermuda, there were officials from the Bermuda government processing TAs at the terminal for those who didn't have them yet (but I wouldn't count on that as standard practice)

I found out from RCI when I booked my cruise.  The info was on the Web site.

Just now, moposh said: I found out from RCI when I booked my cruise.  The info was on the Web site.

We booked long before the TA process was put into effect, and had we not seen the threads on CC, we would never have thought to look at the RCL website.

Sunshine3601

It is best to check out this link to Royal's site for updates om what is needed for any future cruise. 

https://www.royalcaribbean.com/the-healthy-sail-center/getting-ready-to-cruise

I vaguely recall receiving an email from Royal about a month or so before our Bermuda cruise and the requirements.   

52 minutes ago, orville99 said: We booked long before the TA process was put into effect, and had we not seen the threads on CC, we would never have thought to look at the RCL website.

I knew about the process and am going in three weeks.  If I wouldn't lose my money I would cancel and just take a cruise where the fee and testing are not required.  Only because I am all tested out.  

cruisegirl1

We travel to Bermuda in late May. We received dozens of reminders from Royal Caribbean. Numerous emails, some reminders were on our check-in process, and some were on the website.

If the authorization is still in place when you sail, you will not be able to board without it.   I believe our authorization took about 10 days to process. Give yourself ample time.   

3 hours ago, orville99 said: We booked long before the TA process was put into effect, and had we not seen the threads on CC, we would never have thought to look at the RCL website.

Wow.  You must have booked a long time ago.  RCI did send me an email at some point.

Anyone know why RCI Bermuda testing requirements are currently more restrictive than on the Bermuda travel authorization site? Especially since they have dropped testing on most other cruises? Any chance they change it? My unvaccinated granddaughter needs a pcr 3 days out but Bermuda says 4 days for pcr  or accepting 2 day antigen when accompanied by vaccinated parent. ( her dad refused consent for vaccination) No one within an hour of us guarantees pcr within 3 days although they say 1-3 days. 4 days would be better.  Walgreens in NJ that we checked are only taking appointments 3 days out, and charging close to $130. Daughter ok with paying rather than fight with the dad. We are driving to NJ on Friday so stressful wondering if we can make an appointment time. We knew about testing when we booked but didn’t have any idea free and/ or convenient testing would end. We are planning to use supervised antigen ourselves. 

5 minutes ago, landerslp said: Anyone know why RCI Bermuda testing requirements are currently more restrictive than on the Bermuda travel authorization site? Especially since they have dropped testing on most other cruises? Any chance they change it? My unvaccinated granddaughter needs a pcr 3 days out but Bermuda says 4 days for pcr  or accepting 2 day antigen when accompanied by vaccinated parent. ( her dad refused consent for vaccination) No one within an hour of us guarantees pcr within 3 days although they say 1-3 days. 4 days would be better.  Walgreens in NJ that we checked are only taking appointments 3 days out, and charging close to $130. Daughter ok with paying rather than fight with the dad. We are driving to NJ on Friday so stressful wondering if we can make an appointment time. We knew about testing when we booked but didn’t have any idea free and/ or convenient testing would end. We are planning to use supervised antigen ourselves. 

I would say RCI hasn't updated their Web site.

39 minutes ago, moposh said: Wow.  You must have booked a long time ago.  RCI did send me an email at some point.

We always book as soon as new itineraries are released.

Bermuda is not going to drop the TA, regardless of changes in covid protocols.  It's a cash cow, and they are loving it.  Our Bermudian guide explained to us that it's not just tourists.  EVERYONE must pay the $40 fee to enter the country, including its own citizens!

Starry Eyes

People learn about the requirement in different ways.  A nurse mentioned an upcoming Bermuda cruise during an appointment.  She had not heard of the travel authorization and asked me for the details.

Charles4515

1 hour ago, Merion_Mom said: Bermuda is not going to drop the TA, regardless of changes in covid protocols.  It's a cash cow, and they are loving it.  Our Bermudian guide explained to us that it's not just tourists.  EVERYONE must pay the $40 fee to enter the country, including its own citizens!

There are changes being announced Friday. I suspect though they might only affect transatlantics. Or they may drop requiring their own residents from the TA. It is not popular in Bermuda and there are political stirrings... They anounced that the state of emergency is ending November 1. Not really understanding how they picked  November 1. 

18 hours ago, Merion_Mom said: Bermuda is not going to drop the TA, regardless of changes in covid protocols.  It's a cash cow, and they are loving it.  Our Bermudian guide explained to us that it's not just tourists.  EVERYONE must pay the $40 fee to enter the country, including its own citizens!

Todays news is that the TA form will be phased out but no decision on the fee. As some suspect they may keep the fee somehow. 

https://www.royalgazette.com/health/news/article/20220929/ta-form-to-be-phased-out-but-no-decision-on-fee/

John&LaLa

23 hours ago, mrpayroll said: I went to Bermuda travel authorization page on Monday for our October 8th Bermuda cruise on Mariner. Hopefully i did everything correct.

I did mine a week ago for an Oct 16 cruise. Still waiting on approval paperwork. 

They do have my money 😉

15 minutes ago, Charles4515 said: Todays news is that the TA form will be phased out but no decision on the fee. As some suspect they may keep the fee somehow.    https://www.royalgazette.com/health/news/article/20220929/ta-form-to-be-phased-out-but-no-decision-on-fee/

I can live with the $40 money grab but this is the part that sounds the best to me:

" From October 25, the requirement for pre-arrival and pre-departure testing, arrival testing, and day-four testing for travellers will be dropped."

19 hours ago, landerslp said: Anyone know why RCI Bermuda testing requirements are currently more restrictive than on the Bermuda travel authorization site? Especially since they have dropped testing on most other cruises? Any chance they change it? My unvaccinated granddaughter needs a pcr 3 days out but Bermuda says 4 days for pcr  or accepting 2 day antigen when accompanied by vaccinated parent. ( her dad refused consent for vaccination) No one within an hour of us guarantees pcr within 3 days although they say 1-3 days. 4 days would be better.  Walgreens in NJ that we checked are only taking appointments 3 days out, and charging close to $130. Daughter ok with paying rather than fight with the dad. We are driving to NJ on Friday so stressful wondering if we can make an appointment time. We knew about testing when we booked but didn’t have any idea free and/ or convenient testing would end. We are planning to use supervised antigen ourselves. 

Your granddaughter can take a proctored telehealth test 2 days prior, right?  That seems the least expensive option.  BinaxNOW can be done with a cell phone from anywhere.  Cost is $70 for a 2-pack from the Optum.com store. 

• 1 month later...

Better late than never, Bermuda is finally removing the travel authorization form, which was needed to be allowed to travel to the island by plane or cruise ship.

The form will no longer be required starting November 14, almost three weeks earlier than previously announced, and in time for several cruise ships to take advantage. 

Bermuda implemented the $40 travel authorization during the pandemic to be able to track and minimize the risk of COVID coming to the island.

However, although Bermuda opened up for all travelers some time ago, it held on to the travel authorization form. The form will now be replaced with the old Bermuda arrival card, which is free of charge. 

Bermuda Removes $40 Travel Authorisation

Effective November 14, those   traveling to Bermuda   by air or by cruise ship will no longer be required to apply for and pay a $40 fee for the travel authorization form that has been in place during the last two years.

Although the Bermuda government had announced previously it would remove the form in December, this has been pushed forward by three weeks.

A Government spokesperson   said the following :   “Today, the Bermuda Government is pleased to announce the elimination of the travel authorization [TA] process three weeks earlier than previously announced, a move which will streamline the overall travel experience for visitors.”

“The requirement for an approved TA, the associated forty-dollar fee, and proof of vaccination or medical insurance will end on 13th November 2022.”

The Travel Authorization form will be removed, and the Bermuda Tourism Authority will bring back the old Arrival Card:

“Effective 14th November, the Bermuda Tourism Authority [BTA] will reinstate the Bermuda Arrival Card, a digital form for visitors only, which was in place prior to the onset of the pandemic. The BTA will provide more information on the process around the Bermuda Arrival Card later today.”

With the removal of the Travel Authorization, Bermuda removed the last hurdles that were in place post-pandemic. Regardless of their vaccination status,   everyone is free to travel to Bermuda . 

Those traveling to Bermuda can apply for the arrival card at   www.BermudaArrivalCard.com . There is no approval process or fee, and once the required fields have been completed, the form is available as a downloadable link or by email.

All non-residents who travel to Bermuda as of November 14 must complete the Bermuda Arrival Card even if they have previously completed a travel authorization form. 

Several Cruise Ships Impacted

Although we are already in November, several cruise ships will still be able to benefit from the changes implemented by the Bermuda government.

Norwegian Joy   arrives in Bermuda on November 21 for a three-day stay. The ship will sail from New York City on November 19 and return on November 26.

Ocean Cruises’   Sirena   arrives in Hamilton, Bermuda, on November 14 and is the first cruise ship to benefit from the new protocols. She is sailing a 14-night transatlantic voyage from Barcelona to Miami. The next day, Norwegian Joy will arrive in Bermuda.

MSC Seascape   guests sailing from Rome to New York will arrive in Bermuda on December 2. Unfortunately, those arriving in Bermuda before November 14 will still need to apply for the Travel Authorization. This includes cruises onboard   Norwegian Pearl   on November 6 and 13.

Bermuda Will Finally Drop Its Travel Authorization (cruisehive.com)

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail Beyond the Ordinary with Oceania Cruises
• ANNOUNCEMENT: The Widest View in the Whole Wide World
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:21 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 03:17 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:00 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:41 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

GO BACK TO GUIDES

2024-04-16T16:44:48Z

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BERMUDA

Discover what's the best months to visit bermuda, 1. chase the sunshine.

Bermuda has a subtropical climate that makes it a sought-after destination for travelers all year long, but the most popular seasons to visit are in spring and summer, from April to October. The island comes to life during this time, with visitors from around the globe, colorful events, blooming flowers and endless activities. The island also grows warmer and can be intensely sunny, especially during the summer months when the temperature averages 85℉, so don't forget that sunscreen if you want to stretch out on the famed pink sand.

Water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming are very pleasant this time of year, when the water is warmest, and many sunseekers flock to Tobacco Bay, the Crystal Caves and Jobson's Cove.

If you visit during this stretch, you'll find fun events for the whole family, including the Bermuda Carnival in June and the Gombey Festival in September. Just remember that while these months offer the warmest weather and sunniest days along with a lively atmosphere, they're also the most popular, so you'll want to book tours in advance.

2. Weigh the allure of a slower pace

Explore exhibitions at the Bermuda Arts Centre in Hamilton.

If you're seeking a more relaxed and tranquil experience, the best time to visit Bermuda is during the shoulder seasons of late fall and early spring, when the island experiences fewer crowds, milder temperatures and a slower pace of life.

During the fall, Bermuda transitions from the busy summer season to a more mellow ambiance. The weather remains pleasant, though, with temperatures ranging from 65℉ to 75℉. This is the perfect time to visit if you're a nature lover who wants to explore the island's flora, history and culture. Stop by Southlands Park, Somers Garden or the Bermuda Historical Society Museum without having to worry about the heat or bustle of peak tourist months.

The spring shoulder season also offers a peaceful retreat, with vibrant flowers and refreshing breezes. You can immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty at the botanical gardens, embark on a scenic hike on the Railway Trail and take advantage of lower prices everywhere you go.

3. Consider exploring during cooler months

If you prefer even cooler temperatures, then the best time to visit Bermuda is during the winter season, from mid-December to March. These months are considered off-peak for tourism, but there are still a lot of benefits for travelers, such as milder weather and lower humidity. Adults traveling without children will also find fewer little ones onboard.

During winter in Bermuda, the island turns into a refreshing paradise without being too chilly. This is the best time for surfing; you can rent a surfboard and head to Horseshoe Bay for a lesson — or just watch the locals catch some waves.

Winter in Bermuda is also perfect for exploring the island's cultural and historical attractions, like the Royal Naval Dockyard and the National Museum of Bermuda. You'll enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds at many popular sites. Just remember that some businesses and attractions have shorter operating hours this time of year, so you'll want to plan your activities accordingly.

4. Look for the cheapest time to visit

If you're a budget-conscious traveler, you might already know that the most affordable time to visit Bermuda is during the off-peak winter months — from mid-December to March. For a full experience that doubles as the cheapest Bermuda vacation possible, good options are between mid-January and mid-March. This cooler period — when the average temperature hovers around 70℉ — offers lower prices; cruises, tour companies, restaurants and museums may offer discounted rates, making this the best time to visit Bermuda on a budget.

Many golfers prefer to visit Bermuda between January and March because there are no crowds. Renowned clubs include Port Royal, Turtle Hill and Mid Ocean Club, where you can take your pick from available tee times.

Also, if you live on the East Coast, you'll find affordable cruises from New York City to Bermuda

5. Know your priorities

While Bermuda is a captivating destination year-round, some months may be less ideal for you depending on your goals. For those in search of hot temps and water sports, summer is the best time to visit Bermuda. For golfers and those who burn easily, the off-peak winter season may be better.

Another consideration is hurricane season, which extends officially from June to November. This time of year brings increased potential for storms and heavy rain in the region. Storms can also make the waters of the Atlantic choppier as you power toward the island from the East Coast — which is fun for those who enjoy the feeling of pitching and rolling, but may require some people to pack motion-sickness medication.

However, Bermuda's memorable cuisine is available all year. Regardless of when you come, you'll find fresh seafood dishes like fish chowder and codfish cakes, British options such as fish and chips and signature local drinks such as the Dark and Stormy and the Rum Swizzle, both of which use local rum as a key ingredient. Our advice? No matter when you come, plan to order a couple of these cocktails for a memorable toast to a fabulous vacation.

Ready to book your next cruise? Consider these great Bermuda cruises for your next vacation.

EXPLORE MORE

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

STARTING FROM 

3 NIGHT CRUISES

Weekend Getaway Cruises

Related Articles

The Best Time to Visit Bermuda | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Girls and guys weekend trip ideas: How to plan a cruise getaway | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Best Long Weekend Getaways to the Bahamas on Utopia of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Can You Take Days Off Without PTO? Here's What You Need to Know | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.