Bermuda Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: Explore Coral Reefs and the HMS Vixen
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to climb a few steps is required.
Overview
Glide over Bermuda’s northern coral edge without getting wet: a 90-minute glass-bottom cruise from Royal Naval Dockyard visits the HMS Vixen wreck, sea gardens and seagrass beds where turtles graze. Expect engaging commentary, excellent reef views and practical boarding for most travelers.
Bermuda Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: Explore Coral Reefs and the HMS Vixen
Select participants and date
The morning light across the Royal Naval Dockyard cuts a clean line on the water; gulls wheel and the blue of Bermuda slips from pale to volcanic. A glass-bottom boat rocks gently at the dock, its lower viewing well poised like a porthole into another world. Step aboard and the island rearranges itself: the surface delivers cliff-lined bays and pastel houses, while below the glass a coral city unfurls—colonies of brain coral, darting parrotfish and the occasional indifferent sea turtle who treats observers as part of the landscape.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to be at the Island Tour Centre Dockyard at least 15 minutes before departure to display your mobile e-ticket and board calmly.
Wear non-slip shoes
Boat steps and wet decks favor firm, closed-toe shoes—flip-flops can be unsafe when boarding or moving around the boat.
Bring sun protection and a light jacket
Upper-deck time feels bright and windy; sunscreen, a hat and a wind layer keep you comfortable on the return cruise.
Carry small change
The boat has a cash bar—bring local currency or small bills for drinks and tips.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtle
- Parrotfish
History
Royal Naval Dockyard was a strategic British base; many wrecks and maritime stories around the reef date to the age of sail and colonial shipping.
Conservation
Bermuda’s reefs are vulnerable; operators emphasize no-touch viewing and reef education to minimize visitor impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Royal Naval Dockyard (Sandys)
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protects against strong midday UV reflected off water.
spring specific
Polarizing sunglasses
Reduces glare for clearer photos through glass and on the surface.
summer specific
Light wind jacket
Keeps you warm on the exposed upper deck when the sea breeze picks up.
fall specific
Waterproof phone case or small camera
Protects gear from spray and lets you capture underwater views from the upper deck.
summer specific