Bermuda’s pink and blue buses offer an excellent means of transportation whilst on your vacation. The routes cover most of the island and the buses run regularly and on time.
They offer a safe alternative to tourists who feel uneasy about riding a scooter and are considerably cheaper than taxis.
Bermuda is divided into 14 separate bus zones; each being approximately 2 miles long. Fares are classified as either 3 or 14 zone trips meaning that the journey can cover up to 3 or between 4 and 14 zones respectively.
There are 11 different bus routes, all of which (with the exception of the St George – St David’s route) leave from the Central Terminal in Hamilton.
Schedules vary by route, most starting around 7 am. Bus timetables can be obtained online or from the Central Terminal. Buses are heavily used by locals and it’s best to avoid them early in the morning and when work and school finish.
The fare can be paid in cash on the bus. The adult fare for a 3 zone trip is $3.50, whilst that for a 14 zone trip is $5.00. The drivers accept only coins (i.e. no notes) and the exact fare must be tendered (i.e. no change given).
A more flexible and economical way of paying for travel in Bermuda is to buy tokens, a book of 15 tickets or a transportation pass. Considerable savings can be made. They are also valid on ferries and can be purchased at various locations.
Bus stops are marked by shelters and/or poles. If the pole is pink this indicates that the stop is for buses heading into Hamilton; whereas if it is blue, the stop serves buses heading away from Hamilton.
Buses stop by request only i.e. if someone is waiting at the stop or somebody requests that the bus stops by pressing one of the buzzers. If asked, most bus drivers will gladly announce a visitor’s destination on arrival.
When boarding the bus it is considered polite to greet the bus driver; especially before asking for information. Visitors may notice that many Bermudians greet not only the driver but will say a cheerful ‘good morning’ or ‘good afternoon’ to their fellow passengers.
If a destination requires a change of bus, ask the bus driver for a transfer ticket on departure. These are valid for the next scheduled trip on the connecting route and are presented to the driver of the connecting bus.
No eating or drinking is allowed on buses. Luggage is also forbidden, effectively ruling buses out as a practical means of transport to and from the airport.
