The Orange Route ferry service operates during Bermuda’s peak tourist season, from April 21 2025, through the summer to the beginning of November. This seasonal schedule aligns with the cruise ship season, providing visitors with a convenient way to explore the island’s historic sites.
The route connects two of Bermuda’s most significant historical areas: the Royal Naval Dockyard and St George, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This service allows tourists to experience both ends of the island without needing land transportation.
The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and offers picturesque views of Bermuda’s coastline, including landmarks such as Shelly Bay and Fort St Catherine. Passengers are advised to use the top deck seating for the best vantage points during the trip.
Departure Points:
- Dockyard Ferry Stop: Easily accessible for cruise ship passengers disembarking at Kings Wharf or Heritage Wharf.
- St George Ferry Stop: Located at Hunter’s Wharf, just west of King’s Square in the town centre.
Important Notes:
- Scooters and motorcycles are not permitted to use this service.
- The ferry is particularly valuable for tourists visiting St. George from the Royal Naval Dockyard.
- Schedules vary depending on the day of the week, with different timings for Monday/Wednesday/Thursday and Tuesday/Friday.
This public ferry service provides an efficient and scenic transportation option, enabling visitors to explore Bermuda’s rich history and beautiful landscapes during their stay.
Fares
| Cash | Token | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $5.00 | $4.50 |
| Child (5 – 15) | $2.75 | $2.75 |
| Child (under 5) | Free | Free |
The adult return fare from Dockyard to St George is $10 if you pay by cash. Savings can be made by buying tokens or a bus and ferry pass. Booklets of 15 tickets are also offered. They cost $37.50.
You can buy tokens, passes, and ticket books at the Dockyard Visitor Services Centre.
You can buy tokens, passes and ticket books in St George from the Visitor Services Centre on York Street or from the St George’s Post Office.
Ferry Schedule
The Orange Route is a seasonal service that operates only in summer. In 2025, it begins on April 21 and runs until November.
The Orange Route operates on the following schedule for summer 2025:
Monday/Wednesday/Thursday:
| Leave Dockyard | Leave St George |
|---|---|
| 09:30 | 10:15 |
| 11:30 | 16:00 |
Tuesday/Friday:
| Leave Dockyard | Leave St George |
|---|---|
| 09:30 | 13:00 |
Reasons to Travel to St George
Although Dockyard is a historic site with plenty of attractions and things to do, St George is much older. In fact, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
St George was the island’s first settlement and was originally the capital. Its architecture is much more rustic and quaint than the imposing fortified buildings at Dockyard. Many of the town’s buildings date back to the 17th century.
It’s just a short walk from St George Ferry Stop to King’s Square, the town’s main square. Most of the town’s attractions are within walking distance.
On King’s Square, you’ll notice replicas of the stocks, pillory, and whipping posts used to punish criminals in past times. Today, they provide a unique photo opportunity for tourists. The White Horse pub is also here, and it is a great place to sit and drink while watching the boats in St George’s Harbour.
Ordnance Island is just south of King’s Square. Here, you’ll find a statue of Admiral Sir George Somers, the founder of Bermuda.
Water Street runs east from King’s Square. The street is home to the Tucker House Museum and Somers Wharf, a mixed-use development.
St Peter’s Church is the town’s biggest attraction. It’s the oldest Protestant church in the Western Hemisphere, packed with interesting artefacts. The Unfinished Church was meant to replace it but was never completed.
There are some excellent beaches within easy reach of St George. Tobacco Bay is around ½ mile from the town centre, and Achilles Bay is just a little further. You can take a taxi from the ferry stop or King’s Square if you don’t fancy the walk.
Other Bermuda Ferry Services
The Orange Route is one of four Bermuda ferry services. The others are:
- Blue Route – Hamilton to Royal Naval Dockyard
- Green Route – Hamilton to Watford Bridge, Cavello Bay, and Rockaway (Somerset Parish and Sandys Parish)
- Pink Route – Hamilton to Paget and Warwick
All of these services depart from Hamilton Ferry Terminal.
NCL Ferry – Dockyard to St George
In addition to the public ferry service, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) provides a dedicated ferry option for its cruise guests. This exclusive service connects the Royal Naval Dockyard with St George, offering NCL passengers a direct route to explore the historic east end of Bermuda.
Unlike the public Orange Route ferry, this private service is reserved solely for NCL cruise visitors.
NCL guests should consult with onboard staff for the most up-to-date schedule and plan their island excursions accordingly.
