A Vibrant Breeze of Excitement As Bermuda Welcomes Celebrity Eclipse and The Norwegian Escape

Date: March 25, 2025

As the sun peeked over the horizon on a glorious March morning, the beautiful island of Bermuda came alive with the sounds of excitement and joy. On March 25, 2025, two magnificent cruise ships, Celebrity Eclipse and Norwegian Escape, docked at King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf, bringing with them thousands of eager tourists ready to explore and experience the enchanting beauty of Bermuda.

The arrival of these floating resorts marked a significant boost for Bermuda’s tourism economy, which is rebounding in exciting ways. According to the Bermuda Tourism Authority, the island typically depends on cruise tourism for more than half of its annual visitor numbers, making such arrivals crucial for the economic landscape. The influx from Celebrity Eclipse, with its capacity of around 2,850 passengers, and Norwegian Escape, accommodating approximately 4,200 guests, sent ripples of joy through local shops, restaurants, and attractions.

As the two ships broke from the azure waters, tourists were greeted with a balmy breeze and the vibrant ambiance that Bermuda is celebrated for. Families, couples, and solo adventurers disembarked with smiles plastered on their faces, ready to immerse themselves in the island’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights.

Local tour operators were fully booked, with visitors jumping at the chance to explore the world-renowned Pink Sands Beach, dive into the clear waters of Tobacco Bay, and marvel at the historic charm of St. George’s— a UNESCO World Heritage site. “It’s like a dream coming true to finally visit Bermuda,” said Sarah Thompson, a traveler from New York. “The colors, the people, the warmth—everything is just amazing!”

Restaurants and small businesses erupted with business, as excited tourists flocked to savor local delicacies like fish chowder, rockfish, and the famous Bermuda fish sandwich. “The energy is palpable,” says Kevin Smith, owner of a local seafood shack. “We rely on these cruise ships for our livelihood. It’s fantastic to see so many happy faces.”

Tourism is a lifeblood for Bermuda, which has been on a path to recovery following the disruptions caused by the pandemic. In 2019, cruise tourism alone accounted for an estimated $200 million to the Bermuda economy, supporting over 2,000 jobs. The return of these large cruise vessels is vital as they signal the island’s readiness to welcome the world again.

Visitors are not just here to shop and dine; many are eager to learn about Bermuda’s vibrant history and culture. Guided heritage tours, run by local experts, have become immensely popular, as travelers seek deeper connections with the island. “I love sharing our stories and traditions,” says local guide, Emma Brown. “Tourists are genuinely interested in our way of life, which enriches us all.”

Bermuda is looking towards a promising future, with several annual events designed to attract ongoing tourism, including the Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts and the Bermuda Kite Festival. The local government has been proactive in marketing strategies that highlight the island’s unique offerings, promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both visitors and residents alike.

As the sun set over the horizon, casting an amber glow over the historic waters, the sense of joy and rejuvenation could be felt all around. The excursion to Bermuda offered by Celebrity Eclipse and Norwegian Escape served not only as a getaway for the tourists but also as a significant contribution to rebuilding the heart of Bermuda’s tourism economy.

In a world where travel has become cherished once more, Bermuda stands proud—ready to shine as a jewel of the Atlantic, embracing visitors with open arms, welcoming stories of adventure, and sharing the warmth of its community. With the promise of more cruise ships to come, the island is gearing up for a vibrant travel season that speaks of resilience and revival.