Bermuda’s 2025 cruise season officially set sail today, with two cruise ships docking at the Royal Naval Dockyard, bringing an estimated 4,000 passengers to the island. This marks the start of a promising seven-month stretch for Bermuda’s tourism industry, with expectations for strong visitor numbers and an uptick in extended-stay cruise ship arrivals.
TNN’s Trevor Lindsay ventured to Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda’s world-renowned pink sand beach, to speak with businessman Tulani Bullford, who shared his excitement for the season ahead.
“Are you ready for the season opening?” we asked.
“Always ready, brother! We were born ready. We’re here to make Bermuda’s tourism product grow again. This is the renaissance of Bermuda’s tourism industry. Horseshoe Bay live, We’re here for everyone,” Bullford said with enthusiasm.
With one ship staying for two days and another departing later today, 500 to 800 visitors are expected at the beach daily, totaling an estimated 1,500 guests over the next two days.
A Bright Forecast for the Summer Season
Bullford predicts a strong season ahead, pointing to an increase in long-term ship stays—a crucial factor in boosting visitor spending on the island.
“We’re optimistic. We see an uptick in long-term ships—those that stay for more than two days. That means Bermuda’s tourism product should do very well this year,” he explained.
Enhanced Security at Horseshoe Bay
With an influx of visitors, security at Horseshoe Bay has been a key focus for stakeholders. Bullford outlined a range of new safety measures, including:
• Increased police presence, with full-time officers patrolling the beach.
• Installation of a CCTV system, covering entry points from the hilltop down to the parking lot and side trails.
• Additional lifeguards, with plans to increase staff beyond the current three.
• CPR training for all beach staff, who frequently assist lifeguards in emergencies.
• 10 staff members stationed at key locations to provide rapid response when needed.
“I want to make it clear—our lifeguards have done a tremendous job with the resources they’ve had. This year, we’re enhancing that effort to ensure the safety of all visitors,” Bullford emphasized.
Investment in Jet Skis for Lifeguard Support
One of the most exciting developments involves the potential addition of jet skis for lifeguards, allowing for faster water rescues.
“We’ve already told the former director of the Parks Department —we are willing to purchase the jet skis for the government. That offer still stands. If they don’t take it, we’ll bring them in ourselves and have them available for lifeguards to use,” Bullford stated.
Tourism Industry Ready to Welcome Visitors
As the first of many cruise ships docks in Bermuda this season, business owners, tourism officials, and local vendors are bullish on the opportunities ahead.
“We’re ecstatic to start. Seeing visitors back in Bermuda is an amazing sight. This is the first of many great days ahead for our island,” Bullford said.
As the season unfolds, TNN News will continue to provide updates on Bermuda’s tourism industry, visitor trends, and economic impact.
Stay tuned for more on this developing story!
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