crystal cave tours in bermuda

Hours: 9 am to 5 pm daily. First tour departs: 9.30 am Last tour: 4.30 pm. Last combination tour: 4 pm. Tours depart every 30 minutes, on the hour and half past. Reservations are recommended, but not necessary. We advise booking in advance by phone – (441) 293 0640. Closed January 1, Good Friday, December 24, 25 and 26. Rubber soled shoes are suggested. There are 88 steps down into the caves.

Admission prices:

Crystal Cave: Adults: $24 Children (12 and under): $10   Children under 5 are free.

Fantasy Cave: Adults: $24   Children (12 and under): $10 Children under 5 are free.

Combination Ticket: Adults: $35 Children (12 and under): $12 Children under 5 are free.

We accept Visa and Mastercard

Tips for Planning Your Visit to the Crystal & Fantasy C aves

The Crystal & Fantasy Caves are in Hamilton Parish in the eastern end of Bermuda. They are ten minutes journey by bus from the Town of St. George and 30 minutes by bus from the City of Hamilton .

The Royal Naval Dockyard cruise ship port is located at the west end of the island. To reach the caves from the Royal Naval Dockyard the options are:

• Ferry from Dockyard to the City of Hamilton, then take bus route 1, 3, 10 or 11 to St. George’s and disembark at the Crystal Caves bus stop. Estimate one hour of travel.
• Ferry from Dockyard to St. George’s (summer months only, when ships are in port), then take bus route 1, 3, 10 or 11 to the City of Hamilton and disembark at the Crystal Caves bus stop. Estimate one hour of travel.
• Hire a taxi for the journey from Dockyard to the Crystal Caves. Estimate 40 to 45 minutes travel time and a cost of $75 for up to four people.

The admission price to the caves does not include transportation.

Our tours are guided and there is no swimming in the cave. Sensible rubber soled footwear is advised.

A tour of one cave takes about 35 minutes. The combination tour of both Crystal and Fantasy caves takes about an hour and fifteen minutes. If you visit on a weekday in the summer between 11am and 2:30pm you may encounter a long line – please avoid these times if possible.

When you are visiting the caves, remember the Swizzle Inn Pub , Bailey’s Ice Cream Parlour and Walsingham Nature Reserve are within walking distance, so you can plan to spend a day in the area.

The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo is a popular attraction for all ages which is close by. It is easily reached from the caves on bus route 10 or 11 and is located between the Crystal Caves and the City of Hamilton.

Take advantage of our wonderful Fiddlestix Gift Shop before or after your cave tour and plan on enjoying the local cuisine at Café Olé , located on the property. We look forward to seeing you soon!

The Crystal & Fantasy Caves

8 Crystal Cave Road Hamilton Parish CR 04 Bermuda

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Crystal and Fantasy Caves

Bermuda’s Favourite Attraction

Crystal & Fantasy Caves are Bermuda’s top visitor attraction for some very spectacular reasons. Deep, clear underground pools of azure blue water. Incredible formations of every size and shape imaginable. Cave ceilings adorned with rare chandelier clusters and delicate crystallized soda straws. Each cave is uniquely beautiful and is a new adventure to discover. Be sure to explore them both.

It’s a not-to-be missed, favorite family activity in Bermuda. No wonder they are the most famous caves in Bermuda and called “Bermuda’s True Hidden Treasures” by visitors and residents alike. They are an absolute must on your list of things to do in Bermuda!

Walk-ins are welcome, however wait times may vary. We advise booking in advance by phone – (441) 293 0640.

Fiddlestix Gift Shop is open daily 9 am to 5 pm.

Crystal and Fantasy Caves Hours:

Open Daily 9am – 5pm; Last tour leaves at 4:30pm; Guided tours leave every 30 minutes.

We are closed New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Crystal and Fantasy Caves Ticket:

Crystal Caves ticket prices: Adults – $24 Children 12 and under – $10 Children under 5 are free

Fantasy Caves ticket prices: Adults – $24 Children 12 and under – $10 Children under 5 are free

Combination ticket prices: Adults – $35 Children 12 and under – $12 Children under 5 are free

For more information, please visit www.caves.bm or follow on Facebook .

• Phone: 1 441 293 0640
• Address: 8 Crystal Caves Rd, Hamilton Parish CR 04, Bermuda, Bermuda
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.caves.bm
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/crystalcavesbermuda
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystalcavesbermuda/

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Crystal Caves and BUEI Tour

• Surround yourself with Bermuda's natural beauty on the awe-inspiring Crystal Caves and BUEI Tour, a must-do on the island
• Unleash your curiosity with a self-guided tour of the BUEI, discovering fascinating marine life and the world's largest shell collection
• Step back in time with a guided tour of the Crystal Caves, Bermuda's oldest treasure, featuring ancient formations and an underground lake
• Relish the convenience of roundtrip transportation, scenic drives along the south coast, and visits to iconic landmarks like Gibb's Hill Lighthouse
• Book now to secure your spot on this unforgettable experience, and enjoy our industry-leading return-to-ship and satisfaction guarantees

Discover the vast marine wildlife and plants that make their home in the world's oceans, admire the pristine look of white stalactites, and more when you book this tour while in Bermuda. Your tour provides convenient roundtrip transportation to and from your port and a scenic drive where you can catch stunning views of Bermuda's south coast. Take a self-guided tour of the Bermuda Undercover Exploration Institution or the BUEI, where you can learn about the diverse plant and animal life living in the oceans across the world. Visit the famous Crystal Caves, Bermuda's historic and oldest treasure, where you will get to see ancient rock formations.

Set off for a scenic drive along Bermuda's South Coast. Pass iconic landmarks and attractions like the Bermuda Botanical Gardens and the iconic Gibb's Hill Lighthouse, a historic 19th century lighthouse that continues to work today. Your first stop takes you to the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute or BUEI. Enjoy spending approximately an hour in this 40,000-square foot facility as you go on a self-guided tour to discover a variety of sea creatures and marine plants from around the world. Make sure to stop by the extensive 1,200-plus shell collection, one of the largest in the world. Wrap up your tour by enjoying the BUEI's interactive exhibits like the virtual reality underwater experience to see what lurks under the sea.

After exploring the BUEI, it's now time to see famous Crystal Caves, one of Bermuda's oldest attractions. This guided tour takes you into the caves that were discovered in the early 1900s and were believed to be formed during the Ice Age. See an underground lake that descends 55 feet deep, featuring stalactites and helictites emerging from the water and admire the glistening white stalactites extending from the cave's ceiling before returning to your port.

From exploring the Crystal Caves to viewing one of the largest shell collections in the world, this self-guided tour offers a family-friendly experience for an unforgettable experience in Bermuda.

Crystal Caves

• Read 27 Reviews

Now if our cricket ball falls down a hole in the ground, the last thing we are going to do is go underground to retrieve it. A simple visit to the shop and purchase of a replacement would suffice. However, we are the products of a throwaway society, something that Carl Gibbons and Edgar Hollis were blissfully unaware of. In 1905, when their ball disappeared, they delved into the ground and discovered what is now known as the Crystal Caves.

The Crystal Caves are the most famous of many caves in Bermuda and are named after the crystal clear water that fills the caves. The clarity is so perfect that it is possible to see the cave floor, which at one point lies 55 feet below the water’s surface. Visitors will be relieved to know they enter the cave via a passageway carved into the rock (the guide will point out the hole the boys used). From here, visitors take a tour of the cave walking on a wooden pontoon constructed over the water.

The guide provides a running commentary on the history and geology of the cave. Visitors are shown formations that resemble the Manhattan Skyline, the face of Bob Marley and other familiar images. The cave is full of illuminated stalagmites and stalactites that have taken millions of years to form. Sometimes they join to form a single column from floor to ceiling.

In 2001, the Fantasy Cave was re-opened. It was discovered and opened to the public around the same time as the Crystal Cave but closed by the owners in the 1940’s. Each cave is uniquely beautiful and well worth visiting.

Facilities, Admission Prices, and Opening Times

Café Ole, located at the caves, serves light meals, snacks and drinks. The attraction also has a gift shop and pleasant grounds.

Admission tickets for each cave cost $22 for adults and $10 for children (aged 12 and under). Children under 5 enjoy free entry. Combination tickets, allowing entry to both caves, cost $30 for adults and $12 for children.

The caves are open every day of the week. Opening times are 9 am to 5 pm. Guided tours leave every 20 minutes with the last tour starting at 4.30 pm.

The caves are situated on Wilkinson Avenue in Hamilton Parish . Visitors travelling on public transport should take bus number 1 (Hamilton to St George), or bus number 3 (Hamilton to St George). Both services stop outside the main entrance.

There is plenty of free parking for those travelling by scooter . All taxi drivers in Bermuda will know how to find the caves.

The caves are part of a larger system found in this area of Bermuda. Others can be seen at Grotto Bay and Blue Hole Park .

Shore Excursions

A tour of the Crystal Caves is one of their shore excursions offered by most of the cruise ships visiting Bermuda . It is often packaged combined with a visit to the Bermuda Aquarium .

Passengers can save a great deal of money by organising the excursion themselves. Just buy a public transport pass and pay the entrance fee at the door.

Nearby Attractions

Tourist attractions and things to do near Crystal Caves include:

• Blue Hole Park (0.2 miles) - Nature reserve close to the Grotto Bay hotel

Nearby Restaurants

Restaurants and places to eat and drink near Crystal Caves include:

• Cafe Ole (0 miles) - Family-run cafe at the Crystal Caves. Offers burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads etc.
• Swizzle Inn at Baileys Bay (0.1 miles) - Pub in Hamilton Parish. The birthplace of Bermuda’s national drink; the rum swizzle, and the island’s most famous watering hole. Offers live entertainment in the summer. Close to Grotto Bay Beach Resort, the Crystal Caves, and Blue Hole Park.
• Bailey's Ice Cream (0.1 miles) - Ice cream parlour near Grotto Bay Beach Resort and the Crystal Caves.
• Tom Moore's Tavern (0.4 miles) - Fine dining restaurant. Situated in a waterside home built in 1652. Named after Thomas Moore. The Irish poet stayed here in 1804.
• Island Brasserie (1 miles) - Elegant colonial style dining room at the Rosewood Bermuda. Features original murals from the Pan Am Building (now MetLife) in New York.

Nearby Hotels

Hotels near Crystal Caves include:

• Grotto Bay Beach Resort (0.2 miles)

Map showing location of Crystal Caves.

Click here for a detailed map showing all points of interest.

Address 8 Crystal Caves Road, off Wilkinson Avenue Hamilton Parish Bermuda

Visit Crystal Caves Website

Reviews and Additional Information

Do you have railings by the steep steps and do you take people who have problem on stairs?

We’ve been to Bermuda a few times but this was our first visit to the Crystal Cave. We thought it was a little bit expensive at $30 for both caves but felt that it was reasonable value as they were very beautiful.

There was a bit of steep walking that took its toll. We did both caves and they were both very beautiful. We enjoyed it very much and the guides were very knowledgeable.

The Crystal Cave is very beautiful and well worth the admission price. It was as stunning as the pictures we had seen. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. Take my advice and travel there by bus. It was easy to find and a lot cheaper than going on an excursion booked through the cruise ship.

I really want to go to the Crystal and Fantasy caves!

I remember in vivid detail visiting the Crystal Cave in the late 1950s when my Dad won a trip to Bermuda. It was cool and wonderful and I remember walking on a pontoon walkway, and our guide dropping a marked chain so that we could see how deep it went in the amazingly clear water. I was amazed to see that not one thing – not a fish, not a coral, not a single plant – lived in the waters! I could draw a picture of it even today, over 50 years later!

I am a Caribbean girl so and have caves in my country as well but when I visited the Crystal Caves I was taken aback. So beautiful and breathtaking. I enjoyed it. I took plenty of pictures. Definitely will be returning to the caves on my next visit.

Visiting Crystal and Fantasy caves was an amazing experience for me. Bermuda is a beautiful island and the Grotto Bay Resort is a beautiful place.

I’m 13 and I have lived in Bermuda my entire life, and the Crystal caves are definitely a good place to go for sightseeing. Although, I would actually recommend going to Blue Hole Park instead as its free and you can swim in the caves.

I went to visit both caves and loved it. The tour guides were very polite and funny. For only $27 you get to go see both caves, you can not beat that price.

It was very pretty but the staff that took us through the Crystal Caves was rude to both myself and others. He was not child friendly (I had called in advance to make sure that bringing a child in a Snuggly was ok and was told that it was fine) nor was he personable to others. Not worth the $27.

When I went to Bermuda I visited the Crystal Caves. They were beautiful and I advise anybody who is willing to walk up and down steps to go and see them! You definitely won’t regret it.

Crystal caves are way better. Like way, way, way, better. Just voicing my opinion. But, you should go to Grotto Bay also because there you can swim in caves just like Crystal and Fantasy. I used to live in Bermuda and wish that I still did.

My husband and I visited both caves while on our honeymoon. I’ve never been inside a cave before so I can’t compare but it was an amazing experience! I had a cold at the time so climbing the steps (especially the 88 practically straight up steps in Fantasy Cave) was difficult but worth it! Make sure you secure your valuables, our guide showed us all the sunglasses, cell phones, etc that now live at the bottom of the cave floor! Also, he turned out ALL the lights in Crystal Cave on us while we were in the BACK of the cave, it was the darkest dark I’ve ever seen! I’m not sure they do that on every tour but be prepared it may happen! Definitely an amazing experience!

I live in Bermuda and I am 13 years old. it is a wonderful place and you should really check it out. I think both caves are awesome but you should check out Fantasy Caves because you see more.

The first time I experienced the beauty of stalagmites & stalactites in caves was back in 1982 in Guilin in S-W China. The last time I visited a cave was Howes Cavern in Binghamton, NY by the Adirondacks. During my brief 3-day vacation in Bermuda in July, 2009, the country was on holiday for cricket matches between rival parishes. Crystal & Fantasy Caves was one of the few attractions that were open. These were among the most beautiful caves I visited. Got many beautiful shots inside. The admission price for the 2 caves was worth every penny.

Bermuda is great! I’m doing my speech on it! I love the Crystal Caves!

I love the Crystal Caves. I visit them EVERY time I go to Bermuda, all the kids LOVE IT!

I went to both and I just loved it!

I thought both caves were great fun. Visit both, they are different. It’s fun to see the water in Crystal Cave, but the stalagmites and stalactites are better in Fantasy Cave. Have fun!!

Bermuda rocks! Fantasy and Crystal Caves make it so better! Best place to take a vacation!

I went to Bermuda and visited the Crystal Caves.Definitely recommended! I loved going to the Crystal Caves and then going in the boat and being so close to nature. If you are going to Bermuda, make sure you stop at the Crystal Caves!!

A great educational opportunity for kids. Our son is 10 and visited both caves as part of a school project.

If you have respiratory problems, the climb back out of the caves is very tough.

I visited both caves in Sept 2007. Crystal cave is nothing close to what Fantasty has to offer. Save time and money and visit only the Fantasy cave.

My advice is to do both caves. Fantasy Cave is by far the best. Most people don’t see it and only opt to see the Crystal Cave.

This is one of the only attractions within walking distance of the Grotto Bay hotel. The cave itself is very beautiful.

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Bus Route 1

Bus route from Hamilton to St George via South Road. Stops include the Botanical Gardens, John Smith’s Bay, the Crystal Caves, Grotto Bay, and LF Wade International Airport.

Bus Route 3

Buses on this route travel between Hamilton and St George. Stops include the Arboretum, Flatts, BAMZ, the Crystal Caves, Grotto Bay, and LF Wade International Airport.

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Mon: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Tues: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Wed: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Thur: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Fri: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Sat: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Sun: Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Crystal Caves of Bermuda

Admission: Adults $24; Children (6-12 years) $10; Children (5 and under) Free

Mon : Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)

Call: +1 441-293-0640

Email: [email protected]

8 Crystal Caves Rd., Hamilton Parish

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Crystal and Fantasy Caves in Bermuda: Is It Worth It?

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Imagine stepping into a world where the water beneath your feet is crystal clear, and the ceiling sparkles with nature’s own chandeliers.

Welcome to Bermuda’s Crystal Caves, an underground world that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

This natural wonder is not just a feast for the eyes, but we also think it’s a journey with your time while visiting the island.

But is visiting Crystal Caves worth it? What do you need to know? What about visiting Fantasy Caves? We have you covered!

Table of Contents

Historical Background and Discovery

How to visit, how long are the tours, cost and hours, wandering crystal cave, wandering fantasy cave, crystal vs fantasy caves, is visiting crystal and fantasy caves worth it, quick tips for your visit:, wait, what else is nearby, visiting crystal and fantasy caves in bermuda.

Planning Your Trip NOW?

Here is the quick low down for visiting Crystal Caves and Fantasy Caves in Bermuda:

• You MUST take a tour, there’s no option to visit solo.
• Photos are allowed but no flash photography.
• There are over 80 steps down into the cave.
• If you can only choose one, we choose Crystal Cave!
• Reservations are highly recommended as they only take a certain number of people per tour.
• Book a combo tour of the caves to visit other amazing spots in Bermuda and get transportation provided!

More guides to Bermuda:

• 11 STUNNING Beaches in Bermuda You’ve Got to Visit
• 21 Epic Things to Do in Bermuda + Tips
• Blue Hole Park in Bermuda —What You Need to Know!
• 11 Best Restaurants in Bermuda
• 11 BEST Places to Stay in Bermuda

The story begins over a century ago, in 1907 when two adventurous boys stumbled upon this hidden marvel while chasing a cricket ball.

Little did they know, their discovery would become one of Bermuda’s most breathtaking attractions . The caves, formed millions of years ago, are steeped in history and legend, offering a glimpse into the past that is as enchanting as the formations themselves.

Located in Hamilton Parish, the Crystal and Fantasy Caves are easily accessible by bus, taxi, or scooter from anywhere on the island.

The best time to visit is during the off-peak seasons of spring and fall when Bermuda’s weather is mild, and the caves are less crowded.

Visiting the cave REQUIRES a tour . You can’t see them solo.

You can book your tour individually by calling them at (441) 293 0640 OR book this combo tour that includes other highlights of Bermuda as well as transportation to the caves.

Tours of the Crystal Caves run regularly and last about 35 minutes , it’s a total of one hour and 15 minutes to visit both Crystal and Fantasy Caves.

Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a moderate amount of walking, including 80+ stairs.

Tickets are reasonably priced at $25 per cave , but booking in advance is recommended , especially during tourist season.

• Tours are offered from 9 am to 5 pm daily.
• First tour departs: 9.30 am
• Last tour: 4.30 pm.
• Last combination tour: 4 pm.
• Tours depart every 30 minutes, on the hour and half past.

Inside the caves, you’re greeted by an otherworldly scene : stalactites and stalagmites are hanging from above and jutting out from the floor, with crystal-clear pools reflecting the intricate details of the ceiling above.

The highlight is the Floating Pontoon Bridge , offering visitors a unique vantage point over the azure waters below, teeming with life and mystery.

Fantasy Cave is another spectacular natural attraction in Bermuda, offering even more colors and intricate formations.

Like its counterpart, the Crystal Cave, Fantasy Cave is filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, but it is distinct in its array of mineral deposits that paint the cave in a palette of warmer hues.

Discovered later than Crystal Cave, Fantasy Cave has been carefully preserved to maintain its pristine condition. It’s less crowded, which is a plus, but it’s also smaller.

Crystal Cave is known for its crystal-clear blue pools and delicate formations, offering an ethereal underwater-like experience. It’s a bit more popular and usually the preferred cave if you ask around.

Personally, we agree that Crystal Cave was spectacular, and we highly recommen d it!

Fantasy Cave stands out with its warmer colors and diverse mineral deposits.

Fantasy Cave is great and if you have the extra time and cash, then go for it, but it’s a bit smaller and can be more claustrophobic . It also doesn’t have the cool boardwalk.

Absolutely! It’s one of the best things to do in Bermuda .

We think spending your hard-earned cash on just one of the caves is enough , we wouldn’t really recommend both simply because because it costs double, takes double the amount of time, and you’re essentially looking at two pretty similar caves.

But definitely don’t leave this off your list when visiting Bermuda! Just choose which you’d prefer and go for it.

Book The Tour!

Book this highly recommended combo tour that includes transportation to the cave, Bermuda’s best beach (Horseshoe Bay), and a shopping excursion!

• Wear Comfortable Shoes : Both caves have wet and uneven surfaces.
• No Flash Photography : Protect the caves’ natural beauty by avoiding flash.
• Book in Advance : Especially during peak season to secure your spot.
• Stay on Pathways : To preserve the delicate cave environments.
• Bring a Light Jacket : Caves can be cooler than the outdoor temperature.
• Leave the Swimsuit: There’s no swimming here despite how inviting the water looks.
• Be Mindful of Stairs : There are steps to navigate in both caves.
• Respect Conservation Efforts : Follow guidelines to help preserve these natural wonders.
• Enjoy the Silence : Keep noise to a minimum to enjoy the natural ambiance.

So glad you asked! Don’t run off just yet.

Next door you’ll find Blue Hole Park which is an awesome spot to take a dip and explore other caves that might not be as cool as Crystal Cave but they are free!

Once you’ve built up an appetite, you should head to the Swizzle Inn to grab some fresh fish chowder and the island’s signature signature drink, the Rum Swizzle. But don’t fill up, because there’s Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream right next door that’s definitely worth a visit.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out my where to stay in Bermuda guide, but the best place near the cave is hands down Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa. They even have another cave to wonder about, which is private to just their guests!

We hope this helped you plan your trip to Fantasy and Crystal Caves in Bermuda!

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Explore Crystal Cave, Bermuda’s Subterranean World

Posted on Published: May 11, 2020  - Last updated: March 17, 2024

Categories Bermuda , Blog , Caribbean , Outdoor Adventures

Bermuda is a beautiful place. You can walk along the pink sand beaches , dip your toes into the turquoise waters, and witness some of the most vibrant sunsets imaginable. Did you know that as you appreciate these sensational scenes, you could be standing above an underground cavern? One of the most spectacular and most easily accessible caves in Bermuda is the popular Crystal Cave.

Below the surface, there is a whole other world waiting to be explored. In fact, there are hundreds of caves and passageways in Bermuda; the country has one of the largest concentrations of limestone caverns in the world. In traditional Bermudian style, let’s enter the pastel pink building and through the gate to discover this amazing natural landmark.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

It is very important that people do not touch the formations in the cave. Once the stalactites and stalagmites come into contact with our hands, the natural oils in our skin can cause the cave formations to die. As they grow at the slow rate of approximately one inch per hundred years, it is extremely important that we do not disrupt this process.

Descending into Crystal Cave in Bermuda

As we entered the cave in a single file line along with our tour group, we slowly walked down many steps, descending 200 feet below the surface. Our tour guide shared information about the history of the cave with us. It was discovered in 1905 by two teenage boys who were chasing their cricket ball that fell into a hole in the ground. As they searched for their ball, the boys found that this hole was the entrance to an impressive underground cavern. In 1907, the property owners opened Crystal Cave for public viewing.

The accessibility of the cave nowadays has vastly improved since its early discovery. Not only is there a main staircase leading down into the cave, but there is a bridge that extends across an underground lake. Visitors are able to examine the white cave formations up close while peering down into the clear blue water. The cave is fully illuminated, making it much easier to admire the million-year old creations (and take photos!).

Exploring These Fascinating Caves

On our tour to the Crystal Caves, we marveled at thousands of incredible rock formations in all shapes and sizes. There are lengthy stalactites, crystallized soda straws, and unique chandelier clusters unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed. As we walked across the wooden boardwalk that extends the length of the cave, we gazed across the vibrant azure waters. The deep blue waters are brilliant in their own right, but the fascinating rock formations reflect at its surface of the water as though they’ve doubled in number.

You might feel a droplet of water hit your head now and again from the cave ceiling. No worries, it’s good luck to be hit by one! We learned so much valuable information about the caves from our tour guide. However, we had plenty of free time to explore these marvelous scenes at our own pace, too.

While there are hundreds of caves in Bermuda, you should consider a visit to Crystal Cave. It is one of the most well-lit caves I’ve ever visited, with some of the most appealing stalactites. There is a second cave right beside Crystal Cave called Fantasy Cave. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to visit the Fantasy Cave, but you can purchase a combined ticket for both caves. If we had the time, we would have definitely checked it out as well as we were thoroughly impressed by the Crystal Cave.

And it seems like a trip to any spot in Bermuda wouldn’t be complete without running into a cat! This friendly kitty roamed around the property of Crystal Caves freely, both outdoors and inside the gift shop. Of course, the cat didn’t venture down into the caves themselves and was quite content staying above the surface.

Want to see more photos of Bermuda?

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Getting There

Crystal and Fantasy Caves are easily accessible by the Bermuda public transit system . Several buses travel right past the caves – we took the city bus to get there. It was about a 25 minute bus ride from the Hamilton bus terminal. Further details, including pricing and hours of operation are available at the Crystal Cave website . You don’t want to miss taking a Bermuda Crystal Caves tour as it was certainly a highlight of our visit to this gorgeous island.

Have you visited any amazing caves on your travels?

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Rutavi Mehta

Tuesday 8th of September 2015

Hey Justin & Lauren,

It was breath taking for me to see through your pictures. Indian passport lets us use very few countries for visa work. Also being located in extreme travelling to such destination is such a dream.. But you guys post lovely information about Bermuda and I only new the story of Bermuda triangle :) Hope to see you in India soon !

Wednesday 26th of November 2014

Holy crap that cave is stunning! On another note, Lauren your dress is adorable!

antonette - we12travel

Wow very impressive. I always love exploring caves because they are all different from each other, no matter where you are. Sounds definitely like a great add on to a Bermuda trip!

Tuesday 25th of November 2014

This looks so cool! I love caves, and this one looks great. I will have to add it to our list--hope we can make it there one day!

Katie @WorldWideVegetarian.com

This cave looks AWESOME! I would love to visit a place like this and see all the details inside. It looks so bright and open, I have never seen a cave like this. Very cool, if I am in Bermuda, I will check it out. Katie

Thursday 27th of November 2014

We are lucky because the cave was very well lit, and they added that awesome platform that made it easy to navigate over the water. You definitely have to go to Bermuda first of all, and yes you should check it out! We definitely fell in love with Bermuda...

How to get from Dockyard to Crystal Caves – A cruiser’s guide and review

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Going to Crystal Caves and the Swizzle Inn from the cruise port, in Royal Navy Dockyard on your own

If you’re coming into Bermuda on a cruise ship, you are probably interested in visiting some of Bermuda’s most popular attractions on your own. One popular and interesting sight to see is Crystal Caves.

This post will let you know how to get from the cruise port, Royal Navy Dockyard to Crystal Caves using Bermuda’s bus and ferry. It’s fairly easy (and safe), but does take some planning.

While you’re there, you may want to have a meal at the famous Swizzle Inn, known for the original Rum Swizzle. If you’re interested in seeing a bit of Crystal Caves and our journey there, I’ll include a video down below of our time there.

Firstly, here are some tips and information about where your cruise ship will dock, from a cruiser perspective.

Most cruise ships are docked in King’s Wharf or “Dockyard”. If your cruise ship is on the smaller side, it may go right into Hamilton or St. George. However the majority of Celebrity, Norwegian, Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise ships are simply too big to get into those smaller ports.

Not to worry, Dockyard has a lot to offer, and has become much more accessible and convenient over the last few years.

From here you can also get to some of Bermuda’s most famous beaches, including Horseshoe Bay Beach.

How to get to Crystal Caves from Royal Navy Dockyard on your own

To get to Crystal Caves and Swizzle Inn, you’ll need to take a ferry as well as a bus. You can take the ferry to either Hamilton or St. Georges. However, in this post I will be giving you directions by going to Hamilton, as this is what we did when we were on our last cruise to Bermuda.

You’ll need to purchase bus and ferry tickets (single use) or an unlimited bus and ferry pass. This year, the ticket booth was conveniently located between the two cruise ships.

We purchased a 1 day pass which was $19 per adult, and in US dollars.

Fun fact – Bermuda and USD are at par and USD are taken happily.

Directions by public transit from the cruise port to Crystal Caves and Swizzle Inn

Ferry and bus directions:

1. Take the ferry from Dockyard to Hamilton, which is a about a 20 minute ride.

Tip: Before you get in line, check that you are waiting for the ferry to Hamilton and not St. George.

When you arrive in Hamilton, you will be on Front street. There is a Bermuda Tourism Center if you want to stop in for a map or information. The bus terminal is about a 5-10 minute walk from here.

2. Walk right on Front Street, cross the street and walk up along Queen Street. Turn right on Church Street. The bus terminal is on the corner or Church Street and Washington Street.

3. Take either bus #1, #10 or #11 to Crystal Caves, about a 30-40 minute ride.

Tip: The people in Bermuda are helpful and nice, so do ask someone on the bus, or even the bus driver to let you know when you arrive at Crystal Caves. It is not an obvious “theme park” like attraction.

You’ve arrived!!

*We took bus #10 there and #1 back, and were told that #1 had the best views. We went with whichever bus arrived first, but #1 was pretty.

Crystal Caves, Swizzle Inn and Bailey’s Ice Cream

When you get to Crystal Caves, there is a walking path that leads you to the ticket booth and entrance to the Caves.

We often hear about Crystal Caves, however there are both Crystal and Fantasy Caves which you can visit.

We decided that one cave was enough and opted for the original Crystal Caves, at $24. Both caves were $34. If you are wondering about them, we were told that Fantasy Caves was more hot and humid, which was one reason we stuck with Crystal.

For those that are wondering if it’s strenuous (as there are many stairs), we did not find it difficult. While there were many stairs, it was a slow walk and people of all ages were doing this.

“What shoes should I wear in Crystal Caves?”, people often ask. The stairs were a teeny bit wet, so I suggest some running shoes or sneakers, but it wouldn’t require special shoes or boots.

Our experience at Bermuda’s Crystal Caves

This was our 7th time in Bermuda, by cruise, and somehow we hadn’t yet made it to the Caves. We were so glad we did.

Our entertaining and informative guides, Matt and Chea, told the story of how the caves were unexpectedly found by 2 young boys on Wilkinson family property in the early 1900s! The family still owns the property and famous Bermuda attraction today.

I don’t want to ruin the experience if you go, by saying too much, but I will say that learning about stalagmites and stalactites was way more interesting than it sounded back in geography class. It was truly beautiful in the cave and our family really enjoyed it!

Lunch and Rum Swizzles at Bermuda’s Swizzle Inn

This quaint casual restaurant was worth a stop as we were in the area. We had some burgers and fries and a pitcher of Rum Swizzle. It’s a beautiful spot to eat. Plus, we were trying to find the best Rum Swizzles in Bermuda, so there was some research involved ;-).

You may want to stop in at the store while you’re here if you’re looking for a special souvenir to get while in Bermuda.

Bailey’s Ice Cream

If you feel like some ice cream while there, you can stop in at Bailey’s, which is right next to Crystal Caves.

Heading Back to Hamilton and Dockyard from Crystal Caves

To head back to the cruise ship, simply reverse the steps. There is a bus stop right outside Crystal Caves, and you can head back to Hamilton this way. From Hamilton, simply take the ferry back to Dockyard.

YouTube Video: Heading to Hamilton and Crystal Caves from Royal Navy Dockyard

In this video, you’ll see how we took the ferry from Dockyard to Hamilton, and then went on to Crystal Caves.

If you enjoy this video and find it helpful, we’d love to hear from you. Please let us know by giving it a “like” and leaving a comment. Thanks!

Recap: Visiting Crystal Caves and Swizzle in on your own

In this post I outlined basic directions for getting to Crystal Caves and Swizzle Inn from the cruise port, in King’s Wharf, or Royal Navy Dockyard. I also went through a little run down of our experience while there, which I hope can be helpful as you plan your Bermuda itinerary while visiting.

One of the things we love when we cruise to Bermuda, is how easy it is to get around on our own. This way, we can avoid some expensive cruise ship excursions and also have a chance to talk with the locals too.

There’s so much to see and do, however we have our favorites. If you’re in Bermuda for 2-3 days, I suggest not trying to fill up your days running from one activity or sight to another. Instead, pick 2 or 3 things you really want to do and see, and save the rest for a return visit.

Here are some of our favorites and recommendations:

We love Horseshoe Bay Beach. It’s truly as gorgeous as in the photos! If you decide to go there, you’ll find the directions in this post (plus I have an extra tip in there too).

The Ultimate Guide to Horseshoe Bay Beach Bermuda (for cruisers)

We also enjoy Catamaran snorkeling excursions and this has been a favorite. Plus, in our “research” to find the best Rum Swizzle in Bermuda… let’s just say, they were memorable!

Bermuda Rising Son Cruises Catamaran Snorkeling Review

Are you cruising to Bermuda or have you been there before? What are you thinking of doing or most looking forward to? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!!

P.S. If you’ve found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or save for later on Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Let’s connect:

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Hi Ilana, I loved reading your blog. I am going to Bermuda on Aug 4th, 2022 and this is my first time. I am travelling with sister’s family and parents, so we are 10 of us. My kids are 15 and 17, my neice is 3 and my nephew 2. Given that we have all age groups with my parents 70+ I would like to know what would you recommend as must do in 1.5 days when the ship is docked. I researched and am leading towards the following itinerary:

Day 1: – Straight go to St. George, see Crystal Caves, Blue Hole, Unfinished Church and have lunch there. We are strict vegetarians, don’t eat fish, meat or eggs so I hope we find decent food. – After lunch we can hang out at Horsehoe Beach and then return to the ship by 5pm for dinner.

Day 2: – My husband and teen kids want to do snorkeling so we are thinking of doing it at Snorkel Park so rest of us can watch them and enjoy. Some of us may so shopping. We have to be back on the ship by 4pm so we have enough time.

Any tips or other suggestions? I will certainly follow your guidance on how to get to caves, unfortunately the ferry to St. Geoge doesn’t run on Sat so we will have to take your route.

Questions: Are there same tickets for Ferry and bus? We may buy a booklet of 15 tickets in that case.

Thanks! Priya

This sounds like a great trip. However, it seems like you may be putting a lot of activities into your first day and it may be tiring, and also take more time than you think.

I’ll link a video or 2 with some ideas that hopefully can help: 10 Things to Do in Bermuda for Cruisers https://youtu.be/3BtqXZBVS70

Bermuda Cruise Tips (FAQ’s)https://youtu.be/67cj5smY9jw

Have a great cruise!

Super helpful! We are going to Bermuda on royal carribean next July. We will have two days in Bermuda. We are thinking of doing the caves one day and a beach another day. Do you think getting to horseshoe bay beach early could avoid some crowds? I like the idea of having bathrooms available! We will be with our 4&6 yr old boys. Is there anywhere to rent beach toys? Should we bring some from home? Thnx!!

Yes getting there early is a great idea. I’d bring sand toys in a mesh bag from home. The small beach (cove) on the right hand side is perfect for young children!

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Tips for Visiting Crystal Cave Bermuda

Posted on Published: 02/28/2024

Bermuda is such a convenient family destination, especially for families visiting from the East Coast. Located just a short flight away from the East Coast of the United States, Bermuda is home to great food, beautiful beaches, and fun activities. This Atlantic Ocean island isn’t the Caribbean but is still beautiful and has a laid-back, casual vibe.

One of the most unique tourist attractions in Bermuda is Crystal Caves Bermuda, a collection of two underground caves that can be visited by guests. During our family vacation to Bermuda , we enjoyed a morning at Crystal and Fantasy Caves. It ended up being the highlight of our Bermuda trip, and I would recommend visiting.

This post contains affiliate links. A purchase and/or click through one of these links (including on the map below) may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

About Crystal Cave Bermuda

Crystal Caves Bermuda is a collection of two caves – Crystal Cave and Fantasy Cave. In 1907, Crystal Cave was discovered by two teenagers named Carl Gibbons and Edgar Hollis on the property of the Wilkinson family. This unique story is told to guests as they visit the cave.

The two caves can be toured individually or as a package. When purchasing tickets, you’ll notice that it isn’t much more money to visit both. So, if you have the time, it’s worth visiting both. They are different enough that it won’t feel repetitive.

Location of Crystal Caves Bermuda

Crystal Caves is located in Hamilton Parish in Bermuda. We stayed at the Fairmont Southampton Bermuda, and took a cab to the caves. They are also on the bus routes, but we found a cab to be easier. Note that this particular hotel is undergoing renovations and is temporarily closed, but will be reopening.

There’s a cab stand outside the entrance. So, it shouldn’t be too difficult to get a cab back to your hotel.

Visiting Crystal Caves

Crystal Caves are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last guided tour taking place at 4:30 pm and the first tour taking place at 9:30 am. The last combination tour starts at 4 pm.

You can purchase a ticket to either cave or a combination ticket for admission to both caves. Mastercard and Visa are accepted for tickets, and reservations aren’t required (but are recommended). If you want to make recommendations, you can call them at 441-293 0640.

When you purchase your ticket(s), you’ll be told which cave you are visiting first (based on timing and availability). There’s a place to wait until your ticket group number is called, and then you’ll be led to your guided tour.

Crystal Cave was opened to tourists soon after it was discovered. However, tours were originally offered by boat. Now, you’ll be able to walk on a platform across the water. Swimming is not allowed in the caves.

Keep in mind that there are some stairs and a ramp to get down to the cave. You will have to walk – there’s no other way to get down there. This is very important to know if mobility is an issue.

When packing for your trip to Bermuda, make sure that you include appropriate footwear for a visit to the caves. They recommend rubber-soled shoes, and I would also recommend that. It’s not a strenuous walk, but it could be a little tricky with the wrong shoes. You won’t want to slip.

A guided tour of Crystal Cave takes about 30-35 minutes. ly enjoyed seeing the beautiful cave and were impressed with the knowledge of our guide.

After visiting Crystal Cave, we had to bring our ticket vouchers to Fantasy Caves back to the ticket desk to get a group number for that guided tour. After a short wait, we were called for the next tour.

Fantasy Cave was discovered several years after Crystal Cave, and the owners of the property sold to the Wilkinson family in later years. The walk down to Fantasy Cave is much more steep – 88 steps down.

I’d recommend skipping this cave if you have balance or other mobility issues. It’s a steep walk down!

Like Crystal Cave, there’s a platform around the cave that you’ll walk on for the tour. You won’t get wet during your tour, although you’ll want appropriate footwear.

Fantasy Cave is similar to Crystal Cave, but it also has a lot of differences. The incredible formations are surprisingly different, considering how close the two caves are. We were amazed at how unique these formations are.

So, which is best, Crystal Cave or Fantasy Cave? Half of our family preferred Fantasy, while the other half preferred Crystal. We did notice that Fantasy Cave was much hotter than Crystal Cave and more humid, so keep that in mind depending on when you visit.

If you can, I highly recommend visiting both. It took about 90 minutes to see both during our trip, but we visited in the off-season. I can imagine it gets much busier during the summer months and during the cruise ship season.

They have stated that their busy time is from 11 am to 2:30 pm during the summer. It’s best to arrive outside of these times if at all possible.

Near Crystal Caves Bermuda

Arriving early (close to opening) is probably the best way to minimize your wait. Once you are done, there are a few places near Crystal Caves to visit. Within the complex, you’ll find a gift shop and a cafe.

A very short walk away are two iconic Bermuda institutions. Cross the street from the back entrance, and you’ll find the Swizzle Inn, home of the Rum Swizzle drink.

We enjoyed lunch there and opted to sit on the top deck. I highly recommend visiting there if you can. If you choose one of the iconic Rum Swizzles, keep in mind that they are very strong.

There’s also Bailey’s Ice Cream, which is located right by the back entrance. Unfortunately, it was closed during our stay. I’d recommend checking their schedule so you can make sure it’s open when you visit because I’ve heard that it’s a great place to get ice cream in Bermuda.

Wondering where to stay? While the hotel we stayed at is now closed for renovations, there are lots of other options. Check out the map below (with affiliate links) to see some options.

Have you been to Bermuda? Did you visit Crystal Caves?

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