azamara cruises, azamara journey, hamilton, bermuda

Azamara Journey in Hamilton, Bermuda

After 3 nights in Bermuda, we're once again underway for 2 sea days before we reach New York City.  Yesterday morning was very quiet in Hamilton in observance of Good Friday.  However, we were able to find an open restaurant/pub that offered 1 hour of free internet usage.  Thanks again to Hog Penny for the excellent snacks, beers and WiFi connection.  After catching up on email we returned to the ship, drop off our laptops and head to the ferry pier.  After missing the last ferry to Kings Wharf on Thursday, we now have another opportunity since the ship has not moved to St. Georges as planned.

The Bermuda ferry service is quick, efficient and inexpensive, the 20 minute ride out to the dockyard costs $4 each way.  Originally this area was the hub of activity in Bermuda, both for protection and marine activity.  Surrounded on 3 sides by tall limestone walls, the old fort included military barracks, command posts and weaponry to monitor this strategic harbor. Bermuda was, and still is, on the major shipping routes between the US east coast, Europe and points south into the Caribbean. Rum, tobacco and slaves were exported out of the Caribbean to both the new American colonies and the Old World countries.  Returning ships brought oriental teas and other provisions from the Old World.   In addition to shipbuilding and maintenance, the old cooperage provided kegs and casks used to store and protect the merchandise that was shipped overseas. 

The Frog and Onion (originally a partnership between a Frenchman and a Bermudan) is located in the old cooperage building.  Onsite brewing provides a unique menu of an English Bitter,  a Lager, an Amber Ale, an IPA and a Stout Porter.  We enjoy a plate of traditional bangers and mash, a shepard's pie and a few cold pints before heading back on the 4:30 ferry.  After arriving back at the ship, it's an early, quiet evening.