In Bermuda, the sand really is pink, and the style is decidedly British in this Atlantic Ocean island gem just a day and a half by cruise ship from the East Coast. Although some cruise ships call at Bermuda on the way to or from the Caribbean and Bahamas or Europe, most cruises to this island are single-destination journeys, giving vacationers several days to enjoy the many delights it offers while using their ship as a floating resort hotel.

Tourists are not allowed to drive automobiles in Bermuda, but readily available motor scooters and bicycles allow independent explorations of this small island. 22 miles from end to end, a day on a scooter will take you by miles of beaches, cliffs, botanical gardens, old churches and even natural caves. The shops are decidedly upscale with particular emphasis on fine products from around the world and especially Britain. Bermuda also has an abundance of restaurants featuring the island's distinctively spicy cuisine.

In keeping with its British character, Bermuda is home to several top-notch golf courses, and cruise vacationers can enjoy several rounds during their extended stays there. Tennis also is a popular year-round sport on the island, and those who prefer to play a few sets will have no problems finding an open court. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the snorkelling, scuba and boating opportunities as well.

History buffs will find plenty to interest them on a tour of the island, much of it tied to British maritime history. The restored Royal Navy Dockyards at Kings Wharf houses a maritime museum along with an excellent shopping area with several restaurants.

Despite its size, Bermuda's excellent beaches are rarely crowded, and couples can usually find a secluded stretch of sand to have all to themselves.

Though a small island, Bermuda has three cruise ship ports:

The City of Hamilton, a port city, is the capital and administrative, commercial, entertainment and shopping centre of Bermuda. It is Bermuda's principal seaport, located in Hamilton Harbour. It is named after Henry Hamilton. He was British Lieutenant Governor  and then full Governor here from 1788 to 1794 and got the municipality started.

Summer is prime time for Bermuda cruises and you will find departures beginning in late April or early May through October. Only a few cruise lines offer this destination on some of their smallest vessels, as cruise ship traffic is controlled to keep the island from getting overcrowded.

Bermuda cruises depart from a number of East Coast ports, including Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Norfolk, as well as from Florida. Check into Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean for the most regular departures.