Increased ferry capacity to the St George will feature on the 2026 summer schedule, including the addition of a Saturday service, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport announced yesterday.

Owen Darrell said that the Orange Route will operate from Monday through Saturday, directly to the East End from Dockyard.

He added that the move “reflects the ministry’s commitment to provide consistent, reliable and safe transportation to meet the needs of residents and visitors”.

Service capacity to St George’s will more than double, the minister said, adding that residents and visitors will benefit from better access to the town during the summer.

There will be four ferry trips on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, as well as three on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Mr Darrell said: “The ministry has listened to residents, businesses and stakeholders across the island.

“We heard a clear message — St George’s needs more ferry service to boost economic activity.”

This year the island expects 194 cruise ship calls from March through November and Mr Darrell said that as arrivals continue to grow, it is essential for the transportation network to keep apace.

“This expanded lift on this route will help manage the increased passenger volumes, reduce congestion and support the continued success of our tourism industry,” he added.

Mr Darrell said the arrival of two new passenger ferries last year marked a “significant milestone” in the Government’s commitment to modernise the island’s public transport infrastructure and strengthen experience for residents and visitors.

With the new ferries, Mr Darrell said that the ministry can now offer the Saturday service which “significantly” increases lift to the town.

The Bermuda Tourism Authority said the first departure from Dockyard will be at 9.30am, with the final departure from St George’s at 6pm.

Ferry schedules have been aligned with cruise ship arrivals to improve accessibility for visitors, the BTA said adding that a Bermuda Visitor Services Centre ambassador will be stationed on the St George’s ferry to support visitors, provide guidance and enhance the overall on-board experience.

“One of Bermuda’s greatest strengths is its accessibility — visitors can explore the entire island safely and experience the diversity each community offers,” said BTA chief sales and marketing officer Michael DeCouto.

“Enhancing connectivity to St George’s ensures that visitors arriving in Dockyard can enjoy a full Bermuda experience, including our Unesco World Heritage Site.”

He added that cruise lines had been informed of the additional ferry service.

Candy-Lee Foggo, the town manager in St George, said the enhanced schedule would make the town “more accessible than ever before”.

Ms Foggo added: “For our local businesses and stakeholders, the improved schedule is expected to drive increased foot traffic and economic activity, particularly on key days when visitor movement is highest.

“More reliable and frequent ferry options encourage both spontaneous and planned visits, supporting retail, dining, cultural attractions and tour operators throughout St George’s.

“Importantly, this initiative also strengthens transportation resilience and offers a more sustainable alternative to road travel, aligning with broader goals of reducing congestion and promoting environmentally friendly transit options.”

Kristin White, the owner of the Long Story Short tour company and retail store at St George’s, said she was pleased with the expansion of the ferry service.

She said: “The increased lift throughout the week, plus a weekend schedule, will certainly lead to more tourists and residents visiting the town.”