The Bermuda Public Transportation Board (PTB) is a government group under the Ministry of Tourism and Transport that runs all bus services in Bermuda. School children take both public buses and school buses run by the PTB. Additionally, the PTB offers charter buses and sightseeing services.
History
Buses were first introduced to Bermuda in 1945 by the Bermuda Omni Bus Service. This service was part of the Bermuda Railway Service. The railway system ended in 1948. In 1946, the Public Transportation Board was formed to manage all bus services. Buses are the main part of Bermuda's public transportation system. They are supported by a public ferry service.
Buses
Bermuda buses are made to fit the special needs of the island’s roads. They are narrow and do not have space for carrying luggage, bicycles, or golf bags. Sightseeing buses are also available through the Board.
MAN company makes the diesel buses, and Berkhof converts them into coaches. In March 2009, Bermuda received 15 new low-floor buses. These buses have 32 to 34 seats, which is fewer than older buses, but they allow wheelchair users to ride. All buses are painted pink and blue, colors that match the beaches of Bermuda.
Fares and operations
Bermuda is divided into 14 ticket zones, each about 2 miles long. Fares depend on how many zones you travel through. Buses require exact fare in cash, tokens, or pre-paid tickets. Transfers between buses are allowed. Single-day or multi-day transportation passes, which work on buses and ferries, can be bought. Children under 5 ride free, and those aged 5–15 pay a lower fare.
In 2024, Bermuda introduced a digital fare system through the Shorelink App. The system was upgraded in May 2025 to include real-time tracking of buses.
Buses usually operate from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with intervals that vary (often every 15 minutes). Schedules assume an average speed of 35 kilometers per hour (about 22 miles per hour). Many bus stops have shelters and are marked by pink poles (toward Hamilton) or blue poles (away from Hamilton). Buses will stop if you signal them.
Most cruise ship visitors use the bus system. However, airline passengers cannot bring luggage on buses and usually choose taxis or airport limos instead.