7 days cruising in Bermuda during the America's Cup

Lying 640 miles off the east coast of the US, Bermuda has been a sailor’s destination for more than 500 years. The island will play host to the 35th America’s Cup this May and June, attracting sailing fanatics from across the world as well as enjoy the pink sand beaches, scuba diving and world class golfing. Here Captain Chad Thieken, of 54.8 metre Vitters sailing yacht Marie, gives his ideal itinerary for a Bermudan cruise that takes in the America's Cup and the island's many charms.

Day 1: Hamilton

Fly into Bermuda and meet Marie at the Hamilton Princess Marina, one of the best superyacht marinas in Bermuda and also home to the elegant fleet of J Class yachts during the America’s Cup. Wander through historic Hamilton and watch the sunset from Marie’s crow’s nest, 37 metres up.

Go for a sail and anchor outside Jew’s Bay for lunch. Hike up to Gibbs Hill Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the island. Come back on board to relax in the shade with a book or host your own match race with Marie’s two Pico dinghies.

Explore the protected waters inside the reef in Marie’s 10.5 metre centre console powerboat. Stop by Shelly Bay Beach for a swim then head up to St George’s for lunch. Take a walk through the original settlement on the island, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Watch a day of America’s Cup racing from the comfort of Marie. VIP access gives guests a front row seat to watch these sailors compete at speeds in excess of 40 knots. Guests also have access to pit lane base tours at the Dockyard and VIP access to Club AC.

Design your own day – scuba dive one of the famous shipwrecks, play a round of golf, indulge in a spa experience ashore or on board, or simply relax on one of the beautiful beaches. A driver can take guests on an island tour exploring caves and grottos or you can shop for a pair of shorts with a stop at the Swizzle Inn for a rum at the island’s oldest pub.

Birdwatchers can grab some binoculars and visit the inner harbours and wildlife sanctuary of Nonsuch Island in Castle Harbour, the only breeding ground in the world for the Bermuda petrel. History buffs should visit the Maritime Museum and Naval Dockyard.

Guests can spend their leisurely last day aboard as if it were their first, since the international airport is only minutes away.