The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) celebrated the end of the cruise season, an activity that generates an annual economic impact of USD 256 million and creates more than 3,000 jobs. During the period, 22 companies and more than 455,000 passengers were welcomed, including a record 10 homeported ships at the Port of Boston.
As Massport prepares to welcome larger vessels and more frequent calls in the coming years, these improvements will optimize passenger flow, increase operational efficiency, and ensure an exceptional embarkation and disembarkation experience for passengers.
“The cruise and cargo industry is fundamental to the local economy, as it generates thousands of jobs and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to Flynn Cruiseport Boston. These port improvements, including ship-to-shore power connection, are crucial for Boston to remain a premier cruise destination and to reduce polluting emissions for all South Boston residents,” stated State Senator Nick Collins.
Boston’s cruise industry is fundamental to tourism in New England. From exploring iconic sites along the Freedom Trail, strolling through Boston Common, or attending a game at Fenway Park, many visitors enjoy Boston thanks to the thriving cruise industry.
“The Port of Boston is one of the most important economic engines of the Commonwealth, as it generates jobs and income for the entire region. I am excited to see these improvements at the cruise terminal, which will help attract even more tourists to Boston and reduce emissions, thereby benefiting the surrounding communities,” stated State Representative David Biele.
Not only tourist attractions benefit from the cruise industry. From transportation companies and local restaurants to hotels, airlines, souvenir shops, and suppliers that provision the ships, the cruise industry supports hundreds of businesses throughout New England. It creates opportunities for people and strengthens the local economy, benefiting large and small communities.
“Flynn Cruiseport is the premier cruise port in New England and has experienced steady growth throughout the decades. We are excited to enhance the experience for hundreds of thousands of passengers, while reinforcing our commitment to net-zero emissions by providing the first ship-to-shore power connection for cruises in New England,” stated Rich Davey, Massport’s Executive Director.
