Massport chalks up record cruise count in longest season ever

New itineraries, larger ships

The passenger volume is a 3% increase over the 2018 season, driven by new itineraries, larger ships and a longer season. Cruising generates more than $100m for the local economy and supports nearly 2,200 jobs in the commonwealth.

‘We are pleased to see this record growth in cruise tourism in Boston, which has a ripple effect on the regional economy,’ Massport Port Director Michael Meyran said. ‘We also thank our city, state and federal elected officials for their continued support.

‘The demand for cruising in New England continues to be strong and attracts visitors from all over the world,’ Meyran added. ‘We are making smart investments a the Flynn Cruiseport Boston to maximize the use of the terminals and accommodate future growth in homeport and port-of-call passengers.’

March to late November season

For the first time in Flynn Cruiseport Boston’s 33-year history, the season started in March and ended a week before Thanksgiving, extending the season by five weeks.

Massport handled nine maiden calls, including Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Gem and Holland America Line’s Zaandam. A record 86 visits were during the peak months of September and October, including MSC Meraviglia, the largest cruise ship ever to visit Boston.

Itineraries to Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada/New England were offered by more than 20 lines.

2020 preview

In 2020, four major lines will homeport in Boston, a first. In addition to Norwegian, Holland America and Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises joins the roster. Celebrity Summit will sail to Maine and Canada beginning in August and to the Caribbean and Florida in October.

Seven maiden calls are scheduled, including Sky Princess and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima.

Next fall, there will be 16 three-ship days.