Flynn Cruiseport Is Making Waves in Boston with Record Numbers of Passengers and Cruise Ships in 2024 Season

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Cathy and Ray Flynn at Flynn Cruiseport, Seaport Boston

Officials from Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), South Boston elected politicians and tourism advocates gathered in Boston’s Seaport District  today to celebrate continuing good news at the Raymond L. Flynn Cruiseport.  Former U.S. Ambassador and Boston Mayor, for whom the cruiseport is named, and his wife Cathy, also attended. 

Today’s ceremony celebrated  the record-breaking  2024 cruising season that attracted 480,000 passengers, a 29% passenger increase over 2023.  In total,167 cruise ships came through Boston this season, with18 additional ships representing a 12% increase over 2023.  The Flynn Cruiseport has generated a $256 million in economic impact — a 90% increase since 2018, and supported more than 3,000 jobs, a 36% increase since 2018.

Massport also announced a $100 million investment in the Cruiseport, including $60 million for shore power, a significant step forward for sustainable maritime practices at the Port of Boston, benefitting both cruise industry partners and the surrounding community.


Congressman Stephen Lynch, MA 8th District, congratulated Massport Executive Director Rich Davey and the Massport  team for the record-setting season at the Flynn Cruiseport. 

“I am extremely happy that Massport will be investing $60 million to install “ship-to-shore” electrical power so that cruise ships will not have to keep their diesel engines running while they are at berth in the South Boston Seaport, which will be great for the environment, “ said Lynch. “These investments create jobs by making the Port of Boston more competitive while preserving our rich maritime history.”

State Senator Nick Collins and Massport CEO Rich Davey

State Senator Nick Collins called the maritime industry “a cornerstone of our local economy, driving growth and creating countless jobs in Boston and throughout the Commonwealth.  The addition of ship-to-shore power at Flynn Cruiseport will reduce emissions for the people of South Boston and our Longshoremen while enhancing sustainability and competitiveness.”

State Representative David Biele said, “With Massport’s leadership, we’re working to grow the cruise business at Flynn Cruiseport, revitalize the Port of Boston, and boost tourism in Boston and New England. Adding shore power will cut emissions and benefit both the community and the cruise industry.”

Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn noted that Boston’s working port "vital to the local economy,” adding, “Massport’s investment in shore power is great news for my constituents and neighbors in the South Boston community. I applaud Massport’s leadership for their continued commitment to being a good neighbor.”

Massport CEO Rich Davey said, “Our investment in shore power will dramatically reduce emissions, improve air quality, and reinforce Boston’s position as a leader in sustainable maritime practices. 

“We’re also committed to continuously enhancing our facilities to accommodate the growing demand for cruising, the increase in larger ships like the Breakaway, and to ensure a seamless experience for both passengers and ships. These announcements are a win for the environment, the community, and the future of the cruise industry in our city,” Davey said.


Meet Boston President & CEO Martha J. Sheridan noted that “Cruise passengers are essential to the strength of our visitor economy, contributing significantly to local spending during the summer and extending into our shoulder seasons,” adding that cruise ship visitors  “not only boost our economy but also highlight Boston’s growing appeal as a top-tier destination.”

Flynn Cruiseport’s economic impact also helps tourism-related businesses. For example, Holland America Cruise Line is sourcing locally caught seafood from more than 60 global ports, including Boston, where they purchase cod, haddock, arctic char and lobsters from John Nagle & Co. in Boston . Massport is working  on similar collaborations between seafood companies, Massport tenants and other local businesses to provision the ships.

Learn more about the Raymond L. Flynn Cruiseport and about Massport.  

 

 




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