Cruising into Boston Set to Cost More

Following in the footsteps of several port cities that are charging a per-person fee for cruise passengers, the Massachusetts Port Authority announced it will be introducing a surcharge for each visitor coming through the Flynn Cruiseport Boston. The fee will be $3 in 2026 and increase by $3 annually until it reaches $15 a head in 2030. 

The fees will be used to fund improvements to the cruise port that are needed due to increased demand by rising cruise traffic. The Street reports the port welcomed just over 480,000 passengers on 167 cruise ships in 2024, a 29 percent passenger increase over 2023.

A statement from Massport said “Upgrades to the terminal include pier upgrades to support an additional Passenger Boarding Bridge, new escalator, and an expanded queueing area with increased seating, which will allow for better passenger flow. We want our passengers to have the best experience possible when they use the Flynn Cruiseport – either embarking on their dream vacation or visiting Boston for the day.” 

Several cruise lines presently sail from Boston, including Norwegian, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. The coming upgrades to the terminal will mean bigger ships will be able to dock in Boston.

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