Experience Boston: A Cruise Port Traveler’s Guide

Flynn Cruiseport Boston is New England’s main cruise terminal, welcoming over 160 cruise ships annually. Located in the Seaport District, the Boston cruise port connects passengers to Canada, Bermuda, and the coastal regions of New England. 

Located just 10 minutes from Boston Logan International Airport, this historic port offers convenient access to one of America’s most walkable cities. A pre- or post-cruise stay allows for visits to the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, and countless historic sites.

Whether it’s your first cruise from Boston or a return trip, we cover terminals, transport, hotels, dining, and top tips.

Overview Of Boston Cruise Port

Cruiseport Boston is the primary cruise terminal in Massachusetts, welcoming many major cruise lines. The port typically opens from April to late October. Most New England/Canada cruises last seven days and visit Halifax, Maine, and other eastern ports.

However, cruise passengers can take itineraries of 10 days or more, which are either round-trip or one-way voyages to Quebec City or Montreal in Quebec. Cruising to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick was a wonderful way to explore the Maritimes.

The facility handles ships traveling to popular destinations including Canada, New England, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. At the end and start of the cruise season, itineraries also include Transatlantic crossings to and from Europe.

Location

Cruiseport Boston is in the South Boston Waterfront neighborhood at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal. This area is primarily industrial and not within walking distance of major attractions. The historic building has beautifully painted friezes oceanside.

The port sits less than two miles from the historic Faneuil Hall and the Freedom Trail. We can reach Boston’s Back Bay, Newbury Street, and Copley Square shopping areas within three miles of the terminal.

Flynn Cruiseport Boston And Terminals

Flynn Cruiseport Boston, formerly known as Black Falcon Cruise Terminal, is operated by Massport. The terminal was renamed in 2017 in honor of former Boston Mayor Raymond Flynn.

The Port of Boston accommodates both commercial and cruise vessels, with cruise ships docking at berths 7, 8, and 9.

Located at 1 Black Falcon Avenue in South Boston, many major cruise lines use it as their home base. Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises all operate regularly from here.

Facilities And Amenities

The port provides basic yet essential services and is large enough to accommodate crowds during peak travel periods. Restrooms and drink vending machines are available inside and around the terminal building.

Passengers requiring complimentary WiFi can log in to ‘BOSWifi’ or ‘CruiseBoston’ and follow the instructions.

There is no luggage storage at the port for those disembarking. If you have a later flight, we suggest heading to Rowes Wharf Ferry Terminal, where luggage storage is available.

Alternatively, use Luggage Hero to find storage locations. Many offer hourly and daily rates. Find places near the waterfront, central station, and city hall. We stored our luggage at the Marvelous Barber Lounge at 82 Broad Street, conveniently located near places we wanted to visit.

Embarking cruise guests should not arrive at the port until after 10:30 am. However, if your ship arrives from Europe as ours did, embarkation may occur much later.

We could not board until after 12:30 pm since our vessel required a special clearance for its first landing in North America. In fact, our ship delayed sailaway by almost 2.5 hours due to port regulation delays. 

It create congestion at the pier with thousands of passengers waiting hours to board. We were in the first group of passengers, and didn’t board until almost 2 pm.

One of the highlights of cruising from Boston, was plane spotting. With its proximity to its international airport, at a certain point during sailaway, arriving planes fly closely overhead. 

Getting To Boston Cruise Port

Flynn Cruiseport lies only a short drive from Logan Airport and is located a few miles outside central Boston. While cruise lines offer transfers, there are alternative options available. Choose from budget-friendly public transit to convenient rideshares and water taxis.

From Boston Logan International Airport

Logan International Airport offers several direct routes to the cruise port.

• The Silver Line bus provides the most affordable option. Take the complimentary SL1 bus from any terminal to Silver Line Way. Transfer to the outbound SL2 bus and ride to Drydock Avenue. It’s a two-minute walk to the pier. We recommend this option if traveling light.
• Water taxis. They serve over multiple waterfront locations throughout Boston Harbor, including many downtown hotels and restaurants.
• Taxi and ride-sharing services from Logan cost the most, but they provide convenience when traveling with heavy luggage. You’ll find taxi stands outside the arrivals level at all terminals. There are tolls to cross the river, which add to the fare.
• Go Boston Shuttle provides shared van service from Logan. Since the price is per passenger, taxis and rideshares are often more affordable for two or more guests.

Driving, Parking, And Drop-off

For those driving to the port, parking is available at 93 Fargo Street, a short distance west of the terminal. Online reservations are required prior to arrival at the port.

Be prepared to pay around USD 300 for a one-week stay. Complimentary shuttles operate between the parking lot and the cruise terminal, running every 10-15 minutes. Shuttles are wheelchair accessible. Alternatively, guests can opt to walk, which takes 10 minutes.

When arriving by rideshare or taxis, luggage drop off is at the drop off area.

Hotels Near The Port Of Boston

Flying into Boston before embarkation day is advisable to avoid missing your ship’s connection. A pre- or post-cruise stay allows for exploration of Boston itself.

We found several hotel options within walking distance of Boston’s Seaport District, near the Flynn Cruise Terminal. The closest hotels are just 0.2 miles from the port in the Seaport District.

Walking Distance Hotels:

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston Seaport District (0.2 miles).
• Hampton Inn Boston Seaport District (0.2 miles).
• Hyatt Place Boston Seaport (0.4 miles).
• Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel (0.6 miles).

Some hotels provide shuttle services. Alternatively, taxi rides to the port from these hotels are quick. For those who drive to Boston, look for park-and-stay packages that combine a hotel room with complimentary parking. It’s more affordable than long-term parking at the pier.

Airport hotels also work well since they’re only 10 minutes from the cruise terminal. These options often cost less than downtown properties. Choose from Hilton Boston Logan Airport, Embassy Suites by Hilton Boston at Logan Airport, and Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor.

We opted to stay at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Boston due to an evening flight. The room was lovely, and we appreciated that it came with a wonderful complimentary buffet breakfast and airport shuttle.

Top Attractions Near Boston Cruise Port

Boston’s cruise terminal is conveniently located near top historic sites and lively harborfront destinations. Visitors can easily explore Revolutionary War sites, bustling marketplaces, and interactive museums without having to travel far from their ship.

Freedom Trail And Historic Sites

The Freedom Trail offers a perfect introduction to Boston’s Revolutionary War history. This 2.5-mile red-brick path connects 16 important historical sites throughout downtown Boston. We suggest starting at Boston Common and following the trail to key landmarks. 

In the heart of Boston, a modest home from 1680 still stands, once owned by patriot Paul Revere. The house shows us how colonial families lived in the North End.

Old North Church holds special importance in American history. This is where two lanterns signaled Paul Revere about British troop movements in 1775. The church still holds active services today.

The trail continues on cobblestone streets and past other important sites. We’ll see where the Boston Massacre happened and visit Faneuil Hall. Most of these attractions charge a small entrance fee, but walking the trail itself is free.

Faneuil Hall And Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall earned the nickname “Cradle of Liberty” for hosting essential meetings before the Revolutionary War. We enjoyed a complimentary viewing of the historic Great Hall on the second floor. Don’t miss the short film in the basement; it’s an enlightening video on Boston’s history of slavery.

Quincy Market and the surrounding Faneuil Hall Marketplace create Boston’s most popular shopping and dining destination. The long market building houses over 50 food vendors and restaurants.

We found everything from New England clam chowder to fresh lobster rolls. Local street performers entertain crowds throughout the day. The marketplace remains busy year-round, attracting both tourists and locals.

Shopping options include Boston-themed souvenirs and handmade crafts. The buildings date back to the 1740s but now mix historical charm with modern retail. We can easily spend several hours exploring the shops and trying different foods.

Boston Waterfront And Seaport District

The Boston waterfront stretches along the harbor with parks, walkways, and modern attractions. The HarborWalk provides scenic views and connects many waterfront destinations.

The Seaport District features newer attractions, such as the Institute of Contemporary Art. This modern building showcases cutting-edge art and offers harbor views from its galleries.

The New England Aquarium features marine life from around the world. The four-story Giant Ocean Tank contains hundreds of sea creatures, including sea turtles and sharks.

Castle Island Park gives beach access and views of Boston Harbor. The park includes Fort Independence, playgrounds, and walking paths. Sullivan’s snack bar serves fried clams and other local favorites.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

The Boston Tea Party Museum offers an immersive look at the 1773 protest. Costumed guides reenact key moments leading to the Revolution. It’s a unique outing where history unfolds through immersive storytelling and engaging activities.

The museum features original artifacts, including a surviving tea chest and a vial of steeped tea in its museum. The one-hour tour includes a film on colonial Boston’s unrest. During the tour, we joined a town meeting, debated British taxes, boarded a replica ship, and tossed tea into the harbor.

Guests can shop for Revolutionary War souvenirs and sample five teas that were tossed into Boston Harbor. Advance tickets are recommended, especially in summer.

Dining And Shopping Near The Cruise Port

Boston’s cruise port puts you within easy reach of the city’s best restaurants and shopping areas. When staying in Boston for a few days, it’s nice to explore its culinary options and do some souvenir shopping.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market offer a unique blend of dining and shopping in one historic location. Newbury Street provides upscale boutiques just a short ride away.

Popular Dining Spots

The Seaport District offers some of Boston’s most popular restaurants within walking distance of the cruise terminal. Whatever your taste buds, there’s plenty to choose from. Yankee Lobster serves excellent seafood, or head to Pete’s Dockside for waterfront views.

The Faneuil Hall Marketplace combines food, shopping, and history. The historic Quincy Market offers a diverse range of options, from clam chowder bread bowls to lobster rolls.

Afterward, head to the three market buildings for souvenirs, clothing, and specialty retailers selling Boston-themed items and New England crafts.

For authentic Italian cuisine, we recommend heading to Boston’s North End. This neighborhood features traditional bakeries and family-owned restaurants just a few miles from the port.

The area around Black Falcon Pier features newer establishments, such as Chickadee and Row 34. These eateries highlight seasonal produce and put a modern twist on regional coastal cuisine.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Boston offers a shopping experience for every style and budget. Start with Newbury Street, where chic boutiques and designer brands fill elegant brownstone buildings along a charming, tree-lined street.

For a more traditional mall experience, head to the connected Prudential Center and Copley Place. These upscale shopping centers feature a mix of big-name retailers, department stores, and specialty shops, all conveniently located in one place.

Downtown Crossing delivers variety and energy, with shops ranging from budget-friendly chains to unique finds in fashion, electronics, and home goods.

Craving something local? Boston Public Market is a must-visit. This year-round indoor market highlights Massachusetts-made foods, crafts, and artisanal products from regional vendors. In the summer, the Greenway Artisan Market runs outdoors on weekends. It has a little lots of handmade items.

If you love vintage treasures, don’t miss SoWa Vintage Market. Open seasonally, it features one-of-a-kind finds, handmade goods, and original artwork from local creatives.

Over in the Seaport District, browse cozy shops that spotlight Boston-themed gifts and locally crafted items from area artists and designers.

Final Thoughts

Boston Cruise Port offers a convenient starting point for a New England or Canada cruise. We liked the fact that it’s very close to Logan International Airport. A 10-minute taxi ride-now that’s convenient!

While we live on the west coast of Canada, our trip allowed us to explore New Brunswick and Nova Scotia by cruise ship. A first for us.

Whether you explore historic sites like the Freedom Trail or enjoy a seafood feast at Quincy Market, Boston makes a great pre- or post-cruise stay.

If you’re still in the planning stage for a cruise vacation, consider booking for fall. The fall foliage displays in New England and Canada are stunning. Enjoy shades of gold, amber, crimson, and burnt sienna.