The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today joined Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, local elected officials and members of the South Boston community to kick off the 2019 Cruise Season and celebrate the economic impact that the maritime industry has across the state.
Lieutenant Governor Polito, who is the chair of the Seaport Economic Council, received the Maritime Champion Award for her dedication and support of the maritime economy across the Commonwealth. The Seaport Economic Council helps coastal communities develop and improve local assets to facilitate economic growth and stimulate job creation. The Council serves all 78 of Massachusetts coastal communities.
“The maritime industry is a vital part of Massachusetts economy and the Baker-Polito Administration continues to see the potential for new growth opportunities as we work to expand and modernize the Port of Boston,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “I’m honored to be the recipient of Massport’s Maritime Champion Award. I will continue to serve as an advocate for the Port and the coastal communities of the Commonwealth and build on the transformative investments we have made to the Massachusetts maritime economy.”
Massport also welcomed the Norwegian Gem on her maiden homeport voyage to Flynn Cruiseport. This year, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will be offering three Caribbean itineraries on theGem, departing on March 29th, October 25th, and November 8th. The Gem will also continue sailing from Boston to Bermuda on Fridays from Flynn Cruiseport. The Cruiseport is also thrilled to welcome the MSC Meraviglia, a 4,500-passenger ship, for the first time this October. Disney Magic will return to Boston this fall for the first time since 2016. Both the Meraviglia and Disney Magic will visit Boston as a port of call.
“Each new season we see a steady increase in number of cruise ships calling on the City of Boston” said Congressman Stephen F. Lynch. “The Ray Flynn Cruiseport has had a tremendous impact on the local economy and the tourism it brings provides hundreds of steady jobs.”
“I am proud of the record-setting growth we have seen at the Port of Boston in recent years, a testament to our thriving tourism sector in Boston,” said Mayor Martin J. Walsh. “I thank all of the hardworking men and women who work every day at the Cruiseport to sustain and grow this economic engine that is important to the City of Boston.”
“The Flynn Cruiseport is a robust, economic engine that continues to provide hundreds of employment opportunities for people in the community and beyond,” said State Senator Nick Collins. “The dedication of the men and women who run this Port make it the success it is today, and we are excited to celebrate the start of yet another cruise season.”
“The working Port has created blue-collar jobs and is an economic engine for not only Boston and Commonwealth, but the northeast region,” said State Representative David Biele. “This is an exciting day for Massport and South Boston as we celebrate the start of a new cruise season with even more travel options for customers.”
“Boston’s working Port has provided economic opportunities for the men and women of labor and for businesses across the region,” said City Councilor Michael Flaherty. “We look forward to another successful cruise season with even more destination options for customers.”
“The Port of Boston has seen incredible growth over the last decade and the Cruiseport has been a key player in making that happen,” said City Councilor Ed Flynn. “The cruise industry in Boston is alive and well and we are thrilled to kick off yet another season.”
The Commonwealth has a lot to offer its visitors. Boston is one of America’s oldest cities and a 21st century powerhouse. Visitors are welcome to explore revolutionary landmarks along the Freedom Trail, stroll through Boston Common to Faneuil Hall, or tour Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Neighborhoods such as the North End, Beacon Hill, and the Back Bay offer unique flavors, sights and sounds for every interest.
This year’s celebration, which falls during Women’s History Month, honored Women in Maritime. The event also featured a series of interviews with a number of women whose hard work and perseverance have helped make the Port the success it is today and will continue to be in the future. Flynn Cruiseport is located in the vibrant Seaport District. It is easily accessible from both I-90 and I-93 and minutes from Logan International Airport. Those who are interested should visit www.massport.com/cruiseport/ to learn more.
