Boston Cruise Port Guide: Flynn Cruiseport Terminal & Travel Tips

Overview

Boston is a premier cruise port for New England and Canada cruises, offering stunning fall foliage itineraries and rich American history. The Flynn Cruiseport Boston serves as the departure point for cruises exploring Maritime Canada, New England coastal towns, Bermuda, and transatlantic voyages.

Disclaimer: Information provided in this guide is subject to change. Prices, schedules, times, and terminal assignments may vary. Always verify critical details (arrival times, parking rates, documentation requirements, terminal locations) directly with your cruise line, the port authority, or official sources before your trip. This guide is for informational purposes only.

Cruise Terminals

Flynn Cruiseport Boston (Black Falcon Cruise Terminal)

• Location: Black Falcon Avenue in the Seaport District
• Address: 1 Black Falcon Avenue, Boston, MA 02210
• Major Cruise Lines: Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean
• Features: Modern terminal with two berths, climate-controlled waiting areas, accessible facilities

Getting to the Port

Always verify with Google Maps or similar service before traveling to ensure routes are still feasible!

From Airports

From Logan International Airport (3 miles)

• Taxi/Uber: Approximately $25-35, typically 10-20 minutes depending on traffic
• Water Taxi: Rowes Wharf Water Taxi to Seaport, then short taxi/walk. Scenic option! Approximately $20-25, typically 15 minutes
• Silver Line SL1: Free airport shuttle to South Station, then taxi to port. Budget 40+ minutes
• Logan Express: Not convenient for cruise terminal
• Hotel Shuttle: Many Seaport hotels offer airport shuttles

Distance Advantage: Boston has one of the closest airport-to-port distances in the US, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

Parking at the Terminal

Flynn Cruiseport Parking:

• On-site parking available directly at the terminal
• Rates: Approximately $25-30 per day (subject to change)
• Reservation: Strongly recommended, especially during fall foliage season (September-October)
• Book through Massport or your cruise line
• Limited spaces - reserve well in advance for peak season

Alternative Parking:

• Seaport Hotels: Some offer cruise parking packages (typically $20-25/day) with shuttle service
• Park-and-Cruise Packages: Check with nearby hotels for park-stay-cruise deals

Public Transportation

From Downtown Boston:

• Silver Line SL2: Cheap shuttle (~$2) from South Station, then walk to port. Budget 40+ minutes.
  • This is my favorite route! Just be aware that navigating South Station will be a bit of a maze your first time.
• Taxi/Uber: Most convenient from downtown hotels, typically $15-25
• Water Taxi: Seasonal service from various harbor locations

From Hotels:

• Most Seaport hotels are within walking distance (typically 5-15 minutes)
• Downtown hotels: taxi/rideshare is most practical (typically $15-25)

Pre or Post-Cruise Stays

Recommended Hotels Near the Port

Walking Distance (Seaport District):

• Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport - Luxury option, rooftop bar
• The Envoy Hotel - Boutique hotel with harbor views
• Aloft Boston Seaport District - Modern, affordable
• Renaissance Boston Seaport Hotel - Full-service Marriott
• Residence Inn Boston Seaport - Suites with kitchens

Downtown/Waterfront (5-10 minute drive):

• Boston Harbor Hotel - Luxury waterfront location
• The Langham, Boston - Elegant historic property
• Fairmont Copley Plaza - Classic Boston grand hotel
• Kimpton Nine Zero - Boutique near Freedom Trail

Top Attractions

Must-See (if you have 1 day):

• Freedom Trail - 2.5-mile walking trail through Revolutionary War history (free, self-guided)
• Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market - Historic marketplace, shopping, street performers
• Boston Common & Public Garden - America's oldest public park, beautiful any season
• New England Aquarium - Right on the waterfront, great for families

Historic Sites:

• USS Constitution - "Old Ironsides," free tours in Charlestown Navy Yard
• Paul Revere House - Oldest building in downtown Boston
• Old North Church - "One if by land, two if by sea"
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum - Interactive experience

Museums:

• Museum of Fine Arts - World-class collection
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum - Unique Venetian-style palace
• Museum of Science - Interactive exhibits, planetarium
• JFK Presidential Library - Modern waterfront location

Neighborhoods to Explore:

• North End - Boston's Little Italy, amazing restaurants
• Beacon Hill - Charming cobblestone streets, brownstones
• Back Bay - Victorian architecture, Newbury Street shopping
• Cambridge/Harvard Square - Cross the river to explore Harvard and MIT

Seasonal Activities:

• Fall Foliage: Visit Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum (late Sept-Oct)
• Spring: Boston Marathon (mid-April), Red Sox opening day
• Summer: Esplanade concerts, harbor islands
• Winter: Boston Common Frog Pond ice skating

Dining Recommendations

Near the Port (Seaport District):

• Legal Sea Foods - Classic New England seafood
• Row 34 - Oysters and craft beer
• The Barking Crab - Casual waterfront seafood shack
• committee - Mediterranean in the Envoy Hotel
• Woods Hill Pier 4 - Farm-to-table with harbor views

Classic Boston (North End):

• Neptune Oyster - Highly rated for lobster rolls (expect a wait)
• Giacomo's Ristorante - Italian, no reservations, worth the line
• Mike's Pastry - Iconic cannoli and pastries
• Regina Pizzeria - Original brick oven pizza since 1926

Must-Try Boston Foods:

• Clam Chowder - Get the New England style (creamy, not Manhattan red)
• Lobster Roll - Cold with mayo or hot with butter
• Boston Cream Pie - At Omni Parker House where it was invented
• Dunkin' Donuts - Founded in Boston, locations everywhere

Tips for Cruise Passengers

1. Arrive Early: If departing on a cruise, aim to arrive at the terminal by 11 AM-12 PM, though your cruise line may have specific requirements. Security and check-in can take time during peak season. Check with your cruise line for their recommended arrival time.

2. Fall Foliage Season: Late September through mid-October is peak cruise season. Book hotels and parking early - prices increase significantly.

3. Walking City: Boston is very walkable. Comfortable shoes are essential for cobblestone streets and the Freedom Trail.

4. Weather: Layer your clothing. Fall can range from 45-65°F with variable conditions. Summers are warm and humid (70-85°F). Winters are cold and snowy (20-40°F).

5. Public Transportation: The "T" (subway) is efficient and inexpensive. Get a CharlieCard at any station. Single ride $2.40, day pass $12.75.

6. Sports: Bostonians are passionate about their teams. Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park (Apr-Oct) or Celtics/Bruins (Oct-Apr) if timing works.

7. Accent & Attitude: Bostonians are direct and fast-paced. Don't take it personally - they're actually quite friendly once you engage.

8. Tipping: Standard 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters, 15-20% for taxis/rideshares.

9. Luggage Storage: If you have time between hotel checkout and boarding, use Bounce or LuggageHero for day storage downtown.

10. Freedom Trail App: Download the free app for self-guided audio tours of the historic sites.

Embarkation Day Tips

• Check-in Time: Most cruise lines begin boarding 11 AM-1 PM
• Bring: Government-issued photo ID, passport (required for Canada cruises), cruise documents, credit card for onboard account
• Security: Allow time for security screening similar to airports
• Drop-off: Passenger drop-off directly at terminal entrance; vehicles cannot wait
• Accessibility: Terminal is fully ADA accessible with elevators and ramps
• Porter Service: Available at terminal entrance ($2-3 per bag tip)

Disembarkation

• Self-Assist: Carry your own bags off as early as 6:30-7 AM
• Regular Disembarkation: Grouped by deck/color tags, typically 7:30 AM-9:30 AM
• Customs: Required for Canada cruises, have declaration form ready, CBP officers on-site
• Ground Transportation: Taxis line up outside terminal; rideshare pickup designated area
• Hotel Shuttles: Many Seaport hotels offer complimentary pickup - arrange in advance

Contact Information

Flynn Cruiseport Boston:

• Phone: (617) 330-1500
• Website: massport.com/cruiseport

Massport (Port Authority):

• Phone: (617) 568-5000
• Website: massport.com

Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau:

• Phone: (888) 733-2678
• Website: bostonusa.com
• Visitor Center: Boston Common

Logan Airport Ground Transportation:

• Phone: (800) 235-6426
• Website: massport.com/logan

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early should I arrive at Flynn Cruiseport Boston? A: Most cruise lines recommend arriving by 11 AM-12 PM on embarkation day, though requirements vary by cruise line. During peak fall foliage season (September-October), consider arriving even earlier as the terminal can be busier. Always verify the recommended arrival time with your specific cruise line.

Q: Is parking available at the Boston cruise terminal? A: Yes, on-site parking is available at Flynn Cruiseport for approximately $25-30 per day (subject to change). Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season. Off-site parking options are typically available for $20-25/day with shuttle service.

Q: How far is Logan Airport from the cruise port? A: Logan International Airport is only 3 miles from Flynn Cruiseport, making it one of the closest airport-to-port distances in the US. Taxi/Uber typically takes 10-20 minutes and costs approximately $25-35.

Q: Do I need a passport for a Boston cruise? A: For cruises visiting Canadian ports, a valid passport book is typically required (passport cards are generally not sufficient for cruise travel). Requirements vary by itinerary and citizenship. Always verify current documentation requirements with your cruise line and check official government travel advisories before your trip.

Q: What's the best time of year to cruise from Boston? A: The most popular season is fall (late September through October) for spectacular fall foliage. Spring and summer cruises (May-August) offer warmer weather. Most cruise lines operate seasonally from Boston, primarily April through November.

Q: Can I walk to hotels from the cruise terminal? A: Yes! Many Seaport District hotels are within 5-15 minute walking distance from Flynn Cruiseport. Downtown and waterfront hotels are 5-10 minutes by taxi/rideshare.

Q: What cruise lines sail from Boston? A: Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean all operate cruises from Flynn Cruiseport Boston.

Related Port Guides

Planning a cruise from another East Coast port? Check out our other comprehensive port guides:

• New York City Cruise Port Guide - Manhattan and Brooklyn cruise terminals, transportation from three major airports, and top NYC attractions
• Miami Cruise Port Guide - The "Cruise Capital of the World" with year-round Caribbean departures, terminal information, and South Florida attractions

Boston combines rich American history with modern amenities, making it an ideal port for cruise vacations. Whether you're exploring the Freedom Trail, enjoying fresh seafood in the North End, or simply strolling through Boston Common, the city offers unforgettable experiences before or after your New England or Canada cruise!