Boston’s Cruise Season Kicks Off

Warm east coast weather signals the beginning of Boston’s cruise season, which officially began on Saturday at Cruiseport Boston. This year’s season will run through November 7 with some 116 ships representing 15 cruise lines carrying upwards of 280,000 cruisers. Itineraries will include calls in Canada/New England, Bermuda, the Caribbean as well as transatlantic voyages.

“This cruise season promises to be a busy one with a 20 percent increase over last year,” said Mike Leone, Massport’s port director. “This is good news for Boston’s local restaurants, shops and attractions.”

Beginning in May, NCL’s Norwegian Dream will call Boston home, replacing Norwegian Majesty, and offer weekly Bermuda itineraries and seven-day Canada/New England cruises. NCL and the government of Bermuda recently signed a 10-year agreement, which continues NCL’s run as the exclusive line sailing between Boston and Bermuda.

Boston also welcomes back Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas, which will offer Canada/New England and Caribbean cruises. Also new this season will be a visit from Holland America’s newest ship, Eurodam, which debuts in July. Visit www.massport.com.