Plan a CruiseBoston Cruise Port Guide
Flynn Cruiseport Boston is a pier facility conveniently located on Black Falcon Avenue. It is situated approximately 10 minutes from Boston Logan International Airport and less than two miles from central Boston neighborhoods like historic Back Bay, Newbury Street, Copley Square, and the South End. These areas are generally within walking distance of each other once you reach the city.
Boston is an easy city to explore, particularly its historical sites which are well-suited for walking tours. The city's subway system, known as "the T," efficiently transports passengers. A car is not necessary for touring Boston, as driving conditions can be challenging even for locals.
Getting Around from the Port
The cruise port is not directly walkable to the main attractions for most passengers, but it is possible to walk to downtown in about 30 minutes via Northern Avenue, partly along the new Harborwalk and over the Northern Avenue pedestrian bridge.
For public transport, take the Silver Line SL2 bus from Black Falcon Avenue (near the cruise terminal) to South Station. From South Station, follow signs to transfer to the Red Line (direction Alewife) and travel two stops to Park Street. Park Street is located at Boston Common, which is the starting point for the Freedom Trail and has an information booth. The MBTA "the T" system is convenient and relatively inexpensive for reaching most points of interest.
Taxis are readily available at the Boston Cruise Terminal. For two or more people, a taxi can often be a more cost-effective option than cruise ship shuttle services.
Attractions and Activities
With 8-10 hours in port, focus on central Boston's rich history and culture:
- The Freedom Trail: This 2.5-mile walking trail connects 16 of the most famous sites from early U.S. history. Start at Boston Common (accessible via the Red Line to Park Street).
- Boston Public Garden & Swan Boats: Located adjacent to Boston Common, a pleasant area for a stroll.
- Quincy Market: A historic festival marketplace, and Boston's most visited tourist destination. It features a large food court with local eateries, street performers, and numerous shops with Boston-themed souvenirs, especially lobster items.
- North End: Boston's historic Italian neighborhood, offering an old-world ambiance and numerous dining options.
- Beacon Hill: Known for its gas lamps, Federal-style architecture, Louisburg Square mansions, and the gold-domed New State House.
- Back Bay & Newbury Street: Explore this upscale district for boutiques, art galleries, and dining. Copley Square is also in this area.
- South End: Discover Victorian row houses and Boston's newest culinary hot spot.
- Museums: Options include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, and the Institute of Contemporary Art.
- Charlestown: Across the Charles River, easily accessible, home to the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.
- Cambridge: Also across the Charles River, you can visit the campuses of Harvard and MIT.
- Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tours: These are available as an organized tour option if you prefer structured sightseeing.
Dining
The South End is noted as Boston's newest culinary hot spot, offering a variety of eateries. Quincy Market's food court is an excellent option for a wide selection of local and diverse food stalls, providing a vibrant atmosphere with street performers. Look for local specialties, especially lobster-themed items.
Shopping
Quincy Market is a primary shopping destination for tourists, offering numerous souvenir shops and unique local products, including many lobster-themed items. For upscale boutiques and art galleries, Newbury Street in Back Bay is a popular choice, as are the shops around Copley Square. Major retailers typically operate from 10 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays (11 am/noon to 5 or 6 pm). Most stores remain open on minor holidays, but are generally closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Safety
No specific safety concerns beyond general big-city awareness are noted for Boston.
Currency and Language
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD, $). ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are universally accepted, even for small purchases, and are sometimes the only payment method available.
Important notes for overseas visitors:
- Sales Tax: Prices for goods and services in the U.S. do not typically include sales tax, which usually ranges from 4-6% in Boston. This will be added to your total bill at the time of purchase (exceptions include gasoline and on-premises alcoholic beverages).
- Tipping: Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. Standard rates include:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (check your bill, as some few restaurants may include an automatic service charge).
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers, personal services: 10-15%.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink or 15% of the total bill.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum regardless of bags).
- Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if assistance provided), $1 for calling a cab.
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours or less, $10-20 per person for longer tours.
- Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%.
- Food delivery (e.g., pizza): $2-5, potentially more for very large orders.
Language: English is the standard language for everyday use. In case of emergency, dial 911.