There will be a number of high-profile calls for Cruiseport Boston this year, including the first visits by Disney Cruise Line and Viking Cruises. In addition, the Anthem of the Seas will make her inaugural visit and become the biggest vessel ever to call in Boston.

“We expect volume to be higher this year,” said Acting Port Director Lisa Wieland, who is expecting 119 calls and 330,000 passengers.

2015 saw the introduction of a new itinerary sailing from Boston, with the Veendam offering Bermuda cruises alongside the Norwegian Dawn.

“Most of the business is still homeporting, but there is a good mix between homeports and ports of calls. We like that from a business standpoint,” she added.

Wieland said for the port to become year-round, it would need to attract a Caribbean program for the winter.

“The near term is to expand Canada/New England itineraries for the summer,” she said. “Most people think about that for fall foliage, but the region offers a great summer experience for families looking to be active.             

“We think there is strong demand for a shoulder season Caribbean itinerary, and continue to work with cruise line partners to develop it,” Wieland continued.

The port completed a $3 million upgrade on its secondary terminal prior to the 2015 season, and will add additional bus parking for the 2016 season.

Berth reservations are currently executed on a first-come/first-serve basis, but the port is working on potential long-term agreements.

“Boston as a port of call is a destination, with a tremendous history, rich culture, and many things to experience,” Wieland told Cruise Industry News. For homeport business, the port is within close proximity to the airport and close to the city.

Excerpt from Cruise Industry News Quarterly Magazine: Winter 2015/2016