Massport Appoints New Port Director in Boston

Charlie Cunnion will lead maritime operations as Flynn Cruiseport undergoes major infrastructure improvements.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Cruises

Isometric editorial illustration of industrial port machinery, featuring a gantry crane on a pier, representing maritime infrastructure modernization in Boston. — The Massachusetts Port Authority has named Charlie Cunnion as port director to oversee $100 million in infrastructure upgrades at Flynn Cruiseport. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Massachusetts Port Authority has appointed Charlie Cunnion as its new port director. Cunnion brings 25 years of experience in supply chain management to the role as the agency continues its oversight of Flynn Cruiseport.

Why it matters

The appointment aims to sustain the growth and operational momentum at Flynn Cruiseport. Massport is prioritizing infrastructure improvements to streamline passenger flow and modernize facility technology.

Flynn Cruiseport served 454,000 passengers and 149 ship calls during 2025. Massport has committed over $100 million toward facility upgrades, including expanded waiting areas and new escalators.

The players

Charlie Cunnion

He is the newly appointed port director for the Massachusetts Port Authority with 25 years of experience in transportation and supply chain management.

Massachusetts Port Authority

Also known as Massport, this quasi-public agency is responsible for managing major transportation infrastructure in the Boston area, including cruise and cargo terminals.

Flynn Cruiseport Boston

This facility is the primary maritime passenger terminal in Boston and serves as a significant hub for international and domestic cruise ship traffic.

The details

Massport is investing $100 million into the facility to improve the passenger experience, with plans to finalize ship-to-shore power infrastructure by 2030. Currently, 80 percent of vessels arriving in Boston are already equipped to utilize shore power or low-carbon technologies.

In 2024, Cunnion joined the IFP-CMPC joint venture.
Flynn Cruiseport recorded 454,000 passengers during 2025.
Massport anticipates the completion of ship-to-shore power systems by 2030.

Travel Outlook

This leadership transition aligns with the broader push to modernize major North American maritime hubs. The focus on shore power reflects a shift toward reducing the carbon footprint of the cruise industry at large.

Travelers should anticipate ongoing construction and infrastructure improvements while moving through Flynn Cruiseport. These upgrades are designed to decrease wait times and improve security check-in efficiency for future cruises.

The takeaway

The move signals a long-term commitment to enhancing the capacity and sustainability of Boston maritime facilities. Passengers should expect modern amenities to accompany the port's focus on low-carbon vessel technology.