The state has several major ports such as Boston and Cape Cod that are popular departure points for cruises. These ports offer a variety of cruises, including:
- Coastal cruises: These cruises depart from Boston and sail along the Massachusetts coast, visiting destinations such as Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket.
- Harbor cruises: These cruises depart from Boston and sail to destinations such as the Boston Harbor, the Charles River, and the Mystic River, where passengers can see historic ships, lighthouses, and the city's skyline.
- Dinner cruises: Some companies offer dinner cruises on the Boston Harbor and other nearby rivers, which include live entertainment and a meal.
- Whale-watching cruises: These cruises depart from Cape Cod and sail to the Gulf of Maine, where passengers can watch whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
- Lighthouse cruises: These cruises depart from Boston and sail to destinations such as the Boston Light and the Minot's Ledge Light, where passengers can learn about the history of lighthouses and the maritime industry in Massachusetts.