New England Cruise Now Begins in Providence

Cruise tourism returns to Providence this week, marking the first time in four years that Rhode Island's capital city has been a port of call.

Back in April Mayor Brett Smiley announced that American Cruise Lines would make Providence a permanent stop on its New England itineraries. These new cruises will bring thousands of tourists to the city each year.

Now the first of those cruise ships has arrived and officials were on hand to roll out the red carpet - actually roll out the new floating dock.

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New England Itinerary Launches From India Point

Though you might be picturing a huge cruise ship with pools and waterslides on deck, American Cruise Lines features smaller ships that mainly travel along coastlines and up rivers across the country.

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Their East Coast cruises offer several options around New York and Boston, but their newest New England Islands Cruise will now start and end in Providence. This 8-day trip stops in Newport, Block Island, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket and even New Bedford along the way.

To prep for the boost to tourism, Providence has unveiled a new floating dock at India Point Park.

Though temporary until more permanent infrastructure can be planned, the floating dock will help travelers on the 100-passenger ship American Liberty board safely and head out on their weeklong vacation.

Tourism Impact and Cruise Schedule

That first cruise out of Providence in years will launch on June 28 with over 20 more to follow through early September. Providence expects to bring in over $1.3 million in tourism spending before the season is over.

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The new cruises range from $5,000 - $8,000 per person and many of the trips are already completely sold out.