Belfast, Maine, has voted unanimously to prohibit cruise ships carrying over 50 guests from docking in the town.
The decision was recommended by Harbor Master Katherine Given, who cited safety and navigation concerns from larger vessels.
In 2024, Belfast hosted eight arrivals from ships exceeding 50 passengers, including five visits from the 109-guest American Eagle.
Local officials noted that the arrival of charter buses for passengers was causing negative impacts on other boaters and pedestrian safety in the area.
Belfast anticipates mitigating up to $20,000 in lost dock fees through alternative uses, while also expecting 14 cruise ship visits in 2025 before the ban was approved.
