Norwegian Cruise Line reintroduces in Philadelphia
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In collaboration with PhilaPort and Tinicum Township, NCLH is currently building a new terminal due to open this cruise season.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced its return to Philadelphia, becoming the first cruise line to sail from the city in 15 years. As the city of Philadelphia celebrates a momentous year with the country’s 250th anniversary happening this summer, NCL has brought yet another significant milestone to this storied city with the return of the cruise industry.
Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, said “With Norwegian Jewel leading our reintroduction and Norwegian Pearl following her later this year, we’re proud to bring our signature freedom and flexibility back to this incredible city and deliver the exceptional experiences our guests know and love.”
To celebrate this NCL hosted local officials aboard Norwegian Jewel for a special ceremony attended by local and state government authorities including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro; Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker; Tinicum Township Board President, Patrick McCarthy; as well as PhilaPort Board Chairman, Michael Pearson.
Governor Shapiro, said, “Tourism is big business in Pennsylvania, supporting 500,000 jobs and contributing USD 84 billion to our economy across the Commonwealth. That’s why my Administration has made it a priority to invest in and support PhilaPort’s expansion, so we can create jobs, attract more visitors, and bring incredible offerings like cruises from Norwegian Cruise Line to the people of Pennsylvania.”
In collaboration with PhilaPort and Tinicum Township, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH), the parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line, is currently building a brand-new terminal due to open this cruise season designed to welcome guests and facilitate an easy embarkation and disembarkation process.
“The arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line and Norwegian Jewel signals the beginning of a new chapter for our port, our city, and the entire region. As we continue to grow beyond cargo operations, this new cruise service strengthens our position as a gateway to global travel and commerce while delivering meaningful economic impact for Pennsylvania,” said, PhilaPort Executive Director & CEO Jeff Theobald
Through August 27, 2026, Norwegian Jewel will sail a curated lineup of Bermuda itineraries designed to showcase the destination. Seven-day sailings include an overnight at the Royal Naval Dockyard, along with a visit to either Charleston, South Carolina, or Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. A nine-day voyage departing August 27, 2026, also available, featuring an extended overnight in Bermuda, plus calls to the Canadian ports of Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Kicking off the fall season, Norwegian Jewel will offer 10 and 11‑day Canada and New England itineraries from September 5 through October 7, 2026, with embarkation options from Philadelphia or Quebec City.
Beginning in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will replace Norwegian Jewel, offering a similar onboard experience while sailing from Philadelphia through April 2028, reinforcing NCL’s commitment to choice, convenience and thoughtfully curated travel experiences for the region. Norwegian Pearl will continue voyages to Bermuda as well as Canada and New England, while expanding offerings to the Caribbean and Bahamas.
Select Bahamas sailings in February and March 2027 will also visit Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island, featuring a new pool, family splash zone, adults‑only Vibe Shore Club, and, beginning summer 2026, the nearly six‑acre Great Tides Waterpark with 19 waterslides, cliffside jumps, Splash Cay, and the 800‑foot Wandering River.
