Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Service from Port of Philadelphia

The 965-foot-long Norwegian Jewel will depart the city's temporary cruise terminal on its first voyage.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:37am

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A vibrant, textured oil painting in the style of Vincent Van Gogh, depicting a large cruise ship sailing along a colorful coastline with lush greenery and a bright, sun-dappled sky.The return of cruising to Philadelphia's port promises to bring a wave of economic opportunity and excitement to the city.Philadelphia Today

For the first time in 15 years, a cruise ship is setting sail from the Port of Philadelphia. Norwegian Cruise Line has signed a seven-year berthing agreement with PhilaPort to operate as the city's exclusive home port, with the 965-foot-long Norwegian Jewel scheduled to depart on its first voyage from the temporary cruise terminal on Thursday afternoon.

Why it matters

The return of cruising to Philadelphia and the construction of the port's permanent cruise terminal are expected to create over 2,100 jobs and provide an annual economic boost of $300 million for the region.

The details

The Norwegian Jewel, which was refurbished last year, arrived at PhilaPort's temporary terminal site along the Delaware River near the airport around 5:30 a.m. on Thursday. The ship will depart at 4 p.m. on its first voyage, with seven- to nine-day cruises to Bermuda scheduled in the spring and summer. In the fall, the ship will sail north to New England and Canada.

  • The Norwegian Jewel arrived at the temporary cruise terminal around 5:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • The Norwegian Jewel is scheduled to depart the Port of Philadelphia at 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

The players

Norwegian Cruise Line

A major cruise line that has signed a seven-year berthing agreement with PhilaPort to operate as Philadelphia's exclusive home port.

PhilaPort

The organization that operates the Port of Philadelphia, which is currently constructing a permanent cruise terminal in Tinicum Township, Delaware County.

Cherelle Parker

The Mayor of Philadelphia, who is set to mark the occasion of the Norwegian Jewel's departure from the city's temporary cruise terminal.

Norwegian Jewel

A 965-foot-long cruise ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line that will be the first to depart from the Port of Philadelphia in 15 years.

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What’s next

The permanent cruise terminal in Tinicum Township, Delaware County, is still under construction, as the harsh winter weather caused delays.

The takeaway

The launch of Norwegian Cruise Line's service from the Port of Philadelphia marks a significant milestone for the city, as it aims to revive its cruise industry and capitalize on the economic benefits it can bring to the region.