Norwegian Cruise Line Returns to Philadelphia After 15-Year Hiatus

The cruise line brings its signature freedom and flexibility to the City of Brotherly Love with Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Pearl sailings.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:46pm

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A conceptual illustration in the Art Deco Monumentalist style, featuring a sweeping, geometric composition with towering, streamlined forms and smooth gradients in shades of blue, gray, and white, capturing the grand scale and romance of the cruise industry's return to Philadelphia.The vibrant return of Norwegian Cruise Line to Philadelphia's port signals a new era of travel and tourism for the city.Philadelphia Today

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced its long-awaited return to Philadelphia, becoming the first cruise line to sail from the city in 15 years. To celebrate the historic milestone, NCL hosted local officials aboard the Norwegian Jewel for a special ceremony attended by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, and other dignitaries. The cruise line is currently building a brand-new terminal at PhilaPort to welcome guests and facilitate an easy embarkation and disembarkation process.

Why it matters

The return of Norwegian Cruise Line to Philadelphia marks a significant milestone for the city's tourism industry, which has been hit hard by the pandemic. The new cruise offerings are expected to bring increased economic activity and job opportunities to the region, further solidifying Philadelphia's position as a gateway for global travel and commerce.

The details

Norwegian Jewel will sail a curated lineup of Bermuda itineraries through August 2026, with an overnight stay at the Royal Naval Dockyard and visits to Charleston, South Carolina, or Halifax, Nova Scotia. In the fall, the ship will offer 10- and 11-day Canada and New England itineraries. Beginning in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will replace Norwegian Jewel, offering similar voyages to Bermuda, Canada and New England, as well as the Caribbean and Bahamas, including visits to NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

  • On April 16, 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line hosted a special ceremony aboard Norwegian Jewel to celebrate the company's return to Philadelphia.
  • Norwegian Jewel will sail from Philadelphia through August 2026, with voyages to Bermuda and Canada and New England.
  • Beginning in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will replace Norwegian Jewel, offering a similar onboard experience and itineraries through April 2028.

The players

Marc Kazlauskas

President of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Josh Shapiro

Governor of Pennsylvania.

Cherelle Parker

Mayor of Philadelphia.

Patrick McCarthy

Tinicum Township Board President.

Michael Pearson

PhilaPort Board Chairman.

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What they’re saying

“Norwegian Cruise Line's return to Philadelphia marks an exciting and meaningful milestone for us and the region.”

— Marc Kazlauskas, President of Norwegian Cruise Line

“As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, Pennsylvania is at the center of the action – and I'm excited to welcome Norwegian Cruise Line as the newest addition to our Commonwealth's fast-growing tourism industry.”

— Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania

“This is a defining moment for The Port of Philadelphia. 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.”

— Jeff Theobald, PhilaPort Executive Director & CEO

What’s next

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The takeaway

The return of Norwegian Cruise Line to Philadelphia is a significant boost for the city's tourism industry, which has faced challenges in recent years. The new cruise offerings are expected to bring increased economic activity and job opportunities to the region, further solidifying Philadelphia's position as a gateway for global travel and commerce.