Philadelphia Is Getting a New Cruise Terminal, but Only for Norwegian
Last week, the Port of Philadelphia announced the groundbreaking of a new cruise terminal for the PhilaPort Cruise Terminal. The location, which sits right next to Philadelphia International Airport, makes it easy for those in the Philadelphia metropolitan area and for travelers flying in to access a less crowded cruise port. The building will be constructed on a 16-acre site and is scheduled to open in April 2026.
Norwegian Cruise Line Has Exclusive Rights to PhilaPort
The PhilaPort project is a partnership among the port authority itself, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), and Energy Transfer Marketing and Terminals (ETMT). PhilaPort will be responsible for marine-side improvements, while NCLH will lead the development of the terminal building.
NCLH has a seven-year berthing agreement running from April 15, 2026, until March 31, 2033. The press release indicates that the new facility will serve as Norwegian’s “Philadelphia’s exclusive homeport with an initial commitment of 41 sailings per year.” This agreement effectively makes Philadelphia a long-term strategic location for the company.
Philadelphia’s debut as our newest homeport marks a strategic milestone for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and our three award-winning brands, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises,” said Daniel S. Farkas, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Development Officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “Together with PhilaPort, we’re expanding access to exceptional cruise experiences, connecting guests to world-class destinations with the convenience of sailing from a city rich in American history. As we prepare to launch in 2026, this terminal represents the next wave in our commitment to innovation, regional growth, and delivering an unmatched guest experience from ship to shore.”
Convenient Cruise Terminal for the Philadelphia Area
PhilaPort Cruise Terminal will be located at 4 Atlantic Ave., Philadelphia, 19153, roughly 30 minutes from Center City and easily accessible from many surrounding suburbs. The terminal will occupy a tract formerly known as the Hog Island Dock Terminal Facility. Guests will be able to park at a nearby satellite lot, and PhilaPort will provide shuttle service. Parking rates have not yet been announced.
Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jewel Will Sail out of Philadelphia
Currently, two Jewel Class ships are scheduled to sail from the new terminal.
Norwegian Jewel will inaugurate the port on April 15th, sailing 7-day cruises to Bermuda that include a two-day stay at King’s Wharf before stopping in Charleston, South Carolina, and returning to Philadelphia. In the fall, it will offer several 9 to 11-day cruises to the Northeast and Canada.
Then, in November 2026, Norwegian Pearl will take its place. It will begin with longer 10-day sailings to the Dominican Republic and St. Thomas before shifting to 7-day Bermuda cruises in April 2027.
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