Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced its return to Philadelphia, becoming the first cruise line to sail from the city in 15 years. As Philadelphia celebrates the country’s 250th anniversary happening this summer, NCL has brought another significant milestone to this storied city with the return of the cruise industry.
“Norwegian Cruise Line’s return to Philadelphia marks an exciting and meaningful milestone for us and the region,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of NCL. “For the first time in over 15 years, travelers in the Mid-Atlantic area will once again be able to sail from their own backyard with us to experience everything NCL is known for. 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 the milestone for Philadelphia, Norwegian Cruise Line hosted local officials aboard Norwegian Jewel for a special ceremony on April 16, 2026 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.
(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,” said Governor Shapiro. “Tourism is big business in Pennsylvania, supporting 500,000 jobs and contributing $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.
“This is a defining moment for The Port of Philadelphia,” said PhilaPort Executive Director & CEO Jeff Theobald. “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.”
Escapes and Getaways
Philadelphia’s convenient location makes it an ideal gateway for Mid-Atlantic travelers. Through Aug. 27, 2026, Norwegian Jewel will sail a curated lineup of Bermuda itineraries designed to showcase the destination’s charm, culture and natural beauty. 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. For those seeking a longer escape, a nine-day voyage departing Aug. 27, 2026 features 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 Sept. 5 through Oct. 7, 2026, with embarkation options from Philadelphia or Quebec City—giving guests the opportunity to extend their stay pre- or post-cruise. Ideal for fall foliage viewing, these immersive sailings visit destinations throughout Maine, Massachusetts, and Eastern Canada.
Beginning in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will replace Norwegian Jewel, offering a similar onboard experience while sailing from Philadelphia through April 2028. 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, industry-first cliffside jumps, Splash Cay, and the 800-foot Wandering River.
Before or After—Philadelphia Awaits
Guests can extend their journey ashore with NCL’s Cruisetours, land experiences led by local experts that highlight each destination’s history, scenery and culinary traditions. Available on select Norwegian Jewel sailings this year, the Philadelphia Cruisetour features guided visits to sites including Elfreth’s Alley, the Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, Carpenter’s Hall, the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, along with time at the Philadelphia Museum of Art before embarkation.
Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Pearl
With capacity for over 2,300 guests, the recently refurbished Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Pearl boast a range of accommodations from inside staterooms and balconies to elevated suites within The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s ship-within-a-ship concept. An array of dining venues, bars and entertainment allows guests to easily curate their ideal vacation, while Mandara Spa and Salon features a Thermal Suite, complete with a Thalasso Therapy Pool, steam room and sauna. Aboard Norwegian Jewel, guests can also enjoy the recently added Vibe Beach Club, NCL’s popular, adults-only outdoor oasis. Together, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Pearl deliver the freedom and flexibility guests seek.
For more information, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.
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