Norwegian Cruise Line Returns to Philadelphia After 15-Year Hiatus
Norwegian Jewel arrived in Philadelphia on April 16, 2026, to begin a season of cruises to Bermuda, Canada and New England. The company hosted a ceremony aboard Norwegian Jewel on April 16, 2026, attended by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Tinicum Township Board President Patrick McCarthy, and PhilaPort Board Chairman Michael Pearson.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., in collaboration with PhilaPort and Tinicum Township, is constructing a new terminal in Philadelphia designed to accommodate cruise guests. The terminal is scheduled to open for the upcoming cruise season.
Norwegian Jewel will operate Bermuda itineraries through August 27, 2026, including seven-day sailings with overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard and visits to either Charleston, South Carolina, or Halifax, Nova Scotia. A nine-day voyage departing August 27, 2026, will include an extended overnight in Bermuda and calls at Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia. From September 5 through October 7, 2026, Norwegian Jewel will offer 10- and 11-day Canada and New England itineraries, with embarkation options from Philadelphia or Quebec City.
Beginning in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will replace Norwegian Jewel and continue sailings from Philadelphia through April 2028. Norwegian Pearl will offer voyages to Bermuda, Canada, and New England, and will expand offerings to the Caribbean and Bahamas. Select Bahamas sailings in February and March 2027 will include visits to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island, which will feature new amenities including a pool, family splash zone, adults-only Vibe Shore Club, and, beginning summer 2026, the Great Tides Waterpark.
Norwegian Cruise Line is also offering Cruisetours on select Norwegian Jewel sailings, including a Philadelphia Cruisetour featuring guided visits to sites such as Elfreth’s Alley, the Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, Carpenter’s Hall, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Norwegian Jewel has a capacity for over 2,300 guests and offers a range of accommodations, including inside staterooms, balconies, and suites. Norwegian Pearl will provide a similar onboard experience. Both ships feature multiple dining venues, bars, entertainment options, and spa facilities. Norwegian Jewel also includes the Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only outdoor area.
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