NCL returns to Philadelphia with Bermuda, Canada & Caribbean sailings

Norwegian Cruise Line is returning to Philadelphia, becoming the first cruise line to sail from the city in 15 years.

The move comes as Philadelphia prepares to mark the United States' 250th anniversary this summer, with NCL reintroducing cruise service from the port.

"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."

Through Aug. 27, 2026, Norwegian Jewel will operate seven-day Bermuda sailings from Philadelphia, including an overnight at the Royal Naval Dockyard and a call in either Charleston, South Carolina or Halifax, Nova Scotia.

A longer nine-day voyage departing Aug. 27 includes Bermuda, plus calls to Saint John and Halifax.

From Sept. 5 through Oct. 7, 2026, the ship will shift to 10- and 11-day Canada and New England itineraries, with embarkation available in either Philadelphia or Quebec City.

In late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will take over operations from Philadelphia through April 2028, continuing Bermuda, Canada and New England sailings while adding Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries.

Select Bahamas departures in February and March 2027 will include calls to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island.

NCL is also offering Cruisetours on select Norwegian Jewel sailings — immersive land experiences with guided visits to Philadelphia landmarks including Elfreth's Alley, the Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, Carpenter's Hall, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

"Norwegian Cruise Line's return to Philadelphia marks an exciting and meaningful milestone for us and the region," said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. 

"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 mark the launch, NCL hosted local officials aboard Norwegian Jewel, including Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia mayor Cherelle Parker, Tinicum Township board president Patrick McCarthy and PhilaPort Board chairman Michael Pearson.

"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."

A new cruise terminal is also under development in partnership with PhilaPort and Tinicum Township and is expected to open this season.

MAIN IMAGE: From left: Dan Farkas, executive vice president & general counsel, NCLH; Michael Pearson, PhilaPort chairman; Marc Kazlauskas, president of NCL; Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker; Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania; Mikko Samuli Kovalainen, captain of Norwegian Jewel; and Jeff Theobald, CEO of PhilaPort. (Supplied)

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