Hankering for a cruise to a tropical paradise? For Pennsylvanians it’s about to get easier.
Starting in April, Philadelphia will serve as the newest gateway for cruise travel with the completion of a cruise terminal adjacent to the city’s international airport.
PhilaPort this week announced the start of construction of the future PhilaPort Cruise Terminal, a 16-acre site adjacent to Philadelphia International Airport. The first cruise is set for Bermuda on April 16.
The cruise terminal’s inaugural will coincide with the country’s celebration of its 250th anniversary and Philadelphia’s prominent role in its maritime history.
Seasonal sailings will include itineraries aboard Norwegian Cruise Line to Bermuda and other destinations. Additional destinations will be added.
The project is being led by a partnership with PhilaPort, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and Energy Transfer Marketing and Terminals.
“It took a lot of hard work to bring this agreement together, and Energy Transfer and Norwegian Cruise Line were committed every step of the way. We have a lot of hard work ahead of us, but we are ready and excited to welcome cruise passengers this spring,” said Jeff Theobald, PhilaPort Executive Director and CEO.
The new terminal sits in Tinicum Township, in what was formerly known as the Hog Island Dock Terminal Facility. PhilaPort will manage all marine-side improvements, while Norwegian Cruise will lead the land-side construction and development of the terminal.
A seven-year berthing agreement will run from April 15 through March 31, 2033, and will feature an initial commitment from Norwegian Cruise of 41 sailings per year.
PhilaPort estimates that cruise operations at the new terminal are projected to generate 2,185 direct and indirect jobs and approximately $300 million in annual economic output.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest homeport will leverage its three award-winning brands, which also include Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
“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,” said Daniel S. Farkas, executive vice president at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
“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.”
Michael Pearson, chairman of the PhilaPort Board of Directors, noted that the PhilaPort Cruise Terminal is part of the strategic plan, Destination 2040, to make the port a multi-faceted port rather than one focused solely on cargo.
AAA expects 2026 to be another strong year for the cruise industry with a projected 21.7 million Americans expected to take ocean cruises. AAA is forecasting a year-over-year increase of 8.4% from 2024 to 2025 and a 4.5% bounce from 2025 to 2026.
The majority of adult cruise travellers in the U.S. — 65% — are 55 or older, according to the travel agency. A third are between the ages of 35-54. Most adults take a plus one on their cruise, AAA said.
Your newest gateway to a Caribbean cruise is right here in Pa.
