Cruise & Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Return to Philadelphia

Image: Norwegian Cruise Line Returns to Philadelphia with Norwegian Jewel (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise LIne)
Image: Norwegian Cruise Line Returns to Philadelphia with Norwegian Jewel (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise LIne)
Noreen Kompanik
by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 1:25 PM ET, Fri April 17, 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line has returned to Philadelphia, becoming the first cruise line to sail from the ‘City of Brotherly Love’ in 15 years.

Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line said in a statement, “Norwegian Cruise Line’s return to Philadelphia marks an exciting and meaningful milestone for us and the region. 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.”

He added, “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.”

In celebration of the milestone, the cruise line hosted local and state government officials aboard the Norwegian Jewel for a special ceremony that included 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.”

Norwegian Jewel Sailings include:

  • Bermuda 7-day sailings through August 27, 2026 with an overnight at the Royal Naval Dockyard, along with a visit to either Charleston, South Carolina, or Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada known for its rich maritime history.
  • Bermuda 9-day sailing departing August 27, 2026 with an extended overnight in Bermuda, plus calls to the Canadian ports of Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia.
  • Canada and New England 10-and-11 days from September 5 through October 7, 2026, with embarkation options from Philadelphia or Quebec City with pre‑ or post‑cruise extensions. Ideal for fall foliage viewing, the sailings visit the history‑rich and scenic destinations of Maine, Massachusetts, and Eastern Canada. 

Beginning in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will replace Norwegian Jewel, 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 Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, 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 fast and exhilarating lazy Wandering River.  


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Noreen Kompanik

Noreen Kompanik

Noreen Kompanik is a San Diego based journalist who is also the co-owner and publisher of Rovology, Travel By Vacation Rental and Book Cottages magazines. She transitioned to freelance writing after spending 35 years as a registered nurse. She is also a regular contributor to Europe Up Close, GoNOMAD, Edible San Diego, International Living, and San Diego Explorer. When she’s not home in sunny San Diego, you’ll likely find her in an exotic beach destination or exploring the backroads of Europe. You can find her on social media as @noreenwriter.

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