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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