Norwegian Jewel sailed from Philadelphia on April 16, 2026, marking the first homeport cruise departure from the city in more than 15 years. The ship is operating 7- to 9-night cruises to Bermuda from the SouthPort Marine Terminal Complex through August 27, then shifting to Canada and New England itineraries through October 17. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has signed a seven-year exclusive berthing agreement with PhilaPort, committing to at least 41 sailings per year through March 2033.
The permanent 16-acre cruise terminal, under construction adjacent to Philadelphia International Airport, was not ready in time for the April launch due to weather-related construction delays. As a result, embarkation for early sailings took place at a nearby hotel, with passengers shuttled to the pier. Norwegian Pearl is set to replace Jewel at the homeport in late 2026 and will extend the program to include Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries.
Port officials project the terminal will generate roughly $300 million in annual economic output for Pennsylvania once fully operational. The timing has additional significance: Philadelphia is hosting major events tied to the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026, drawing increased attention to the city as a travel hub.