New Philadelphia Cruise Terminal Opening in 2026 – First Look
Are you going to be cruising out of Philadelphia in 2026? Philadelphia has officially begun construction on a brand-new cruise terminal that will reshape how travelers sail from the region.
PhilaPort announced that work is now underway on the future PhilaPort Cruise Terminal, a 16 acre waterfront site beside Philadelphia International Airport that is scheduled to open in April 2026.
The location, formerly the Hog Island Dock Terminal Facility in Tinicum Township, will become the city’s primary gateway for cruise travel.
New Philadelphia Cruise Terminal Opening in 2026
Its launch comes during a landmark year, as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary with major events based in Philadelphia.
Officials say the timing positions the new terminal as a centerpiece of the city’s tourism boom in 2026.
Norwegian Cruise Line will launch a new homeport at this Marine Terminal Complex with its first departures scheduled for April 2026.
The Norwegian Jewel will begin the season with seven to nine day round trip sailings to Bermuda, including select itineraries that feature an overnight stay. In the fall, the ship will shift to ten to eleven day voyages through Canada and New England.
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The Norwegian Jewel is the lead ship of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Jewel class and has been sailing since 2005. The ship carries a little over two thousand guests and offers a wide mix of dining, entertainment, and freestyle cruising experiences that let travelers explore on their own schedule.
After recent refurbishments, the ship features updated staterooms and refreshed public spaces. While not as large as today’s newest mega vessels, its size makes it easy to navigate and a strong fit for families and couples looking for a comfortable and flexible cruise experience.
Leaders at PhilaPort say welcoming a major cruise brand in such a historic year gives the city an opportunity to showcase both its maritime heritage and modern cultural appeal.
A Major Partnership to Build a New Homeport
The project is made possible through coordination between PhilaPort, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and Energy Transfer Marketing and Terminals. PhilaPort and ETMT have finalized the sale agreement for the site, allowing redevelopment to begin immediately.
PhilaPort will oversee all marine side construction, while Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings will spearhead the land side terminal development.
Under a seven year agreement running from April 15, 2026 through March 31, 2033, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings will serve as Philadelphia’s exclusive homeport provider with plans for forty one sailings each year.
Some compare this port to the one that Royal Caribbean has outside of New York City at Port Liberty.
Economic Impact Across Pennsylvania
Cruise operations at the new terminal are expected to generate more than two thousand direct and indirect jobs throughout the Commonwealth. The project is forecast to support approximately three hundred million dollars in annual economic output linked to tourism and port activity.
Daniel Farkas, Executive Vice President at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, called the move into Philadelphia a strategic milestone for the company’s three brands, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
He said the terminal will improve access to major cruise destinations while giving guests the convenience of sailing from a city rich in American history.
A New Chapter for PhilaPort
The new cruise terminal advances PhilaPort’s long term goals under its Destination 2040 strategic plan, which aims to expand the port’s identity beyond cargo operations. Port Chairman Michael Pearson said the facility supports a broader vision for both the city and the port as Philadelphia works to grow its tourism profile.
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What Comes Next
Additional construction updates, terminal details, and progress reports will be released as work continues. PhilaPort plans to keep the public and the travel industry informed as the project moves forward.
With its convenient airport access, new waterfront amenities, and a lineup of cruises set to launch during America’s 250th anniversary, the PhilaPort Cruise Terminal is expected to quickly become one of the East Coast’s most appealing cruise departure points.
Travelers will soon have a new way to Cruise Philly First beginning in 2026.
Have you booked your cruise out of Philly yet?