By
Alex Smith |
PhilaPort has begun construction of the future PhilaPort Cruise Terminal, a 16-acre site adjacent to Philadelphia International Airport that is scheduled to open for cruise operations in April 2026.
The terminal will launch during the United States’ 250th anniversary year, when Philadelphia is expected to host a range of nationally recognised events. Norwegian Cruise Line plans to begin seasonal sailings to Bermuda and other destinations from the new facility in 2026.
“This is a unique opportunity, and we are fortunate to have two outstanding partners in Energy Transfer and Norwegian Cruise Line, both of whom see tremendous potential in Philadelphia,” said Jeff Theobald, executive director and CEO of PhilaPort. “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.”
The terminal project is a coordinated effort among PhilaPort, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), and Energy Transfer Marketing and Terminals (ETMT). PhilaPort and ETMT have finalised the property sale for the site in Tinicum Township, formerly known as the Hog Island Dock Terminal Facility. PhilaPort will oversee marine-side improvements, while NCLH will lead onshore construction and terminal development. Under a seven-year berthing agreement running from 15 April 2026 through 31 March 2033, NCLH’s brands will operate from Philadelphia as the port’s exclusive homeport partner, with an initial commitment of 41 sailings per year.
Cruise operations at the new terminal are projected to generate 2,185 direct and indirect jobs and approximately $300 million in annual economic output across the Commonwealth, according to PhilaPort.
“Philadelphia’s debut as our newest homeport marks a strategic milestone for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and our three award-winning brands, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises,” said Daniel S. Farkas, executive vice president, general counsel and chief development officer at NCLH. “Together with PhilaPort, we’re expanding access to cruise experiences and connecting guests to destinations with the convenience of sailing from a city with significant historical importance. As we prepare to launch in 2026, this terminal represents the next phase in our commitment to regional growth and delivering a consistent guest experience from ship to shore.”
PhilaPort will continue to share updates on construction progress, project timelines, and terminal features as development continues.
“The PhilaPort Cruise Terminal will help fulfil a key commitment in our strategic plan, Destination 2040, to make PhilaPort a multi-faceted port rather than one focused solely on cargo,” said Michael Pearson, chairman of the PhilaPort board of directors. “This facility reflects broader planning objectives for both the city and the port.”