The Port of Philadelphia announced Dec. 2, 2025, that construction has started on the future PhilaPort Cruise Terminal, a 16-acre site adjacent to the city airport that will serve as the region's newest gateway for cruise travel beginning in spring 2026.
PhilaPort recently acquired the site, situated along the Delaware River, to build a Norwegian Cruise Line terminal, as part of a seven-year berthing agreement that will bring cruises back to the city, Philadelphia Today reported.
The port's deal with the Miami-based cruise operator calls for at least 41 ship visits to be based at the new terminal each year, beginning April 16, 2026. Norwegian Cruise Line will retain exclusive use of the terminal through 2033.
The terminal's inaugural season also will begin during a historic year, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026. The city of Philadelphia is central to the occasion and will host a wide range of nationally significant events and tourism experiences.
Launching Norwegian Cruise Line's seasonal sailings to Bermuda and other destinations during the commemorative year will give travelers a new way to experience both the city's deep maritime heritage and its vibrant modern culture, PhilaPort noted in a news release.
The new terminal is the result of coordinated efforts and partnership among PhilaPort, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) and Energy Transfer Marketing and Terminals (ETMT), headquartered in Dallas, Texas.
"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, PhilaPort's executive director and CEO. "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."
In November, PhilaPort and ETMT finalized the sale agreement of the property in Tinicum Township, formerly known as the Hog Island Dock Terminal Facility, clearing the way for its redevelopment. The deal's amount was not disclosed.
Norwegian Cruise Line's new terminal will be built at 4 Atlantic Ave., just to the west of Philadelphia International Airport.
Created specifically for the cruise facility, the property will allow for ample space for any future terminal expansions, Theobald said.
PhilaPort will manage all marine-side improvements, while NCLH will lead the land-side construction and development of the terminal.
Cruise operations at the new terminal are projected to generate 2,185 direct and indirect jobs and approximately $300 million in annual economic output throughout the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, supporting labor-intensive services that contribute to regional economic well-being.
"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, NCLH's executive vice president, general counsel and chief development officer. "Together with PhilaPort, we're expanding access to exceptional cruise experiences, connecting guests to world-class destinations with the convenience of sailing from a city rich in American history. As we prepare to launch in 2026, this terminal represents the next wave in our commitment to innovation, regional growth and delivering an unmatched guest experience from ship to shore."
Additional information regarding construction schedules, project milestones and terminal amenities will be shared as development progresses, according to PhilaPort. The independent agency also promised to release further details to keep the public, cruise passengers and the travel industry informed as the terminal takes shape.
"The PhilaPort Cruise Terminal will help fulfill 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, chair of the PhilaPort board of directors. "This facility reflects the broader vision for both the city and the port, opening the door to a new chapter of tourism and leisure in Philadelphia."
"We think it'll be very successful, and it'll be the start," Theobald told Philadelphia Today. "Norwegian Cruise Line will have exclusivity [at the port] for a while, but I think after that period is over, we will look for other cruise businesses to support it."
