Cruises return to Philly today for the first time in 15 years
Gov. Josh Shapiro and Mayor Cherelle L. Parker are expected to attend a send-off ceremony aboard the ship this afternoon.
The Norwegian Jewel is docked in the Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) and ready to welcome passengers aboard today for a seven-day, round-trip cruise to Bermuda, marking the first time in 15 years a cruise ship has sailed out of Philly.
While Norwegian’s Cruise Line’s 965-foot vessel is ready to go, PhilaPort’s new Cruise Ship Terminal is not yet shipshape. Construction of the terminal in Tinicum — at a site adjacent to the Philadelphia International Airport formerly known as the Hog Island Dock Terminal Facility — began in December but was delayed by winter weather and remains ongoing.
As a result, passengers taking the voyage out of Philadelphia are being asked to check in and drop off their luggage at the Clarion Hotel at the airport. From there, they will be shuttled to the terminal. Guests and civilians can’t access the terminal, except via the approved shuttles, and there is no option to check-in at the ship.
Prior to departure, members of the media will be given a tour of the ship and a ceremony will be held aboard. Expected speakers include Gov. Josh Shapiro, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, and Norwegian Cruise Line president Marc Kazlauskas.
Built in 2005 and refurbished last year, the Norwegian Jewel holds 1,069 crew members and up to 2,368 passengers. The ship has more than a dozen dining options, including an Irish pub, French bistro, and a Japanese hibachi restaurant, as well as 14 bars. There’s also a casino, Starbucks, spa, and theater on board.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s seven-year agreement with PhilaPort runs through 2033 and includes an initial commitment of 41 voyages a year to places like the Caribbean, New England, and Canada.
