Cruise industry returns to Philadelphia with Norwegian Jewel's inaugural sailing
6abc Philadelphia • • business
Key Points:
- The Norwegian Jewel set sail from Philadelphia on its inaugural cruise to Bermuda, marking the return of regular cruise service to the city after nearly 20 years.
- Nearly 2,000 passengers boarded the ship at the PhilaPort Cruise Terminal, with state and city leaders highlighting the economic benefits, including an estimated 2,100 new jobs and nearly $295 million in economic impact.
- A new cruise terminal near Philadelphia International Airport is under construction to enhance the passenger experience, though temporary arrangements were made for check-in due to weather-related delays.
- Norwegian Jewel will offer spring sailings to Bermuda and fall trips to Canada and New England, with the Norwegian Pearl scheduled to begin operations in November.
- Officials emphasized that ongoing terminal construction will not affect cruise schedules, as Philadelphia aims to reestablish itself as a key regional and international travel hub.
