Cruising Returns to Philadelphia Amid Historic Celebrations
As Philly welcomes the FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th, travelers can set sail from the city’s cruise port to top destinations in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and beyond
This year is shaping up to be a huge year for Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love will be a host city of the FIFA World Cup and celebration central for America’s big 250th as the birthplace of the nation. And as icing on the cake, Philly will open its very own cruise port this spring—making it an even more exciting destination for travelers in 2026.
There hasn’t been a cruise port in the city since the closing of the one at the Navy Yard in 2011. The new location will be adjacent to Philadelphia International Airport, offering added convenience for travelers flying to the new port. Beyond the perk of airport proximity, the area around the port provides plenty of hotel options, long-term parking facilities, and regularly operating taxis and rideshares—everything travelers need for smooth sailing.
Philadelphia sets sail again
The revival of the cruise industry in Philadelphia is poised to be a major win for travelers and regional tourism. Cruisers stopping in Philly will no doubt venture into the city to soak up the full Philly experience. Historic landmarks such as The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are expected to see an uptick in visitors, while those drawn to the spookier side of history can explore Edgar Allan Poe’s former home or Eastern State Penitentiary.
Families can easily spend an entire day at the Philadelphia Zoo, exploring everything from exotic big cats to penguins. And of course, no visit to the City of Brotherly Love is complete without grabbing a classic cheesesteak. Just make sure you burn off the calories by running up the Philadelphia Art Museum stairs, Rocky Balboa style. His statue will be waiting to cheer you on.
The excitement of the Philadelphia cruise port isn’t just for visitors. For those of us who call Philly home, being able to hop on a cruise ship and set sail for new destinations from our hometown is a luxury few places can claim. It’s almost like stepping outside of your front door and landing in a new country.
Starting in spring 2026, the Philadelphia cruise port will host regular departures to a variety of exciting destinations, such as:
- The Caribbean
- Bermuda
- The Bahamas
- New England and Canada
These itineraries offer a range of great getaways, with voyages ranging from five to 12 days.
It’s shaping up to be a truly memorable year in The City that Loves You Back.