Philadelphia may be known for its cracked Liberty Bell and its prominent place in the American revolution but cruisers are also headed here in rapidly-growing numbers.
More than 92,000 travelers, or 50% above last year, are expected to board ships at the Cruise Terminal at Pier 1 this year.
The season’s first departure this week was the Norwegian Crown, headed for a seven-day voyage to Bermuda.
There are several reasons why Philadelphia is becoming a home port for cruise ships.
“Philadelphia is cashing in on a post 9-11 move by cruise lines to base ships at ports outside Florida, so passengers don’t have to fly to a distant city to start their vacation,” said a local newspaper.
Philadelphia is also less crowded than many ports.
Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International have scheduled a record 32 trips from the terminal through late October.
Report by David Wilkening
