Introducing CruisePhilly - America's Berthplace

While many segments of the travel industry continue to suffer in the wake of the events of September 11, 2001, the cruise industry has not only held its own, but continued to experience significant growth. An independent study conducted for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) in 2002 found that both cruise vacationers and cruise prospects are looking for similar things on a vacation, the most important of which are good value, fun, a break from routine and affordability - all of which can be found on a cruise vacation.

Introducing the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1

Until recently residents of the Philadelphia and South Jersey metropolitan area who wished to take a cruise for their vacation were faced with the problem of having to travel to another city to embark on a cruise. Cruise travelers would often have to endure the inconvenience of driving to New York or flying to points south such as Ft. Lauderdale, Miami or San Juan. 

Those days have now passed thanks to a $15 million upgrade to the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1, located on the site of the former Philadelphia Navy Base. 

The Port of Philadelphia and Camden, a department of the Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) has recently completed work on two major enhancements to the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal - the "headhouse" which provides a secure, convenient, handicap and disability friendly raised access to ships, and a modern parking and baggage handling facility.

CruisePhilly is Born

This ambitious project is marketed under the name "CruisePhilly" and with the clever tagline of "America's Berthplace." Aside from the benefits to the cruise traveler, it is anticipated that the project will spur economic development in the region with increased jobs, tourism and related spending on hotel stays, sightseeing and shopping. The projected economic impact on the region in this year alone is projected to be $8.4 million in business revenue and $4.4 million in employment income.

In partnership with the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marking Corporation, the DRPA is now in a position to aggressively market Philadelphia to the major cruise lines and to cruise travelers who yearn to enjoy a more convenient and modern point of departure. 

The work of these organizations is rapidly showing fruition. This fall Philadelphia will host 16 cruises from five major cruise lines - Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Lines and the Holland America Line. Already 23 cruises are scheduled to depart from Philadelphia in 2004 along with 7 cruises which will make port calls in the city. From a mere 7,130 passengers who passed through Philadelphia in 2002, it is estimated that almost 90,000 passengers will be services by the Cruise Terminal in 2005.

DRPA and Celebrity Cruises Announce 3-Year Deal for Summer Cruising from Philadelphia

In a major positive development and vote of confidence in the CruisePhilly project, the DRPA and Celebrity Cruises announced on September 7, 2003 a joint relationship to continue sailing cruises from the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1 over the next three years.

This fall, Celebrity is scheduled to sail to Bermuda from Philadelphia for eight consecutive weeks through the end of October, however, due to the aftermath of Hurricane Fabian which did significant damage to Bermuda, a change in itinerary was required for at least one cruise. 

In 2004 and 2005, Celebrity will sail from Philadelphia to Bermuda for at least 13 consecutive cruises in June, July and August. The relationship with Celebrity Cruises marks the first time since 2000 that Philadelphia will host summer cruises.

"Celebrity is thrilled to be cruising from Philadelphia; a wonderful city for travelers to enjoy a few days before and after their cruise experience," said Celebrity's Senior Vice President of Marketing, Steve Hancock. "Philadelphia is unique in that the Port, the city, and the state as a whole, are actively promoting cruising as a vacation option and are making our guests feel welcome."

Celebrity is the industry's highest rated premium cruise brand with a taste of luxury. The line has nine ships in its fleet, which is the youngest of any major line. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Bermuda, California, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal and South America. For more information, you can call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritv.com.

Cruise Advisories

We'll continue to keep you posted on cruise opportunities as more information becomes available to us. 

The opportunity to sail on a major cruise line from Philadelphia without the headaches of traveling to another city is a major plus for local residents and the region's economy. Travelers should note, however, that as with all travel, security is tight and they can expect small delays. 

Also, as with any new venture, there may be some growing pains as the DRPA and CruisePhilly works with the cruise lines and security to provide the best travel experience possible. Finally, unexpected weather conditions, such as Hurricane Fabian, can force the cruise lines to change your itinerary, both for your protection and enjoyment of the cruise experience.

All travelers regardless of their means of travel or destination should follow news and weather developments prior to their departure and keep in touch with their airline, cruise line or travel agent for any changes that may be necessary. Travelers should also consider the various travel insurance choices available to them to provide coverage in the event of unforeseen developments.

For more information you can visit the following websites:

CruisePhilly
Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation
Celebrity Cruises

About Greater Philadelphia / South Jersey
is a member of the Philadelphia Tourism Network.
Participating organizations help promote tourism
in the Philadelphia region.

All photos by John Fischer