Written by Chillie Falls, AccessAdventure.net, July 24, 2025
Philadelphia may not be the first city that comes to mind for a cruise departure, but it’s a fantastic port option—especially for travelers in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. The Philadelphia Cruise Terminal has seen a resurgence in popularity, with select seasonal sailings, including those operated by American Cruise Lines and special itineraries on smaller ships and riverboats.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or an experienced traveler with accessibility needs, this guide covers everything you need to know about sailing from Philadelphia.
🛳️ Philadelphia Cruise Terminal: What to Expect
📍 Location:
Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1
697 Delaware Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19112
Located in the historic Navy Yard district at the south end of Broad Street, the terminal is about 15 minutes from Center City and easily accessible by car or rideshare.
Cruise ships will dock at the Southport Marine Terminal Complex. The address is 5100 South Broad Street, Building 3.
🏗️ Terminal Features:
- Simple, functional layout designed to accommodate smaller ships and river cruises
- Friendly staff and streamlined check-in procedures
- Limited but convenient seating and waiting areas
🅿️ Parking at the Cruise Terminal:
- Onsite surface parking is available and located directly adjacent to the terminal
- Accessible parking spots are available near the entrance
- Standard rate: approximately $15–$20/day
- No advanced reservations necessary, but arrive early for peak sailings
♿ Wheelchair Accessibility at the Cruise Terminal
Philadelphia’s cruise terminal is ADA-compliant, with accessible ramps, restrooms, and boarding procedures in place. However, it’s a smaller terminal, so advance coordination with your cruise line is highly recommended for:
- Boarding assistance
- Accessible stateroom availability
- Priority embarkation or disembarkation if needed
🏨 Accessible Hotel Options Near the Cruise Terminal
If you’re arriving the night before your cruise or staying post-voyage, several hotels in downtown Philadelphia offer accessibility and comfort:
1. Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing
- ADA rooms with roll-in showers
- Overlooks the Delaware River and just 10 minutes to the port
- Onsite accessible parking and restaurant
2. Loews Philadelphia Hotel
- Located in Center City
- Spacious, ADA-compliant rooms and bathrooms
- Great access to restaurants and attractions
3. The Study at University City
- Boutique, stylish hotel with accessible features
- Located near museums and cultural spots
Transportation Tip: Most Center City hotels are within a 15–20 minute taxi or rideshare distance of the terminal.
🚐 Accessible Transportation in Philadelphia
Getting around Philadelphia with a wheelchair or mobility device is relatively smooth with the following options:
- SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority):
Most buses and several subway stops are wheelchair accessible. Call ahead or use their app to plan accessible routes. - CCT Connect Paratransit:
A shared-ride service for seniors and riders with disabilities. Requires advance registration through SEPTA. - Wheelchair-Accessible Taxis and Rideshare:
- UberWAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) is available in parts of the city
- Multiple local taxi companies also offer WAV vans with ramp entry
🏙️ Pre- or Post-Cruise Things to Do in Philadelphia
If you have time before or after your cruise, Philly is packed with accessible, enriching, and fun attractions. Here’s a list tailored to an active senior world traveler:
1. Independence National Historical Park
Explore Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other historic sites.
- Fully wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchairs available at the Visitor Center
- Smooth, flat walkways throughout the park
2. Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps
See world-renowned art collections, and yes—you can access the top of the Rocky Steps via an elevator.
- Wheelchair accessible entrances
- Complimentary wheelchairs available
- Discounts for seniors and guests with disabilities
3. The Barnes Foundation
An incredible collection of Impressionist and Modern art.
- Entire facility is accessible
- Assistive listening devices and wheelchairs available
4. Reading Terminal Market
One of the oldest public markets in the U.S., filled with delicious food and local vendors.
- Flat, wide aisles and plenty of seating
- Accessible entrances on multiple sides
5. Spruce Street Harbor Park (seasonal)
Enjoy this fun outdoor space along the waterfront with hammocks, food trucks, and colorful lights.
- Flat boardwalk pathways
- Accessible restrooms
- Great views of the Delaware River
6. RiverLink Ferry to Camden, NJ
Take a short, scenic ride across the river to visit the Adventure Aquarium or Camden Waterfront Park.
- Seasonal service
- Fully accessible ferry with staff assistance available
🧳 Final Thoughts
Philadelphia may not be a major cruise hub like Miami or Fort Lauderdale, but it offers a unique, culturally rich, and convenient option for select cruises. For power wheelchair users or mobility-impaired travelers, the city and terminal are friendly, functional, and full of accessible opportunities.
Whether you’re spending just a night or a few days around your sailing, Philadelphia’s mix of history, food, and riverfront charm makes it well worth exploring before heading out to sea.