Because Coming Home Deserves a Celebration
Honoring Those Who’ve Returned Home
The Homecoming Cruise Contest is a community-led initiative created to honor local heroes through the joy of travel.
One nominated veteran or service member will receive a Norwegian Cruise Line sailing for two, departing from Philadelphia during Norwegian’s inaugural 2026 season — marking the return of cruising to our city.
Coming home is more than just a moment — it’s a milestone.
The Greater Philadelphia Homecoming Cruise Contest celebrates the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of veterans and service members who’ve returned home to the Greater Philadelphia area.
In partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line and the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Veterans Affairs, we’re gifting one deserving hero a cruise vacation for two sailing from Philadelphia in 2026 — a heartfelt thank-you to those who’ve served and returned home to the city we call our own.
About the Homecoming Cruise Contest
The Cruise Experience
Beginning April 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line will bring new itineraries to Philadelphia, including sunny Bermuda getaways and extended voyages along the East Coast.
The winning nominee will enjoy a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation for two:
• Roundtrip sailing from Philadelphia
• Oceanview or balcony stateroom for two
• All onboard meals and entertainment
• Access to specialty dining and experiences beyond the ordinary
Because after service, sacrifice, and homecoming — everyone deserves a little More at Sea.
Do you know a Greater Philadelphia hero who deserves this experience of a lifetime?
Here’s how to nominate them:
Complete the short form below.
Share their story — why they deserve this recognition.
Submit your nomination by December 6, 2026.
How to Nominate a Veteran
To keep the process fair and transparent:
• Nominees must currently reside within the following Pennsylvania counties: Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, or Chester.
• Nominees must be U.S. veterans or currently serving service members who have returned home from deployment within the last 12 months.
• Nominations must be received by December 6, 2025.
• One winner will be selected by a panel of community partners and announced on December 19, 2026.
Full terms and conditions are available here.
While we proudly celebrate service members across the region, this first-ever Homecoming Cruise Contest is limited to the counties listed above. Our goal is to expand participation to neighboring communities in the years ahead.
This giveaway is about more than a cruise — it’s about gratitude, connection, and homecoming.
Join us in honoring our city’s heroes by submitting your nomination today.
Help Us Say “Welcome Home”
Nomination Form
Disclaimer:
The Greater Philadelphia Homecoming Cruise Contest is a community initiative presented by Beyond the Castle Travel LLC, in partnership with the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Veterans Affairs and with support from Norwegian Cruise Line. The City and Norwegian Cruise Line are serving as promotional partners to help raise awareness but are not responsible for the administration of the giveaway, selection of winners, or fulfillment of prizes. All inquiries should be directed to Beyond the Castle Travel at community@beyondthecastletravel.com.