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About the Port of Philadelphia (Cruise Port Information)
Part of the $5.4 million renovation of the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1 was allocated for improvements to the pier. Melissa Grimm, Director of The Port of Philadelphia and Camden, notes these efforts. "With input from the cruise line industry, we have constructed the passenger boarding platform, covered passenger ramps leading up to the ships, and other features that complement vessel configurations. To improve pier operations, we also have dockside trash compactors which have increased efficiency. Work is underway to further enhance pier operations and the overall passenger experience."
Within the next year, the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1 will undergo an additional multimillion dollar upgrade and improvement to its facilities. "A primary focus will be our pier facilities," says Grimm. The current berth runs 910 linear feet (277.3 meters) and has a depth of 32 feet (9.8 meters) at MLW. The construction of a breasting dolphin will extend the pier length to almost 1,100 linear feet. "When the work is completed in 2002, the additional work to the pier will make it possible to accommodate ships up to 1,000 feet in length," notes Grimm. Other improvements will be passenger-focused. Construction has already begun on lengthening the existing covered passenger elevated walkway to extend the full length of the pier. The 450-foot long ramp will have six levels reaching heights of up to 30 feet above the pier. These improvements will be completed by October, 2002.
Cruise Terminal
The new Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1 is the most dynamic addition to the former military base. In 1877 it was an iron plating facility, but the 44,000 square foot building has taken on a new identity as the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1. In sharp contrast to its 19th century architecture, the facility has been turned into a modern cruise ship terminal with 21st century services and amenities.
Not content with an historic setting, a convenient Mid-Atlantic location, competitive pricing and a sophisticated destination with a lively and diverse list of attractions, the Port of Philadelphia and Camden (PPC) has launched a major capital improvement project to make the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier 1 recognized worldwide.
The cruise terminal has already undergone a $5.4 million renovation. The facade of the majestic building has been completely refurbished, preserving and restoring the elaborate and grand architecture. The gable peaks, oculus windows and soaring 50-foot ceilings have also been restored to retain the building's 19th century atmosphere. Inside, however, everything is strictly 21st century.
All traces of its previous life as an iron plating shop have been removed to make way for the services and amenities needed to run an efficient cruise operation. State-of-the-art security equipment has been installed. On-site facilities for Customs, INS and USDA officials were constructed in adherence to the agencies' guidelines. Ships' crews have their own lounges with separate offices, restrooms and telephone. A private, handsomely appointed room provides a lounge for VIP's and/or other passengers requiring this accommodation.
An expansive area has been designated for waiting passengers, embarkation processing, disembarkation processing and luggage lay-down. Check-in counters are mobile and can be configured to maximize processing and to conform to our customers' preferred setup. There are numerous electrical outlets and communication lines available.
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