Are you ready for a new adventure that starts right from North Florida? The Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) port in Jacksonville, Florida, is your gateway to exciting destinations and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveler, a cruise enthusiast, or a local explorer, this blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about cruising from Jacksonville with NCL.
Jacksonville is a city I have visited many times, but never cruised from. As a person who lives in South Carolina, I have tended to use Charleston SC as my Carnival Cruise Port destination which in that past prevented me from driving on to Jacksonville for a Carnival Cruise. Now since Charleston has stopped cruising, with its last Carnival cruise leaving in December of 2024, Jacksonville is my closest port. With Jacksonville adding NCL to the already Carnival Elation in the area, I couldn’t be any happier. The Southeast U.S. needed this, instead of having to go to South Florida or Port Canaveral.
Discover Jacksonville, Florida
Located in northeast Florida, Jacksonville, lovingly referred to as "Jax" by locals, is a vibrant city in northeastern Florida. Known for its stunning beaches, extensive park system, and rich cultural scene, Jacksonville is a hidden gem that offers plenty to see and do. Whether you're exploring the historic neighborhoods, enjoying the local cuisine, or soaking up the sun on the pristine shores, Jacksonville has something for everyone.
Norwegian Cruise Line Port in Jacksonville Florida.
The Jacksonville Port Authority, also known as JAXPORT, is the entity responsible for managing the port facilities in Jacksonville. JAXPORT Ceo Eric Green made the official announcement that the second cruise line was arriving in Jacksonville back in February of this year. JAXPORT is one of the largest ports on the East Coast and plays a crucial role in the local economy. The Jacksonville port authority board ensures smooth operations at the port, facilitating the movement of both cargo, international cargo, and passengers.
Location of the NCL Cruise Port in Jacksonville
The Norwegian Cruise Line port in Jacksonville is conveniently located at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal, situated on the St. Johns River. This strategic location makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The terminal is well-equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant boarding experience welcoming guests onboard.
If you are familiar with Carnival cruise lines’ Elation cruise port, NCL will be sharing the same one. Making it convenient for people who have cruised out from the port of Jacksonville before.
Attractions Close to the Cruise Port in Jacksonville
Before embarking on your NCL adventure, take some time to explore the attractions near the Jacksonville cruise port.
A short drive from the port, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a must-visit. Home to over 2,000 animals and a variety of plant species, this zoo offers an educational and fun experience for all ages.
My time spent at this zoo in the past was great.
Held every Saturday, the Riverside Arts Market is a bustling marketplace featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment. It's a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant local culture.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Cummer Museum, which houses an impressive collection of European and American art. The museum's beautifully manicured gardens offer a serene escape and stunning views of the St. Johns River.
Dames Point Bridge
When driving into Jacksonville this bridge is often used, it is massive and beautiful, but one of the things I love the most about this bridge is the park under the bridge. You can spend hours here looking at nature, walking the paths. It gives great views of the St. Johns River. When taking a cruise, you will go under the Dames Point Bridge after you leave the cruise port in Jacksonville.
Dining Delights
Jacksonville is a food lover's paradise, with numerous dining options near the downtown area. There are not as many near cruise port, but there are 17 restaurants near the exit off of I295 near cruise port. Here are a few top recommendations scattered about, but mainly in downtown:
For a more laid-back dining experience, head to Singleton's Seafood Shack in nearby Mayport. This no-frills eatery is known for its fresh, locally caught seafood.
If you're in the mood for something a bit more upscale, Black Sheep Restaurant in the Riverside area offers a creative menu featuring farm-to-table ingredients and rooftop dining with panoramic views.
If you want to treat yourself, come here. Of course it is pricey, it's a steakhouse, but so yummy. There are Morton’s in many cities in the United States so you might be familiar with them, if so then you know that steak is the choice.
Located in downtown and is wonderful. Over 60 microbrews available in bottle or can and 12 brews on tap. They have a variety of great food to choose from, so everyone will find something wonderful.
If you are downtown and looking for a beer, stop in at Ruby Beach. My favorite is the Scallywag, but I have always loved fruity/sour beers.
Hotels
Finding a comfortable place to stay before your cruise is important. These hotels near the Jacksonville cruise port offer shuttle services for added convenience:
If you pick a hotel in Jacksonville that does not have shuttle service you can easily get private transportation from Viator, or you can get an Uber.
Close to the zoo and only a 13-minute drive from the cruise port. This is the perfect place to start your cruise vacation. They have free shuttle service to the airport, but not the cruise terminal. Buffet breakfast included in your stay.
At .9 miles away from the cruise port, a 4-minute drive. This is the closest you can stay to the port. Like many Holiday Inn’s you get free breakfast in the morning.
5 miles away from the cruise port, which is an 11-minute drive, and close to the interstate. You have plenty of restaurants nearby also.
An excellent option is you want the downtown vibe, but it is not the closest to the cruise terminal. The DoubleTree by Hilton provides a warm welcome with their signature chocolate chip cookies.
Distance from Jacksonville International Airport to the Cruise Port
Travelers flying into Jacksonville will find it convenient to reach the cruise port. The Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is approximately 12 miles from the port, making it a quick 20-minute drive. Several transportation options are available, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle buses.
I like Jacksonville airport; I have spent time there on a layover once. It is one of the best small international airports in the United States.
Meet the NCL Gem
The NCL Gem, a Jewel-class ship, has made the Jacksonville port its home. This beautiful vessel features a plethora of amenities, including multiple dining options, entertainment venues, and relaxing spaces. With its stylish design and comfortable accommodations, the NCL Gem promises an unforgettable cruising experience.
I traveled on the Gem at the end of 2023 on a transatlantic cruise, and it was lovely. Of course, the look of the ship was Christmas, with decorations and Christmas trees, but the ship itself was perfect for me. The Gem is considered a smaller ship than many ships out there in the ocean, but that just adds to what I love. I don't need the newest, largest ship with all the bells and whistles. I look for great cruises, with great destinations and on a budget.
The passenger capacity is a little bit under 2,400 based on double occupancy and has 1,070 crew members onboard. Both of these numbers are larger than the Carnival Elation, but not much larger. With the Gem having a home in Jacksonville, it will help with demand for cruises in the area and competition with Carnival Cruise line already located there might help travelers looking for a deal for a future vacation.
The Gem currently has cruises scheduled to leave from Miami, Boston and Quebec City Canada, before making its appearance in Jacksonville Florida for seasonal cruises.
This NCL ship has world-class entertainment, a variety of award-winning specialty restaurants, and a wonderful atmosphere. I love NCL for solo cruisers, or families. Everyone will have a great time on the ship. You will have an exceptional vacation if you take the Gem.
Video's below to help you decide what room to book, I made the videos on my cruise.
Exciting NCL Cruises Departing from Jacksonville
Norwegian Cruise Line offers an array of exciting itineraries departing from Jacksonville. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an extended voyage, there's something for everyone.
Seasoned cruisers will see some pretty familiar ports associated with cruises from Jacksonville.
If you book a cruise from Jacksonville with NCL, where can you go?
Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
St. John, Antigua
Basseterre, St. Kitts
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas (NCL’s Private Island)
Phillipsburg, St. Maarten
St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
Nassau, Bahamas
Anywhere from a 4-day cruise to an 11-day cruise can be booked with Norwegian Cruise Line from Jacksonville. I am really looking into one of the five-day cruises, which is $688 per person (without alcohol or specialty dining, but includes taxes and fees.) The 4-day cruise is in the $500’s, not too shabby at all for the cruise industry these days.
When does the Gem arrive in Jacksonville?
The Norwegian Gem’s arrival to north Florida will be in November of 2025. The Norwegian Gem ship will have a new home port in Jacksonville for seasonal cruises for a three-year cruise operation, which will end in 2028. After this agreement, we will have to see the future of NCL in Jacksonville. So why not plan a cruise now, so you will have over 1 year to pay it off and plan your airfare, or hotel before the cruise, excursions and more.
Conclusion
Setting sail from the Norwegian Cruise Line port in Jacksonville, Florida, is an adventure waiting to happen. From the vibrant city of Jacksonville itself to the luxurious amenities aboard NCL's Gem, there's no shortage of excitement. Whether you're exploring local attractions, enjoying world-class dining, or embarking on an unforgettable cruise, Jacksonville is the perfect starting point for your next vacation.
Ready to experience the magic of cruising from Jacksonville? Start by exploring Norwegian Cruise Line's offerings and give me a yell to help plan your dream vacation today. Happy sailing!
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