BEST Jacksonville Cruise Deals 2024 + 2025: Cheap & Discount Cruises to Jacksonville

Table Of Content

• Whether you want a pre-cruise lunch or disembarkation day breakfast, there are a few dining options close by
• Jacksonville
• Carnival Cruise Line from JAXPORT
• Preparing for Your Cruise from Jacksonville
• CCL's cruise ship Carnival Elation restarts operations at JAXPORT after drydock refurbishment
• Overview of the Cruise Terminal

Whether you choose rum, coconut oil, jerk seasonings or wood carvings, keepsakes from Jamaica will give you a taste of the island even when you're back home. Check out the Old Fort Craft Market in Montego Bay or Island Village in Ocho Rios for handmade local goods. Cruise to Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae which gave the world the soundtrack of its relaxed lifestyle, good-time-loving people and fearless optimism. As soon as you arrive, you'll sense how much this destination honors the sensibilities of its musical export.

Whether you want a pre-cruise lunch or disembarkation day breakfast, there are a few dining options close by

The cruise terminal is located just 15 min from JAX (Jacksonville Airport). The Port Authority owns all terminals, supports 132,000+ jobs (nationwide-logistics, including 26,000 local) and generates USD 31+ billion in annual economic impact for Florida. Jacksonville hosts Carnival Cruise Line, offering memorable voyages to the Bahamas tropical islands.

Jacksonville

Plus, since it's a smaller port, you will not have to deal with as much traffic. Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. Listed prices may have blackout dates, qualifications or restrictions. Jacksonville cruises often range from 6-9 nights providing cruisers with a variety of different entertainment and dining options. Popular amongst many cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Carnival Cruise Line from JAXPORT

The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Jacksonville, JAXPORT, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link. FY2018 was port's record year for cruise shipping - a total of 199,899 passengers, served by Carnival Elation. The homeported year-round in Jacksonville ship operates roundtrip tineraries to Freeport, Nassau, Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay. In May 2019, Carnival Ecstasy assumed Elation's 4-5-day itinerary program. "Nine Carnival Miracle guests were hit by a shuttle bus in the transportation area outside the Honolulu cruise terminal on Friday morning," Matt Lupoli, senior manager of the Carnival Cruise Line, told USA TODAY.

Known for its convenience and efficient passenger services, JAXPORT provides a seamless embarkation experience complemented by the city’s warm hospitality and diverse attractions. Cruises from Jacksonville offer an array of options for every type of traveler, with serene journeys to the enchanting Bahamas, making it a versatile gateway to maritime exploration. By planning ahead, your cruises from Jacksonville for 2024 and 2025 ensure a smooth start to your journey, with easy access to beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and the natural beauty of Northeast Florida. JAXPORT is one of the USA's 16 strategic ports, Florida's only port that handles military cargo (22,000 tons in 2013) and is currently ranked the 5th largest US port by annual cargo tonnage. JAXPORT is operated by Jacksonville Port Authority company - an independent agency responsible for seaport's development and also managing all the 4 deepwater terminals (1 cruise terminal and 3 cargo terminals).

While you can pay for parking upon arrival, you may also pay in advance online. Simply input your cruise's departure date, and the website will provide you with quotes matching your itinerary. Those driving from a pre-cruise stay in Jacksonville Beach will take Atlantic Boulevard West to I-295 North.

Choose from one of its numerous golden beaches to unwind or explore its idyllic parks — Jacksonville boasts the country’s largest urban park system. Or dive into local culture by touring museums, visiting historic neighborhoods and savoring delicious cuisine. With a wide range of attractions, finding something new and wonderful to do here is a breeze — whether this is your first or fifth visit to Jacksonville. Port order and/or content may vary, please check specific sailing date for details at official cruise line website. Port arrival and departure times are approximate and subject to change without notice.

Opting to arrive in Jacksonville before your cruise departure opens up opportunities to explore this sprawling city, from the picturesque beaches of the Atlantic coast to the cultural vibrancy of its downtown. Jacksonville’s laid-back charm and rich history add depth to your cruising experience. Unveil the hidden treasures of the Bahamas from Jacksonvile, where pristine white sand beaches merge with the clearest turquoise waters you’ve ever seen. Navigate through the enchanting islands of the Bahamas, revealing the best-kept secrets and must-visit spots that promise an unforgettable escape into tropical bliss. JAXPORT is not just a point of departure but a fully equipped facility designed to cater to the needs of its passengers. From convenient parking to nearby dining and shopping options, the port ensures that your cruise experience begins with ease.

Overview of the Cruise Terminal

Carnival Cruise Lines to operate in Jacksonville through 2026 - ActionNewsJax.com

Carnival Cruise Lines to operate in Jacksonville through 2026.

Posted: Sun, 31 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

A record number of TEU-containers (968,279 units) was also reported. For FY2017, the seaport reported record growth of its cargo terminals in terms of handled TEUs, vehicles and overall cargo tonnage. In 2017, JAXPORT handled over 1 million TEUs (7% increase over FY2016). When combined with the TEUs handled at port's private terminals, 1,3+ million TEU units are moved through JAXPORT annually, ranking Jacksonville Florida’s largest containership port.

There was hardly any traffic leaving, so we were on the road in no time. I appreciated Jacksonville's parking situation compared to ports like Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale. At just five minutes away, the closest hotel to JAXPORT is the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville - Blount Island. However, there are also numerous other options located near the airport, which is roughly 25 minutes away.

As homeport for riverboats, Jacksonville is included in the regular schedule of USA's largest river cruise company - American Cruise Lines. Next table shows company's 7-day "Great Rivers of Florida" itinerary (ship American Star) with prices from ~USD 2900 per person (double occupancy). In 2017, JAXPORT's total vehicle throughput was 693,000 units (record year). By volume, the port is the USA's second-largest vehicle-handling port. JAXPORT serves 3 major auto processing companies (AMPORTS, "Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics", Toyota) and offers international service from 13 of the world’s largest Ro-Ro carriers. Despite being a small cruise terminal, boarding Carnival Elation was more chaotic than I anticipated.

The port’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for passengers looking to explore the serene beaches, vibrant culture, and aquatic adventures of the Bahamas. JAXPORT’s cruise terminal is designed with the traveler in mind, featuring modern amenities and streamlined services to ensure a hassle-free start to your voyage. The terminal is equipped with comfortable waiting areas, efficient check-in counters, and a range of passenger conveniences aimed at making your embarkation as enjoyable as possible. The cargo terminals are serviced by 3 US highways (I10, I95, I75) and 3 railroads (CSX, Norfolk Southern, Florida East Coast Railway) with 40 daily train departures. Direct shipping lines link to ports in the Caribbean, South America, Europe, Asia. For FY2016 (Fiscal Year 2016/ending September 30th), JAXPORT reported double-digit growth in imported vehicles (467,898) or 19% increase over 2015.

Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation or a romantic getaway, your journey begins with the promise of an unforgettable experience. In November 2017, JAXPORT started the construction of a new car terminal for processing and storage of new (foreign- and USA-made) vehicles. The new Dames Point Marine Terminal will increase by 25% port’s vehicle-handling capacity.

This will result in increased cargo volumes by allowing access to some of the world's largest cargo vessels. JAXPORT's record for container volumes was set in May 2021 (128900+ TEUs / 37% increase over May 2020). Port’s two largest TEU-shiping lanes (as of 2021) are to Puerto Rico (19%) and Asia (18%). We spoke with a port agent who verified our documents and then sent us to the (steep) gangway, which was located outside. In total, it took around 40 minutes to complete the boarding process. Located just a few minutes away on Zoo Parkway are Wendy's and Dunkin Donuts Express, with the latter being located inside the Pilot Travel Center.

After passing New Bern Road, you'll continue for a few minutes before reaching August Drive, which is the terminal's entrance. Carnival exclusively sails to The Bahamas, offering 4- and 5-night voyages, along with the occasional 6-night cruise, onboard Carnival Elation, a 71,909 gross registered ton vessel that initially launched in 1998. The ship is one of two remaining Fantasy Class ships still in service, as Carnival Fantasy, Ecstasy, Sensation, Fascination, Imagination, and Inspiration are no longer in service. Whether you are counting down the days until your next cruise or considering sailing out of Jacksonville, here's everything you need to know about Florida's northernmost cruise port. Although you may not have as many ship options compared to itineraries departing from South Florida, it is convenient for those who may not want to drive the extra five hours to Miami.