Jacksonville Cruise Port is about 4 miles from downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Its strategic location along the St. Johns River provides cruise ships with easy access to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and other exciting destinations. This guide will cover everything you need to know about this popular departure point so you can enjoy a pleasant visit.
Jacksonville Cruise Port Location and Address
The Jacksonville Cruise Port is officially known as JAXPORT Cruise Terminal, and it is operated by the Jacksonville Port Authority. This 63,000-square-foot facility was introduced in 2003 as a temporary cruise ship port but continues to operate as a major cruise hub for the northwestern corner of Florida.
The immense economic impact the cruise industry has had on the city was enough for the temporary port to remain busy right up until the present day.
The port is roughly 4 miles northeast of Jacksonville’s downtown core and just over 12 miles from Jacksonville International Airport, making it accessible to local and non-local cruise passengers. The port is also easily accessible to the I-95 and I-295 highways, making it easy for those driving from outside of the state.
As mentioned, the cruise port and the additional shipping facilities that are part of the Port of Jacksonville are located along the St. Johns River. This allows cruise ships to reach the Atlantic easily and provides visiting cruise passengers with pleasant views as their ship navigates the river.
Jacksonville Cruise Port Address:
If you are planning on driving to the port, you can find it at the following address:
JAXPORT Cruise Terminal, 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32226
Which Cruise Lines Use Which Terminal?
In October 2003, Celebrity Cruises became the first major cruise line to begin running a regular service from Jacksonville Cruise Port. While this lasted for several years, their MV Zenith cruise ship, the only ship in their fleet that used JAXPORT as a homeport, was retired. Today, their cruise ships only occasionally use the port as a starting embarkation point.
Carnival Cruise Line is currently the only major cruise line that operates out of the port regularly, but it runs frequently enough to make JAXPORT a reliable departure point for affordable cruise vacations.
Carnival began using the port in 2004 and continues to do so to this day, with its ships Carnival Elation and Carnival Ecstasy regularly sailing from JAXPORT to destinations that include the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) plans to begin operating out of Jacksonville Cruise Port in late 2025. Norwegian Cruise Line plans to run 12-day voyages to the Caribbean and Key West, meaning the port will offer longer cruise vacations currently available through Carnival.
This move will involve relocating three of their ships from Miami Cruise Port further north to Jacksonville, which could represent a significant economic boom for the much smaller port.
Jacksonville Cruise Port Pier and Terminal
The Jacksonville Cruise Port only features a single terminal building since it was originally a temporary cruise port. This structure, along with the single cruise ship berth, was constructed in just six months in 2003.
Despite its relatively limited scale, the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal Building still provides visiting cruise passengers a seamless security and boarding process. Minor renovations and upgrades were made in 2008 to help the port facility keep pace with the increasing number of passengers passing through it.
Terminal Amenities and Services
While it is a small terminal building, it does offer some basic services:
Wi-Fi
Unfortunately, free Wi-Fi is not currently available at the port, but Carnival Cruise Line passengers can connect to the onboard Wi-Fi service prior to boarding their respective ships.
Accessibility
Despite its limited size and amenities, the entire terminal building is entirely wheelchair accessible, with ramps and dedicated seating areas for passengers with accessibility needs. Several restrooms within the terminal building have wheelchair-friendly stalls.
Check-In and Baggage Area
Several check-in counters are available in the building so passengers can enjoy an efficient check-in and security processing experience. JAXPORT Security tends to be efficient, so you should not have to wait in line for very long. There is also a 28,000-square-foot dedicated baggage handling area, so luggage and carry-on baggage can be cleared quickly and efficiently.
Parking for Your Jacksonville Cruise
Parking at Jacksonville Cruise Port is simple and affordable, with official parking options and nearby off-site lots available for travelers. Unfortunately, there is no free parking within a reasonable distance of the port, but it is still affordable and straightforward.
While parking is fairly easy, as there is an on-site parking lot at 9810 August Drive, the lot can only accommodate 600 vehicles at any given time, so you will want to book ahead of time if you plan on leaving a car behind during your cruise.
Official JAXPORT Cruise Terminal Parking Lot
As mentioned, the official cruise parking lot at JAXPORT is located directly beside the terminal on August Drive, so it is easy to locate. The lot is also gated and has 24-hour security, so you can feel confident leaving your vehicle behind while you enjoy your cruise.
Parking for standard-sized vehicles is $17 per day, and while reservations are not necessary, they are strongly recommended. Remember, the lot only has 600 parking spaces, and they tend to go fast during the fall and winter months.
Parking can be reserved in multi-day blocks, with a $68 rate for a 4-day cruise and $85 for a 5-day cruise. Oversized vehicles must pay an increased rate of $34 per day.
If you need a closer parking spot due to physical needs, the parking lot has handicapped-accessible spots set aside. These spots are located right beside the terminal entrance. Just keep in mind that you will need to present a valid pass.
Nearby Unofficial Parking Lot
If you’re looking for alternate parking options or even just want to save some money, there is a nearby off-site parking lot that provides a complimentary shuttle service directly to the cruise terminal building.
JAX Parking Mall
Located less than a mile from the terminal at 3372 Zoo Parkway, the JAX Parking Mall is an affordable lot with more spots available than the official lot. With rates as low as around $10 per day and full 24/7 security monitoring, it’s a great deal for those looking to save some cash. They even offer multi-day cruise parking packages that are cheaper.
In addition, they also provide a complimentary, on-demand shuttle service that will take cruise passengers across the bridge to the cruise terminal. They even offer a continuous luggage delivery service that runs every 15 minutes, so it is a stress-free option for those unable to park at the official parking lot.
Traveling to Jacksonville Cruise Port from Nearby Airports
For those flying into Jacksonville before their cruise, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is by far the most convenient option.
With that said, some cruise passengers will choose to fly to other regional airports, either because they were able to book a cheaper flight or because they want to spend some time in another city prior to their cruise. Here’s a basic breakdown of everything you need to know about getting to the cruise port from the nearby airports.
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
As mentioned, Jacksonville International Airport is just 12 miles northeast of the cruise port. This means that most travelers will be able to get from the airport to the cruise port in as little as 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
With nonstop flights from more than 30 major American cities and over 160 flights arriving daily, it is no wonder that flying into JAX is the most popular way to get to the cruise port from outside the city. Here are the driving directions:
- Exit Yankee Clipper Drive and merge onto the I-95 South
- Continue for 3.6 miles, then take exit 362A to merge onto the I-295 South
- After 6 miles, take Exit 41 to join the South Zoo Parkway
- Continue and cross New Berlin Road Bridge, then watch for August Drive
- Keep an eye out for signs for JAXPORT Cruise Terminal
If, like most cruise passengers, you do not want to drive yourself, the following options are readily available.
Unfortunately, there are no direct public transport options, but taxis and rideshare vehicles are both readily available at Jacksonville International Airport.
While flat rates are not enforced, many cab drivers will offer a flat fare of $30 to travel one-way from the airport to the cruise port. There is a taxi pickup zone just outside of the airport’s arrivals terminal, so you don’t have to worry about calling your own cab.
Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, are popular in Jacksonville, so you can call one if you prefer to call your own vehicle. Rates tend to be a bit cheaper than the flat fare most taxis offer, but you should be aware of surge pricing if you arrive during rush hour.
Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)
Located roughly 97 miles south of Jacksonville, driving to the cruise port from Daytona Beach International Airport typically takes about an hour and a half.
While it is far less convenient than flying into Jacksonville, Daytona Beach is a popular tourist destination, so many cruise passengers will visit this coastal resort city for some on-shore adventures before or after their cruise.
Whether you want to tack on a trip to the Daytona International Speedway onto your vacation or just manage to find a cheaper flight, you can usually drive from the airport to the cruise port in about an hour and a half. Here are the driving directions:
- Exit Catalina Drive and merge onto the I-95 North
- After 92 miles, take Exit 41
- Turn left onto FL-105 South and then take a slight left onto August Drive
- Look for signs for JAXPORT Cruise Terminal
Since it is not a very popular route, no direct shuttle services run between Daytona Airport and Jacksonville Cruise Port. With that said, you could pre-book a private shuttle service to take you there.
Taxi drivers may drive between the two cities, but be prepared to pay between $100 and $150 for the ride. Most people planning to visit Daytona Beach before their cruise end up renting a vehicle and driving themselves. Since most of the drive is on the I-95 North, it’s a fairly straightforward journey.
How to Get to Jacksonville Cruise Port
Getting to Jacksonville Cruise Port is incredibly easy. The city is located at the crossroads of Interstate 10 and Interstate 95, so driving from other parts of Florida and outside the state couldn’t be simpler.
If you do not have your own vehicle, there are also multiple other transportation options available to meet your needs:
Amtrak Railroad
The Jacksonville Amtrak Station is just 13.4 miles away from the cruise port on the city’s north end. With direct services to other major cities, it is an affordable way to get to the city from elsewhere. Once your train arrives in Jacksonville, you can easily take a short cab ride from the train station to the cruise port.
River Taxis
For something a little bit different, you can take the St. Johns River Taxi, which provides quick and easy transportation along the river.
With pickup locations in the heart of the city’s downtown and a taxi pickup terminal right outside of the EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, it’s a surprisingly practical and enjoyable way to navigate the city. Plus, an all-day pass is just $15, so it’s even cheaper than taking a typical taxi.
Taxis and Rideshare Services
Like any major city, Jacksonville is home to plenty of taxis, which can be hailed from all major attractions. A ride from downtown Jacksonville to the cruise port will run between $20 and $30, so rates are fairly reasonable. You can also call a taxi to your hotel very easily.
There are plenty of Uber and Lyft drivers operating in the city, so you can also order a vehicle to your exact location, which can be more convenient than trying to hail a cab.
Shuttle Buses and Private Drivers
Private shuttle services, including JAX Town Car & Limo and SuperShuttle Express, are available in the city. These private shuttles can be booked beforehand, making them a practical option for larger groups.
Many of these shuttle providers offer reasonable rates between Jacksonville International Airport and hotels in the downtown area and to and from JAXPORT Cruise Terminal.
Dining Near Jacksonville Cruise Port
While dining options within the port are pretty much limited to a few vending machines, several dining options are located within a short distance of Jacksonville Cruise Port. If you are looking for something to eat before or following your cruise, the following are great options that you won’t have to travel far to get to:
Chowder Ted’s
Located 3.3 miles east of the cruise port, Chowder Ted’s isn’t exactly walkable, but it is well worth visiting. This quaint seafood eatery offers a variety of fried ship baskets, fish sandwiches, and other Florida favorites. Plus, they have a full bar and several cold beers on tap, so it is a great place to kill some time.
Old Soul Donut Company
If you want to feel like you have traveled back in time, hop in a cab or drive your vehicle to Old Soul Donut Company. Located just 3 miles north of the port, this old-fashioned donut shop offers a wide variety of classic donuts, as well as fresh-made pitas, croissants, and more.
Slow down from the hustle and bustle of travel and take a bit of time to grab a hot cup of coffee and a tasty donut. Popular with locals and tourists alike, it’s well worth visiting while you’re in the city.
Sweet Mama’s Southern Homestyle Cookin’
If you want to try something different, Sweet Mama’s Southern Homestyle Cookin’ is 9 miles south of the cruise port. This soul food favorite serves all the standard soul food favorites, including chicken and waffles, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, cornbread, and even some dishes unique to the city, like pan-seared fish and fried shrimp.
Sweet Mama’s is a little bit different, but why not try something unique while you are on vacation?
Sandollar Restaurant & Marina
If you are willing to travel a little further, Sandollar Restaurant is roughly 10 miles east of the cruise port. This Jacksonville favorite has been around since 1954 and serves some of the freshest seafood you will find anywhere in the state.
It’s hugely popular with city residents and just as welcoming to tourists. With live music, stunning views of the river, and, of course, incredible seafood, you will want to spend the whole afternoon enjoying everything the Sandollar Restaurant has to offer.
Historically Hoppy Brewing Company
For beer lovers hoping to enjoy some local suds, Historically Hoppy Brewing Company is 9 miles from the port but offers a wide range of delicious beers and a tasty food menu.
Even though it has only been around since 2018, the brewery has become a fan favorite in Jacksonville, with many of the local bars and restaurants carrying its beers on tap. Why not head down for yourself and see what all the hype is about?
If you want to do a little shopping in Jacksonville, there are a few options that aren’t too far from the cruise port. Unfortunately, the cruise port only has a small souvenir shop, which basically just carries snacks and a few trinkets, but you can scratch your shopping itch at either of the following locations.
River City Marketplace
Located roughly 9 miles north of the cruise port, the River City Marketplace is a semi-outdoor shopping mall with over 70 stores and a movie theater. While you can easily find a blend of independent retailers and major retailers, it is also located beside Wal-Mart and Best Buy, so it is a good place to visit if you just need a few last-minute cruise supplies and essentials.
You will also find a variety of fast-food chain restaurants, including Panera Bread, Chipotle, McDonald’s, and more. If you are traveling with a picky eater who does not want to try some local seafood, these nationwide chain restaurants are a good option.
St. Johns Town Center
For those seeking more upscale shopping, St. Johns Town Center is just 13 miles south of the cruise port. This high-end mall is one of the premium shopping destinations in Jacksonville. With major retailers like Nordstrom, an Apple Store, and designer boutiques like Louis Vuitton, GUCCI, Tiffany & Co., and BOSS, there are plenty of options for those looking to spoil themselves.
The St. Johns Town Center features over 175 stores, spread among a standard indoor mall and a series of street-side shops. Across from the mall, you will also find a wide range of local eateries and recognizable chain restaurants, like a Cheesecake Factory.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Jacksonville?
While it is relatively small compared to some of the larger ports in Florida, Jacksonville Cruise Port is still a year-round cruise ship departure point.
Undoubtedly, the busiest time to visit is between late fall and early winter, with January being one of the busiest months of the year. This also happens to be when some of Carnival Cruise Line’s cruise ships return from their summer itineraries in Europe.
Read Also: Most Ideal Hotels Near Jacksonville Cruise Port
The stretch between November and April is the best time of year to explore the city, as the weather is cooler and the humidity drops to far more enjoyable levels. If you are traveling during the summer, remember that Jacksonville can be a hot and muggy city, with average temperatures in the high 80 to low 90° F range.
With that in mind, cruising during these much hotter months is also a time when you’ll encounter fewer crowds and may be able to score better cruise deals.
