For the first time in two decades, Jacksonville’s JaxPort is home to more than one cruise line.
Carnival Cruise Line had been the city’s lone operator since 2004. But the arrival of the Norwegian Gem from Norwegian Cruise Lines Friday marked a new voyage for Jacksonville’s cruise industry.
The Gem will offer travelers four- and five-day trips to the Bahamas, including excursions at Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island.
Longer 11- and 12-day Caribbean itineraries are also planned, reaching destinations such as the Dominican Republic, the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, and Puerto Rico.
The Norwegian Gem traveled from Boston before docking at JaxPort’s cruise terminal Friday as local officials feted its arrival.
The vessel can host 2,394 guests and roughly1,100 crew members, officials said.
The Gem underwent a major refurbishment in 2022, introducing a slew of upgraded amenities to attract increasingly demanding cruise enthusiasts.
These include a “world-class spa experience,” a casino, climbing wall, new pools, and expanded dining options.
The Jacksonville Port Authority board approved the addition of Norwegian in February 2024. JaxPort CEO Eric Green called the Gem’s installation a significant step in diversifying the port’s profile.
