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October 31, 20255 Trending Destinations for Fall Trips in 2025
November 2, 2025
On October 31, 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line celebrated the company’s first-ever voyage from Jacksonville, Florida, aboard the Norwegian Gem.
Last year, the line announced a multi-year agreement with the city’s JAXPORT to offer seasonal cruise service from November through April 2028, with itineraries to the Bahamas and Caribbean.
“Our new homeport partnership with JAXPORT underscores Norwegian’s commitment to providing guests with exceptional vacation experiences from convenient departure points,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
The 2,344-guest Norwegian Gem will homeport in Jacksonville for the 2025/2026 season sailing to the Caribbean and Bahamas. The ship offers the Mandara Spa & Salon, evening entertainment including “Blazing Boots” and “Ignite the Night.” Guests can also enjoy a variety of cuisines such as Asian, Italian, French, and Brazilian with 12 restaurants as well as 14 bars and lounges.
A popular drive-to cruise market, Jacksonville is within a one-day drive of more than 98 million consumers. The JAXPORT Cruise Terminal offers on-site parking and is located near Jacksonville International Airport and major interstates, including I-10 and I-95.
“We are thrilled to see more cruising out of our city, thank you to Norwegian Cruise Line for investing in Jacksonville,” said Michael Corrigan, President & CEO, Visit Jacksonville. “Thank you to JAXPORT for seeing the value of bringing new ships here to our port. We welcome over 10 million visitors a year to stay and explore our destination. We are excited to be able to introduce a whole new audience of visitors to Jacksonville.”
This article originally appeared in TravelPulse, with additional content from NCL.com.
Contact My Journey Begins Travel to book your Norwegian Cruise Line sailing from Jacksonville – A reasonable 5+ hour drive from the Myrtle Beach area.
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Cruise to Great Stirrup Cay
Experience Great Stirrup Cay, our idyllic private island in the Bahamas, when you cruise from Florida with Norwegian. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. Snorkel with sea turtles, kayak along a peaceful coastline, or soar high into the sky on a zipline. Relax and recharge at our various dining venues and bars, including Abaco Taco and Patron Bar. Do it all – or nothing at all – the choice is yours.