Why go to Jacksonville?
Great beaches, golf courses, huge shopping centers and an overall kid-friendly atmosphere
It's tough to get around to all the sights without a car
If you can't find it in Jacksonville, there's nearby access to St. Augustine and Amelia Island
Jacksonville Cruise Port Facilities?
You'll need a car for this port, but within a very short drive are fast-food places and nearby Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park is a good place to roam among the oak trees and Civil War relics, if you have extra time on your hands.
Good to Know?
As with any big city -- and Jacksonville is very large geographically -- use common sense to keep safe. Don't flash valuables or walk around alone at night. Locals suggest avoiding the northwestern area of the city at night.
Getting Around?
Parking: There is a parking lot that lies adjacent to the Dames Point terminal and parking fees are on the Web site). As an option, those who plan to spend a pre-cruise night or two in the city should check out hotels that offer cruise packages which include free or discounted parking for the length of your cruise and transfers to the cruise terminal.
Taxis: Taxis line up at the cruise pier.
Rental Cars: Because Jacksonville and its neighboring sites-to-see are so spread out -- at 840 square miles, Jacksonville is geographically the largest city in the continental U.S. -- this is a good place to have a car handy. Budget, Avis and Hertz are among companies with rental facilities at the airport.
Where You're Docked?
Jacksonville Cruise Port Address:
9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226
Ships currently dock at Jaxport's Dames Point Cruise Terminal (9810 August Drive), although the city is looking to build a new cruise port. Dames Point is about a 15-minute drive from downtown, and even closer to the airport.
