904 356-JOBS (5627)

904 356-JOBS (5627)

Building on pent-up demand, Jax cruise industry hit new height in 2022 (Courtesy of the Jacksonville Business Journal) — Building on pent-up demand, cruising sailed back into Jacksonville in a strong way in 2022, with the small-but-growing local industry surpassing pre-pandemic numbers.

“There’s been a pent-up demand for people to go out and start reliving their lives,” said Alberto Cabrera, director of cruise, cargo development and automotive accounts at the Jacksonville Port Authority. “Cruising is one of those things that allows people to disconnect and relax and enjoy, and we’re so very fortunate to have this industry here in Jacksonville.”

Since cruises came back, Cabrera says Jacksonville has consistently sailed above 100% capacity, meaning it has been above the two-person per cabin occupancy expectation. Individual cruises hit as high as 110% capacity, with a total occupancy of 120,579.

Earlier this year, Carnival Cruise lines based the Elation in Jacksonville. That vessel can carry 2,190 passengers, compared to the 2,052 on the Ecstasy and 2,124 on the Spirt — the two ships that were previously here.

Looking ahead to 2023, Cabrera said the focus is becoming a more efficient terminal for cruise goers. While the industry has made a strong comeback, he said he wants Jacksonville to be a seamless experience from the second a passenger gets to the terminal.

“Basically our infrastructure goals are what we’re primarily focusing on,” said Cabrera. “We also want to start more of a collaboration with the tourism industry here, to let them know that the Jacksonville market is still viable and has been proven to be a viable market for the cruise industry.”

Not only does this mean making sure facilities are kept clean and up to date, but that things like signage and roadways are taken care of too, so passengers have a smooth and easy experience, even before they board the ship.

Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines