JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hundreds of happy visitors who were feeling lucky boarded the Victory II casino cruise ship Tuesday night.
The boat was sold out for its maiden voyage and folks like Jeanne Johnson were ready to win big on the water Tuesday night. Johnson joked that her biggest concern boarding the ship was that she didn't bring a big enough purse for her winnings.
"I was on the SunCruz once years ago," Johnson said.
The SunCruz ship was the second of three casino cruise lines that tried to anchor their business in Jacksonville but went out of business.
"That was neat. This I'm looking forward to because it's so much bigger," said Johnson.
Victory II is complete with gaming tables, roulette and baccarat. The ship also includes a night club and outside decks. Victory's CEO said the ship will be a new experience for Jacksonville.
"One of the things we started in Port Canaveral three years ago was a whole different business model," said CEO Lester Bullock. "We wanted to make it a fun, exciting entertainment complex as well as a gaming experience."
Bullock said he's also proud of the permanent moves the company has made in the Jacksonville area. The group contracted with several bus lines, expecting visitors from 150 miles away.
"I have a 10-year, exclusive agreement with this dock," said Bullock. "I hope to be here a minimum of 10 years, and I would like to tell you we'll be here 20."
Victory II is modeled after the company's other gambling cruise in Port Canaveral. For more information about the Victory II visit www.victoryjax.com