Victory Casino Cruises drops anchor in Mayport

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Lester Bullock, CEO of Victory Casino Cruises, was happy to show off his newest vessel Thursday.

The 229 foot floating casino, known as the Victory II now calls Mayport home.

For the customer, the cruise offers dining, dancing, a nightclub, live music, and of course, gambling.

There are 17 live table games and 320 slot machines.

"The denominations of slot machines we have here is from one penny to $25," said Bullock.

For the Mayport area, the cruise brings a much-needed economic boost.  Neighboring businesses like Safe Harbor Seafood said they feel like they've hit the jackpot.

"It's what it really needs," said PJ Punke with Safe Harbor. "It's a beautiful ship and I think it's a great addition to Mayport."

"We've hired over 230 people right now.  We're probably going to about 250," said Bullock.

The Victory II's maiden voyage is Tuesday night. After that, there will be two cruises a day, seven days a week, potentially bringing more than 1,000 people a day to Mayport.

"Another thing for Jacksonville to do," said new Victory employee Kristy Miller.

Victory Casino Cruises is based in Port Canaveral.

For ticket information, go to victorycasinocruises.com.

WJAX