Safety, Experience & Professional Standards

Your Safety and Comfort Come First

At Cruise Jacksonville, every voyage aboard VADA is operated with a commitment to professionalism, safety, and hospitality.

VADA operates in compliance with applicable United States Coast Guard (USCG) requirements for Uninspected Passenger Vessel (UPV) operations. From required safety equipment and operational standards to captain licensing and vessel procedures, every effort has been made to provide guests with a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience on the St. Johns River.

Required safety equipment and operational standards include: Licensed captains, Type 1 Life jackets, Fire extinguishers, VHF communications, Distress signaling devices, First aid equipment, Drug and Alcohol testing, Passenger capacity compliance (maximum of Six (6) people), Safety briefings, Maintenance standards. Many other USCG requirements apply and have been met on a continual basis.

As a federally documented vessel, NO. 1363765 operating with a Coastwise endorsement, VADA has completed the required processes necessary for commercial charter operation and is operated by licensed U.S. Coast Guard Captains.

Meet Your Captains

Captain Vance Stallings

Captain Vance Stallings is the owner of VADA and has been an active boater since 1993, owning and operating several vessels over the years.

Vance received his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License in 2012 and has renewed his credential multiple times.

Current U.S. Coast Guard Credential

  • Master Captain – 25 Gross Tons Inland
  • Commercial Assistance Towing Endorsement
  • Reference No. 3024177

In addition to operating VADA, Vance previously served as a part-time Sea Tow captain, gaining valuable real-world experience assisting recreational boaters on local waterways.

Along with his wife, Dana, Vance owns and operates several successful Jacksonville-area businesses including:

  • Kilwins Jacksonville
  • Kilwins Beachwalk
  • Jax Kitchen

Captain Vance combines hospitality, professionalism, and local boating knowledge to create a relaxed and memorable experience for every guest aboard VADA.

Captain Jack Feeny

Captain Jack Feeny brings decades of boating and sailing experience to Cruise Jacksonville.

Jack earned his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License many years ago and has renewed his credentials throughout his maritime career.

Current U.S. Coast Guard Credentials

  • Master Captain – 100 Gross Tons Inland
  • Near Coastal Mate
  • Auxiliary Sail Endorsement
  • Commercial Assistance Towing Endorsement
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner O/S – STCW Endorsement
  • Reference No. 2512556

Captain Jack also holds several American Sailing Association certifications and is a certified Small Boat Sailing Instructor.

With extensive experience operating both power and sail vessels, Captain Jack brings a calm, knowledgeable, and safety-focused approach to every charter.

Learn more about Captain Jack at: https://captjacksailing.weebly.com

A Relaxed Luxury Experience

Cruise Jacksonville was created to offer guests a private, elevated, and unforgettable experience on the water.

Whether enjoying a sunset cruise, corporate outing, or special occasion aboard VADA, guests can relax knowing they are in the hands of experienced, licensed captains who are passionate about boating, hospitality, and the St. Johns River.