Port Tampa Bay is one of Florida's busiest cruise ports, offering convenient access to Caribbean, Bahamas, and Yucatan cruises from the heart of Tampa. Here's your complete guide to cruising from Tampa.
Cruise Lines at Port Tampa Bay
- Carnival Cruise Line — Multiple ships, year-round Caribbean sailings
- Royal Caribbean — Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries
- Norwegian Cruise Line — Caribbean and longer voyages
- MSC Cruises — Newer entrant with Caribbean routes
Port Tampa Bay Terminals
The port has multiple cruise terminals along the waterfront:
- Terminal 2 — Carnival's primary Tampa terminal
- Terminal 3 — Used by Norwegian and others
- Turning Basin Terminal — Royal Caribbean and MSC
Our drivers know each terminal's drop-off and pickup points precisely.
Getting from TPA to Port Tampa Bay
- Distance: 5-7 miles from TPA to port
- Travel time: 15-20 minutes
- Private transfer rate: from $55 (includes luggage assistance)
With cruise luggage, a private transfer is far more practical than rideshare. Our vehicles accommodate multiple large suitcases, and our drivers know exactly where to drop off for embarkation.
Pre-Cruise Hotel Recommendations
Many cruise passengers arrive the night before to avoid missing their ship due to flight delays. Great hotel options near Port Tampa Bay:
- Marriott Water Street — Walking distance to port
- JW Marriott Tampa — Premium option, water views
- Westin Tampa Waterside — Harbour Island, close to port
- Hilton Tampa Downtown — Convenient, moderate price
Things to Do in Tampa Pre/Post Cruise
If You Have 1 Day
- Lunch at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City
- Riverwalk stroll along the waterfront
- Dinner at one of the Water Street restaurants
If You Have 2+ Days
- Day trip to Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach
- Busch Gardens (world-class theme park, 15 minutes away)
- The Florida Aquarium (near the cruise port)
- Ybor City for history, cigars, and dinner
Port Tampa Bay Parking
On-site cruise parking at Port Tampa Bay runs approximately $15-17/day. For a 7-day cruise, that's $105-119 in parking fees. A private round-trip transfer for 2 passengers from a nearby hotel costs about $110 — comparable price with zero hassle.