Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida

United States

Explore the interactive marine habitats and thrilling roller coasters at Busch Gardens, where adventure meets wildlife conservation.

💱 Currency United States Dollar (USD)
🗣 Language English
🕐 Time Zone EST (UTC-5)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Dec–Apr
🚢 Typical Duration 7 nights
💰 Price Range $204–$5,552 per person
Port Type embarkation
🚤 Tender Port No

Being a major homeport for Caribbean cruises with convenient access to popular destinations like Cozumel, Costa Maya, and the Western Caribbean.

Cruises that visit Tampa, Florida

Build Your Day in Tampa, Florida

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 4:00 PM
Usually about 8 hours ashore
🛳 Embarkation port — worth arriving early
Getting around:
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Loads of activities for younger kids- including a Sesame Street themed area. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 98k
The Florida Aquarium So many interactive exhibits to enjoy for all ages. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 21k 🕐 Closes soon · 5 PM
Whiskey Joe's | Tampa The vibes were incredible, the drinks were on point, and the view—unmatched. American · ★ 4.1 · 17k
Armature Works There are tons of things to do and plenty of spots around to check out. American · ★ 4.7 · 16k
Tampa Premium Outlets Very nice selection of shops paired with good quality and price ranges. Outlet mall · ★ 4.5 · 16k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
International Plaza and Bay Street Lots of fun and extras for people of all ages. Shopping mall · ★ 4.6 · 15k
Citrus Park Town Center Good mix of stores and a good sized food court. Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 13k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Ulele This was the best food we have had, and we dine out a lot in Tampa. American · ★ 4.6 · 11k
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park Beautiful walk on the river and the skating rink was great. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 10k
University Mall It has a great number of stores and has a nice size food court. Shopping mall · ★ 3.7 · 10k 🕐 Open · Closes 7 PM
Bern's Steak House The absolute best food and dining experience in Tampa. Steak · ★ 4.6 · 10k 🕐 Opens soon · 5 PM
The Great Escape Room Tampa Plenty of puzzles to solve and the room was very interactive. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 8k
Straz Center for the Performing Arts The immersive experience and VR experience were unique! Performing arts theater · ★ 4.7 · 7k
Oxford Exchange Our dining experience at the Oxford Exchange in Tampa was exceptional! American · ★ 4.6 · 7k 🕐 Closes soon · 5:30 PM
Rusty Pelican Tampa Genuinely some of the best food I’ve ever had in Tampa. Seafood · ★ 4.5 · 7k
WestShore Plaza The place was very clean and maintain and the stores are easy to navigate 👍 Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 6k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Tampa Riverwalk They form groups and do there activities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 6k
Hyde Park Village Great selection of shops and wonderful atmosphere! Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 5k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Ocean Prime Best seafood and steak in Tampa service phenomenal 👌 Seafood · ★ 4.7 · 5k
Water Works Park There's something to do for everyone of all ages. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 4k
Seasons 52 I traveled to Tampa for a work function and enjoyed a team dinner here. New American · ★ 4.6 · 4k
Sparkman Wharf Lots of things to do, includes places to eat and drink. Plaza · ★ 4.6 · 4k
Tampa Theatre The programming and events are amazing and the staff is incredible. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 3k
Hillsboro Plaza Allot of great stores, great prices. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 3k 🕐 Open · Closes 10 PM
Channelside Bay Plaza Great outlet with great stores and great prices. Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 3k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
OLIVIA Both the Tampa and St. Pete locations have fantastic food and great servers. Italian · ★ 4.6 · 3k 🕐 Opens soon · 5 PM
Dracula's Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro Tampa Great atmosphere, great music and vibes, great drinks, friendly staff. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 3k 🕐 Opens soon · 5 PM
GameTime Tampa Decent price and a fun way to spend an hour with friends and their kids. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 2k
Naked Farmer Seriously some of the best food I've had in Tampa, and baby friendly! New American · ★ 4.8 · 2k
Tampa Bay History Center There are multiple floors to explore and the exhibits are top notch! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 2k 🕐 Closes soon · 5 PM
M.Bird Stellar vibes, great music, and a wide selection of quality drinks. American · ★ 4.3 · 2k
Tampa Mall Great shops Nice people Excellent prices Flea market · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Open · Closes 7 PM
HorsePower for Kids & Animal Sanctuary The kids had a great time and many activities were available. Zoo · ★ 4.8 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu
The Pearl Tampa Wings are the best in Tampa and deviled eggs we could die for 🥹🥹 Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Henry B. Plant Museum The hidden alligators was such a cute way to keep the kids engaged. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k 🕐 Closes soon · 5 PM
Bad Monkey Ybor Great military themed bar with awesome music, good vibes, and quick service. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Coyote Ugly Saloon Great time, great energy, bartenders amazing, great time, great drinks. Bar · ★ 4.2 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 PM
Rocca Dinner here was hands down the best food we've eaten in Tampa. Italian · ★ 4.6 · 1k 🕐 Opens soon · 5 PM
Neiman Marcus Beautiful displays, professional staff, elite shopping services!! Women's clothing store · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Midtown Tampa Big, great assortment of stores and restaurants, big parking lot also free. Shopping mall · ★ 4.6 · 1k 🕐 Open 24 hours
Hotel Bar The atmosphere, the music, and the drinks are all sublime. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 1k
The Patio Tampa Great live music and awesome atmosphere. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center Great advice for local activities and a lovely gift shop to boot!!! Visitor center · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Morgan’s Cove Amazing service, incredible atmosphere and killer drinks! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k
EDGE Rooftop Cocktail Lounge The bartenders are friendly and make amazing cocktails! Bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Opens soon · 5 PM
Jekyll Amazing ambience, deliciously curated cocktails and over the top service! Lounge bar · ★ 4.1 · 0k 🕐 Opens soon · 5 PM
Visit Tampa Bay Got directions home with share location. Tourist information center · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Iconic Tampa Bay Like it better at night than day. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Tampa, Florida is an embarkation port. Many cruises start or end here — it's worth arriving a day early or extending your stay to explore beyond a single port day.

Next Departures from Tampa, Florida

About Tampa, Florida

Tampa stands as a major embarkation hub for Caribbean cruising, with six leading cruise lines—including Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line—operating nearly 700 sailings annually from its modern port facilities. As a primary home port rather than a port of call, Tampa serves as the launching point for countless vacations, with seven-night itineraries dominating the schedule and whisking passengers away to beloved Caribbean destinations like Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Roatán Island, along with nearby Florida ports and Key West.

The winter months from December through April represent peak season, making Tampa an especially popular choice for travelers seeking to escape colder climates. While most cruise passengers embark and depart quickly, those arriving early or staying after their voyage can explore the vibrant Ybor City district with its historic charm and local character, or enjoy the waterfront attractions that make this Gulf Coast city a worthwhile destination in its own right.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Explore Historic Ybor City

Wander through Tampa's most vibrant neighborhood, where 19th-century cigar factories now house galleries, boutiques, and museums. The historic brick streets and colorful architecture tell stories of Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrants who built this cultural hub. Don't miss the Ybor City Museum State Park for authentic local heritage.

2

Savor Fresh Cuban Cuisine

Indulge in authentic Cuban sandwiches, café con leche, and fresh seafood at family-owned restaurants throughout Ybor City and downtown Tampa. These establishments have perfected recipes passed down for generations, offering genuine flavors you won't find elsewhere. The Cuban coffee culture here is legendary among visitors.

3

Stroll the Scenic Riverwalk

Experience Tampa's waterfront transformation along the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, featuring parks, public art installations, and scenic views of the Hillsborough River. This pedestrian-friendly path connects downtown attractions and offers perfect photo opportunities with native wildlife and lush landscaping throughout.

4

Shop at Hyde Park Village

Browse upscale boutiques, national retailers, and unique local shops in this charming outdoor shopping district just minutes from the port. The tree-lined streets, Spanish architecture, and sidewalk cafés create an inviting atmosphere for both serious shoppers and casual browsers seeking Tampa treasures.

5

Visit the Florida Aquarium

Discover thousands of marine animals and interactive exhibits at this world-class facility showcasing Florida's diverse aquatic ecosystems. From seahorses to sharks, the aquarium offers engaging experiences for all ages and provides fascinating insights into the Gulf of Mexico's natural wonders.

Cruise Lines at Tampa, Florida

Cruises Departing From Tampa, Florida

Cruises Visiting Tampa, Florida

Ship Schedule at Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida Location

Other Cruise Ports in United States

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Tampa, Florida?

Six major cruise lines operate from Tampa, Florida: Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, American Cruise Lines, and Oceania Cruises. With 691 upcoming cruises available, Tampa offers excellent variety for both ocean and river cruise options departing from this major home port.

When is the best time to cruise from Tampa, Florida?

The peak cruise season from Tampa runs from December through April, with the busiest months being December, January, February, March, and April. During these winter and spring months, you'll find the most departure options and favorable weather for Caribbean cruises, though prices tend to be higher during peak periods.

How much do cruises from Tampa, Florida cost?

Cruise fares from Tampa range from $204 to $5,552 per person, depending on the cruise line, itinerary, cabin type, and length of voyage. Budget-friendly options are available through various operators, while premium and luxury cruises command higher prices for enhanced amenities and services.

What are the top destinations from Tampa cruise port?

Popular destinations from Tampa include Cozumel, Costa Maya, Roatán Island, Key West, and nearby Florida ports like Saint Petersburg. Most cruises from Tampa head to the Caribbean, offering tropical island experiences, cultural attractions, and water activities across multiple itineraries.

How do I get from Tampa cruise port to the city?

Tampa cruise port is conveniently located near downtown Tampa, just minutes from the city center. You can reach local attractions via taxi, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or rental cars. The port is also accessible by public transportation, and many hotels offer shuttle services for cruise passengers.

What can I see and do in Tampa in a day?

Tampa offers diverse attractions including the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens theme park, the Salvador Dalí Museum, and the historic Ybor City neighborhood with its shops and restaurants. You can also enjoy waterfront activities along the Riverwalk or visit nearby beaches for a relaxing day before or after your cruise.

Does Tampa cruise port use tenders or dock directly?

Tampa cruise port features modern docking facilities where most ships dock directly at the terminal, allowing convenient embarkation and disembarkation without tenders. The port is well-equipped with passenger services, taxi stands, and easy access to ground transportation options for pre- and post-cruise activities.