Port Tampa Bay Begins Work on New Cruise Terminal

Work is already underway on the new cruise terminal for Port Tampa Bay, the first new cruise terminal to be built at the port in over 25 years.

The former Metroport site, where the historic Banana Docks were located, is being occupied, marking the first visible phase of the development of its new cruise terminal.

The project includes the restoration of more than two hectares of land for the future terminal. Kimmins Contracting Corporation is leading the site preparation, which includes filling the former Metroport area and relocating critical stormwater drainage infrastructure. This phase of the project is expected to extend until the end of 2026, followed by a settlement period before construction begins.

The new cruise terminal will be built on the site of a former shipyard and is expected to be completed in 2029. HDR, in collaboration with BEA Architects, was selected to design the terminal and an annexed parking garage, and the first renderings of the future facilities are expected to be released in the coming months.

"This project goes far beyond simply building a new cruise terminal. It is an investment in the future of Port Tampa Bay and the economy of west-central Florida. As demand for cruises continues to grow, this terminal will strengthen our ability to serve our current partners, attract new opportunities, and foster employment, tourism, and economic activity throughout the region," stated Paul Anderson, President and CEO of Port Tampa Bay.

Once completed, the new terminal is expected to accommodate more than 200 additional annual ship calls, which will help Port Tampa Bay's cruise operations reach over 2 million passengers per year and generate an estimated additional annual economic impact of USD 100 million.