A new cruise terminal construction site in Tampa. Photo courtesy of Port Tampa Bay media.
Port Tampa Bay starts the first phase of its new cruise terminal project at the former Banana Docks site, with the terminal set to open in 2029.
Former Banana Docks site
Port Tampa Bay has begun work to transform the former Metroport site into the home of its newest cruise terminal. It will be the first one in more than 25 years.
The property once housed Tampa’s historic Banana Docks.
Kimmons Contracting Corporation is leading the first phase of the project. Crews are filling the former marine slip and moving critical stormwater infrastructure. The work should continue through late 2026. The site will then go through a settlement period before construction of the terminal begins.
Port Tampa Bay President and CEO Paul Anderson called the project a long-term investment in the port and the region.
“We’re now going to create the infrastructure to support future growth for generations for Port Tampa Bay and our cruise industry.”
New terminal will expand cruise capacity
The new terminal will add significant capacity to Port Tampa Bay’s cruise operations.
The officials expect the facility to handle more than 200 additional ship calls each year. The added capacity could help the port reach more than two million cruise passengers annually. Port Tampa Bay welcomed about 1.6 million cruise voyagers in 2025.
Anderson said the expansion project will help the port serve existing cruise partners and attract new opportunities. The officials estimate a new terminal could generate about $100 million in additional annual economic impact.
More cruise options for local travelers
The expansion could also give Tampa Bay residents more cruise options closer to home.
Sergey Kouznetsov, a local avid traveler, said he often drives three to four hours to other Florida ports because they offer itineraries that are not available in Tampa.
“We’ve heard a great idea that our port, Port of Tampa, will be expanding, and more cruises are going to come out of our city here. So, I think that is a great idea.”
Port’s Economic Impact
Port Tampa Bay plays a major role in Florida’s economy.
It generates more than $34 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 192,000 jobs.
It also provides deepwater access for commercial and cruise vessels.
The port handles bulk and breakbulk cargo, containers, refrigerated goods, and roll-on/roll-off freight. It also supports shipbuilding and vessel repair. Those operations contribute to the region’s maritime, logistics, energy, and tourism industries.
When a new terminal opens in 2029, Port Tampa Bay will have four cruise terminals.
Officials expect the additional capacity to bring more ships and passengers to Tampa and create more economic activity across West Central Florida.