Port Tampa Bay Plans Fourth Cruise Terminal

The port is expanding its facilities to accommodate growing cruise industry demand by late 2029.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Cruises

Isometric editorial illustration of a coastal shipyard terminal construction site near a calm harbor, representing maritime infrastructure growth. — Port Tampa Bay has initiated plans for a fourth cruise terminal, aiming to support 2 million annual passengers by late 2029. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should local ports invest in new terminals to accommodate rising numbers of cruise ship passengers?

Port Tampa Bay has officially begun the planning process for a fourth cruise terminal to address increasing travel demand. The project will transform the former Metroport site into new land to support future capacity.

Why it matters

Expanding terminal capacity allows the port to meet rising interest in regional cruise travel while targeting an annual passenger goal of 2 million. This infrastructure development supports the port's broader strategy to accommodate more than 200 additional annual ship calls.

The port is currently reclaiming 5 acres of land at the former Metroport site to host the new facility. This project aims to support a throughput increase to over 2 million annual passengers from the 1.66 million recorded in 2025.

The players

Port Tampa Bay

This government entity serves as the main seaport in the city and manages extensive cruise, cargo, and energy logistics.

Kimmins Contracting Corporation

This firm is a regional construction and infrastructure company responsible for site preparation work.

HDR

This international architecture and engineering firm specializes in the design of large-scale infrastructure projects.

BEA Architects

This professional design practice provides architectural services with a focus on maritime and commercial facilities.

The details

Kimmins Contracting Corporation is managing site preparation, while HDR and BEA Architects have been tapped to design both the terminal and its associated parking garage. These efforts are designed to integrate with the existing three terminals that currently serve five major cruise lines.

In 2025, Port Tampa Bay hosted 1.66 million cruise passengers.
During 2026, the port handled 53 separate days featuring three-ship calls.
The new cruise terminal is expected to open for passengers in late 2029.

Travel Outlook

This project represents a significant increase in seasonal capacity, moving beyond the current constraints of handling 53 three-ship days. It reflects a shift toward maximizing cruise throughput in a region where major transit bridges create permanent navigation limitations.

While construction is underway, travelers should monitor for updates regarding future terminal check-in locations and parking adjustments at the port. Once operational, the expanded facilities should reduce congestion during high-volume ship days.

The takeaway

The addition of a fourth terminal positions the city to maintain its status as a major regional embarkation point. Travelers can expect increased options as the port prepares for a higher volume of annual ship calls by the end of the decade.