If you’re planning a cruise from Tampa, one of the first questions you might have is “How far is the Tampa airport from the cruise port?” The answer depends on a few factors, including your mode of transportation and which terminal your cruise ship departs from.
By Car: If you’re driving to the port, the distance between Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Port Tampa Bay is approximately 9 miles. The drive takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Shuttle: Many cruise lines offer shuttle service between TPA and Port Tampa Bay as part of their pre-cruise packages. These shuttles usually take about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
By Taxi or Ride Share: If you prefer to take a taxi or ride share service like Uber or Lyft, the trip from TPA to Port Tampa Bay will cost approximately $25-$30 and take around 20-25 minutes, again depending on traffic.
The Different Cruise Terminals at Port Tampa Bay
It’s important to note that there are three different terminals at Port Tampa Bay: Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 6. The distance between TPA and each terminal varies slightly:
- Terminal 2: This terminal is primarily used by Carnival Cruise Line. It’s located closest to downtown Tampa, about 8 miles from TPA. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes.
- Terminal 3: Norwegian Cruise Line uses this terminal for most of its departures. It’s located about 9 miles from TPA and takes around 20-25 minutes to reach by car.
- Terminal 6: Royal Caribbean International uses this terminal for most of its departures. It’s located furthest from both TPA and downtown Tampa, about 10 miles from the airport. The drive takes approximately 25-30 minutes.
Tips for Planning Your Arrival Time:
- If you’re driving yourself or taking a taxi/ride share, plan to arrive at the port at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. This will give you plenty of time to park (if necessary), check in, and board the ship.
- If you’re using a shuttle service provided by your cruise line, check with them to see what time they recommend arriving at the airport. They may have specific departure times or guidelines for their shuttle service.
- Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in the Tampa area during peak travel times (such as holidays or weekends). Plan accordingly and leave extra time if necessary.
In Conclusion:
The distance between Tampa International Airport and Port Tampa Bay varies depending on your mode of transportation and which terminal your cruise ship departs from. However, with a little planning and preparation, getting from the airport to the port should be a smooth process.
Don’t forget to leave plenty of time for traffic and check with your cruise line for any specific guidelines or recommendations. Happy cruising!