Tampa is a smaller port than those on the east coast of Florida. Part of this is because the largest ships cannot call on Tampa because they won’t fit under the Skyway bridge. Fortunately this height limit doesn’t affect the range of options available for destinations.
Mexico and Central America cruises are the most common option with many sailings in the 4 to 8 night range.
With the Bahamas just off the coast of Florida, this is a popular destination for 4 to 7 night voyages. Many of these include a stop at the cruise lines’ private islands.
Western Caribbean itineraries are available starting at 5 nights long and can be as much as twice that length. Eastern Caribbean sailings are fewer and are typically 9+ nights.
While Tampa is a year-round cruiseport, it is much less busy from May to October when some ships reposition to Europe. There is also the opportunity to take ships through the Panama Canal and end a cruise on the west coast.