Work has started on restoring more than five acres of new land for the new cruise terminal at Port Tampa Bay, according to a press release. 

This has marked the first visible phase in the development of the first new cruise terminal built at the port in more than 25 years. 

Once completed in 2029, it will become Port Tampa Bay’s fourth cruise terminal. 

“This project is about much more than adding another cruise terminal. It’s an investment in the future of Port Tampa Bay and the economy of West Central Florida,” said Port Tampa Bay president and CEO Paul Anderson.  

“As cruise demand continues to grow, this terminal will strengthen our ability to serve existing cruise partners, attract new opportunities and support jobs, tourism and business throughout the region.” 

Kimmins Contracting Corporation is leading site preparation, which includes filling the former Metroport area and relocating critical stormwater infrastructure.

This phase of the project is expected to continue through late 2026, followed by a settlement period before construction advances. 

Once completed, the terminal will accommodate more than 200 additional ship calls each year, helping Port Tampa Bay’s cruise operations reach more than 2 million passengers annually and generate an estimated $100 million in additional annual economic impact. 

HDR, in partnership with BEA Architects, has been selected to design the terminal and an accompanying parking garage, with initial renderings of the future facility expected in the coming months.