Royal Caribbean Vaccine Requirements
Royal Caribbean does not currently require cruisers from Florida to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but there are disadvantages to cruising with the line without your shots. Most places on board the ship will be available to everyone, but there are certain venues onboard Royal Caribbean ships designated for vaccinated passengers only. All guests are tested prior to boarding.
All crew members on board Royal Caribbean ships are fully vaccinated and are tested each week for the virus.
You may have seen a few weeks ago when a cruiser, dubbed Cruise Karen, was removed from a ship after testing positive for the virus.
What’s Next For The Restart
Four more Royal Caribbean cruises ships will restart operations before the year comes to a close.
Explorer of the Seas is scheduled to restart cruises when she sails from San Juan, Puerto Rico beginning on November 7. Explorer will sail 7-night Southern Caribbean sailings.
Royal Caribbean is especially excited to see Navigator of the Seas return to service, because it means the restart of cruises for the cruise line from the west coast.
Navigator will offer 3-, 4- and 5-night Catalina Island, California, and Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico cruises from Los Angeles, beginning November 19.
Grandeur of the Seas will start cruising again when she offers 7- and 14-night Southern Caribbean sailings from Bridgetown, Barbados, starting December 5.
Finally, Enchantment of the Seas will begin cruising again in December, when she sails from Baltimore on December 23, offering 8-night Bahamas sailings, and select 12-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean.
Carnival Ships Currently On Hold
At the moment, there are 16 Carnival cruise ships on hold, and some of them are preparing to resume operations in the coming weeks. Carnival Radiance is not on hold as the ship is undergoing a major transformation in Cadiz, Spain, and will debut later in the year. Carnival Cruise Line has already said that the entire fleet is expected to be nack sailing by the end of the year.
- Carnival Conquest Resuming October 8, 2021
- Carnival Ecstasy TBA
- Carnival Elation Resuming October 11, 2021
- Carnival Freedom Resuming October 9, 2021
- Carnival Legend TBA
- Carnival Sensation Resuming October 21, 2021
- Carnival Spirit TBA
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Carnival Horizon From Miami
Carnival Horizon became the second ship in the fleet to restart cruises operations and the first to resume from PortMiami, Florida. Just like her sister ship, the fun returned with a ribbon-cutting ceremony which wasnt just attended by the cruise lines president but also brand ambassador John Heald.
Heald had originally been denied to fly to the US to join the ship, but thankfully for the hundreds that booked the Carnival Horizon because he would be on there, that was resolved.
The vessel departed PortMiami on July 4 and became the first ship in the fleet to begin cruises from the cruise capital of the world. Carnival Horizons first sailing back is a six-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary including visits to Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and the cruise lines private island of Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.
There was originally scheduled to be a call in Bimini, but that was canceled due to a curfew implemented on the island.
- Resumed Cruises: July 4, 2021
- Homeport: PortMiami, Florida
- First Cruise Back: 6-Day Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean
Brilliance Of The Seas
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
The Brilliance of the Seas is undoubtedly one of the top cruises that depart from Tampa.
Not only does it fall into the affordable cruises category, it provides entertaining cruises packages for the entire family.
Teen disco, nursery, mini golf course, rock climbing, three-story theatre, movies by the pool, bars, nine restaurants all inclusive cruises dont get better than this.
Almost 75 percent of the cabins come with mesmerizing views of the ocean.
Budget accommodation options are also available on Brilliance of the Seas.
Size of Ship: Large
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Carnival Vista From Galveston
Carnival Vista became the first ship in the fleet to resume operations after more than 15 months on hold. The long-awaited day finally arrived on July 3 when the Carnival cruise ship departed from the Port of Galveston in Texas at around 4:00 PM. The cruises included stops at Mahogany Bay , Cozumel, and Belize City.
The ship sailed with 2,960 guests, with 888 of those first-time cruisers with Carnival. There was a Back to Fun ribbon-cutting ceremony which Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy attended.
- Resumed Cruises: July 3, 2021
- Homeport: Port of Galveston, Texas
- First Cruise Back: 7-Day Western Caribbean
The Centers For Disease Control And Prevention Issues Conditional Sailing Order For Cruises
On May 5, 2021, CDC released the next two phases of the Framework for Conditional Sailing Order for cruise ships operating or seeking to operate in U.S. waters. This issue was made in the interest of public safety. We encourage any impacted cruise passengers to contact their travel agent or cruise line directly for more information.
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Cruises Out Of Tampa Are Close To Orlando
Why not combine your cruise out of Tampawith a visit to Orlando? Enjoy visiting your favorite theme parks or head tothe Florida Mall, the upscale Mall at Millennia or Orlando InternationalPremium Outlets for some great deals as part of your cruise-and-stay vacation.
Greatlive entertainment
Book tickets to watch Tampa Bay Lightning ice hockey, see a top UFC fight, watch a Cirque du Soleil performance or get seats to a live concert all the big names come to Tampas Amalie Arena!
Serenade Of The Seas Sailing The Bahamas From Tampa
Guests boarding the 90,090 gross ton Serenade of the Seas today are sailing on a five-night cruise to the Bahamas. Ports of call include a day in Nassau in the Bahamas and a day in Perfect Day at CocoCay.
In October 2021, the Royal Caribbean cruise ship will be alternating 5-night cruises with 4-night cruises that call in Perfect Day at CocoCay. From November, these 4-night cruises will include a call in Cozumel, Mexico, while the 5-night cruises will call in Costa Maya and Cozumel.
On December 31 Serenade of the Seas will be sailing on a special 8-night holiday cruise that will take the ship to ports such as Cozumel, Mexico Roatan, Honduras Belize City, Belize Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico before returning to Tampa, Florida.
Serenade of the Seas started operations back in July when she set sail from Seattle, Washington, July 19. She was the first large international cruise ship to resume sailings to Alaska from Seattle, without stopping in Canada.
Since then, the cruise ship has made several successful sailings in the northern state, which means that the guests onboard experience a ship firing on all cylinders.
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Watch The Video Of Royal Caribbean’s Serenade Of The Seas Sailing Making Her Way Down Sparkman Channel To The Port Of Tampa Bay Saturday
TAMPA, FL There is good news for Tampa Bay residents dreaming of taking a long, relaxing ocean voyage and businesses eagerly anticipating the economic impact from the return of cruises to Port Tampa Bay.
Port Tampa Bay and Royal Caribbean International celebrated the return of cruising on Saturday with the arrival of the Serenade of the Seas, a week ahead of her first commercial cruise and first revenue cruise from the port in more than 18 months.
Port Tampa Bay welcomed Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas to Cruise Terminal 6 before she departs on her maiden voyage next Saturday.
Cruises Out Of Tampa Florida
| There are 53 cruises that depart from Tampa, FL in the year 2021. Four cruise lines offer cruises that leave out of Tampa in 2021 – Royal Caribbean , Carnival , Celebrity and Norwegian .You can see Tampa cruise schedule for 2021 in the table below. Be sure to look at the $/Day column to find cheap Tampa cruise deals in 2021. |
| Departure |
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Best Cruises From Tampa
- Caribbean
- Panama Canal
Florida is an extremely popular starting point for cruises, from quick sailings around the Florida Keys to extensive Caribbean explorations. In addition to Miami, Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale, Tampa is the fourth major cruise port in the Sunshine State. Below, weve selected a handful of the best cruises from Tampa.
Top Things To Do In Tampa
Visit a Gulf Coast Beach
Some of the nations leading beaches are found on the Gulf Coast, and passengers on Tampa cruises will have plenty of award-winning options to explore. Clearwater Beach frequently tops best-of lists. At Fort de Soto, you can canoe or kayak, hunt for seashells, and explore the historic fort. At the upscale St. Pete Beach, try an exciting watersport like parasailing or kiteboarding, or simply lounge on its sugary sands.
Explore Downtown St. Petersburg
Located southwest of the city of Tampa, St. Pete is an artsy city that boasts upscale boutiques and restaurants, museums and art galleries, and fun activities for the whole family. If youre here on a Saturday, stop in the Saturday Morning Market for live music, international cuisine, and artisan goods.
Catch a Game
No matter what type of sport youre into, youre bound to find it here in Tampa. Sit near the ice and dodge pucks at a Lightning game, cheer on the Bucs to the sounds of a pirate ships cannonballs blasting at Raymond James Stadium, or snack on cracker jacks while watching the Yankees during spring training or the Rays during the regular season.
Where can I eat near the Tampa Cruise Port?
Berns Steak House
1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa
For the ultimate culinary experience in Tampa Bay, Berns Steak House is the most sought-after choice. Its extraordinary wine menu, delectable steaks, and magnificent dessert room make it a top spot to celebrate a special occasion. Reservations are recommended.
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Carnival Breeze From Galveston
Carnival Breeze became the third ship in the fleet to resume sailings and the second out of Galveston, Texas. She departed from the Port of Galveston on July 17, bringing back the fun to guests who have been waiting more than 16 months to enjoy a cruise vacation with Carnival.
On her first voyage back in service, Carnival Breeze is sailing a four-day itinerary which includes a visit to Cozumel, Mexico. The ship will also be sailing a five-day voyage departing on Mondays and Saturdays, including a call to Cozumel, Costa Maya, or Progresso, all in Mexico.
The ship is sailing with fully vaccinated passengers and crew on board. However, there is an exemption that guests can request if they are ineligible for the vaccine. There are more strict protocols in place for these guests, including travel insurance and the cost of a test.
- Resumed Cruises: July 17, 2021
- Homeport: Port of Galveston, Texas
- First Cruise Back: 4-Day Western Caribbean
Best Cruises From Tampa Florida
Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Tampa is a much known and much-loved name in the world of top cruises.
Most of the cruises which set sail from Tampa have ports of call in various Caribbean islands. Some even sail all the way to Canada and Alaska.
Before you book your cruise holiday, spend a good amount of time on research. Cruise holidays are best enjoyed when you book an all inclusive cruise deal.
Check out our list of the best cruises which depart from Tampa.
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Panama Canal Cruises Travel Tips
- Consider traveling during the off-season, as it is less packed and generally more affordable.
- Do not carry around your passport, but you should have an ID with you.
- Always use bug spray when you are there, the bugs can be tough to get through.
- Don’t be startled or alarmed to hear random fireworks go off.
- Do not go into unfamiliar places alone or during the nighttime hours.
- U.S. money is accepted throughout all of Panama.
- A lot of the beaches in Panama are remote.
- Make sure to pack shorts, sandals, and drink plenty of water.
Cruises From Port Tampa Bay Are Back With Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship
Cruises from Tampa, Florida are back as Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas is the first ship to restart operations from the port.
Cruises from the Port of Tampa are back with Royal Caribbean becoming the first cruise line to restart operations. Serenade of the Seas is the first cruise ship since March last year sailing from the city with guests onboard. The vessel has already been sailing this year in Alaska, where she started operation on July 19.
Is there a more beautiful sight than s Serenade of the Seas as she made her way down Sparkman Channel towards Port Tampa Bay this morning? We are so excited that cruising is back!
Port Tampa Bay
As with all Royal Caribbean ships, Serenade of the Seas will be sailing with a maximum 50 percent capacity to start, meaning there will be between 1,000 and 1,500 passengers onboard, out of a possible 2,490, in addition to its crew of more than 800.
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Royal Caribbean Cruises Out Of Tampa
The Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has three ships that sail out of Tampas port: Brilliance of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas.
The cruise liner, Brilliance of the Seas, measures 962 feet long with a capacity to hold 2,500 guests and 859 crew members. This cruise liner offers one-way and round-trip cruises ranging from 4-14 days. Destinations include the Bahamas, Key West, Mexico, Grand Cayman, Spain, Italy and more. Guests can soak up some rays at the pool while enjoying frosty cocktails and live music. If you are looking for more adventure, check out the rock climbing wall or mini-golf.
The Rhapsody of the Seas cruise ship measures just over 900 feet long with a capacity to hold 2,435 guests and 765 crew members. The cruise ship offers round-trip cruises only ranging from 4-8 days. Destinations include Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Grand Cayman and more. Couples can enjoy a night out at one of the many bars and clubs around the ship. Kids will love the arcade, rock climbing wall and numerous pools found on the ship.
Cruises Out Of Tampa: The Pros And Cons
Find out the pros and cons on cruises out of Tampa, Florida before you head out on your vacation from the port. Also, plenty of tips and ideas for the city.
Some people love cruises out of Tampa while others prefer to use an alternative cruise port. Its all about options. If you want a convenient cruise port that is easy to reach from the airport, has free streetcar transportation and parking just steps from the cruise terminal, Tampa is the best port for you.
It is less crowded, offers a scenic departure through Tampa Bay and has plenty of attractions to keep you busy before and after your cruise.
However, if you are keen to hit the casinoand duty-free shops, want to avoid the risk of choppy waters in the Gulf ofMexico and prefer a wider choice of cruise options, you should probablyconsider cruising out of a different port.
Heres a full list of 14 pros and 8 cons forcruising out of Tampa. Read them all and then decide for yourself whethercruising out of Tampa is the best choice for you!
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Port Cruise Parking Right Across The Street
Very few cruise ports have cruise parking within walking distance of the cruise terminals, but Tampa does! Theres no need for a shuttle or taxi from your cruise car park, just book self-parking at the cruise port and you can wheel your luggage across the street to cruise check-in.
Prices are $15 per day to park at the port cruise parking lot at 810 Channelside Drive. It is convenient and secure with 3,500 spaces, including half in the covered garage. For other parking options, check out our Tampa cruise parking guide.
Easy To Reach By Road
Tampa is the northernmost cruise port in Florida,and the only one on Floridas west coast. Served by the I-75 and I-4, it is about150 miles closer to the northern states than Port Miami and Port Evergladescruise port so why drive further than you have to?
If youre driving to Tampa for a cruise,its wise to drive down a day or two earlier in case of bad weather furthernorth. Once you get the Sunshine State, youll have no more problems with iceand snow, unlike some other cruise ports.
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Carnival Dream From Galveston
The Port of Galveston is leading the restart of operations with Carnival Dream now becoming the third Carnival cruise ship to resume operations. The vessel departed on September 19 on its first cruise with guests in 18 months.
After a Back to Fun ribbon-cutting ceremony, the first guests were welcomes on board and the ship departed on a six-day Western Caribbean Caribbean cruise including calls at Costa Maya in Mexico, Belize and Cozumel, and Mexico. A range of itineraries to the Caribbean and the Bahamas will continue through the remainder of the year.
Carnival Dream joined Carnival Vista and Carnival Breeze, which have already resumed operations from Galveston.
- Resumed Cruises: September 19, 2021
- Homeport: Galveston, Texas
- First Cruise Back: 6-Day Western Caribbean Cruise
Hotels Near Port Tampa Bay Cruise Terminals
Amid all the excitement, dont forget to think about booking accommodations for before and after your cruise near Tampa Bays port.
Uptown Suites in Tampa, FLoffers affordable nightly rates. We even offer discounted weekly rates if you plan to enjoy some leisure time in Tampa. Amenities include FREE hotel parking, FREE high-speed Wi-fi, a FREE on-site gym and FREE on-site electric car charging. All of our suites boast in-room kitchens, living areas, USB charging ports, smart HDTVs with premium channels including SHOWTIME® and keyless RFID room locks.
Uptown Suites Tampa is also close to the ports parking garages, where parking is convenient, safe and starts at $15 per day. If you arent planning on driving while in Tampa, Uber or Lyft are the most convenient ways to travel to the port. A ride from our hotel to the Port Tampa Bay Cruise Terminals costs around $20. Happy Cruising!
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