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TOURS IN TAMPA BAY

Tampa Bay's unique blend of culture, cuisine, craft brewing, and outdoor adventure can be a lot to choose from. Why tackle it on your own? Hire a guide to give you an insightful angle on this dynamic, diverse destination. We have plenty of tours to choose from. Where do you want to go?

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Downtown Tampa Tours

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure on the Mighty Hillsborough River!

We offer gorgeous daytime tours and stunning evening tours 7 days per week.

Cruise the mighty Hillsborough River. See the incredible views of beautiful downtown Tampa from the water – including the lively Curtis Hixon Park, the expansive Julian B. Lane Park, the meandering Tampa Riverwalk, the impressive Straz Performing Arts Center, the statuesque Tampa Convention Center, the historic University of Tampa, the active Water Works Park and the bustling Armature Works. Stop at bars and restaurants along the way if you would like.

Most tours leave from Curtis Hixon Park but full boat bookings can select other departure locations along the river at check out or by contacting us directly.

What’s Included

Along with an incredible time on a floating tiki bar, we will provide a cooler with ice and a Bluetooth sound system.

What to bring – BYOB (including water!) and your own music, if you would like. For daytime cruises, remember your sunscreen (no spray sunscreen please), sunglasses and hats. Your feet may get wet, so wear appropriate shoes. Feel free to bring snacks.

You can book online until the day before your cruise. For same day reservations, please call or text 813-808-6068 for availability.

Tampa Water Taxi

• Pickup Locations
• History Tour
• Dolphin Tour
• Sunset & Night Cruises
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• Holiday & Special Events

Relax on a guided boat tour of Tampa's beautiful homes, history, and wildlife including dolphins, stingrays, and birds.

Give Us a Call

For taxi pickup and tour bookings call 888-665-8687 or 813-900-3288 (local). We'd love to hear from you!

Hours of Operation

Join us 365 days a year from 9am to 10pm. Earlier or later times are available by reservation.

Water Taxi Service

Contact us for a scenic transport to and from your downtown location. Only $5 per guest each way. We also have group rates available. Click here to view our departure locations.

Charters for Parties & Special Events

We will custom tailor a program to fit your event. Weddings, parties, girls/guys night out, business meetings, office parties. Just ask!

Please note: The meeting point for all tours is 801 Old Water St. These meeting location details will also be included in all purchase confirmation emails as well. Google does not have our address correctly listed.

Tampa harbor and history tour.

This tour takes you step by step through the evolution. As you cruise along the waters in our roomy vessels, history unfolds all around you. Our guides have little known facts about our city and share them with you. Many locals have said "I have lived here all my life, and I did not know that about Tampa." When you leave our tour you will know more than most of the locals! Being one of the picturesque harbors in Florida, Tampa harbor abounds with history on all sides. ​​

DOLPHIN TOUR

Our tours are a once in a lifetime experience. The captains spot the dolphins every trip. Keep your cameras at the ready as the dolphins will be closer than you ever thought. Your tour starts out taking you past the homes of the rich and famous on you way to the bay were the dolphins live.

SUNSET CRUISE

Become removed from the hindering effects of man made light pollution and take part in the breathtaking vivid colors of the western sky. Bring a bottle of wine, and we will provide the setup. We will pick you up at your home, hotel, or any waterside location.

CELEBRITY HOME TOUR

See the BIGGEST home in Tampa owned by a New York Yankee up close. This tour lasts one hour and will take you into Tampa Bay to see the homes on Davis Islands. There are canals lined with the grandest homes in the city. We get visited by dolphins on most trips as they play and hunt for dinner.

HOLIDAY AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Get a front row seat for holiday or special event activities with Tampa Water Taxi Co.

FIRST COME FIRST SERVE

Reservations are strongly suggested. We are an on demand service and not a bus service. We pick you up when you want, but feel free to hail us if you see us on the water. We will do our best to pick you up for a tour or taxi trip "First come, first serve" is our reservation policy. The first party that reserves a time gets to go on the trip. You may join the tour if there is space available.

Departure Locations

All time is counted from the time reserved by guests for the duration of their requested trip., departure time is set by you. arrival to the agreed departure location is the responsibility of the guests. waiting time is added to the final bill at the rate of $75 per 15 minutes. a grace period may be place at the discretion of the captain. we will not leave if we have brought guests to a location, and they are late. we will wait for guests subject to the above..

Rent the entire boat and crew by the hour or day. You have full use of the boat and crew for the time you reserve. You may have as many passengers as the boat may legally carry and we will follow the route you request. You may have private parties, weddings, group tours, photo and movie shoots.

CHARTER PAYMENTS:

A 50% DEPOSIT MUST BE PAID AT THE TIME OF RESERVATION. BALANCE PAID 72 HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE. CHARTER RESERVATIONS MADE LESS THAN 72 HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE MUST BE PAID IN FULL AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO A $25 ADDITIONAL HOURLY CHARGE.

REFUNDS AND CREDITS FOR CHARTER CANCELLATIONS:

100% REFUND IF CANCELLED 30 DAYS BEFORE RESERVED DATE 50% CREDIT IF CANCELLED 3-6 DAYS BEFORE RESERVED DATE NO CREDITS OR REFUND IF CANCELLED 72 HOURS BEFORE RESERVED DATE 100% CREDIT IF WE CANCEL THE TRIP BECAUSE OF WEATHER CONDITIONS OR BY GOVERNMENT ORDER

801 Old Water St. Tampa, fl

Hours of operation, 10 am to midnight sunday - thursday 10 am to 1 am friday - saturday or anytime 24 hours a day for private events and charters, 888-665-8687.

HOLIDAY/EVENTS

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Tampa   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Bradley Olson | EyeEm

22 Best Things To Do in Tampa

Updated August 2, 2023

Tampa is tailor-made for families who love animals. Take your pick between the Florida Aquarium , Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center  or ZooTampa at Lowry Park . Not traveling with the kids? Tampa's got you covered there, too. When you'

• All Things To Do

Tampa Riverwalk Tampa Riverwalk free

The Tampa Riverwalk is an approximately 2.5-mile-long paved scenic trail that runs along the Hillsborough River. Visitors can walk, bike, rollerblade, enjoy public art and access any number of restaurants, stores, parks and playgrounds, bike rental shops and top attractions, such as the Florida Aquarium and the Glazer Children's Museum , along the route. There is a paid attraction pass available if you want to visit several museums and attractions along the riverwalk. Walking the trail is free.

Recent visitors were impressed by how well-maintained and clean the park is, and noted that it's an ideal place to catch the sunset. The visitor's bureau recommends starting your visit at the south end of the riverwalk, which is a short walk from the Florida Aquarium, and making your way north.

Armature Works Armature Works free

The Armature Works Heights Public Market – a 22,000-square-foot industrial market – is Tampa's go-to spot for foodies and architecture fans. The 1910 building was formerly the storage and maintenance facility for Tampa Electric's streetcars, contributing to the urban feel it embodies today.

Recent visitors loved the variety of dining options and the ambience of the space itself, describing it as an upscale food court with plenty of vendors to suit a variety of palates. In addition to all the eateries, there are retail shops and a rooftop event space, as well as a "Show + Tell" workshop, which is used for everything from cooking classes to wine tastings. There are plenty of outdoor activities too, including yoga classes and movie nights.

Busch Gardens Busch Gardens

Spanning 335 acres and boasting more than 200 animal species, live shows, restaurants, roller coasters, shops and games, Busch Gardens is a popular way to spend a day under the Tampa sun. Did you know that Busch Gardens is actually older than nearby Disney World ? It's also cheaper and includes themed lands, such as the Edge of Africa; plus, animal exhibits based on the Serengeti Plain and the Myombe Reserve (and that's just scratching the surface). 

Recent visitors enjoyed the combination of entertainment and education found here, saying that everyone from animal lovers to thrill-seekers will be happy at the park. Some noted that ride lines can be long, and subject to close suddenly due to maintenance or weather. If you're here for the rides, you can purchase a Quick Queue Unlimited pass to skip the lines.

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Florida Aquarium Florida Aquarium

Located on the southeastern edge of downtown Tampa, the Florida Aquarium houses a massive collection of marine life – more than 8,000 animals, by the last count. Past visitors said it'll take you at least three hours to make your way through the maze of stingrays, moray eels and sea turtles that live here, but there's a good chance your children will tire of the outing before then. Young kids are sure to enjoy the Splash Pad area, a zero-depth outdoor area that includes geysers, dump buckets and spray zones for little ones (don't forget to pack a towel!).

Recent visitors were pleased with their trip to the aquarium, but they do lament the high ticket prices. Others enjoyed the focus on Florida wildlife and recommend a stop here when you need a break from the heat.  

Tampa Theatre Tampa Theatre

Even if you're not in town for a film screening or performance, visitors highly recommend a stop at the beautifully ornate Tampa Theatre. When it was built in 1926, the venue was considered one of the world's most elaborate theaters. Designed by architect John Eberson, the interior features a 1,400-pipe Wurlitzer organ and was constructed to look like a garden with flowering vines and gargoyles. Take a look at the ceiling and you'll spot 99 bulbs meant to resemble stars in the night sky. If you can't attend a show here, consider taking a tour instead. 

The venue offers a 90-minute Balcony to Backstage Tour, which includes a demonstration of the Wurlitzer theater organ and details about the stories, art and architecture that earned this movie palace a spot on the National Register of Historic Places and designation as a Tampa local historic landmark. Tours take place on a monthly basis. Adult tickets cost $10; children ages 2 to 12 tour for $8. Check the theater's  website  for show times and to book a tour in advance (they often sell out).

Tampa Golf Tampa Golf

With such ideal weather year-round, Tampa is a great place for a round or two of golf.  TPC Tampa Bay , which has hosted the PGA Tour Champions event for more than 20 years, is among the city's most popular courses. It features an 18-hole course designed by Bobby Weed, with Chi-Chi Rodriguez as player consultant. Recent golfers praised the helpful staff and enjoyed the as-advertised challenging course. 

Saddlebrook Resort is another popular facility that features two courses designed by Arnold Palmer. Recent visitors said the courses are beautiful and well-maintained. The  Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Golf Resort is equally revered for players and spectators who flock to the course for the annual Valspar Championship. 

Tampa Boat Tours Tampa Boat Tours

Make the most of Tampa's coastal location with a boat tour around its bay. You'll have your pick of tour options, including sunset sails, half-day trips and dolphin cruises. If you're already planning to visit the Florida Aquarium , consider penciling in some time for its Wild Dolphin Cruise. The tour, which departs from the aquarium twice daily, includes a 75-minute ride on a 72-foot catamaran. The aim of the tour is to get far enough into Tampa Bay to see the hundreds of bottlenose dolphins that call the area home, but you'll also likely spot several bird species and the occasional sea turtle. Note that you'll have to purchase the aquarium's combo ticket if you want to tack this experience onto your visit.

Tampa Bay Fun Boat is another popular sightseeing option with daytime and sunset cruises. If you'd rather be the captain of your own vessel, consider eBoats Tampa , which offers one- to four-hour boat rentals. No boating license is necessary. For a more active experience, consider Get Up and Go Kayaking , a top-rated company that operates guided kayak tours of Shell Key Preserve, a nearly 2,000-acre preserve located in Tierra Verde that shelters local wildlife like manatees, dolphins, pelicans and starfish. Nearby St. Petersburg is also home to a variety of boat tour operators, including the traveler-approved Speed Boat Adventures . Tour prices and excursion lengths can vary; for more information, visit each individual company's website.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Spanning nearly 60 acres, ZooTampa at Lowry Park boasts natural habitats, educational shows and interactive animal encounters, water play areas, and a handful of rides. Here, you'll find a variety of animals from around the world, including African elephants, koalas, orangutans, penguins, and tigers, among other species. Plus, for those that didn't spot any animals at  Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center , you're in luck; the zoo is home to Florida's first nonprofit acute care manatee hospital, which means it's one of a few places in Florida where you're guaranteed to spot the area's beloved sea cows no matter the season. Other highlights include a carousel and a section dedicated to Florida wildlife.

When you're not marveling at the manatees, you'll have your pick of interactive animal encounters, ranging from feeding an Indian rhino to posing for a photo with koala bears. Recent visitors were generally pleased with the zoo, and especially recommend it for families with young children. They also say zoo employees are friendly and the zoo is well maintained. Travelers were also pleased to learn that access to all of the rides at the zoo is included in your general admission ticket.

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Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center free

Tampa is a city made for animal lovers willing to pay the price for cuddly, unique and cute. Science centers, zoos and aquariums that don't charge at least a little something for you to enter are few and far between. Which is why Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center is so special. Vacationers appreciate a little break in their itineraries to see manatees swimming through the Tampa Electric water plant, and they don't have to pay an arm and a leg for the privilege. In fact, you won't have to pay anything at all. At the Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, manatees seek refuge in the power station's discharge panel, where clean, warm Tampa Bay saltwater flows. When the bay gets too chilly for the manatees, they retreat to this space for warmth.

When your eyes aren't on the water, turn your attention to the center's other attractions, including a stingray touch tank, educational exhibits (featuring real manatee bones) and a gift shop. You can also get a bird's-eye view of the area by climbing up the stairs to the 50-foot viewing tower, located halfway down the Manatee Viewing Center's habitat loop trail.

Henry B. Plant Museum Henry B. Plant Museum

Travelers like the setting of this museum and National Historic Landmark just as much as its contents. Housed in the Moorish Revival Tampa Bay Hotel on the University of Tampa campus, the Henry B. Plant Museum preserves a Gilded Age feel and affords visitors a glimpse into turn-of-the-century living and lodging. It also offers insight into the life and work of its creator, railroad magnate Henry Bradley Plant.

Those who've visited say the museum is a great experience if you love antiques, architecture and history – specifically Florida history, though they note parking can be limited. The museum boasts several permanent exhibits, which feature the hotel's original rooms reconstructed with furniture and other artifacts to reflect the property's Victorian origins. The museum also features temporary exhibits, as well as online exhibits. During the holiday season, the museum is dressed in traditional holiday garb and exhibit rooms are decorated with trimmed trees designed in 19th-century themes and antique holiday accessories. 

Glazer Children's Museum Glazer Children's Museum

If you're in Tampa with young kids (12 and younger), consider a stop at the Glazer Children's Museum. Though Tampa isn't short on kid-friendly attractions, many of them are dependent on the weather, meaning you might want to have an indoor backup plan in case the clouds roll in.

Packed with permanent and temporary exhibits, this 53,000-square-foot space is filled with interactive exhibits that aim to teach kids about the human body, math, science and art. Little ones can pretend to shop for groceries in the miniature Publix, stage a performance in the Twinkle Stars Theater, try their hand at different healthcare roles at the St. Joseph's Children's Hospital exhibit and learn where food comes from in the Farm.

Tampa Bay History Center Tampa Bay History Center

If you're interested in learning more about Florida's first inhabitants, then a stop at the Smithsonian-affiliated Tampa Bay History Center should be on your itinerary. Spanning 60,000 square feet and ideally situated on Tampa's waterfront, the history center showcases 12,000 years of Florida's history through three floors of exhibits, educational films and interactive displays. Learn about Tampa's cigar industry and immigrant communities in Ybor City with the center's "Cuban Pathways" exhibit. Or, brush up on your knowledge of Florida's first European explorers and pirates with a look around the "Treasure Seekers" exhibit. 

Many recent visitors reported being pleasantly surprised at the interactive, informative features at the history center, including the short films that accompany many of the exhibits. Travelers also said the center does a good job appealing to younger visitors thanks to its kid-friendly displays and welcoming personnel. Reviewers were also complimentary of the on-site eatery, Columbia Cafe, which serves Spanish- and Cuban-inspired dishes.

Ybor City Ybor City free

Pronounced ee -bore, this northeast enclave of Tampa was once a hotbed for coffee manufacturing and hand-rolled cigars – factory workers would roll millions of them annually. Now, it's a mash of old and new; the lively bars and pubs represent the modern city; the brick streets and historic streetcar serve as a tribute to the neighborhood's past.

Recent travelers were divided on when to visit: some said the nighttime entertainment is the most interesting feature of Ybor City – especially the nightclubs along 7th Avenue – while others recommended stopping by during the day for delicious, authentic Cuban food (Ybor City is home to Florida's oldest restaurant, Columbia Restaurant) and an amazing selection of cigars. Tabanero Cigars and J.C. Newman Cigar Company are both popular, especially since the latter houses an on-site museum.

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American Victory Ship & Museum American Victory Ship & Museum

In the twilight years of World War II, hundreds of ships were built, most moving cargo. In May 1945, the SS American Victory was launched. Built in just 55 days, it was deployed in WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. By 1996, it was destined for scrap, despite an expensive restoration 11 years earlier. After learning of its fate, the ship's captain championed for it to become a museum. The ship was towed from Virginia to its permanent location in downtown Tampa to serve as a maritime steamship museum. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the SS American Victory is one of just four fully operational WWII ships in the country. Visitors are invited on board to explore the various spaces, including the mess halls and crew cabins, as well as view historic artifacts from the ship's tenure.

Recent travelers mostly raved about their visits, and the chance to experience this overlooked WWII history. Several noted that although the tours are excellent, they are not accessible or feasible for visitors with limited mobility due to ladders and tight quarters. It can also get quite warm on the ship, according to reviewers.

Hillsborough River State Park Hillsborough River State Park

Outdoorsy visitors and locals alike flock to Hillsborough River State Park, which sits about 20 miles northeast of downtown Tampa. Offering Class II rapids (a rarity in Florida), camping, four nature trails, beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing and historic sites, the park has a recreation opportunity for everyone. History buffs, in particular, may be interested in visiting Fort Foster.

Fort Foster was originally built in the 1830s during the Second Seminole War to help colonists maintain their bridge crossing at the Hillsborough River. What visitors see today is a reproduction of the original fort. In addition to the structure, there is also an interpretive center showcasing artifacts unearthed at the fort.

Legoland Florida Resort Legoland Florida Resort

Legoland offers visitors a theme park, a water park and a suite of events – all with a Lego theme. More than 50 rides, shows and attractions; a wave pool; a lazy river; and endless water slides await visitors. When you need a break from the rides, shows and water park, there's also a botanical garden, an art gallery, playgrounds and several shops, not to mention a variety of kid-friendly eateries.

Recent visitors agreed there is plenty to do at Legoland, especially for kids between the ages of 2 and 12. Some noted outdated facilities, but most thought that the parks and accommodations were clean and pleasant. Several visitors also noted short lines for rides. According to reviewers, purchasing a combo ticket to the theme park and the water park is a must if you want to beat the Florida heat.

Dinosaur World Dinosaur World

Florida is known for its wildlife – but what about the ancient creatures that predated cougars and birds? Dinosaur World offers up that story amidst hundreds of life-size dinosaurs. Hosting activities and facilities like fossil digs, gem excavation, a boneyard and a museum featuring real fossils and animatronics, Dinosaur World fuses fun and education for kids. The central attraction is walking the naturalistic setting and looking at the roadside attraction-style dinosaur models.

According to recent visitors, Dinosaur World is a hit with kids. Travelers praise the shady, park-like setting and the facility's overall cleanliness. Visitors also enjoyed the gift shop and a few said the attraction is worth the trip even for adults traveling without children.

Safari Wilderness Safari Wilderness

Safari Wilderness caters to those with international safari dreams, but a domestic travel budget. This more than 260-acre safari park in Lakeland, Florida, is home to cheetahs, zebras and ring-tailed lemurs, among many more exotic animals. There are several different ways to experience the park, including in your own vehicle, atop an all-terrain vehicle or camel, via kayak or the park's own safari truck. The property also houses safari "glamping tents" for those who would like to sleep among the reserve's flora and fauna. Those looking for something special may purchase add-ons like feeding ring-tailed lemurs or an up-close encounter with a cheetah.

Recent visitors of all ages enjoyed seeing the animals up close in a more natural setting than a zoo. All agreed it was fun and educational, and several praised the guides. A few people noted the high prices of the experiences.

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Bok Tower Gardens Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens takes its name from the Pulitzer Prize-winning Dutch author and humanitarian, Edward W. Bok. Bok immigrated to the United States as a child. After he became a successful writer, Bok purchased land on Iron Mountain, one of Florida's highest points at 295 feet above sea level. He turned it into a bird sanctuary with a 60 bell-carillon and hired famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to design it. In 1929, Bok presented the site as a gift to the American public.

Recent visitors loved walking the tranquil gardens, hearing the elaborate bell music and eating at the on-site Blue Palmetto Café. Many reported spending hours at the gardens – which makes the approximately 60-mile drive east of downtown Tampa more worthwhile. In addition to the gardens, the site is also home to several nature trails and a 20-room, Mediterranean-style mansion known as El Retiro. The mansion, which was originally built in the 1930s for a Bethlehem Steel executive, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Museum of Science and Industry Museum of Science and Industry

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Tampa Museum of Art Tampa Museum of Art

Adventure Island Adventure Island

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Downtown Tampa Food Tour

Quick Details

• User Ages: 21+
• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• Users Capacity: An intimate group of 12 people
• Map Marker Location: FL , Tampa

Experience a culinary treat at restaurants on downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk

The evening tour discovers downtown Tampa and the Riverfront via a 3-hour walking food & wine tour. We visit 4 to 5 amazing restaurants who showcase their finest tastings and three adult beverages. Our tour spotlights cultural gems mingled with authentic history to create an atmosphere that provides the perfect backdrop for our culinary adventure.

Tampa’s cuisine is just as unique and rich as its culture. Join us for this “one of a kind food tour experience” featuring great tastings and drinks, while enjoying Tampa’s historic architecture and scenic waterfront. Alive with energy, art and history, we cannot wait to share this experience with you.

• Chevron down What to Bring
• 21+ ID for adult beverages
• Your appetite!
• Cash for gratuity of your tour guide if they rock
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Chevron down Where

We begin at Mailo’s Prime Steakhouse – 400 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 (See map below) Exact starting location is provided at the time of purchase.

• Chevron down What's Included

Evening/dinner tour and a fun-filled informative walk through Tampa with amazing food and adult beverages. Guests will visit up to 5 tasting locations on each tour. Tasting locations may be changed without prior notice.

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• Calendar Saturday and Sundays plus private dates available
• Hour Glass 3 hours

Dunedin Food Tour

Eat, drink and savour the local cuisine in charming restaurants of Dunedin on this walking food tour. You simply will not find any better way to get a taste of Dunedin!

St. Pete Downtown Food Tour

Wondering what to do in downtown St Pete? Join us on this food & spirits tour & get a taste of downtown St Pete. Visit local restaurants & wine bars!

• Explore the Port
• Real Estate
• Cruise Overview
• Cruise Schedules
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise terminal #2
• Cruise Terminal #3
• Cruise Terminal #6
• Cruise Destinations
• About Port Tampa Bay
• CEO Corner Blog
• The Newsroom
• Environmental
• Board Meeting and Agenda
• PTB BaySlam Fishing Tournament
• Anchor Ball
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• Governing Board
• Organizational Chart
• Port Tampa Bay Harbor Tours
• State of the Port
• Planning, Development and Masterplan
• Cargo Overview
• General Cargo
• Refrigerated
• Sailing Schedule
• Tariff Information
• Foreign Trade Zone #79
• Logistics Overview
• I-4 Corridor Growth
• Direct Interstate Access
• Executive Shippers' Council
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• Bulk Cargo Parcels
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• Industrial Zoned Parcels
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• Engineering
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• Video & Photography Permits
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• PTB Publications
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Harbor Tours

Port Tampa Bay is hosting a quarterly educational Harbor Tour to the community, free of charge. The waterside tour, provided in partnership with the Yacht Starship, is a complementary boat excursion to learn more about Port Tampa Bay. The Yacht Starship is a 180-feet, exquisite yacht with 3 decks, and four separate indoor and air conditioned rooms. Guests will learn about the region's largest economic engine, Port Tampa Bay, while enjoying the Yacht Starship's expansive promenade deck for sightseeing and great views of the Port. 

Each quarter we welcome our maritime partners such as the Propeller Club - Port of Tampa, Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundations, the Seafarer's Center, the U.S. Coast Guard and others in sharing the information about the reach the port has on the region. Thank you to the Yacht Starship for their support in showcasing our waterways!

Port Tampa Bay is Florida's largest port, supporting nearly 85,000+ jobs and generating more than $17 billion in annual economic impact. In addition to being a top 10 U.S. cruise port, the port handles a wide array of bulk, break bulk, containers and roll-on/roll-off cargoes, and is a major shipbuilding and repair center. We look forward to showcasing this on your tour. Check out the tour dates below!

To learn more about the Yacht Starship, or to book private tours, visit  https://www.yachtstarship.com .

Quarterly Educational Harbor Tours

2024 tour dates .

Registration will open three weeks prior to tour date.

Tours begin boarding at 9:30 am, tour departs at 10:00 am and returns at 12:00 noon. Water is provided and other soft drinks can be purchased on board by electronic payment only - no cash.

Friday, July, 12, 2024: Environmental Stewardship Registration will open at 10:00 am on June 26, 2024.

Friday, November 8, 2024: Theme TBA

Previous Tours:

Friday, April 5, 2024: Welcom to Port Tampa Bay!

An overview of Port Tampa Bay and showcasing partnerships with The Propeller Club - Port of Tampa, The Maritime Scholarship Foundation, Seafer's Center, U.S. Coast Guard and many more. 

Tuesday, March 7, 2023: Welcome to Port Tampa Bay!

An overview of Port Tampa Bay and showcasing partnerships with The Propeller Club - Port of Tampa, The Maritime Scholarship Foundation, Seafer's center, U.S. Coast Guard and many more. 

Friday, July 28, 2023:  Guests learned about Port Tampa Bay's environmental stewardship and visited bird nesting sactuary islands. Check out this video from 10 News:  Great Day Live Take a Tour of Port Tampa Bay .

Thursday, September 14, 2023:  This tour focused on career opportunities throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Friday, November 3, 2023:  Guests met tenants that operate throughout the port complex and learn about how they contribute to making Port Tampa Bay the largest economic engine in West Central Florida.

Clearwater Beach tour boat captain was drunk on the job, fell off boat, police say

• Jack Prator Times staff

A tour boat captain stumbled into work on Clearwater Beach, voyaged out to sea and drunkenly fell overboard, police said.

John Beckwith, 53, was arrested Friday on a charge of boating under the influence. The captain for Clearwater Fun Boat Tours had 30 customers on board, some telling police he was so impaired he fell off the boat.

Employees told Clearwater police Beckwith “arrived to work stumbling and had food all over his face,” according to an arrest report.

Officers noticed his eyes were bloodshot and they smelled alcohol on his breath. Beckwith “performed poorly” on a field sobriety test and blew a 0.118 on a breathalyzer, which is over the 0.08 level at which Florida law says someone is impaired.

Beckwith was released Saturday afternoon without being required to post bail. The incident is Beckwith’s fourth charge for operating a vehicle while impaired, records show. He was convicted twice in Michigan and again for an “extreme DUI” in Arizona.

The Clearwater Beach tour provides customers a chance to spot dolphins playing in the waves “while indulging in a delicious ice cream sundae” on a “family-friendly boat,” according to the company’s website . Last year, it was awarded Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award, the website states.

Neither Beckwith nor a representative for the tour boat company could be reached by phone for comment.

Jack Prator is a reporter covering breaking news and environment. Reach him at [email protected].

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THE 10 BEST Tampa Boat Rides & Cruises

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