Tampa is the only cruise port on Florida’s Gulf Coast and offers a huge choice of hotels for cruisers. The city is 84 miles southwest of Orlando and is easy to reach from the I-4 (east-west) or from the I-75 (north-south) highways. There are many reasons why you might want to consider staying at a hotel near Tampa Cruise Port pre- and post-cruise.
Many cruisers fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA) or Orlando International Airport (MCO). Depending on the time of your flight, you’ll probably need to stay overnight at a hotel near Tampa Cruise Port before or after your luxury Caribbean cruise.
If you are driving to Tampa, it makes sense to travel a day or two before your cruise sets sail in case of any traffic delays or problems with the weather. Booking a hotel near Tampa Cruise Port gives you peace of mind that once you’ve arrived, nothing can prevent you getting onboard.
Some Tampa hotels offer Park and Cruise packages, which include free parking and a shuttle to the Cruise Port. It makes your pre-cruise stay very convenient and affordable.
Staying a few nights in a Tampa hotel near the Cruise Port is a sensible way to extend your cruise vacation with a few days sightseeing, shopping and exploring Tampa’s attractions. The white sandy beaches at Clearwater and St Pete Beach are about 35 minutes’ drive southwest of Tampa and there’s nowhere more beautiful to spend a few days relaxing before or after your cruise.
Now you’re convinced of the benefits of staying overnight pre- or post-cruise, we have a full list of ideal hotels near Tampa Cruise Port for you to choose from.
Whether you are looking for hotels close to Tampa Cruise Port or hotels with a complimentary shuttle to the port we have the best selection of hotels near Tampa Cruise Port for you to choose from. Please note that prices vary according to seasonal demand and are included for comparison purposes only.
Cheap Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port
Quality Inn & Suites
Located in Tampa’s Business District, this well located 2.5-star hotel is close to Tampa Cruise Port, Seminole Hard Rock Casino and the Ford Amphitheatre at Florida State Fairgrounds. It has a pool, fitness center and very good reviews from guests.
The hotel offers “Stay and Cruise” packages which includes a shuttle to Tampa cruise port for two passengers and $8 for any additional passengers. Guests can also enjoy a free breakfast before hopping on the shuttle bus and departing on their cruise.
- Address: 4955 E 18th Ave, Tampa
- Distance from port: 4.2 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $75
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Bay Airport
Just two miles from Tampa International Airport and six miles from Tampa Cruise Port, this hotel is well located for those arriving by air and departing on a cruise. The hotel offers free airport shuttle transport and makes a small charge for transportation to the port.
Those requiring cruise parking can book a special Stay and Go parking package for the best all-inclusive rates. Newly renovated, the hotel has comfortable rooms, heated outdoor pool and a delicious complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Those wanting to sightsee are within easy reach of Historic Ybor City, Dali Museum, Busch Gardens and several sports stadiums.
- Address: 4730 W. Spruce St, Tampa
- Distance from port: 6.3 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $50
Quality Inn Airport
Those flying into Tampa Airport will find the Quality Inn is just minutes away, and has a shuttle service to both the airport (free) and Cruise Port ($8). How’s that for convenient! Air-conditioned rooms include a coffee maker and complimentary breakfast. During your stay, you can enjoy the pool, tennis court and fitness center. There are many restaurants within easy walking distance of this well-located hotel.
- Address: 1020 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa
- Distance from port: 5.9 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $57
Tahitian Inn Hotel & Spa
The Tahitian Inn ticks all the boxes with its budget prices, central location and full shuttle service to both the airport (free) and the Cruise Port (for a nominal fee).
The 3-star accommodation includes air-conditioning, refrigerator and microwave and there’s a fitness center and a pool for cooling off. Upgrade to an Executive Queen Room and enjoy a wet bar, balcony and jetted tub!
- Address: 601 S. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa
- Distance from port: 4.4 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $60
Closest Hotels to Tampa Cruise Port
Hampton Inn, Tampa Downtown Channel District
You can’t stay much closer to Tampa Cruise Port than the Hampton Inn Downtown. It is within walking distance of the port but offers a free shuttle service if required. Air-conditioned rooms, fitness center and a complimentary breakfast are included.
- Address: 1155 E. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa
- Distance from port: 0.2 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $104
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown
Newly renovated, the Embassy Suites by Hilton has gorgeous suites with contemporary décor and furnishings. Guests are treated to an evening reception and cooked-to-order breakfast daily.
The 3.5-star hotel is centrally located in downtown Tampa close to restaurants, shops and Riverpark walks. As well as shuttles to the airport and cruise port, the complimentary TECO streetcar stops right outside the hotel to take you to Sparkman Wharf and historic Ybor City.
- Address: 513 S. Florida Ave, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.1 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $122
Hampton Inn & Suites Ybor City
Located a short distance north of Tampa Cruise Port, this hotel is in the historic district of Ybor City, a former cigar-making enclave best enjoyed on a guided walking tour. Spacious guest rooms include a microwave and mini-fridge, coffee maker and air-conditioning.
If you forgot to pack something for your cruise, there’s even a convenience store onsite. The hotel offers a free shuttle service to local sights and Tampa Cruise Port. Find booking details right here.
- Address: 1301 E. 7th Ave, Tampa
- Distance from port: 0.8 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $96
Best Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port with Free Shuttle Service
Holiday Inn Express Suites Tampa
Although it is about 10 miles from Tampa Cruise Port, this hotel does offers discounted parking and free shuttle transportation for cruisers with a Tampa Cruise Package. The hotel has lovely bay views from its location on Rocky Point Island.
It is minutes from Tampa Airport and includes free shuttle transportation. Guests can enjoy free Internet access, complimentary parking, exercise room and heated outdoor pool. Room prices also include a very tasty breakfast. More details are right here.
- Address: 3025 N. Rocky Point Dr E, Tampa
- Distance from port: 10.3 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $83
Hilton Tampa Downtown
The Hilton Tampa Downtown is a sleek all-glass high-rise urban hotel with 520 guest rooms. Relax in the rooftop pool and whirlpool spa enjoying views across the city before dining in style in the 211 Restaurant. The Hilton offers impeccable service and runs a cruise shuttle service on request for the short journey to the cruise port.
- Address: 211 N. Tampa St, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.1 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $109
Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District
This three-star hotel is near Tampa Cruise Port in the fascinating historic district of Ybor City. It has a swimming pool, lounge bar and fitness center. There is public parking nearby for a fee.
Family rooms and suites are air-conditioned and have a microwave and refrigerator. The hotel has very good reviews due to its central location close to Ybor City shops, bars, museum and restaurants. Cruisers will appreciate the free hotel shuttle to Tampa Cruise Port.
- Address: 1700 E. 9th Ave, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.1 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $102
Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk
Easy to reach from Exit 44 on 275N, this modern hotel has been awarded Green Leader Bronze Level status for its environmentally friendly policies. Located opposite the Center for Performing Arts and less than 2 miles from Tampa Cruise Port, the hotel is well located for cruisers. Check booking details here.
Rooms offer superb city and river views and amenities include a swimming pool, bar/lounge and fitness center. There is paid private parking available and plenty of restaurants within five minutes’ walk. Best of all, the hotel rate includes a free shuttle to the cruise port.
- Address: 111 W. Fortune St, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.5 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $73
Best Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port with Shuttle Service for a Fee
Hampton Inn Tampa, Rocky Point
Another mid-range Tampa hotel with cruise port shuttle is the Hampton Inn at Rocky Point Island. Comfortable rooms, free breakfast and free parking may compensate for the distance from the Tampa Cruise Port.
The hotel offers a free airport shuttle service and transportation to the cruise port for a small fee. During your stay, enjoy the fitness center, business center amenities and outdoor pool along with a complimentary breakfast each day.
- Address: 3035 N. Rocky Point Dr E, Tampa
- Distance from port: 9.5 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $90
Sailport Waterfront Suites Tampa
Located overlooking the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay, Sailport Waterfront Suites offers spacious resort-style accommodation with a kitchenette and balcony for enjoying the fresh sea air. It offers a free airport shuttle and transportation to Tampa Cruise Port for a small charge.
- Address: 2506 N Rocky Point Dr, Tampa
- Distance from port: 9.7 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $97
Best Luxury Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port
Tampa Marriott Water Street
Overlooking the marina, this award-winning four-star luxury hotel in Tampa is one mile from the cruise port and is adjacent to the Convention Center. Eco-friendly with energy-saving lighting, it offers organic food and beverages in its on-site cafés and restaurants. There’s also a full-service spa, pool and lounge bar so your cruise vacation pampering starts the moment you check-in!
- Address: 700 S. Florida Ave, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.1 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $136
Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk
Located right on the riverfront, the Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk is an upscale hotel with private balconies offering superb city and waterfront views. The hotel has 227 beautifully appointed rooms and suites offering comfortable beds and pillows as part of the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience.
There’s a complimentary fitness center and riverfront deck with pool and an award-winning restaurant. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a stroll along the Riverwalk to nearby bars, restaurants, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts and the Glazer Children’s Museum. Prices include free shuttle service to the airport and Tampa Cruise Port from this luxury hotel.
- Address: 200 North Ashley Drive, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.1 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $122
Le Meridien Tampa
Just six minutes’ drive from Tampa Cruise Port, Le Meridien Hotel combines convenience with a touch of luxury for cruisers. Before you depart on your Caribbean cruise, treat yourself with a stay at this gorgeous 130-room boutique hotel. From “The Hub” lobby to the handcrafted cocktails in the Longitude Bar, you’ll enjoy all the amenities of this luxury hotel including the pool and gym.
- Address: 601 N Florida Ave, Tampa
- Distance from port: 1.1 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $149
Hotel Alba Tampa Hilton
Part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, the new four-star Hotel Alba is close to Tampa Cruise Port and has all the features of a luxury boutique hotel. It offers a full range of amenities including a nightclub with DJ, heated pool and fitness center.
There’s a bar/lounge and onsite restaurant for those who are travel-weary but need a tasty meal. If you fancy a walk, the Westshore Plaza Mall is minutes away. Just two miles from Tampa Airport, the hotel offers free airport shuttle transportation and a cruise shuttle service for a nominal fee.
- Address: 5303 W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa
- Distance from port: 6.4 miles
- Shuttle Service: Yes
- Prices from $122
If you’re still undecided about which is the best hotel near Tampa Cruise Port, here’s a quick summary:
- Cheapest hotel near Tampa Cruise Port is La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Bay Airport
- Closest hotel to Tampa Cruise Port is Hampton Inn, Tampa Downtown Channel District
- Best Tampa Hotel with Free Shuttle to Cruise Port is Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk
- Best Luxury Hotel near Tampa Cruise Port is Hotel Alba Tampa Hilton
Also Read: Hotels Near PortMiami for Cruisers
Once you’ve booked your ideal hotel near Tampa Cruise Port, you’re ready to cast off and set sail!
