Not Only Weather Impacting Port of Tampa

More Woes for Cruise Travelers This Week in Tampa

If you've been following our blog, you know that the Tampa Port Authority closed the port in anticipation of the approach of Tropical Storm Isaac.   That isn't the only thing impacting cruise line schedules this week.  Give yourself plenty of extra time to arrive at the port.

The 2012 Republican National Convention is in town from Monday through Thursday.

Important Update - Carnival Paradise 8/25/12, Carnival Legend 8/26/12, Carnival Paradise 8/30/12

Important Update for all guests sailing on the Carnival Paradise 8/30/12:

The 2012 Republican National Convention (RNC) will be held in Tampa the week of your sailing. Local authorities have advised us road closures and parking restrictions are expected.  There will also be intermittent traffic delays and temporary closures on interstate roads and throughout the downtown area beginning Saturday, August, 25, through Thursday, August 30.  A map indicating road closures is available at www.tampagov.net/rnc.

We suggest you avoid routes that take you through downtown Tampa. Cruise ship passengers are asked to use the following detour:

– Take I-4 Exit 1
– Go south on 21st Street and turn west onto Adamo Drive
– Turn south onto Channelside Drive
– Passengers may utilize the Port of Tampa parking garage

Given traffic restrictions planned for this week, check-in for your cruise is now scheduled from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and we will sail shortly thereafter. It is essential you allow ample time to arrive at the terminal early enough to ensure you are not left behind.

We’d like to apologize in advance for any congestion you may experience at the terminal as a result of the new check-in times. To expedite the boarding process, please ensure you have completed your online check-in prior to arriving.

To stay up to date on any changes that may affect our departure, we encourage you to sign up for text alerts by texting the following number for your specific sailing:

Carnival Paradise 8/30/12 - text CCL3 to CRUISE (278473)

If you have already signed up for text during your online check-in, you will automatically receive updates.