Cruise and Ferry Review - Summer/Spring 2020

2 6 3 Celebrity Cruises will operate three unique itineraries, including a 10-night Eastern Caribbean escape. Guests will also be able to sail an 11-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, as well as a new 11-night ‘Touch Canal’ cruise with stops in Central and South America. For the winter 2020-2021 season, MSC Cruises will provide four- and five-night cruises, visiting destinations such as Key West in Florida; Cozumel, Costa Maya and Progreso in Mexico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas. Between May and November 2021, MSC Cruises will then transition to seven-night sailings with stops at Key West, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Cozumel and Progreso. Holland America Line’s guests will be able to choose from several different itineraries, lasting between five and 21 days. The company’s staple cruises will consist of seven-day cruises to the Western Caribbean and 14-day voyages to the Southern Caribbean. These can also be combined to create 21-day vacations to both regions of the Caribbean. The development of Tampa’s Water Street area and nearby hotel, dining, shopping and entertainment projects continues to boost the attractiveness of the bay area as a homeport. Cruise passengers have the convenience of a nationally top-ranked airport, adjacent secure parking garages, three updated cruise terminals, world-class beaches and local attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium and Ybor City. CFR What makes Tampa a great place to visit? In addition to the many cruise brands and itineraries to choose from, visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including waterfront parks, craft breweries, luxurious hotels, fine dining and simple laid-back fun. Favourite quick bite at Sparkman’s Wharf? I love being able to sample several small bites. Being served out of an old shipping container is fun too. Best area to walk? If you stroll the River Walk at night, you’ll see awesome views of the downtown skyline. The trail is lit, paved and safe. What’s an unmissable attraction? Ybor City, where cruise guests can immerse themselves in culture, visit the internationally famous Columbia Restaurant and sample traditional Cuban coffee, cuisine and cigars. Best place for a pre-cruise selfie? The Sparkman’s Wharf area is close by and on the water, so you can get your ship in the background. Plus, it’s filled with Instagram- worthy art and a giant Tampa sign. Ask a local Port Tampa Bay president and CEO Paul Anderson shares how cruise guests can make the most of their Tampa experience “The 2020 season brings new options designed to meet the needs of every cruise traveller” Cruise ships can berth at Sparkman Wharf to give their guests the chance to visit food outlets and a beer garden