Oceania Cruises becomes first ultra-premium line to sail out of Tampa
Oceania Cruises has added a range of new Caribbean and Panama Canal sailings set to launch in early 2026, departing from Tampa on Florida’s west coast.
The line’s 670-guest ship, Insignia, makes history as it becomes the first ultra-premium cruise line to sail from Port Tampa Bay on March 2026. Oceania Cruises will journey from the ebullient shimmering Gulf Coast gem of a city on a collection of seven- to 20-night itineraries exploring picturesque Caribbean islands. The islands include St. Thomas, St. Kitts and Tortola; calls in Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Belize City; plus, a daylight transit of the Panama Canal and overnight stay in Panama City.
Tampa is the perfect match for the world’s only true foodie cruise line thanks to its vibrant culinary scene including street food experiences, high-end gourmet dining at venues from a variety of Michelin Guide restaurants, and immersive culinary tours led by local experts.
President of Oceania Cruises, Frank A. Del Rio, said: “Port Tampa Bay represents an exciting new chapter as Oceania Cruises becomes the first ultra-premium cruise line to have dedicated voyages from Tampa, opening the door as a convenient gateway to Florida’s west coast and the Gulf of Mexico. This is a natural expansion for our brand, as Tampa echoes the cosmopolitan essence of our beloved hometown of Miami with its diverse mix of international influences and cultures.”
President and CEO of Port Tampa Bay, Paul Anderson, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Oceania Cruises to Port Tampa Bay. The arrival of Insignia marks a significant milestone, enhancing Tampa’s status as a premier cruise destination. We look forward to welcoming new guests to our beautiful city and gateway, as the increased tourism will create substantial economic opportunities for our region, workers, and businesses.”
New sailings to and from Tampa
- Tropical Harmony: 22 February to 3 March 2026, nine days from Bridgetown to Tampa: Bridgetown, Oranjestad (Aruba), Montego Bay, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Tampa.
- Leeward Isles Serenade: 3 to 18 March 2026, 15 days from Tampa to Tampa: Tampa, San Juan (Puerto Rico), St. Thomas, Philipsburg (St. Maarten), St. John’s (Antigua), Roseau (Dominica), Basseterre (St. Kitts), Frederiksted (St. Croix), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), Tampa.
- Western Caribbean Escape: 18 to 25 March 2026, seven days from Tampa to Tampa: Tampa, Cozumel, Belize City, Roatan (Honduras), Costa Maya, Tampa.
- Palms & Panama Canal: 25 March to 4 April 2026, 10 days from Tampa to Panama Canal: Tampa, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Belize City, Roatan (Honduras), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica), Colon (Panama), Panama Canal Daylight Transit, one overnight stay in Panama City.
- Panama Canal Connoisseur: 25 March to 14 April 2026, 20 days from Tampa to Miami: Tampa, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Belize City, Roatan (Honduras), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica), Colon (Panama), Panama Canal Daylight Transit, one overnight stay in Panama City, Panama Canal Daylight Transit, Cartagena (Colombia), Willemstad (Curacao), Oranjestad (Aruba), Montego Bay, George Town (Grand Cayman), Miami.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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