Port Tampa Bay officially closed on Wednesday night in anticipation of Hurricane Helene, which will significantly impact cruise schedules. At 8 p.m., the U.S. Coast Guard declared Port Condition ZULU due to worsening weather conditions. This decision halts all inbound and outbound vessel traffic, ensuring the safety of the port and its operations.
Shipping Channels Closed, Landside Operations Continue
The port’s shipping channels are now closed, though landside operations will proceed as long as they are deemed safe. Port officials stress that cruise schedules will be disrupted, and passengers should directly contact their cruise lines for updated itinerary information.