A proposed cruise terminal in Manatee County, Florida, is facing mounting opposition, with more than 18,900 people signing a Change.org petition urging officials to reject the plan.
SSA Marine, in partnership with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC, has unveiled plans for the Knott-Cowen Cruise Port on a 328-acre site near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Mega-ships to Tampa?
The goal is to accommodate the industry’s largest ships, including Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class and Carnival’s Excel-class vessels, which cannot currently sail under the bridge to reach Port Tampa Bay.
If built, the facility would open the Tampa Bay region to mega-ship sailings and potentially add new Gulf Coast departure options for cruisers who now drive to ports like Miami or Port Canaveral for the newest ships.
Project backers point to projected economic benefits, including more than 31,000 construction jobs, $1.6 billion in wages, and an estimated $40 million in annual tax revenue.
But the location has sparked intense debate. The proposed site sits near Rattlesnake Key and the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, one of Florida’s few remaining largely undeveloped coastal areas.
Critics argue that dredging a 4.5-mile channel to depths of up to 60 feet could damage seagrass beds, mangroves, and wildlife habitats, including areas used by manatees and local fisheries.
At a February 14 rally at Seabreeze Park in Terra Ceia, hundreds gathered with signs reading “Kayaks Not Cruise Ships” and “Save Rattlesnake Key.”
Environmental groups, fishing guides, and residents raised concerns about ship emissions, wastewater discharge, increased traffic, and long-term impacts on eco-tourism and recreational boating.
Some opponents have also pointed to SSA Marine’s past environmental violations, adding scrutiny despite the company’s pledge to preserve Rattlesnake Key.
For cruisers, the outcome could shape future sailing options along Florida’s Gulf Coast. If approved, the project could bring larger ships to the area.
If delayed or rejected after expected public hearings in 2026, cruise passengers looking for mega-ships would likely continue using South Florida ports.
No formal applications have been filed yet, although Manatee County officials say the review process will be data-driven.
