The closest parking garage to the Carnival cruise ships is in Channelside, the lively commercial neighborhood that borders the Port of Tampa. The parking structure is located at 810 Channelside Drive in Tampa, and can be found off Adamo Drive (Hwy 60). There are 3,480 covered and uncovered spots available, according to the Port Authority. The parking garage is secure and monitored 24 hours a day. Once you park, the cruise terminals are within walking distance. You also can drop off your cruising partner and all the luggage right at the Carnival terminal entrance, then go park the car.
If you want ease and efficiency and you don't mind paying a little extra for it, have your car parked by the valet before your cruise. You will see signs on Channelside Drive for valet parking, and all you have to do is pull up to the valet and take your claim ticket. After your five days at sea, return to the valet stand, which is right outside the terminal, and let someone pull your car around for you.
Five days provides you with a lot of opportunities to spend money on spa treatments, onshore excursions and, of course, in the ship's casino. If you are worried you might be short on cash when you return, pay for your parking in advance. Visit the Port Authority's website and click on the box that offers prepaid parking. You then need to select the Carnival ship you are traveling on and which month you depart. Buy your five-day self-parking or valet parking pass.
When you want to park your recreational vehicle or other oversize vehicle for the five days you will be cruising, spots are available at the Channelside parking garage. Be prepared to pay extra; the rates for oversize vehicles are twice that of regular cars. If your vehicle is bigger than 8 feet, 2 inches, you need to park in the oversize parking lot. The parking attendants will direct you to that area. Prepayment is permitted for oversize vehicles.
