The Port of Tampa is located on the western coast or Suncoast of Florida, approximately 25 miles from open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The boundaries of the Port district includes parts of Tampa Bay, Hillsborough Bay, McKay Bay, Hillsborough River, and Old Tampa Bay.The port of Tampa is the largest port in the State of Florida, and currently ranks 16th in the nation by tonnage.[1] Although there are bulk and tanker ships, most of the ships that sail in and out of the Port of Tampa are general cargo ships. Currently connected to major Asian container ports, with global connections, the port is focused on growing its container trade. Millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements are underway or are in the planning phase.Tampa is also one of America's most popular departure ports for western Caribbean cruises. Three cruise lines sail from the port: Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International,and Holland America Line. The Port of Tampa has been a growing port since the 1990's. It has 3 cruise terminals. Nearby attractions are Channelside, The Florida Aquarium, and Ybor City.

The Port of Tampa has an airport and seaport with both passenger and cargo processing responsibilities. Port personnel are the face at the border for most cargo and visitors entering the United States. Here CBP enforces the import and export laws and regulations of the U.S. federal government and conducts admissibility activities. The Port also performs agriculture inspections to protect the USA from potential carriers of animal and plant pests or diseases that could cause serious damage to America's crops, livestock, pets, and the environment. This port is designated as a Class A Port of entry for all aliens.