Carnival Cruise Line recently celebrated a major milestone: 30 years of operations from Port Tampa Bay. To commemorate this achievement, the cruise line hosted a VIP celebration aboard the Carnival Paradise, which sails year-round from Tampa. The event served as a testament to the enduring partnership between Carnival and the Tampa Bay region, showcasing the positive impact the cruise line has had on the local community.
In honor of International Coastal Cleanup Day, the Carnival Paradise team actively participated in a beach cleanup, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship and supporting local efforts to keep the beaches clean.
Beyond the celebration, Carnival showed its dedication to the Tampa Bay community by donating a hybrid pick-up truck to Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. This generous contribution will aid the organization in its ongoing sustainability initiatives, allowing them to expand their reach and make a greater impact on the environment.
Chris Chiames, Carnival’s Chief Communications Officer, expressed deep gratitude to the local leaders for their collaborative spirit, which has been instrumental in driving job creation, economic growth, and tourism since Carnival launched year-round cruises from Tampa in 1994. “Thirty years ago, Carnival saw the potential for year-round sailing in Tampa – and we were right,” said Chiames. “We appreciate the tremendous partnerships we’ve built together over the years and as we celebrate this milestone, we’re not just looking back on three decades of great memories. We’re looking forward to building on our contributions to the Tampa Bay economic story and more fun for many years to come for our many, many loyal guests who love sailing from Tampa.”
Paul Anderson, president and CEO of Port Tampa Bay, echoed Chiames’ sentiments, emphasizing the significant role Carnival plays in the region’s tourism and economic landscape. “Carnival Cruise Line is a special part of our port’s history and has welcomed millions of guests to our beautiful region. Carnival contributes greatly to the region’s tourism and economy and we look forward to many years of partnership ahead,” said Anderson.
Debbie Evenson, executive director of Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, highlighted the transformative impact of the donated truck. “This donation is not just the gift of a vehicle; it is the gift of opportunity, growth, and a brighter future for our community. This truck will be a driving force – literally and figuratively – and it will help us complete more cleanups, plant more trees, and host more educational events than ever before,” she said.
This celebration not only marked a significant milestone for Carnival Cruise Line but also served as a powerful reminder of the company’s dedication to its communities and the environment. The event highlighted the importance of partnerships and collaborative efforts in creating a brighter future for all.
