Plans for a proposed cruise port near Rattlesnake Key, just south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, have sparked growing concern among environmental advocates, local residents, and conservation groups. The project, backed by SSA Marine, would introduce large-scale cruise ship operations into a sensitive coastal area of Tampa Bay. While developers argue the port would bring economic benefits, critics point to the significant environmental and recreational impacts that could follow.
What we now know about the site and how we got here reveals a long path of negotiations, approvals, and shifting plans that have brought the project to this point. The location sits near thousands of acres of seagrass beds, mangroves, and coastal habitats that support marine life, fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. No matter the developer’s argument, the construction and continued operation of a cruise port in this area would affect these ecosystems and limit public access to one of Tampa Bay’s most environmentally valuable regions.
If the public does not get the word out and organize, the upper hand of the developers will not be stopped. Community voices play a critical role in shaping decisions that affect coastal resources, water quality, and long-term environmental health. Residents who care about Tampa Bay’s future are encouraged to speak up now while there is still an opportunity to influence the outcome.
To read more details about the proposed port and the background behind it, Click Here.
WHO TO CONTACT
If you are concerned about this proposal, consider calling or emailing the Manatee County Commissioners listed below today:
District 5
Dr. Bob McCann
drbob.mccann@mymanatee.org
(941) 745-3773
District 4
Mike Rahn
mike.rahn@mymanatee.org
(941) 745-3713
District 3
Tal Siddique
tal@mymanatee.org
(941) 398-4729
District 2
Amanda Ballard
amanda.ballard@mymanatee.org
(941) 745-3702
District 1
Carol Ann Felts
carolann.felts@mymanatee.org
(941) 745-3701
At-Large District
George Kruse
george.kruse@mymanatee.org
(941) 745-3714
With 7+ years of experience, I’m a multi-million-dollar top producer and trusted Sarasota real estate agent serving Sarasota and Manatee counties. As a high-performing local Realtor®, I combine strategic marketing, expert negotiation, and deep neighborhood knowledge to help buyers, sellers, and relocations succeed. As a second-generation Sarasotan, I know Sarasota’s communities inside and out and guide clients through every step of the buying or selling process. Call or text 941-284-0283 to discuss your real estate goals.
