Enjoy our waterfront marine and education center for your special day
How do we handle parking?
There are 50 parking spaces in our lot. Overflow parking is across the street. For parties of 75 or more guests, Tampa Bay Watch may provide valet parking. Also, please note: No vehicles (including vendor vehicles.) can be left in the parking lot overnight.
Where can our caterers set up and cook?
Caterers may use the kitchen area and outside ground level for food preparation. Food preparation or cooking (electric or gas burner) is NOT allowed on the veranda deck, in the community room or underneath the buildings.
Can we use candles?
Candles are permitted but must be in containers (glass votive holders, vases, bowls, etc) and protected from dripping.
Can we bring our own tables and chairs?
Only Tampa Bay Watch tables and chairs can be used in the community center–-rented tables/chairs from a rental company and/or caterer can only be used on the deck or lawn.
How can we coordinate issues we have onsite?
The renter must designate and have a contact person onsite during the rental time period (this includes the setup time and cleanup time) to whom the vendors and staff can coordinate for instructions and other questions.
Can we use the boat dock?
The boat dock is off limits unless otherwise arranged with Tampa Bay Watch.
What kinds of party favors and decorations can we use?
Hanging items on the walls or ceiling of the community room or veranda deck is not allowed. Also, renters are required to adhere to the following rules:
• No balloons
• No tape used on floors
• No confetti/glitter or rice
• No fireworks/firearms
• No dry ice
What is the policy on smoking?
There is no smoking inside buildings, on deck, on verandas or stairways. Smoking is permitted on the ground level in marked, designated areas.
Can we use any catering vendor of our choice, or does it have to be one on your vendor list?
Tampa Bay Watch is a venue that allows you to choose any licensed or insured caterer; our vendor list is just a guide. We do not charge a surcharge or percentage for your caterer to use our facility.
Email Jon Ziegler with additional questions about weddings at Tampa Bay Watch:
Cover image credit: Joy Marie Photographers