charleston south carolina carnival cruise port

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Charleston, SC

• Carnival Sunshine

* Coming Soon

Cruises out of Charleston are a great idea for foodies and anyone who loves American history. Give in to the genteel feel of the old South on Carnival cruises from the beautiful port of Charleston, South Carolina. This is a gracious city of antebellum 18th- and 19th-century houses and sprawling plantations, easy to appreciate from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage. The city’s unique Lowcountry cuisine and dozens of delicious restaurants make it a popular southern foodie destination. Enjoy warm southern hospitality and a breezy waterfront as you prepare to depart on your cruise from Charleston.

• Set foot where English settlers first touched land.
• Buy a sweetgrass basket to use aboard your Carnival cruise from Charleston.
• Tuck into Lowcountry-style shrimp and grits at a downtown restaurant. 
• Hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a slow-paced tour of the Historic District.

See it all from Charleston.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

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Charleston Cruise Ship Terminal Directions and Parking

Port of Charleston Union Pier Terminal 32 Washington Street Charleston, South Carolina 29401

Website: www.scspa.com/locations/cruise-terminal/

  Google Maps :  View Map

The Cruise Ship Passenger Terminal is located in downtown Charleston in the heart of the historic district. It is easily reached via several major routes into the City. The major routes into Charleston are via Interstate 26, Highway 17-South, Highway 17-North. 

Permanent highway signs are posted along the travel route to help direct passengers to Union Pier and the cruise ship facilities. Some signs are the standard green highway signs posted along major routes and exit ramps. Others are smaller sized brown and white signs with the international cruise ship symbol and arrows showing the direction to travel in the downtown area to the cruise terminal.

Gate #2 – Intersection of Concord and Laurens Streets, Charleston, South Carolina – is the general entry point for passengers in personal vehicles. This is the entry gate for individuals driving their own vehicles and planning to leave them parked at the Port or passengers being dropped off by family or friends. Union Pier Main Gate – 32 Washington Street – is the designated entry point for guests being dropped off and not parking their vehicle. This includes family drop offs, rideshare, taxis, shuttles and charter buses. 

Check-in will take place at Building 324, located at the intersection of Concord and Laurens Streets. Guests being dropped off must also go directly to this location. After check-in, complimentary shuttle service will take you to the cruise terminal for boarding.  Parking Information Rates are subject to change

• $21.00 USD per day - for standard vehicles up to 20 feet in length
• $50.00 USD per day – for oversized vehicles over 20 feet in length (RV’s, Campers and busses)

The Port of Charleston features both covered and non-covered parking in a safe and secure location. 

• Long-term parking is available on Port property for cruise passenger vehicles in a controlled access areas. The sites are secured and patrolled by Port Police during the cruise.
• Credit cards, debit cards, money orders are the only accepted forms of payment for cruise parking; cash is not accepted as payment for cruise parking.
• Full payment is due upon entering the parking area.
• Reservations are not required.
• Complimentary parking  is provided at no fee for vehicles displaying a valid handicap placard or license plate with ID.
• Shuttles accessible for special needs and wheelchair assistance are also available.
• Guests have the option to walk as well. 

Arrival Tips

• Uniformed Port Police Officers will be along the travel route to the vehicle parking areas and the Cruise Ship Terminal. They will direct you to the appropriate lane, based on the situation.
• Keep your boarding pass, photo ID and proof of citizenship with you and easily accessible as it will be needed for entry to all support areas, shuttles buses and for check-in at the cruise terminal.
• Vehicles and luggage will be accepted at the Union Pier Terminal starting at 9:00am and continue to 3:00pm. Gates will not open prior to this time so please do not arrive until after 9:00am..
• Luggage is collected prior to parking your vehicle. To help expedite the security and boarding process, any luggage that is larger than a carry-on sized bag be dropped at the designated luggage drop off locations prior to entering the Terminal. 
• The Market Street area is just a short walk from the Passenger Terminal. There are a variety of shops to explore and restaurants to visit and enjoy while early arrivals wait for check-in to begin. 

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Charleston SC (South Carolina)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-05-02 03:07

Port Charleston SC cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Charleston SC, South Carolina. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Charleston is located in South Carolina (SC), on the Atlantic coast of the USA. This major port city (population around 120,000) is located on the state's central coast, and on the estuaries where Cooper River meets Ashley River. Port Savannah (Georgia) is approx 140 km (87 mi) to the northeast, and Port Wilmington (North Carolina) is approx 245 km (152 mi) to the southwest.

CCL-Carnival Cruise Lines offer all-year-round voyages from Charleston. Ports of call on the 5-6-7-day itineraries to The Bahamas are Nassau , Freeport (Grand Bahama) and the private island Half Moon Cay . On 8-day itineraries is also visited Grand Turk Island (Cockburn Town) . The port's 2017-2018 schedule showed regular roundtrips with the ship Carnival Ecstasy . The first Carnival ship homeported in Charleston was Carnival Fantasy (since May 2010). In 2019-2020, CCL homeported in Charleston the larger Carnival Sunshine . However, following the COVID crisis, in May 2022 CCL announced that the brand's homeporting in Charleston will be terminated in May 2024, when ends its contract with the Port.

In 2017, the cruise port had scheduled a total of 104 ship calls. The majority of those were by the homeported here Carnival Ecstasy , operating on year-round 5-day roundtrips to Bahamas ( Nassau , Freeport , Half Moon Cay ). Among the new cruise ships visiting in 2017 was TUI Mein Schiff 6 (2 calls). Scheduled were transition calls from large-sized vessels of Royal Caribbean , AIDA , P&O UK . Most luxury ships visiting Charleston SC are on transition routes and most of them stay in port overnight or depart late-evening.

Charleston port statistics

On September 14, 2017, South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) signed with USACE (US Army Corps of Engineers) a USD 49 million contract for the "Charleston Harbor Deepening Project".

• The contract was for entrance channel's dredging to max draft 54 ft (16,5 m). A second contract (USD 50 million) was signed for deepening port's main shipping channel (to max draft 54 ft / 16,5 m) allowing access to large container ships with max capacity 18,000 TEU-containers at Wando Welch Terminal.
• In November 2018, USACE signed USD 41,4 million contract for Charleston Harbor Deepening Project (part of FY2019 Work Plan). Entrance Channel's dredging started in February 2018. The first two USACE contracts included federal funding USD 108 million. South Carolina state funding for the project was USD 350 million, including USD 50 million loan (2018).

In addition to the deepening project, Port Charleston started a major program for upgrading its terminal infrastructure and equipment.

• The program included wharf strengthening and new equipment at Wando Welch Terminal (completed 2018) and constructing a new container terminal (Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal (completed in 2020).
• The new cargo terminal added 700,000 TEUs (annual throughput capacity) and the capability for handling 19,000-TEU boxships.
• The 3-berth terminal doubled SC Ports' current capacity by adding 2,4 million TEUs annual throughput capacity.
• The new terminal's wharf has length 427 m (1400 ft) and accommodates 5x ship-to-shore cranes (China-made, arrived in September-October 2020) plus 25c rubber-tired gantry cranes). 2020 was the last year of a 6-year / USD 2 billion improvement plan that included Charleston Harbor's deepening and Wando Welch Terminal's modernization. Following these developments, SC Ports now can handle 4x 14K-TEU boxships simultaneously.

In FY2020 (fiscal year), for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project were allocated USD 138 million. Dredging works (conducted by USACE) were completed in 2021 and resulted in max draft/water depth of 52 ft (16 m).

• For September 2017, SCPA reported for Port Charleston a record container shipping month volume (10% increase over Sept 2016) handling a total of 179,856 TEUs. The handled breakbulk cargo was 65,269 tons (Sept volume), while Inland Port Greer (2013-opened South Carolina Inland Port) handled 10,648 rail moves in Sept 2017.
• On October 30, 2017, SCPA approved a USD 69,5 million contract for purchasing 6x new ship-to-shore cranes to serve the port's new container terminal. The new cranes (by the Chinese manufacturer Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries) arrived in 2019. Five cranes are with lift height 169 ft (51,5 m) and installed at the new Sr Terminal (inaugurated in 2020, annual capacity 628,000 TEUs). One crane (lift height 155 ft / 47 m) was delivered to Wando Welch Terminal. This is the port's busiest container terminal, which in August 2016 received its first 2 cranes (155 ft each). Two more cranes were delivered in February 2018.
• As of 2020, Wando Welch Terminal has 9 (of planned 13) ship-to-shore cranes and pier capacity to handle two 14,000-TEU ships simultaneously.

For FY2019, South Carolina Ports Authority reported a record year with handled 2,44 million TEUs (5% increase over 2018) at both terminals (Wando Welch, North Charleston). Record numbers were reported for breakbulk cargoes (725,828 tons, 10% increase), vehicles (225,191, +4%), cruise tourists (262,776, ~24%), rail moves (190,539, +41%, at both Inland Ports / Greer and Dillon).

Since early-May 2020 is operational the Charleston Stevedoring Company LLC - a 3-party joint venture (Marine Terminals Corporation East, Ceres Marine Terminals, SSA Atlantic) that provides Port Charleston with container terminal and stevedoring services.

FY2021 (June 30, 2020-21) was SC Ports' strongest in terms of TEUs (2,55 million) handled at the three container terminals (Wando Welch, North Charleston, Hugh K. Leatherman), or 9,6% increase over FY2020.

• At Columbus Street Terminal were handled 253,981 vehicles (+27%).
• For both inland rail ports (Greer and Dillon) were reported 192,844 rail moves (+11,7%), including 157,842 (at Inland Port Greer/+12,6%) and 35,002 (Inland Port Dillon/+7,9%).
• Curiously, the import trade boom was due to the COVID crisis as consumers' buying habits shifted - from travel and services to retail and home goods.
• In June 2021 Port Charleston handled 128,622 TEUs (+44,5% over June 2020) and 23,096 vehicles (+60,7%).

For November 2021 SCPA handled the record 250,711 TEUs at its three container terminals (Wando Welch, North Charleston, Hugh K. Leatherman), representing a 21% increase over Nov 2020. The record-high volumes included 127,081 imported (+36%) and 67,639 exported (+5%).

2022 became the Port's record year by annual TEU container volumes - nearly 2,8 million , or 1,5% increase over 2021. The Port also served 261,636 cruise tourists and moved 199,343 vehicles (at Columbus Street Terminal). Both Inland Ports (Greer and Dillon) reported total 167,147 rail moves. In 2022 were allocated US$550 million for building a new cargo yard (Navy Base Intermodal Facility) and developing the facility's inner-harbor barge operations.

In FY2023, SC Ports handled ~1,8 million TEUs (-5% compared to FY2022) plus 978374 pier containers (of any size).

Charleston SC cruise terminal

Charleston cruise port terminal is located at the Union Pier, in the historic district of the city's downtown. It is easily accessible via Highway 17-North, Highway 17-South, and also Interstate 26. Charleston International Airport is at approx 20 min drive distance from the terminal.

The current cruise terminal building dates from 1973. The terminal facility is operated by SCPA-South Carolina Ports Authority. Long–term parking: at the terminal is available for cruise passenger vehicless only (price is USD 17 per day). Reservations for parking are not required.

(New) Union Pier Cruise Terminal (waterfront development project)

The plan for development of the Charleston cruise ship terminal includes construction of a new building. It will be located at the Union Pier's northern end. The old (southern end) part of the building will be redeveloped. The Ports Authority (SPA) will sell 0,15 km2 (0,06 ml2) Union Pier property for private development right after the completion of the new terminal. This premium waterfront area will be developed as a new neighborhood and will be of no maritime use. It will feature new streets, public parks, shops, residential homes and businesses, thus increasing the access to the waterfront.

The concept plan also includes relocating of all cargo shipping operations from Union Pier. It will serve only as cruise pier.

The new passenger terminal's construction will cost USD 35 million. Its opponents have sued in both state and federal courts. Public hearing was also called by the US Army Corps of Engineers after receiving a new federal permit for putting additional pilings beneath one of the old terminal's warehouses.

It looks like Charlestonians want the cruises, but don't want the new terminal to be located on the edge of the city's historic district. Among their major concerns are the air quality and traffic congestion. The cruise port will have to install electric ship-to-shore power to reduce air pollution by docked vessels.

(New) Luxury cruise ship anchorage since 2017

In January 2017, the city agreed to limit the per-year number of cruise vessels scheduled to dock in Port Charleston. However, it doesn't apply to Charleston Harbor.

• Smaller and luxury cruise ships will be anchored close to Fort Sumter, from where their passengers will be transported via locally provided tender boats to Patriots Point. The area is known as "Commercial Anchorage A". It is located between Fort Sumter and Crab Bank, and could suit ships with smaller capacity (of hundreds and not thousands of passengers).
• The passenger tendering service to the shore is provided by the local tour company "SpiritLine Cruises". The company has a fleet of 4 boats and serves its passengers from a dock at Patriots Point, where they board its vessels for harbor tour cruises.
• Cruise ships to Charleston visiting the port as "port of call" cause fewer problems than the homeported here larger vessels, because their passengers don't have cars to park.

Mount Pleasant (South Carolina) cruise port

The port of Mount Pleasant SC emerged as a Charleston alternative cruise port and will receive its first ship call in May 2017. As Charleston SC self-imposed the 104-vessel limit per year (seasons 2017 and 2018), the Mount Pleasant port emerged as a nearby alternative for smaller-sized and luxury cruise vessels. After anchoring here, they will tender their passengers to Fort Sumter, from where is approx 30-min bus travel to downtown Charleston.

The first-ever ship that anchored in Mount Pleasant SC was Silversea 's superyacht Silver Whisper  (in 2004).

• Fort Sumter: located in the Sullivan’s Island neighborhood. The place where on 12 April 1861 Confederate troops began the Civil War in America.
• Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon: located in the Historic District neighborhood. It is on the waterfront at East Bay Street. The white building houses the museum of the Colonial-era history in Charleston.
• Historic Churches: in the Historic District neighborhood you can visit the Circular Congregational, the French Huguenot Church and the Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim (the second oldest synagogue in America). Charleston is nicknamed as the “City of Churches.”
• City Market: it is in the Historic District. Fun place to visit but try not to be tempted by all the goods there.
• Gibbes Museum of Art: located in the Historic District. You can enjoy some of the finest art collections in the South.
• South Carolina Aquarium: located in the French Quarter Neighborhood. Discover the amazing ocean life. Meet black tip shark, sandbar sharks, scalpel-tailed surgeonfish, loggerhead turtles and jellyfish.

Charleston SC tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Charleston SC - user reviews and comments

Port of Charleston: A guide to cruising from the Holy City

Frequent cruisers are likely familiar with popular East Coast cruise ports, such as Boston, Baltimore, New York City and Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey. But did you know you can also cruise from the Carolinas? The cruise port in Charleston, South Carolina, is a driveable distance from several cities, including Charlotte (three hours) and Raleigh (four hours) in North Carolina.

Charleston might not be a bustling cruise home port like PortMiami , but the city is a destination in its own right. And if you're sailing with American Cruise Lines or Carnival Cruise Line, you'll find plenty to do in the Holy City before or after your cruise.

Plus, the Port of Charleston is easy to get to from Charleston International Airport (CHS), and the city offers a good selection of points hotels for a pre- or post-cruise stay.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here's everything you need to know about cruising from the Port of Charleston.

Port of Charleston fast facts

Port of charleston cruise terminal information.

Address : 32 Washington St., Charleston, SC 29401

Number of terminals : 1 (passenger terminal)

Map (PDF link)

Cruise lines sailing from the Port of Charleston

Currently, two cruise lines depart from the Port of Charleston.

American Cruise Lines ' Historic South & Golden Isles Cruise and Holidays in the Southeast cruise depart from Charleston. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Sunshine cruises out of Charleston on round-trip four- to 10-night sailings to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean .

Charleston also serves as a port of call on repositioning cruises or longer East Coast and Bahamas/Bermuda itineraries with cruise lines such as Viking, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Royal Caribbean.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Airport near the Port of Charleston

The Port of Charleston is 12 miles (about 25 minutes) from Charleston International Airport (CHS). Various airlines fly to CHS from other U.S. cities, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

Your disembarkation time might not align with your outbound flight time. So, if you have time to kill at the airport, you can spend it at The Club CHS lounge. The lounge is in the main terminal on the second level toward Concourse B. A daypass is $50 per person unless you have a Priority Pass membership through premium credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required). AAA members get in at a discounted rate of $42.50.

How to get to the Port of Charleston

You have a few options for getting to the cruise port from the airport or a hotel in Charleston.

Hotel shuttles

On-site parking isn't available at every hotel in downtown Charleston, so leaving your car at the hotel while you cruise likely won't be the best way to go. However, some area hotels offer shuttle service to the port or provide complimentary transportation within a certain distance from the property. For example, The Dewberry Charleston offers guests complimentary transportation within 5 square miles of the hotel via its Volvo house cars. The cruise port is just over a mile from the hotel.

When you are choosing a pre-cruise hotel, inquire about transportation to the cruise port before you make your reservations.

Independent van/car services

You can arrange private pickup and drop-off through car and van services like GCT Chauffeured Services , which will cost between $100 and $199 for up to three people.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Hailing a taxi to get to the Port of Charleston is simple. At the airport, taxi service is at the center median just outside baggage claim. Taxis charge a $17 minimum fee from CHS. Taxi fares are based on a trip meter rate of $3 per mile, which includes up to two passengers. You'll either pay the $17 minimum or the fee displayed on the meter at the end of the trip (whichever is the greater amount). Additional passengers are $7 per passenger, per trip. Based on taxi rates in Charleston and the distance from the airport to the cruise port, the estimated fare is $30 to $40.

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also an option. Follow the signs outside the baggage claim area to the sheltered pickup area across both roadways. You'll find it to the right of the last sidewalk.

Public transportation

Charleston's public bus service, Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority, does not currently provide a convenient station or stop to the cruise port.

Port of Charleston parking

The majority of cruisers sailing out of the Port of Charleston will be driving to the port, arriving the day of departure or the night before. Therefore, the port offers plentiful on-site parking.

Long-term parking for cruise passengers' vehicles at the port does not require reservations. Parking is located within a gated area available only to cruise passengers and not the general public, and port police secure and patrol the site during the cruise.

A complimentary shuttle bus runs between the vehicle parking areas and the passenger terminal on both departure and return dates of the cruise.

The cost for parking standard-size vehicles is $21 per day. The parking fee for oversize vehicles longer than 20 feet (campers, recreational vehicles, buses) is $50 per day. You can pay for cruise parking with a credit card, debit card or money order. Cash is no longer accepted as payment for parking.

The Port of Charleston provides free parking for vehicles displaying a valid accessible parking placard or license plate with ID. Wheelchair services are available inside the terminal. Alert a cruise port staff member for assistance.

Off-site parking is available with private companies like Park & Go , which offers cruise parking for $10 per day. It does not provide shuttle transportation from the lot to the cruise terminal, so you would need to take a taxi or Uber to the port.

A public parking garage is also an option. The maximum rate is $18 per day. The Cumberland Street parking garage (90 Cumberland St.) is the closest one to the port, less than a mile away.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Hotels near the Port of Charleston

The Charleston area offers an abundance of hotels, including some properties at which you can use or earn points. Whether you want convenient access to the cruise port and the city's historic downtown or to enjoy a riverfront pre- or post-cruise stay, here are a few to consider.

Hilton hotels near the Port of Charleston

For a quick overnight before a cruise, the Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront/Downtown is an ideal option (41,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

Its location on Ashley Marina provides easy access to the Charleston Historic District and other downtown attractions, and it's just under 2 miles from the cruise port. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a fitness center and free breakfast .

If you're looking for an upscale stay, Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton is an excellent choice (80,000 to 459,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It exudes laid-back luxury with a distinctly Southern style, and the rooftop pool bar area is a prime spot for spectacular views of Charleston's steeple-filled skyline.

Related: Best Hilton credit cards

Marriott hotels near the Port of Charleston

For Marriott Bonvoy loyalists, there's the Courtyard Charleston Waterfront (30,000 to 59,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night), which sits about 3 miles from the cruise port. On certain dates throughout the year, you can also use a Marriott 35,000-point free night certificate to cover a stay here.

Relax by the fire pit, or take a dip in the outdoor waterfront pool. The Bistro is the hotel's only restaurant, but it also serves specialty Starbucks beverages if you can't function without your morning caramel macchiato latte.

For a boutique hotel experience, book a stay at The Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel, available from 40,000 to 81,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. An outdoor saltwater pool and upscale on-site dining venues like Vivian Howard's Handy & Hot and Lenoir are among many reasons to overnight here before or after your cruise.

Hyatt hotels near the Port of Charleston

Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District is a lovely hotel right in the heart of Charleston's historic area and within walking distance of area restaurants, bars and shopping. It also has a rooftop bar area for a nightcap with nice city views. Nights start at 12,000 World of Hyatt points, and your stay includes free breakfast.

Non-points hotels near the Port of Charleston

Charleston teems with hotels that don't participate in traditional loyalty programs. When it comes to those, here are a few of our favorites.

For a mid-mod vibe, check out The Dewberry Charleston. Overlooking Marion Square, the hotel is convenient to King Street shopping, restaurants and historic sites.

Families will love the resort-style vacation atmosphere of The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina. Though not located downtown, it's right on the water, with taxi service from the marina to the city center.

Related: The 18 best hotels in Charleston, from historic inns to modern stays

Restaurants near the Port of Charleston

Charleston lands on many "best foodie destination" lists — and for good reason. Visitors can choose among just-caught seafood, local Lowcountry cuisine and upscale meals from James Beard Award-winning chefs. The Port of Charleston is convenient to the historic downtown area, so cruisers will find a bevy of destination dining and solid local eateries within walking distance or a short taxi ride away.

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar (186 Concord St.), the place for fresh seafood and waterfront views, is right next door to the cruise port. Head to Poogan's Porch (72 Queen St.) for traditional Southern dishes served in a historic Victorian home (five minutes from the port). Other options within a 10-minute drive of the port include Chubby Fish (252 Coming St.) or local favorites like Rodney Scott's BBQ (1011 King St.) and Cru Cafe (18 Pinckney St.).

Related: Best dining credit cards

Things to do in Charleston before or after your cruise

Charleston tops many "best destinations" lists thanks to its array of historic sites, cultural attractions and natural diversions. If you decide to spend more time in the Holy City before or after your cruise, here are some things to do in Charleston.

Hit the beach

The city of Charleston is on a peninsula surrounded by a harbor, so there's no beach access within its limits. However, if you crave a little extra sand time, you'll find some popular beaches within a fairly short drive.

A little over 9 miles (about 20 minutes) from Charleston, Sullivan's Island is a charming beach town that offers wide beach areas with water sports opportunities (kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing). Peruse local shops, or explore history at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park.

Folly Beach is less than 12 miles (about 21 minutes) from downtown. Its 6 miles of beach provide plenty of room for shelling, surfing or shark-tooth hunting. Or, take a guided kayak tour to Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve for a closer look at the historic Morris Island Lighthouse.

Visit the International African American Museum

This 150,000-square-foot museum houses more than 150 artifacts, artwork and interactive digital exhibits that chronicle the survival and resilience of slaves who likely made their way to Charleston through Gadsden's Wharf, the country's largest slave auction site from 1772 to 1808. The museum resides on that site (Gadsden's Wharf, 14 Wharfside St.).

Explore the aquarium

Cruising with the kids? Families will want to check out the South Carolina Aquarium (100 Aquarium Wharf), less than a mile from the cruise port (about a four-minute drive). The waterfront facility is home to more than 5,000 animals, including rehabilitating sea turtles in the Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery facility. Two touch tanks hold sharks, horseshoe crabs, stingrays and sea stars. The aquarium also hosts daily dive shows and rotating exhibits.

Take in some art

If you're into art, two Charleston museums should definitely be on your radar. The three-story Gibbes Museum of Art (135 Meeting St.) is the oldest museum facility in the South. Here, you'll find a collection of more than 10,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs and furniture.

Head to the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston (161 Calhoun St.) to peruse innovative works of emerging artists, seasonal shows and rotating exhibits. Admission is free.

Related: How to spend 48 hours in Charleston

Shopping near the Port of Charleston

Pick up last-minute cruise items at Tanger Outlets Charleston (4840 Tanger Outlet Blvd.), about a seven-minute drive from CHS. Harris Teeter (290 East Bay St.) is less than half a mile from the cruise port, should you wish to grab snacks, drinks and other groceries.

If souvenirs or upscale items are on your list, spend some time along Charleston's iconic King Street. Retailers like Free People, Urban Outfitters and Kate Spade line the cobblestone street along with locally owned shops offering jewelry, home goods and Charleston-branded items.

One of the city's most popular attractions is the historic Charleston City Market (188 Meeting St.). The open-air spot showcases local artisans selling paintings, spices and crafts, including hand-woven sweetgrass baskets.

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Charleston, SC

Cruises from Charleston depart year-round. Charleston is one of South Carolina's most picturesque cities, with beautifully preserved architecture and an aristocratic yet gracious atmosphere. Wooden shutters and ironwork balconies embellish the tall, narrow houses, and hidden gardens hold fragrant magnolia trees. You can tour the historic quarters on a walking tour or carriage ride. Boone Hall Plantation re-creates antebellum grandeur, and Middleton Place recalls life on an 18th-century plantation. Civil War buffs can tour Fort Sumter, where local troops opened fire on April 12, 1861, and set off the War Between the States.

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Guide to Charleston Cruise Parking (Where to Park)

Given the lack of major airports in the area (Charleston International is relatively small), many cruise passengers heading out of Charleston elect to drive to the port. In fact, cities including Raleigh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Jacksonville, Savannah, and all points in between are within a manageable drive from the port.

If you are driving into town, this brings up the question of what to do with your car while you are on your trip. While you have a few options, the best choice for most is parking at the port’s official lot, right next to the ship. The port’s parking is the most convenient and reasonably priced.

We have details of your options below. ( Charleston park & cruise hotels do offer more choices  if you plan to stay in the city the night before your cruise.)

Official Port Parking (At the Ship)

The Charleston cruise port offers the most convenient parking option, located right at the port and a short ride aboard a shuttle (or walk) to the ship. Most people elect to park here for their cruise.

To reach the lot, you need to enter the port at Gate #2, located north of the port at the intersection of Laurens and Concord Streets.

When you first arrive, be sure to have your cruise papers with you. They will be checked as only people sailing on the cruise will be allowed into the port parking area. Once inside the gate, you will be put into a snaking line to pay for your parking, unload baggage, and then park your car. There is ample space for parking, so reservations are not required.

The parking rate is $21 per day for regular vehicles. Campers and RVs are charged $50 per day. Vehicles with handicapped permits (placard or license plate) may park free of charge. Money orders and major credit/debit cards are accepted for payment. Cash and personal checks are not accepted .

Once parked, a shuttle is provided between the parking lot and the cruise terminal.

• Cost: $21 per day
• Distance: At port
• Website: https://scspa.com/passenger-information/cruise-parking/

Park & Go Charleston Cruise Port Parking

Given that Charleston is a relatively small port, there aren’t as many independent cruise parking lots like you will find around major ports. Still, there is one option — Park and Go.

The lot is actually an airport parking lot that’s now opened to cruise parking. That means it’s actually right near the airport, which is about 10 miles away from the cruise port. Still, with a daily rate of $10 per day, you’ll save half of what you’d pay at the cruise port for parking at the ship. On a week long trip, that’s $70.

One thing to note is that there is no shuttle to the cruise ship. You’ll need to get a ride to the cruise port (see our port transportation page here ). While that’s an added expense, the lower cost of the parking lot more than makes up for the price of the ride.

Park & Go has about 250 parking spaces. For that reason, it’s a good idea to make a reservation online ahead of time before your cruise to make sure there’s a spot for you.

• Cost: $10 per day
• Distance: 10 miles (no shuttle provided)
• Website: http://park-go.com/

Hotels with Cruise Parking

It’s a little-known tip, but if you plan to stay in the Charleston area before or after your cruise, then a number of hotels will offer free or discounted parking for your trip . All you have to do is stay with the hotel for one or more nights. We’ve rounded up a list of Charleston hotels with cruise parking specials here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free parking at the port for disabled passengers? Yes! These days many ports offer perks like free parking to those with disabilities and veterans, including the Port of Charleston. According to their website:

“Complimentary parking is provided at no fee for vehicles displaying a valid handicap placard or license plate with ID.”

Keep in mind this is only for the official port parking at the pier. Hotels and independent lots don’t offer this perk.

Can I reserve port parking ahead of time? Are you the type of person who likes to have everything all squared away before you travel? We understand, but there is no reason to do so when parking in Charleston. The port specifies on its website that reservations are not required. Simply show up on the day of your cruise and you’ll have a spot to park.

More on Cruising From Charleston

Getting to the Port of Charleston — Transportation options from airports and the Charleston area to the cruise port. Everything you need to know to get to the port and start your vacation.

Dropping Off at the Port — Dropping off passengers? Not sure where to go once you get to the port? We have turn-by-turn directions to find your cruise terminal.

Charleston Cruise Hotels — Getting in late? Leaving early? Simply need a place to rest your head? We’ve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port.

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Charleston Just Told Carnival It Can No Longer Sail Out Of Its Port Starting In 2024, Here’s Why

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South Carolina is saying goodbye to Carnival Cruise Line starting in 2024, and the state is happy to see the company go!

No More Departures 

The South Carolina Ports Authority is ending its deal with Carnival, preventing the cruise line from departing from Charleston. Carnival ships are currently using the Union Pier Terminal for departures and arrivals. A lot of those journeys are short — heading to the Caribbean and back. The state’s decision ends a 14-year contract. Carnival will still be able to use the port, but only for the day. 

Right now, Carnival Sunshine calls Charleston home, and will continue to do so until early 2024. The last cruise from the South Carolina port is scheduled for April 27, 2024. The 5-day sail will stop in Nassau, Bahamas, and the Carnival-owned island of Half Moon Cay before returning to Charleston one last time.

Controlling Tourism

Charleston officials are applauding the state’s decision, citing a large number of cruise departures throughout the year. In addition to limiting cruise departures, the South Carolina Ports Authority is limiting ships to no more than 104 visits per year and no ship can hold more than 3,500 passengers. Charleston’s mayor says eliminating these departures will allow the city to redevelop the Union Pier Terminal and open up more opportunities for city growth and vitality. 

“We’re grateful to the port for taking this critically important step, and we look forward to continuing to work with [South Carolina Ports Authority] to make Union Pier a beautiful and vibrant part of the city of Charleston,” said Mayor John Tecklenburg.

Charleston is following in Key West’s footsteps in limiting cruise departures as a way to control tourism. In 2020, Key West voters approved a measure to severely limit the number of cruise ships allowed to dock there. But, the state of Florida reversed that decision a year later.

Whether you’re heading to Charleston for a cruise or for the weekend this summer, be sure to check out our list of top beaches near Charleston , plus 12 charming vacation rentals .

Amy’s passion for traveling and writing started at a young age. She grew up traveling with her family -- visiting three continents by the time she was 16. She’s always looking for her next trip and isn't happy until she has at least one (or two) on the horizon. She is most fulfilled when she’s exploring new areas like a local and finding good deals on travel and activities.

Amy studied broadcast journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She started her career as a TV news producer in Tulsa and Denver, winning 4 Emmy Awards for her work. She’s also worked in production for HGTV and as a spokeswoman for a small Colorado mountain town.

Amy is married with two young kids. Both kids got their passports before age one, as it’s her goal to instill the travel bug in them from a young age. If you can’t find Amy at an airport, you can find her trying out new restaurants, reading, or running.

Port of Charleston Hotel Deals (with Shuttle Service)

Charleston, South Carolina

The historical and charming city of Charleston is located on the coast of South Carolina, on the banks of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. This seaport city, kwown as the “Holy City” because of its many church steeples and spires, is one of America’s oldest cities dating back to 1670.

Book today cheap deals for Charleston sc hotels and affordable motels near Union Pier, departure terminal of Carnival Cruise Line. Stay in downtown, waterfront or near CHS airport.

Cheap Deals for Cruise Hotels

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Places to Stay near Union Pier, Cruise Terminal

Most hotels in downtown near the port don’t offer car parking for the length of the cruise, but are only a short cab ride away from the port. There are lots of hotels that offer cruise-n-park options. Some of them offer also a shuttle transfer, some not.

Port Address : Entry gate (Gate #2) is near 280 Concord Street, Charleston, SC.

Hotels with FREE Shuttle Service to Charleston cruise port?

While hotels with shuttle service to the cruise port might be very convenient we can advise you to choose hotels on a balance of other factors such as location, amenities, reviews,…. Some hotels are within easy walking distance ( no shuttle needed ) from the port, other Downtown hotels are a cheap taxi or Uber ride away. Some hotels, mainly further away from the port, offer a package which may include parking and shuttle to the port.

When looking for hotels, the folowing properties are located within easy walking distance or offer a transport service;

1. Indigo Inn ★★★

Distance from Cruise Port : 0.5 miles (10 minutes walk) Walking Distance

2. The Spectator Hotel ★★★★★

Distance from Cruise Port : 0.3 mile (7 minutes walk) No Shuttle but within easy walking distance

3. Meeting Street Inn ★★★

Distance from Cruise Port : 0.5 miles (11 minutes walk) Walking Distance

4. Best Western Charleston Inn ★★★

Distance from Cruise Port : 5.8 miles (14 minutes by taxi/Uber) $50 plus tax for Cruise Parking, approx. $30/person for round-trip transportation

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Where to Stay ?

• Nearest Airport

Car Parking

• Charleston in South Carolina

Well priced 4 star hotel located outside Charleston SC in Mount Pleasant.

Budget friendly downtown Charleston hotel, within easy reach of the cruise port terminal.

Cheap motel just north of Charleston International Airport. Stay here and drive the next day to the port.

Port of Charleston in South Carolina

From the Port of Charleston several cruise companies offer cruises to the Caribbean islands and Bermuda.

Ships dock at the cruise passenger terminal at Union Pier, situated in the heart of the historic district at the foot of Market Street on Concord Street. Carnival Cruises is the main operator at the port. The Carnival sails to the Bahamas with stops in Nassau, Freeport, Half Moon Cay and Little Stirrup Cay, and to the Caribbean with a stop in Grand Turk. Some longer voyages will bring you to the Eastern Caribbean with fascinating ports of call such as San Juan cruise port in Puerto Rico , Fort de France in Martinique and Charlotte Amalie on the island of St Thomas .

Union Pier Passenger – Carnival Cruises Ship Terminal

Charleston cruise terminal, called Union Pier, is located in the downtown area, easily reached via several major routes into the city including Interstate 26, Highway 17-South and Highway 17-North.

Entry for all passengers is via Gate 2, at the intersection of Concord and Laurens Streets.

South Carolina Ports Authority Cruise Line

Phone : 843–958–8298

web : www.port-of-charleston.com

email: [email protected] Carnival Cruise Lines

Phone: 1–800–764–7419

web : www.carnival.com

Other Atlantic Ocean ports include the port of Jacksonville in Florida , and Norfolk in Virginia (see hotels) .

A large number of reasonable priced hotels and inexpensive motels are located within close distance of the Union Pier passenger terminal, embarkation point of Carnival Cruise Line. Many hotels offer discounts and free shuttles, mostly properties located just outside the downtown area and in Mount Pleasant.

When staying in a hotel in the heart of the historic downtown district , than you are only steps away from horse drawn carriage tours, museums, art galleries, antique shops, along with world-renowned dining just outside your doorstep. Union passenger pier is situated nearby.

Quite a few of these hotels are located in the Mt. Pleasant area . Several places to stay in the Mt Pleasant area offer a cruise-n-park option. Park your car at the hotel for the duration of your cruise. Some provide a shuttle to/from the cruise terminal. Mt Pleasant is close to Patriots Point, and near Sullivan’s Island. Another option is staying nearby the airport . A lot of accommodations offer a free shuttle service transfer to/from the airport. CHS, located in North Charleston, is about 15-20 minutes away from the historic downtown. Many feature also an outdoor or indoor swimming pool.

Nearest airport – CHS International Airport

CHS Airport — Port of Charleston is well served by Charleston International Airport, located about 13 miles from the pier and downtown.

Transportation from CHS airport to the cruise pier is available either by shared shuttle, taxi, or transfers through Carnival Cruise Lines.

Parking — safe and secure car parking is located close to the pier. The parking lot, patrolled by Port Police, is access controlled and available only to cruise passengers. Complimentary shuttles services are provided by the port authority from the parking areas to the entry door of the cruise terminal building.

Only smaller carry-on luggage is allowed on the shuttles. Larger luggage is collected at the check-through luggage tent, prior to parking.

Parking is paid upon arrival at the Port on embarkation day. Reservations are not accepted in advance, but there is ample space, so availability is not a problem.

Lovely City with Southern Charm

Charleston in South Carolina is a lovely city attracting lot of tourists with its southern charm, historical architecture and bustling promenade along the waterfront.

Take a horse drawn tour around the old city streets and admire the historic buildings and fascinating colonial architecture. Visit the French Quarter, kwown for its art galleries and old churches. Stroll the city’s cobbled streets and stop at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, one of the most significant colonial buildings in the United States. Nearby is historic Joseph Manigault House, a National Historic Landmark part of the Charleston Museum.

In downtown, St Michael’s Episcopal Church is the oldest church building in Charleston sc. Head to Fort Sumter fortification in the harbour of Charleston, site of the start of the American Civil War when the first shot was fired by Confederate forces. A nice place to rest and enjoy a picnic is Charleston Waterfront Park, close to restaurants and hotels. There is a pleasant pier with incredible views of the harbor and sail boats, some nice fountains and a enjoyable walking path with benches.

Travel outside the city to the surrounding Low Country. Visit Boone Hall plantation, one of the oldest working plantations in the country. Take a look in the old mansion, see original slave cabins or take a tour in an open air coach that takes you around the plantation.

Stay overnight in one of Charleston’s pre or post cruise reasonable priced downtown hotels, close to the passenger port or in a discount hotel or affordable motel near the airport and all the city’s main tourist attractions are just a short stroll away.

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Charleston Cruise Parking

Last updated on January 30th, 2024 at 09:41 am

Park your vehicle near the cruise port in Charleston and set sail on your adventure with ease. Multiple parking options ensure a safe and convenient place for your car while you enjoy your cruise.

Onsite Parking at the Charleston Cruise Port

• Accessible Parking - free with valid permit
• Payment upon arrival by debit card, credit card, money order only. NOTE: Cash is not accepted
• Claim ticket received after payment. Large portion to be kept in vehicle. Small portion to be kept with passenger.
• Luggage must be dropped off prior to parking at the Union Pier luggage collection site.
• Shuttles are available to transport passengers between the parking lots and the cruise terminal. Wheelchair accessible shuttles are available.

Off-Site Charleston Cruise Port Parking

Cruise planning at this port.

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Cruise to Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in charleston.

FOOTSTEPS OF TIME

Fountain Pineapple, Charleston, South Carolina

Head out on foot from the Battery’s seawall to Waterfront Park, then through the French Quarter and down buzzing King Street. Along the way you’ll stroll past centuries-old mansions, Dock Street Theatre, Gothic Revival churches, war relics, retail hubs and other southern treasures.

ANTEBELLUM MEMORIES

Antebellum Memories, Charleston, South Carolina

Trace centuries of American history among Charleston’s old rice plantations. Boone Hall Plantation is one of America’s oldest working farms, while Middleton Place is home to the country’s oldest landscaped gardens. Drayton Hall and Magnolia Plantation both offer Southern heritage and Lowcountry scenery along the Ashley River.

PALMETTO PARADISE

Get your feet— or your paddle— wet with plenty of outdoor adventures. Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach are both popular with beachgoers, and nearby Kiawah is renowned for its PGA-caliber golf courses. Kayak around Shem Creek’s estuaries beside dolphins and waterfowl, or enjoy a walk across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge before your Charleston cruise.

LOCAL CUISINE

Charleston is one of America’s top food cities, where Lowcountry comfort food meets award-winning, chef-inspired cuisine. Southern staples like creamy she-crab soup, fried chicken and collard greens reign supreme— and everyone has their own twist on the quintessential shrimp and grits. Try frogmore stew for authentic Gullah flavors, or head to Bowens Island for fresh-off-the-boat oysters shucked by the creek.

King Street’s retail mecca is filled to the brim with unique boutiques, antique shops and book stores. Broad Street’s Gallery Row is an art collector’s dream, while the four-block City Market is where you’ll find Gullah artisans selling their famous sweetgrass baskets handwoven from locally grown bulrush grass.

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Cruise Parking

Credit cards, debit cards, money orders are the only accepted forms of payment for cruise parking. Cash is no longer accepted as payment for cruise parking.

Long-term vehicle parking is available on Port property for cruise passengers vehicles. Reservations are not required.

Parking is in controlled-access areas available only to cruise passengers not the general public. The sites are secured and patrolled by Port Police during the cruise.

The vehicle parking fee chart for standard size vehicles up to 20 feet length is  $21.00 per day:

• 4 day $84.00
• 5 day $105.00
• 6 day $126.00
• 7 day $147.00
• 10 day $210.00

The parking fee for over-sized vehicles over 20 feet length (campers, RVs, buses) is $50.00 per day.

Complimentary parking is provided at no fee for vehicles displaying a valid handicap placard or license plate with ID.

A complimentary shuttle bus is provided between the vehicle parkingareas and the Passenger Terminal on both departure and return dates of the cruise. The shuttles provide a comfortable way to arrive at the check-in location and return to the vehicle parkingareas at the end of the cruise.

Shuttles accessible for special needs and wheelchair assistance are also available.

Please note: SCPA assumes no liability for theft, collision, accidents, fire, or other damages of any kind to personal property from any cause whatsoever. SCPA assumes no responsibility or liability for property left in a vehicle. Parking is at your own risk. The terms of SCPA’s Marine Terminal Operator Schedule / Tariff No. 8 remain in effect.