Carnival Cruise Line Out of Charleston Departs from Charleston SC

Carnival Cruise Line has been offering departures from Charleston, SC since 2008. The cruise line's terminal in Charleston is located on the city's waterfront.

One of the most popular itineraries is a 4-day cruise to the Bahamas, which departs from Charleston. This cruise offers a quick and affordable getaway to the islands.

Carnival's ship, the Carnival Elation, is the primary vessel used for Charleston departures. The ship has undergone renovations to offer modern amenities and entertainment options.

Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of onboard amenities, including dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities.

Carnival Cruise Line is no longer sailing out of Charleston, having departed on its final cruise from the city on a 5-day voyage on the Carnival Sunshine.

The ship will reposition to Norfolk, Virginia, where it will offer 6- and 8-day sailings to the Eastern Caribbean and The Bahamas.

Carnival's contract with the city of Charleston was not renewed in 2022, due in part to desires to redevelop the Union Pier Terminal for other uses and traffic congestion on sailing days.

Local residents will now have to drive at least 200 miles to Jacksonville, Florida, or another 270 miles to Port Canaveral to take a cruise.

The smaller port in Charleston was not able to accommodate modern mega ships, but the 102,853 gross ton Carnival Sunshine was a perfect fit, carrying 3,000 passengers at a time to vacations all over the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Carnival Cruise Line had a 14-year run in Charleston, with Carnival Fantasy being the first ship to sail out of the city and Carnival Ecstasy also sailing out of the port for a time.

The last time Carnival cruise passengers will disembark in Charleston will be after the New Year holiday cruise on Carnival Sunshine, which will arrive back in the city on January 4.

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You can depart on a Carnival cruise from the Port of Charleston, located at 1962 Maritime Center Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464.

The port is about 10 miles from downtown Charleston and 30 minutes from the Charleston International Airport.

Cruise ships typically depart between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, depending on the itinerary and time of year.

A Carnival cruise typically lasts between 4 and 14 nights, depending on the itinerary and destination.

You'll want to check in at least 2 hours before departure to ensure a smooth and stress-free embarkation process.

Make sure to have all necessary documents, such as a valid passport and ID, easily accessible for check-in.

Charleston offers a wide range of tours that cater to various interests, including historical, culinary, and outdoor activities. The city's rich history and architecture make it an ideal destination for history buffs.

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a popular tour destination, featuring a stunning 300-year-old plantation with beautiful gardens and a nature center. It's a great place to learn about the city's past and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Visitors can also take a tour of the Charleston City Market, a historic marketplace that has been in operation since 1804. The market offers a variety of goods, including souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional Lowcountry cuisine.

For a more leisurely experience, consider taking a stroll through the historic district, admiring the beautiful antebellum architecture and picturesque streets.

Accommodations in Charleston range from historic bed and breakfasts to modern hotels and resorts. The Francis Marion Hotel is a popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the city's main attractions.

The Hyatt Regency Charleston is another great option, featuring a range of amenities, including a rooftop pool and a variety of dining options.