Charleston, South CarolinaCarnival Cruise Line has formally ceased its homeport operations in the Holy City after sailing from Charleston for over 14 years. This is the end of a collaboration that started in 2010 between Carnival and the South Carolina Ports Authority.
This week marks the implementation of the 2022 decision to not renew the cruise contract. A chapter in Charleston’s maritime history will come to an end on Saturday when the Carnival Sunshine returns after its final journey, which left Union Pier on Monday. The action is intended to make Union Pier Terminal available for renovation.
Charleston will continue to host port-of-call stops, enabling some cruises to dock for day visits even if it will no longer be used as a homeport. However, Union Pier will not be the starting or finishing point for any ships.
Regarding Union Pier’s future, the Ports Authority is completing redevelopment ideas in collaboration with neighborhood residents, city representatives, and local purchasers. Officials stress that the reconstruction will be in line with the community’s vision for the region, while specifics are still unknown.
Charleston says goodbye to Carnival Cruise Line for the time being while anticipating fresh prospects for its historic waterfront.
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