cruise out charleston sc

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Find the best cruise to charleston, what are the best cruises from charleston.

The best cruises out of Charleston, SC offer passengers an unforgettable boating adventure into the Caribbean. It's a main port of call for Carnival Cruise Line , with passengers on cruises leaving from Charleston typically boarding the Carnival Sunshine or the Carnival Ecstasy on their way to the Bahamas . In ports of call like Nassau and Freeport, passengers can enjoy some of the most beautiful corners of the Caribbean Sea.

How can I find a cheap Charleston cruise?

Travelers love cruises out of Charleston because (especially compared to other ports of origin) the prices tend to be exceptionally reasonable. Passengers can find cheap cruises out of Charleston by looking for travel times in off-seasons, like November or February. Another option to find the cheapest deals for cruises out of Charleston in 2024 is to look for shorter travel times. For example, a 4-day cruise from Charleston to the Caribbean in February may be available for under $300 per passenger. You might even be able to get a last-minute cruise deal on your trip from Charleston.

What cruise lines operate from Charleston?

There are three main cruise lines out of Charleston: Carnival, American, and Silversea. A Carnival cruise from Charleston is the most common option; Carnival operates three ships in this port, all with regular trips to the Bahamas. American Cruise Lines traverses the US coastline and major rivers with smaller ships. Finally, the Monaco-based Silversea Cruises offers fewer trips to a wide range of islands in the Caribbean Sea. Generally speaking, Charleston cruise lines are known for a short and convenient boarding process at the cruise terminal that all passengers can benefit from. Be sure to check out last-minute cruises from Charleston if you are in the mood for an unplanned vacation.

How can I find good deals on cruises from Charleston?

When browsing cruise deals from Charleston on Expedia, all discounts are marked with a small green box right above the price per passenger. That allows you to see how much you could save when booking the voyage. But looking for cruise deals out of Charleston also means looking beyond the sticker price. For example, the Bahamas are generally known to be a lower price than other Caribbean destinations like Bermuda but more expensive than alternatives like Cuba, which is important to keep in mind as you calculate the overall cost of the cruise. You can also sort by price to see which cruise ships leaving from Charleston offer the best deals during your travel window.

What to look out for when you book your Charleston cruise?

Decide what type of voyage you're looking for, from family cruises out of Charleston to a romantic or a party cruise. With that goal in mind, you can decide on the ship that matches your preference. For example, the Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Sunrise, two of the most common cruise ships out of Charleston, offer family-friendly fun including top deck waterslides along with vibrant nightlife at sea in their pubs and bars. Ships from other cruise lines, like the Queen Mary 2 or Carnival's Mardi Gras , offer more refined or adult fun-heavy experiences, respectively. The length of your vacation also matters. You cannot book a 2 nights or 3 nights cruise from Charleston, as all voyages begin with 4 night minimums. However, your trip can span a weekend cruise from Charleston, extending into the next week.

Where are the best places to go to on a cruise from Charleston?

As the most popular cruise line from Charleston, Carnival offers a regular cruise from Charleston to the Bahamas, as well as a semi-regular cruise that visits other ports of call in the Caribbean. The best cruises out of Charleston steer towards Nassau first, where passengers can enjoy historical British colonial buildings along with gorgeous beaches and coral reefs that are ideal for snorkeling. On the occasional 10 day cruises leaving out of Charleston, travelers can also go beyond the Bahamas, enjoying their time on deck along with ports of call in St. Thomas, Antigua, Saint Kitts, Philipsburg, and San Juan. Regardless of the length of destination passengers choose, they'll enjoy an unforgettable adventure on the cruise ship from Charleston into the beauty and mystery of the Caribbean Sea and its islands.

How to book a cruise out of Charleston on Expedia?

If you’re looking for a Charleston cruise in 2024, you can browse our pre-selected deals or just set your destination to the South Carolinian port city and pick your preferred cruise days as well as how many passengers you are looking to book. From there, you can narrow down how long you'd like your adventure at sea to be. The results are then filterable by cruise line, Charleston cruise ships and what type of cabin you're looking for once aboard. Before the ship lifts its anchor for your voyage, you'll also be able to book your stay in the city before and after the cruise if you want to explore the cityscape and coastline of Charleston historic side.

How can I find last-minute cruise deals from Charleston?

If you're looking for great last-minute Charleston cruise deals, booking shortly before you're looking to set sail can reduce the price of the cruise. When browsing on Expedia, enter a planned departure date that's close to the current date. The results you get show the discount in the results of cruises departing from Charleston during that time frame. You can also sort your search results by either the earliest departure date or lowest price to ensure you get the best cruise deals in Charleston.

Do you need a passport to cruise from Charleston?

We always recommend to have your passport with you when travelling outside of the US but some cruises have closed loop itinerary that don’t require you to have your passport to take part if you are a US citizen. Because all Caribbean cruises from Charleston make land on islands that belong to different countries, it is better to check the details of each cruise to make sure you can enjoy your sea voyage.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, guests can cancel their cruise from Charleston in 2024 before their departure. However, the timing of the cancellation is important. Passengers canceling their cruise too close to the departure time may not be able to get a refund or only a partial one. Visit your My Trips section of the website or on the app. You can alternatively contact our customer service.

Why should I book a cruise from Charleston with Expedia?

Booking your cruise through Expedia means not just finding the best cruise lines out of Charleston but also selecting the best possible option thanks to in-depth search and filter tools. The search results make it easy to spot deals, and passengers can book their journey to and stay in Charleston alongside the cruise. Finally, we'll help you find the best cruise ships out of Charleston for your journey, allowing you to enjoy your time on deck and at some of the most popular vacation spots in the Caribbean.

Charleston Cruise Guide

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Pre and Post Cruise Hotels in Charleston

Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston

Reviewed on Apr 17, 2024

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Cruises to Charleston, South Carolina

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On Charleston cruises, discover the “Holy City,” a moniker given because of its many churches. The second you arrive, you’ll experience its old-world charm. From cobblestoned main streets to wrap-around porches where locals lounge unhurried, the mood in Charleston is relaxed, making it a perfect spot to vacation. This port of call on select Bermuda cruises encapsulates the American South effortlessly.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to charleston, fort sumter.

The American Civil War broke out in 1861, and its first major battle began at the historic Fort Sumter in Charleston. In many ways, Charleston represents the heart of the conflict. A walking tour of the fort is a harrowing reminder of the country’s past.

The French Quarter

Take a stroll along the French Quarter in Charleston to see some of the city’s original architecture dating back to the 1700s. Walk along its cobblestoned streets and snap photos of the pastel Victorian buildings. Stop in local art galleries before finding a bite to eat on the bay.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Located along the Ashley River in Charleston, Magnolia Gardens are the oldest gardens in the U.S. Take a nature tour and discover the flora and fauna of South Carolina along the way. You’ll discover the history of South Carolina’s plantations from the 19th century to today. 

South Carolina Aquarium

The entire family will love an excursion to the South Carolina Aquarium, which is located along the beautiful Charleston Harbor. There are daily shows, like sea turtle experiences, plus dozens of species of colorful marine life to admire.

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Top things to do in charleston, shuck oysters on the bay.

Don’t miss the chance to try fresh oysters while in port from Charleston cruises. The city’s coastal location provides delicious seafood, and there are plenty of cafes, bars, and eateries with bayside views for you to take in the sights.

Enjoy a Horse & Carriage Ride

Whether you’re looking for a romantic excursion with your loved one or an unforgettable ride for the family, a horse and carriage trip through the cobblestoned streets of Charleston is an experience for all ages. Admire the Antebellum architecture as you go.

Shop at the Historic City Market

Find the perfect souvenir or handmade craft to bring back home at the Charleston Historic City Market, which is one of the oldest public markets in the United States. Shop the stalls and chat with dozens of local vendors.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Charleston Cruise Port

Luckily, Charleston has a variety of dining experiences for every palate, whether you prefer fast casual or fine dining. Many of the city’s chefs and restaurants have received a James Beard award, but don’t let that fool you into thinking the food is pretentious. Cuisine in Charleston is inventive while sticking to classic flavors and Southern comforts. For meat lovers, head to the casual Artisan Meat Share for bratwurst and all sorts of fine meats. At 167 Raw, slurp down a dozen fresh oysters in style. The Codfather is a local favorite for authentic fish and chips.

Culture & History of Charleston Cruise Port

Founded in 1670, Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina and one of the oldest in the United States. It was named “Charles Town” after King Charles II of England. Originally, the local economy was fueled by tobacco and pine, which was shipped back to the Old World. Over time, Charleston became known as an international hub for the slave trade. The first battle of the American Civil War took place in Charleston in 1861 at the Battle of Fort Sumter. In the 20th century, the city made major efforts to preserve historic landmarks and grow the city’s intellectual and cultural contributions. Today, Charleston is well loved by history buffs and has a growing tourism industry.

Charleston Port Facilities & Location

Charleston, SC cruises dock in the Port of Charleston, which is very centrally located to the historic downtown area. Shops, restaurants, and tourist activities are a short walk away from the terminal.

Transportation in Charleston

Getting around in the center of Charleston is pretty easy, particularly if you walk to major sights in town. Taxis, as well as Uber and Lyft, operate in Charleston. Car rentals are available. A free trolley called the DASH trolley operates along multiple routes through town.

Shopping Near the Charleston Cruise Port

You won’t find much in the way of shopping in the cruise port itself, but you’ll be very close to the historic center of town where shopping options, boutiques, and souvenir stands are aplenty.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

You’ll use the U.S. dollar (USD) while you’re in port on Charleston, SC cruises. Tipping here is similar to other parts of the United States. Leave a 10-15% tip for bartenders and taxi drivers. It’s polite to leave a small tip for your barista when you order a coffee. For exceptional dinner service, tipping between 15-20% of the bill is recommended.

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Cruise to Charleston, South Carolina

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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 from Charleston, South Carolina

Taking a cruise from Charleston, South Carolina means experiencing the best-mannered city in the United States, as described by Marjabelle Young Stewart. Discount cruise deals that let travelers spend a day or two in Charleston give them time to explore a historical city that offers carriage tours. Charleston has capitalized on its history as an Atlantic port and extended its services to cruise ships and their passengers.

Why not experience Charleston’s unique character before or after your Caribbean cruise? Soak up some Southern hospitality along with the sun’s rays as you observe colonial and 19th century period architecture, taste the city’s dining offerings, or even take a short excursion out to one of the area’s beaches, golf courses, or historical plantations.

So what are you waiting for? Book your cruise from Charleston, South Carolina today with the experts at Direct Line Cruises.

For more information, call Direct Line Cruises at 1-800-352-8088 .

Charleston Cruise Destinations

Cruise lines sailing from charleston, sc, driving directions to the charleston cruise pier.

Charleston, South Carolina Cruise Ship Terminal Address: Union Pier Passenger Terminal196 Concord Street Charleston, SC 29401 Parking at Pier: $15.00 per day for cruise passengers. *Parking rates are subject to change at any time.

General Directions: •Exit airport on I-526 and connect to I-26 (Charleston) •Continue to East Bay Street-Morrison Drive Exit (219-B) •Turn left at bottom of exit ramp •Continue on to Morrison Drive •Morrison Drive will change name to East Bay Street – in route •East Bay Street will cross Calhoun Street (traffic light intersection) •Turn left onto Calhoun Street •Turn right onto Washington Street •Stay on Washington Street, which will connect into Concord Street.

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Cruises from Charleston

Cruises from Charleston, SC should be on your radar if you're looking for a cruise to The Bahamas and the Caribbean. Typical cruises from Charleston range from 4 - 7 days with a multitude of itineraries to choose from departing from this charming city.

Popular itineraries include a stop at the cruise line's private island (most cruise lines offer this) that is only accessible via cruise, where you'll enjoy white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and the best part — no additional tourists, besides your fellow cruisers!

Are you considering a visit to South Carolina’s busiest cruise port? If so, check out the info below to learn more about cruising out of Charleston.

What cruise lines depart from Charleston, SC?

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most popular options, with cruises to The Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean. Your itinerary may include stops at St. Thomas (USVI), St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos, and the cruise line's private island, Amber Cove.

Where Is Charleston Cruise Port?

Charleston Cruise Port is near the city’s tourist-friendly historic center. Indeed, the famous Charleston City Market is only a five-minute walk from the city’s port. Since Charleston’s Cruise Terminal is so centrally located, it’s easy for tourists to explore the city’s many charms before their cruise departs.

For those who are flying into Charleston, you’ll be happy to know it’s only a 13-mile ride between Charleston International Airport (IATA: CHS) and the Charleston Cruise Port. Without traffic, it shouldn’t take you longer than 30 minutes to drive from CHS to the port’s parking garage.

Here’s the official address of the Charleston Cruise Port:

196 Concord Street

Charleston, SC 29401

How To Get To Charleston Cruise Port? 

Today, most people who need to get to Charleston Cruise Port use a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft. Although you could also hire a private taxi or arrange a shuttle service, ride-share companies tend to offer the best balance of affordability and comfort.

Typically, a one-way ride-share trip between CHS and the Charleston Port costs between $20 – $30. By contrast, private taxis could charge over $40 for the same journey. Cruise shuttles tend to be the priciest option at about $30 per person.

If you’re considering staying in Charleston before your cruise, then we recommend asking your hotel if they offer special shuttle services. Sometimes hotels offer transportation to and from the Charleston Cruise Port, so it’s worth researching before booking your room.

Lastly, anyone driving to the Charleston Cruise Port will have to pay $20 per day for parking. Vehicles that are over 20-feet-long, however, will have to pay $50 every night. 

Be sure to use this address to find Charleston’s official parking garage:

201-293 Concord Street

What Is There To Do In Charleston, SC? 

Like nearby Savannah, Charleston is one of the few Southern cities that survived General Sherman’s fiery March to Sea. Even if you’re not a romantic type, we bet you’ll fall for this city’s soaring steeples and antebellum allure.

Luckily for tourists, the Charleston Cruise Port is within walking distance of the city's historic center. So, even if you only have a few hours to spare, you could add one of these nearby attractions to your itinerary:

Take selfies by the colorful Rainbow Row.

See the legendary "Pineapple Fountain" in Waterfront Park.

Buy a few souvenirs at the Charleston City Market.

Admire the artistry Charleston's oldest church: St. Philip's.

Step back into the Colonial Era at the Powder Magazine. 

Where To Stay In Charleston, SC 

Charleston is well known for its historic B&Bs, but there are plenty of hotels in the city’s center for travelers on any budget. Here are two well-reviewed hotels that are within walking distance of Charleston’s premier attractions.

First off, the Courtyard by Marriott Charleston Historic District is a solid three-star hotel that’s a 20-minute walk from the city’s port. Located across the street from Marion Square, this sleek hotel offers guests ultra-modern rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.

If you’re looking for a classier Charleston experience, we suggest researching the four-star Francis Marion Hotel. First opened in the 1920s, this opulent hotel is one of the highest-rated in the city and includes an impressive ground-floor restaurant and spa.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $153 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $154 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $156 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $132 pp not included.

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Cruises from Charleston, South Carolina

Cruises from Charleston are a great option to get away on a cruise vacation for many people living in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. Cruises from Charleston range from 5 to 7 days and include cruises to the Bahamas, the Caribbean as well as eastern US river and coastal cruises. Guests taking a cruise out of Charleston might have extra time to enjoy Charlestons’s beautiful beaches, golf or some of the other many outdoor activities that Jacksonville has to offer. Those lucky enough to live within driving distance can also get some great last minute cruise deals when they cruise from Charleston.

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Charleston Highlights

Fort Sumter Fort Sumter is where the first shot was fired that started the US Civil War. Fort Sumter is about 30 minutes by ferry from Charleston and is the location of one America’s bloodiest wars.

Mansions and Plantations Charleston is home to a number of grand anti-bellum mansions and plantations all of which reflect the our country’s southern heritage. Tour the homes, the slave quarters and the gardens of these historical properties.

Restaurants and Dining Many people visit Charleston to savor the fine restaurants and dining options. Enjoy oysters, fresh seafood in a variety of casual and gourmet restaurants served with southern hospitality.

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These Are the Best Cruises Out of Charleston, South Carolina

by Contractor | Nov 12, 2020 | resources , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Did you know that you can set sail out of South Carolina? Charleston’s coastal location, combined with its rich and vibrant history, makes for the perfect beginning to a southern-bound cruise . In fact, there are a plethora of different cruise options departing from Charleston, with destinations in the Bahamas, Caribbean, and United States.

There are three cruise lines that sail out of Charleston:

• Carnival Cruise Line
• American Cruise Line
• Crystal Cruises

Below are eight of the best cruises out of Charleston, along with all the details you need to know: pricing, activities, and high-level descriptions. Read on to decide which cruise is the perfect one for you!

Charleston to Freeport & Nassau

The first cruise on the list is a five-day round trip on the Carnival Sunshine, stopping in the cities of Freeport and Nassau in the Bahamas. This is an excellent option for a quick and affordable trip that can fit into any schedule.

The Carnival Sunshine is a 900-foot long vessel that can hold up to 3000 passengers. Onboard activities include spas, waterslides, and delicious eateries for the whole family. Even the basic interior room is comfortably sized!

Guests spend several days traveling on open waters with one whole day spent in each Freeport and Nassau to explore. Passengers can also choose to embark on one of the cruise line’s shore excursions, such as swimming with the dolphins in Nassau or touring the island of Freeport. Excursions can be booked online for an extra fee.

The total cost of the five-day trip starts at $289 per person, which includes onboard entertainment and some dining options.

Charleston to Princess Cays

This Bahamas route is a bit shorter than the first cruise, clocking in at four days instead of five, with only one destination. Passengers will once again board the Carnival Sunshine. But this time, they will travel to Princess Cays to spend an entire day before returning back to Charleston. Unlike the cruise to Freeport and Nassau, only one day is spent at the destination.

The time spent in Princess Cays may be short, but Carnival Cruises offers plenty of shore excursions to enjoy. Choose between snorkeling, kayaking, or biking around the island. If you choose to embark on your own adventure, there are plenty of local villages and beaches to explore at your leisure.

This cruise is significantly cheaper than the Freeport and Nassau route, costing a total of $229 per person.

This price includes the following:

• Entertainment

Charleston to Eastern Caribbean

Combine the best of both worlds with this cruise, stopping in both the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Passengers will board the Carnival Sunshine for seven days, with stops in:

• Half Moon Cay

Like the first two cruises, shore excursions are available at each of the destinations. Guests can enjoy an adrenaline rush wading through waterfalls in Amber Cove, paddleboarding in Grand Turk, and touring a lagoon in Half Moon Cay.

Onboard, guests can entertain themselves with a variety of options offered by the cruise line, including admission to the Kids Club, which is included in the price of the ticket. There’s even an arcade open 24 hours a day! As for adults, the casino is a great place to try your luck.

Guests can choose between interior, balcony, ocean view, or suite rooms. The pricing for each starts as follows:

Charleston to the Caribbean in Luxury

For a luxurious, all-inclusive trip, check out the Crystal Cruises twelve-night trip through the Caribbean. Named “Best Cruise Line” in Travel & Leisure Magazine, this company certainly isn’t messing around. Michelin-inspired dining and an onboard dress code are sure to wow passengers at every step.

The cruise makes several stops along the way, including:

• Cape Canaveral, Florida
• Bimini, Bahamas
• Ocho Rios, Jamaica
• Oranjestad, Aruba
• San Juan, Puerto Rico

Once onboard, guests can enjoy a myriad of luxurious experiences. In fact, there are nine delectable eateries on the ship!

Passengers will stay in either staterooms or penthouses and enjoy amenities such as golf lessons and a fitness center. According to Charleston Voyage , the dress code is casual until six p.m., when it becomes black tie optional.

Charleston Through the Historic South

Want a trip that stays closer to home? American Cruise Line offers an eight-day trip through the Intracoastal Waterway for a journey back in time. Guests will embark on the intimately sized American Star, with a total guest capacity of 100 people.

Stops in Beaufort, Hilton Head Island, Savannah, and Jekyll Island offer a plethora of activities for interested passengers. The company suggests visiting Millionaire’s Village in Jekyll Island, a large historical landmark full of homes and cottages.

Beaufort also boasts its own selection of things to see, including Penn Center, the first school for freed slaves. You can also participate in local activities such as fishing or throwing axes!

Each destination is laden with historic sights, making this cruise perfect for families and history buffs alike. However, the price is far heftier than others on this list: guests should expect to pay at least $4,100 per person.

Charleston to Baltimore

Travel through the Mid-Atlantic Inside Passage with American Cruise Line on an eight-day trip to Baltimore, Maryland. Similar to the tour of the Historic South, passengers can explore everything the northeast has to offer.

Guests will board either the American Star or the Independence, both with a passenger capacity of 100 for a smaller and more intimate experience.

The ship will travel through:

There will be ample opportunities to enjoy pristine nature and wildlife along the way.

The cruise line offers a Historic Mansions tour through Wilmington, and guests can choose their own adventures and explore whatever they’re interested in. The line suggests visiting Norfolk’s Naval Station, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, and the site of the Wright Brothers’ first flight.

While cheaper than its southern counterpart, guests can expect to pay upwards of $3,800 per person for the trip.

Charleston to Southern Caribbean

Lastly, embark on a ten-day trip through the Southern Caribbean on the Carnival Sunshine.

Guests will spend several days at sea before arriving in:

• Princess Cays

While onboard, enjoy entertainment options such as the Punchliner Comedy Club and Hasbro Game Show. Adults can even enjoy a kid-free retreat.

Guests have several dining options, including Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint, as well as miscellaneous cuisines such as Italian and Japanese. Once arrived at the destinations, guests can enjoy a myriad of shore excursions led by a team of professionals.

While the specific activities available depend on the destination, the majority of Caribbean shore excursions include some type of water activity like sailing or snorkeling. A full list of these excursions can be viewed on the Carnival Cruise Line’s website .

Like the cruise to the Eastern Caribbean, guests have the option of several different room types to fit their needs. However, all passengers can expect to pay at least $700 per person.

Final Thoughts

While Charleston, South Carolina may not seem like a big hub for cruise activity, there are plenty of different cruise options to enjoy. Whether you’re more interested in sun and surf in the Bahamas or a historical trip through the northeastern United States, Charleston has something for you. We hope this list has given you some inspiration for your next vacation!

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Charleston Voyage > Charleston Cruise Lines > Carnival Cruise Line > Sunshine

Carnival Sunshine

The Carnival Sunshine sails out of Charleston. This big ship has an impressive number of fun amenities.

Features include an extra-large Serenity Retreat for adults-only. It spans three decks and has a waterfall and plenty of places to relax. Cloud 9 Spa is another super-relaxing spot for adults.

The Sunshine isn't all about relaxation. Carnival WaterWorks is the aqua-park that is active fun for the whole family. Waterslides include the Speedway Splash. The SportsSquare has a SkyCourse rope course overhead, jogging track, basketball, and ping-pong.

Entertainment options include Playlist Productions musicals, Dive-In outdoor movies by the pool, Hasbro the Game Show, Punchliner Comedy Club, DJ Irie, Havana Bar, RedFrog Rum Pub, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Piano Bar, and Limelight Lounge.

The Carnival Sunshine has plenty of programs and facilties for the young ones. Camp Carnival divides kids into groups of age 2 to 5, 6 to 8, and 9 to 11. Circle C is for ages 12 to 14, and Club O2 for ages 15 to 17. ZSPA is a spa just for teens age 13 to 17. Seuss at Sea brings characters to life for kids of all ages.

Dining options on the ship include the main dining room, Lido Buffet Restaurant, Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Seaday Brunch, 24-hour room service, The Taste Bar, Pizzeria del Capitano, Carnival Deli, Captain's Pasta Bar, and Swirls ice cream. For an added fee you can also try Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, Ji Ji Asian Kitchen, The Chef's Table, and JavaBlue Cafe.

Read a Carnival Sunshine cruise review .

The above video is a quick (less than 1 minute) introduction to the Carnival Sunshine. Also watch the Carnival Sunshine Ultimate Cruise Ship Tour by Talking Cruise. It's 14 minutes of good information.

For the complete calendar of departures, please see our Carnival Cruises from Charleston page.

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