charleston sc discount cruises

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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.

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Pre and Post Cruise Hotels in Charleston

Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston

Reviewed on Apr 17, 2024

Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview, an IHG Hotel

Town & Country Inn and Suites

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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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Discount Cruises From Charleston

CruiseMagic.com has a variety of discount cruises that sail from the Charleston, South Carolina cruise port.

Today’s Top Discount Cruises From Charleston, South Carolina

Search all charleston cruises, about the charleston cruise port.

The Port of Charleston is operated by the South Carolina Ports Authority, and is located at: 176 Concord Street Charleston, SC 29401

A new cruise terminal opened in early 2013. The Union Pier Terminal is the home of the port’s cruise business.

When you cruise from Charleston, you’ll dock right in the heart of this historic city. You may want to tour its colonial houses and gardens by horsedrawn carriage, or venture out to one of the grand ante bellum plantations. Then again, championship golf courses are also within easy reach.

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You can find the latest cruise deals from Charleston on Expedia by inputting your travel details in the search section and sorting the results by price. The results will be organized to display cheap cruises out of Charleston first. You can also search by cabin class to book an inside cabin without a view, which could unlock additional savings. Certain Charleston cruise lines may offer all-inclusive deals or off-season specials as well. By booking your 2025 cruise from Charleston in advance, you’ll often find the top Charleston cruise deals for a range of Charleston cruise destinations.

How can I find good deals on cruises from Charleston?

The top Charleston cruise deals on some of the best cruises out of Charleston are automatically displayed on Expedia. If you book a trip during the off-season, you can often find amazing deals on cruise ships leaving from Charleston. Booking 2025 cruises out of Charleston in advance can not only help you save big on Charleston cruise tickets but also give you something to get excited about. Better yet, Expedia Rewards members can access even more Charleston cruise deals and earn points to use for future travel.

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

The itinerary, onboard amenities, cabin experience and length of your Charleston cruise trip will be determined by the type of Charleston cruise ship you choose to travel on. Your destination will also determine which cruise lines out of Charleston you can choose from and the price of your Charleston cruise. Cruise ships out of Charleston vary, so it’s important to choose one that ticks all your important travel boxes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, great cruise deals and cruise ships out of Charleston are just a few clicks away.

How to book a cruise from Charleston on Expedia?

On Expedia, you can choose from multiple exciting destinations for cruises departing from Charleston. Sort the results by top cruise lines from Charleston, cabin experience, and price to find great deals on cheap Charleston cruises. Select one of the many Charleston cruise ships and itineraries, then input your details to finalize your Charleston cruise booking.

Do you need a passport to cruise out of Charleston?

Where you embark and disembark will determine whether you need to bring a passport with you. For cruises out of Charleston it will also depend on which country your passport is from. It’s recommended to check entry requirements of the countries you are visiting prior to departure. If you are going on a closed-loop cruise, you will not need a passport. For all cruises leaving from Charleston, it’s advised to always have some form of identification – such as an ID card or driver’s license – with you.

Can I cancel my Charleston cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel your cruise from Charleston. To cancel your Charleston cruise vacation, simply go to the ‘My Trips’ section on Expedia or contact customer service if you require assistance. It’s important to remember that cancellation and refund policies are established by your Charleston cruise line, so refunds may vary.

Why should I book a cruise from Charleston with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia will give you access to some of the top Charleston cruise deals and let you view some of the best cruise lines out of Charleston. Once you’ve selected your itinerary and your desired cruise ship from Charleston, you’ll be able to review all the included perks and your total discount so you can finalize your booking with confidence. If you’re planning in advance, you’ll find early-bird deals on multiple Charleston cruises in 2025 so you can mark your calendar and get excited for the Charleston cruise trip of a lifetime. Expedia makes it easy to book all your travel needs in one place, as well as earn points with our loyalty program. Ready to get going on that Charleston cruise vacation? Then just click through and book today. Bon voyage!

Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston

Reviewed on Apr. 17, 2024

Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview, an IHG Hotel

Town & Country Inn and Suites

United states cruise departure ports.

• Fort Lauderdale
• Jacksonville
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Port Canaveral
• San Francisco

Canada Cruise Departure Ports

Europe cruise departure ports.

• Buenos Aires
• Rio de Janeiro

More Europe Cruise Departure Ports

• Bremerhaven
• Funchal Madeira
• Longyearbyen
• Palma de Mallorca
• Warnemuende

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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.

Featured Cruises from Charleston

Carnival Sunshine

American Eagle

American Liberty

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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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.

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Explore Charleston

Cruises from Charleston SC: Your Ultimate Guide to Setting Sail from the Holy City

Charleston, SC is a top US departure port for cruises, offering rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culture for tourists. Conveniently located near downtown, travelers can easily explore the city before/after their trip. Popular cruise lines include Carnival, American, and Silversea, with Carnival being the most common option. 

Multiple itineraries to the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda are available, as well as historic South-focused options from American Cruise Lines. With plenty of choices, finding the perfect cruise from Charleston to fit your budget and interests is a breeze. So why not set sail and explore the world in comfort?

Cruises from Charleston SC: Overview

Charleston, South Carolina is a popular departure port for cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. The city’s historic charm and Southern hospitality make it an attractive destination for travelers looking to explore the region before or after their cruise.

Popular Cruise Lines

Charleston is home to three main cruise lines: Carnival , American , and Silversea . Carnival is the most common option, with three ships operating from this port. American Cruise Lines offers smaller, more intimate ships with a focus on exploring the historic South. Silversea is a luxury cruise line that offers all-inclusive packages with personalized service.

Types of Cruises

Cruises from Charleston offer a variety of destinations and itineraries. Popular options include:

• Bahamas Cruises : These typically last 5-7 days and visit ports like Nassau and Freeport.
• Caribbean Cruises : These can last anywhere from 7-14 days and visit destinations like Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.
• Historic South Cruises : These shorter cruises (3-7 days) focus on exploring the history and culture of the region, with stops in cities like Savannah and Beaufort.

Charleston is also a popular departure port for repositioning cruises, which take passengers from one region to another (such as from the Caribbean to New England) at the beginning or end of a season. These cruises can last anywhere from 10-21 days and offer a unique way to explore multiple destinations in one trip.

Preparing for Your Charleston Cruise

Packing tips.

When preparing for a Charleston cruise, it’s important to pack appropriately for the activities you plan to do on board and on shore. Be sure to check the weather forecast for your cruise dates and pack accordingly. If you plan to participate in any formal events, such as dinners or parties, bring formal attire. For casual activities, bring comfortable clothing and shoes. Don’t forget to bring any necessary medications, toiletries, and travel documents.

It’s also important to pack smartly to save space and avoid overpacking. Consider using packing cubes or compression bags to organize your belongings and save space in your luggage. Roll your clothing items instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. And don’t forget to leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs and other items you may acquire during your trip.

Transportation Options

When traveling to the Charleston cruise port, there are several transportation options available. If you are flying into Charleston International Airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to the port. If you are driving, you can park your car at the port or at one of the off-site parking lots.

Parking Information

If you plan to park your car at the Charleston cruise port, there are several parking options available. The Union Pier Terminal Parking Lot is the closest parking lot to the port, but it can fill up quickly during peak travel times. The Charleston International Airport Parking Lot is another option, which is about 10 miles away from the port. This lot is typically less expensive than the Union Pier Terminal Parking Lot.

There are also several off-site parking lots available near the port, which offer shuttle service to and from the port. These lots are typically less expensive than the on-site parking options. Some popular off-site parking lots include the Port of Charleston Parking Lot, the Charleston Cruise Parking Lot, and the Cruise and Park Lot.

What to Expect on Your Charleston Cruise

Charleston, South Carolina is a popular departure port for many cruises. If you’re planning to embark on a cruise from Charleston, you may be wondering what to expect. Here’s a breakdown of what you can look forward to on your Charleston cruise.

Activities and Entertainment

There’s never a dull moment on a Charleston cruise. Most cruise ships offer a variety of activities and entertainment options for guests of all ages. From live music and dance performances to comedy shows and movie screenings, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, you can take a dip in the pool or relax on the deck with a good book.

For those who like to stay active, many cruise ships have fitness centers, sports courts, and other recreational facilities. Whether you want to hit the gym or play a game of basketball, you’ll have plenty of options to stay active and have fun.

Dining Options

Food is a big part of any cruise experience, and Charleston cruises are no exception. Most cruise ships offer a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to formal sit-down restaurants. You can enjoy a wide range of cuisine, including local specialties and international favorites. Many cruise ships also offer specialty dining options for an extra fee, such as steakhouses, sushi bars, and Italian restaurants.

If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, most cruise lines are happy to accommodate them. Just let your server know and they’ll do their best to provide you with delicious and satisfying meals throughout your trip.

Shore Excursions

One of the best parts of a Charleston cruise is the chance to explore exciting destinations along the way. Most cruises offer a variety of shore excursions, from guided tours of historic sites to adventurous activities like zip-lining and snorkeling. Whether you want to soak up the local culture or get your adrenaline pumping, there’s a shore excursion for you.

Keep in mind that shore excursions are usually an additional cost, so be sure to budget accordingly. However, they can be a great way to make the most of your time in port and create unforgettable memories. 

Charleston, SC offers diverse and convenient cruises with various cruise lines, itineraries, and budget options. Although cruise departures from Charleston will end in 2024, there are still opportunities for memorable trips.

Explore the charming downtown port city and extend your vacation with available activities. Choose from popular lines such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean for destinations like the Bahamas and Canada. Experience the adventure and relaxation of cruising from Charleston.

Get ready for an adventure on the sea with these guides: Cruises From Miami , Cruises to Europe From Miami , Hawaii to Alaska Cruises

Christian Petzold is a successful touristic entrepreneur, experiential traveller and round-the-world backpacker. He holds an academic degree in tourism management.

His touristic expertise has been covered in radio, newspaper and television.

Read more on him here…

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Charleston Voyage > Charleston Cheap Cruises > Last Minute

Last-Minute Cruise Deals

Last minute cruise deals can be very attractive. If a cruise from Charleston doesn't sell out, the cruise line may drop the price on remaining cabins.

Don't expect the selection to be good. These are the leftovers, and the most popular cruises won't be discounted at all beeause the ship is full or nearly full.

Carnival Cruises' last minute deals are listed on their website. You should also check to see what is available from travel agents and the online travel sites.