As of 2009 one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, Carnival, offers year-round cruising from the Central Port Authority in Charleston, South Carolina. Passengers can opt for a six-night trip that leaves out of the port every Monday, Wednesday and Friday with a stop in either Freeport or Key West. A seven-night option with a stopover in Grand Turk, Nassau, is also available every Saturday. You can choose between two ships, the "Carnival Fantasy" and the "Carnival Glory."
The Celebrity cruise line has two ships that come to Charleston: the "Celebrity Glory" and the "Celebrity Mercury." Although the schedules change yearly, the "Glory" generally operates between January and April while the "Mercury" comes at the end of the year in November or December. However, if you board a Celebrity ship in Charleston you will not be brought back to the city, as the cruises originate in Baltimore.
Depending on the date and time of your ship's departure from Charleston, the check-in time at the port will vary, yet the loading and unloading spot is the same: Union Pier Terminal is the point of embarkation for all cruise passengers. At the time of boarding, you should ensure that all relevant documentation is within your possession, including photo ID, passport and cruise tickets. For those driving to Charleston to take the cruise ship, parking is available at the pier for the price of $150 per day and $350 per day for all vehicles longer than 10 feet. All luggage is screened and monitored; a list of all prohibited items can be found on the Charleston Port Authority's website (see Resources).
