What To Know About Union Pier

On Dec. 30, the Carnival Sunshine set sail for one last round-trip cruise out of Charleston, scheduled to return on Saturday, Jan. 4.

The final voyage comes after Carnival and South Carolina Ports Authority ended their 14-year partnership, with the port authority choosing not to renew its contract with Carnival.

“Carnival has been a great customer, and SC Ports is appreciative of the long-term partnership that’s been forged. They offered a great product that was well-liked for those who enjoy cruises. Carnival made an impact on our maritime industry not just for the Port, but also the harbor pilots, (International Longshoremen’s Association) and beyond,” said Liz Crumley, South Carolina Ports Authority spokesperson, per MSN.

Here’s what to know about Carnival Sunshine’s new home and the potential redevelopment of Unit Pier.

Why did SC end its contract with Carnival?

In 2022, S.C. Ports Authority and Carnival Cruises agreed to discontinue their partnership to make way for Union Pier’s redevelopment.

Where will the Carnival Sunshine sail from next?

The Sunshine will sail its first cruise from Norfolk, Virginia, the eight-night itinerary departing on Feb. 16. It will then sail from Norfolk year-round, according to Travel Weekly.

What cruise ships will Union Pier still welcome?

Union Pier will still welcome some cruise ships for port calls. Some of these ships include Caribbean’s Vision of the Sea, the Celebrity Silhouette, Hapag-Loyd Cruises’ Europa 2, and the Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis following the Antarctic season.

Will American Cruise Lines continue to homeport in Charleston?

Yes, the cruise line will continue to homeport in Charleston, setting sail to Amelia Island, Florida, per Travel Weekly. The coastal ships carry less than 200 passengers. This year, the cruise line will offer a pre-cruise overnight hotel stay in Charleston or Amelia Island.

What will happen to Union Pier?

The South Carolina Ports Authority is working with the city, community, and local buyers to determine what Union Pier will be used for in the future. Redevelopment plans for the site are still unknown, but what is certain is that is that it will not be used as a large parking lot. Instead, it may be used to better support Charleston’s economy and environment.

“This shift aligns with the foundation’s vision for sustainability-economically and environmentally while ensuring that the benefits of redevelopment stay within Charleston. Reduced traffic, less parking overflow, and a better use of prime waterfront land will improve the quality of life for residents and enhance Charleston’s appeal as a destination,” said Liz Holian, communications manager at Historic Charleston Foundation, per MSN.