Port History
Charles II granted the territory of Carolina in 1663, and English settlers established the community of Charles Town in 1670. In 1753, the colony’s Capitol building was built, establishing the city’s importance. During the American Revolution, the British held the city for two years. After independence, the capitol was moved to Columbia, but the Port of Charleston prospered as an important winter port.
By the mid-1700s, the Port of Charleston was a busy hub for trade with the southern colonies. It was the colonies’ fourth largest port by 1770. South Carolina seceded from the Union in 1860, and the Confederates took Fort Sumter in 1861, starting the American Civil War. In 1896, new jetties gave the Port of Charleston a deepwater entrance. In 1901, the U.S. established a naval base there that was expanded during both world wars. Today, port activity, behind tourism, is the leading source of Charleston's revenue.
Port Commerce
The Port of Charleston is owned and operated by the South Carolina State Ports Authority. There are five marine terminals in the Port of Charleston handling breakbulk and RO-RO cargo, container shipments, and project cargo. In 2007, the Port of Charleston handled 1.75 million tons of cargo, including 646 thousand tons of breakbulk cargo. In April 2007, permits were issued for a new three-berth, 280-acre marine terminal at the former Charleston Naval Base.
Cruising and Travel
The Port of Charleston is a favorite tourist destination. Its rich history, tradition, and Southern culture attract almost 4 million visitors a year. Cruises from Charleston sail to Bermuda or to the Caribbean, on a seasonal basis. The Norwegian Majesty sets sail for the Caymans, Bermuda, Cozumel, and Key West regularly. Carnival Cruise Lines offers cruises to the Bahamas. American Cruise Lines offers 7-day cruises from Charleston to the south's most charming spots.
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