Port of Charleston • Cruise Terminal
Charleston Cruise Terminal Transportation
Professional flat-rate transportation to and from the Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal — airport transfers, downtown hotel pickups, group transportation, and post-cruise returns. Available 24/7. Never surge-priced.
25+
Years Experience
24/7
Availability
98%
On-Time Rate
55
Max Passengers
Charleston Cruise Transportation
Everything You Need to Know About Getting to the Port
Do I need to book transportation to the Charleston Cruise Terminal?
Yes — and booking in advance is strongly recommended. Cruise embarkation mornings are among the most congested times in Downtown Charleston. Rideshare apps frequently show surge pricing or no availability near the Port of Charleston terminal. Taxis can be unreliable, and terminal parking fills quickly. A prebooked, flat-rate car service is the most dependable way to reach the terminal on time, with your luggage, without stress.
Where is the Port of Charleston cruise terminal located?
The Port of Charleston cruise terminal is located at 196 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401, on the Cooper River waterfront at the edge of the Historic District. It is approximately 1–2 miles from most downtown Charleston hotels and about 12 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS) — a 20 to 30 minute drive.
How early should I arrive at the Charleston Cruise Terminal?
Most cruise lines recommend arriving 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure. We recommend planning for closer to 3 hours — embarkation mornings bring heavy vehicle traffic near the terminal, and the check-in and security process takes time. Arriving early also allows you to store your luggage and begin exploring the ship before the crowds arrive.
On This Page
📍 Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
196 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401
~12 miles from CHS Airport (20–30 min)
~1–2 miles from Downtown Hotels (5–10 min)
Recommended Arrival: 2–3 hrs before departure
📞 Call to Book — 843-830-8037
~12 miles from CHS Airport (20–30 min)
~1–2 miles from Downtown Hotels (5–10 min)
Recommended Arrival: 2–3 hrs before departure
Why Cruise Travelers Choose Us
Why Cruise Passengers Trust AAA Royal Coach Charleston
Why should I use a car service instead of a rideshare or taxi for my cruise?
On cruise embarkation day, rideshare availability near the Port of Charleston drops sharply as demand spikes. Surge pricing can double or triple the cost of an Uber or Lyft — and drivers sometimes cancel when they see heavy terminal traffic. Taxis are unreliable in Charleston, particularly in the early morning. A prebooked flat-rate car service guarantees a driver is waiting for you, the price is locked in advance, and your luggage and group are handled professionally.
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Flat-Rate Pricing
Your price is locked when you book. No meters, no surge pricing, no algorithms — ever.
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Flight Tracking
We monitor your flight in real time. Delayed? Early? We adjust pickup automatically, at no charge.
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Luggage Assistance
Our chauffeurs load, unload, and assist with cruise luggage — including oversized bags and gear.
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98% On-Time Rate
Built on 25+ years of dispatch discipline. We plan for traffic, timing, and terminal congestion.
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Cruise Experience
We know cruise morning traffic patterns, terminal drop-off logistics, and disembarkation timing.
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Private Transportation
Your vehicle is yours alone — no shared shuttles, no strangers, no detours to other addresses.
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Large Groups Welcome
Families, reunions, travel clubs, and corporate groups up to 55 passengers accommodated.
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Real Humans 24/7
Call 843-830-8037 any hour. A real person answers — not voicemail, not a chatbot.
CHS Airport → Port of Charleston
Charleston Airport to Cruise Terminal Transportation
How do I get from Charleston Airport to the cruise terminal?
The best way is to prebook a direct flat-rate car service. Charleston International Airport (CHS) is approximately 12 miles from the Port of Charleston cruise terminal — a 20 to 30 minute drive under normal conditions. On cruise embarkation days, terminal traffic can add 10–15 minutes near the waterfront. AAA Royal Coach Charleston picks you up at baggage claim and delivers you directly to the cruise terminal drop-off area — no shared stops, no transfers, no confusion.
What if my flight is delayed and I’m worried about making my cruise?
We track all incoming flights in real time. If your flight is delayed, we adjust your pickup time accordingly. We recommend booking early morning flights on embarkation day and allowing a buffer of at least 3–4 hours between your scheduled landing and cruise departure. If there’s a significant delay, we can also communicate with the port on your behalf and coordinate your arrival.
Do you meet passengers at baggage claim or curbside?
Your chauffeur meets you inside the terminal at baggage claim with a name sign. They assist with loading your luggage onto the vehicle and confirm your destination before departure. For cruise passengers with large amounts of luggage, this is far more convenient than navigating curbside pickup.
- Direct pickup at CHS Airport baggage claim
- Flight tracking included — adjusts for delays automatically
- Non-stop to Port of Charleston — no shared stops
- Full luggage assistance at airport and terminal
- Flat-rate pricing — locked at time of booking
- Sedan, SUV, Van, or Coach Bus options
✈️ CHS Airport → Port of Charleston
Charleston International Airport (CHS)
Meet at baggage claim with name sign
Luggage loaded — vehicle departs
Non-stop, private, flat-rate
~20–30 min drive
~12 miles via I-26 E to downtown
Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
196 Concord St — drop-off at terminal entrance
Flat-rate • Private • No shared stops
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CHS Airport Distance
~12 miles • ~20–30 min under normal conditions
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Flight Tracking
Real-time monitoring — we adjust for delays automatically
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Luggage Handling
Full assistance loading and unloading cruise luggage
After Your Cruise
Post-Cruise Transportation Back to the Airport or Hotel
How do I get from the cruise terminal back to the airport after my cruise?
Disembarkation mornings at the Port of Charleston are as congested as embarkation mornings — sometimes more so, with thousands of passengers leaving simultaneously. Prebooked return transportation is the safest way to catch your flight home. AAA Royal Coach Charleston coordinates your pickup time with your disembarkation group number, meets you at the terminal, loads your luggage, and drives you directly to CHS Airport or your hotel.
What happens if disembarkation is delayed and I miss my pickup?
We monitor disembarkation schedules and adjust accordingly. We recommend booking a flight at least 3–4 hours after your scheduled disembarkation time to allow for customs, luggage collection, and terminal exit. If delays occur, call us directly at 843-830-8037 and we will accommodate the adjusted timing.
Do you provide post-cruise transportation to downtown hotels?
Yes. Many cruise passengers choose to extend their stay in Charleston after their cruise. We provide post-cruise transportation from the terminal to any downtown Charleston hotel — flat-rate, no meter, no surge pricing. This is also a great option for passengers whose return flights depart later in the day.
- Terminal pickup coordinated with disembarkation timing
- Transportation to CHS Airport or any downtown hotel
- Full luggage assistance at terminal and destination
- Families, seniors, and mobility assistance accommodated
- Group post-cruise transportation available
- Flat-rate pricing — no surprises after a long trip
🚢 Port of Charleston → Airport or Hotel
Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
Pickup coordinated with disembarkation time
Luggage loaded — vehicle departs
Private, non-stop service
CHS Airport (20–30 min)
Or any Downtown Charleston hotel (5–10 min)
Your destination — luggage unloaded
Trip complete
Book 48–72 hrs in advance for best availability
Pro Tip: Book your return flight no earlier than 12:00 PM on disembarkation day. Disembarkation at the Port of Charleston typically begins around 7:00 AM and can take 2–3 hours for all passengers to clear customs and exit the terminal.
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25+ Years Serving Charleston
We’ve transported thousands of cruise passengers through the Port of Charleston. We know the terminal, the traffic, and the timing.
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Licensed & Insured
Fully licensed, insured, and professionally maintained fleet — from executive sedans to 55-passenger coach buses.
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Answered 24/7
Call 843-830-8037 any hour — a real team member always answers. Last-minute booking? We handle it.
Downtown Hotel Pickups
Hotel to Cruise Terminal Transportation
Do you provide hotel-to-cruise-terminal transportation in Charleston?
Yes. AAA Royal Coach Charleston provides hotel-to-cruise-terminal transportation from all major downtown Charleston hotels. The Port of Charleston terminal is just 1–2 miles from most downtown hotels — a short drive that becomes surprisingly complicated on embarkation mornings due to terminal traffic, road closures near the waterfront, and the sheer volume of vehicles. A prebooked car service ensures you arrive calmly, on time, and with all your luggage.
Why not just walk to the cruise terminal from a downtown hotel?
While the terminal is close to the Historic District, walking is not practical with cruise luggage — most passengers travel with multiple large suitcases, garment bags, and carry-ons. The route to the terminal also passes through areas with limited sidewalks near the waterfront industrial zone. A short car ride is always the right choice on embarkation day.
- Pickup from any downtown Charleston hotel
- Timed to your specific boarding window
- Luggage loaded and unloaded at terminal
- Multiple hotel pickups for groups or families
- Flat-rate pricing to the terminal
Charleston Place
~1.5 mi to terminalBelmond’s flagship property on King Street — the heart of downtown shopping and dining.
The Dewberry
~1.5 mi to terminalMid-century-inspired luxury hotel facing Marion Square, steps from the Visitor Center.
Hotel Bennett
~1.5 mi to terminalGrand Beaux-Arts hotel on Marion Square — one of Charleston’s newest luxury properties.
Mills House
~1.2 mi to terminalHistoric Queen Street landmark near the Dock Street Theatre and St. Philip’s Church.
Francis Marion Hotel
~1.5 mi to terminalIconic 1924 high-rise overlooking Marion Square — a true Charleston landmark.
Emeline Hotel
~0.9 mi to terminalBoutique French Quarter hotel steps from the Cooper River waterfront.
Market Pavilion Hotel
~0.8 mi to terminalLuxury hotel across from the Charleston City Market with rooftop harbor views.
HarbourView Inn
~0.6 mi to terminalClosest major hotel to the cruise terminal — right on the harbor waterfront.
The Vendue / Planters Inn
~0.8 mi to terminalBoutique French Quarter properties near Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park.
Families, Groups & Reunions
Group Cruise Transportation Charleston SC
Can you transport a large group to the Charleston Cruise Terminal?
Yes. AAA Royal Coach Charleston specializes in group cruise transportation for families, family reunions, travel clubs, senior groups, corporate incentive cruise groups, and church groups. Our fleet ranges from 7-passenger minivans and SUVs to Ford Transit vans (up to 14 passengers) and a 55-passenger coach bus. We coordinate multi-vehicle arrivals to ensure the entire group reaches the terminal together, on time.
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Families
Keep the whole family together in one vehicle — strollers, car seats, and extra luggage accommodated.
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Reunion Groups
Family and friend reunions cruising together — coordinated multi-vehicle transportation.
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Travel Clubs
Organized travel groups with coordinated luggage and multi-vehicle logistics.
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Senior Groups
Patient, professional service for seniors — mobility assistance and extra time built in.
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Corporate Incentive Cruises
Professional coordination for corporate groups — invoicing and billing available.
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Church Groups
Organized groups from local churches and ministry organizations — coach bus available.
Our Fleet
Vehicles for Every Group Size
What vehicles are available for cruise group transportation?
Our fleet covers every group size — Town & Country Minivan (up to 7 passengers, ideal for families), Ford Transit 350 XLT Van (up to 14 passengers), Cadillac Escalade SUV (executive service, up to 6 passengers), and a 55-Passenger Coach Bus for large groups. All vehicles include luggage space and professional chauffeurs experienced with cruise terminal logistics.
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Minivan — Up to 7 Passengers
Perfect for families with cruise luggage and car seats
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Transit Van — Up to 14 Passengers
Ideal for small groups and travel clubs
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Cadillac Escalade — Up to 6 Passengers
Executive service for corporate cruise travelers
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Coach Bus — Up to 55 Passengers
For large groups, reunions, and church cruises
Know Before You Go
Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal Guide
Is there parking at the Port of Charleston cruise terminal?
The Port of Charleston offers on-site parking, but spaces are limited and fill quickly on busy embarkation days. Parking fees also accumulate over the length of a cruise, making it a significant added expense. Many cruise passengers find it more convenient and cost-effective to use professional car service — you’re dropped off at the terminal entrance, and picked up at the same location after your cruise.
What is the drop-off process at the Charleston Cruise Terminal?
The Port of Charleston has a dedicated vehicle drop-off area near the terminal entrance on Concord Street. Our drivers are familiar with the terminal layout, traffic flow patterns, and the best approach routes on busy mornings. We pull directly to the drop-off area, assist with your luggage, and ensure you are ready to enter the terminal before departing.
How busy is the cruise terminal on embarkation day?
Cruise embarkation mornings at the Port of Charleston are among the busiest traffic events in downtown Charleston. Thousands of passengers arrive within a few hours, and the streets near the waterfront — particularly Concord Street and East Bay Street — experience significant congestion. Arriving before peak traffic (before 10:00 AM) or using a prebooked car service that knows the best routes is the most effective way to avoid the chaos.
| Port of Charleston — Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Address | 196 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401 |
| Location | Cooper River waterfront, edge of Historic District |
| From CHS Airport | ~12 miles • ~20–30 min drive |
| From Downtown Hotels | ~0.6–2 miles • ~5–10 min drive |
| Recommended Arrival | 2–3 hours before departure |
| Parking | On-site (limited, fills quickly) |
| Peak Traffic Hours | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (embarkation) |
| Disembarkation Begins | Typically ~7:00 AM |
| Drop-off Location | Concord Street terminal entrance |
Cruise Morning Tip: Schedule your AAA Royal Coach pickup 30–45 minutes earlier than you think you need. Terminal traffic on embarkation days can add significant time, especially if multiple ships are departing the same morning.
Ready to Book Your Cruise Transportation?
Flat-rate pricing. Private vehicles. 24/7 availability. Serving the Port of Charleston since 1999.
Charleston’s Historic Waterfront
Near the Port of Charleston — Nearby Landmarks
What is near the Port of Charleston cruise terminal?
The Port of Charleston cruise terminal sits at the edge of Downtown Charleston’s Historic District — one of the most beautiful urban neighborhoods in America. Arriving a day early or staying a day after your cruise lets you explore the Charleston City Market, walk Rainbow Row, visit Waterfront Park, and dine along King Street — all within a short walk or ride from the terminal.
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Port of Charleston
196 Concord St — Cooper River waterfront cruise terminal. Drop-off and pickup point.
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Charleston City Market
Historic open-air market — local crafts, sweetgrass baskets, and Lowcountry food vendors.
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Waterfront Park
Harbor-side park with the Pineapple Fountain and a long pier overlooking Charleston Harbor.
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Rainbow Row
The famous pastel-colored historic houses along East Bay Street — most photographed in Charleston.
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Charleston Place
Landmark luxury hotel anchoring King and Market Streets in the heart of the Historic District.
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King Street
Charleston’s premier shopping and dining corridor — boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife.
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Historic District
Centuries of antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and Southern hospitality.
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South of Broad
Charleston’s most historic residential neighborhood — elegant antebellum mansions and garden gates.
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The Battery & Charleston Harbor
Iconic seawall promenade with sweeping views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter.
Client Reviews
What Cruise Passengers Are Saying
★★★★★
“We flew into CHS the morning of our cruise and were terrified of missing it. AAA Royal Coach had a driver waiting at baggage claim with our name, loaded all six suitcases without a complaint, and had us at the terminal in 25 minutes. Exactly what we needed.”
MH
Mark & Helen T.
CHS Airport → Port of Charleston, Group of 4
✓ Verified Review★★★★★
“Our family reunion group — 18 people — took a cruise out of Charleston. AAA Royal Coach coordinated two vans from our hotel to the terminal and had everyone there at the same time. The return trip was just as smooth. Highly recommend for large groups.”
JW
Jennifer W.
Family Reunion Group — Hotel to Port of Charleston
✓ Verified Review★★★★★
“After disembarkation we had a 1:00 PM flight. We were nervous about timing after seeing how backed up the terminal was. Our driver was waiting, knew exactly where to pick us up, and had us at CHS with 90 minutes to spare. Worth every penny.”
RS
Robert S.
Post-Cruise Return — Port of Charleston → CHS Airport
✓ Verified Review
People Also Ask
Charleston Cruise Terminal Transportation — Questions & Answers
20 real questions cruise passengers ask about getting to and from the Port of Charleston — answered directly.
Where is the Port of Charleston cruise terminal? +
The Port of Charleston cruise terminal is located at 196 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401, on the Cooper River waterfront at the edge of the Historic District. It is approximately 1–2 miles from most downtown Charleston hotels and about 12 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS).
How do I get from Charleston Airport to the cruise terminal? +
The best way is to prebook a direct flat-rate car service. CHS Airport is approximately 12 miles from the Port of Charleston cruise terminal — a 20 to 30 minute drive. AAA Royal Coach Charleston picks you up at baggage claim and drives you directly to the terminal. Call 843-830-8037 to book.
How early should I arrive at the Charleston Cruise Terminal? +
Most cruise lines recommend arriving 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure. We recommend planning for 3 hours — embarkation mornings bring heavy traffic near the terminal, and the check-in and security process takes time. Arriving early also lets you board before peak crowds.
Do you provide transportation from downtown hotels to the cruise terminal? +
Yes. We provide hotel-to-cruise-terminal transportation from all major downtown Charleston hotels — Charleston Place, The Dewberry, Hotel Bennett, Mills House, Francis Marion Hotel, Emeline Hotel, Market Pavilion Hotel, HarbourView Inn, The Vendue, and Planters Inn. Flat-rate pricing to the terminal from any hotel.
Do you provide post-cruise transportation after disembarkation? +
Yes. We coordinate pickup timing with your disembarkation schedule and provide return transportation to CHS Airport, downtown hotels, or any surrounding area. We recommend allowing 3–4 hours between disembarkation and your return flight.
Can you transport large cruise groups? +
Yes. We provide group cruise transportation for families, reunions, travel clubs, senior groups, corporate incentive cruises, and church groups. Vehicles range from 7-passenger minivans and 14-passenger vans to a 55-passenger coach bus. Call 843-830-8037 for group pricing.
Do you assist with cruise luggage? +
Yes. Our chauffeurs assist with loading and unloading luggage at both the pickup location and the cruise terminal drop-off. We are experienced with heavy cruise luggage loads including multiple suitcases, garment bags, and mobility equipment.
Is there parking at the Port of Charleston cruise terminal? +
The Port of Charleston offers on-site parking, but spaces are limited and fill quickly on embarkation days. Parking fees accumulate over the length of your cruise. Many passengers find professional car service more convenient and cost-effective — you’re dropped at the terminal entrance and picked up at the same spot after your cruise.
Do you monitor flight delays for cruise passengers? +
Yes. We track all incoming flights in real time. If your flight is delayed, we adjust your pickup time automatically at no extra charge. For fly-cruise passengers, we recommend booking flights that land at least 4–5 hours before cruise departure to allow a reasonable buffer.
Can you accommodate wheelchair users or passengers with mobility needs? +
Yes. We accommodate passengers with mobility needs including walkers, rollators, and folding wheelchairs. Please mention any mobility equipment when booking so we can confirm the appropriate vehicle. Call 843-830-8037 to discuss your specific requirements.
Do you provide round-trip cruise transportation? +
Yes. We offer round-trip cruise transportation — outbound transfer on embarkation day and return transfer on disembarkation day. Booking both trips together is the most convenient option and ensures a driver is reserved for your return as well.
What happens if my cruise is delayed or cancelled? +
If your cruise is delayed or cancelled, call us immediately at 843-830-8037. We will work with you to reschedule or modify your transportation. We monitor port activity and weather events that could affect cruise schedules and will proactively reach out if we become aware of significant disruptions.
Can you pick up from multiple hotels for a group cruise? +
Yes. For group cruises where passengers are staying at multiple downtown hotels, we design efficient multi-hotel pickup routes that consolidate the group and deliver everyone to the terminal before boarding begins. This is one of our most frequently requested group services.
Do you provide transportation for wedding groups going on cruises? +
Yes. Wedding groups and honeymoon couples frequently use our cruise terminal transportation. We provide decorated vehicles on request and can coordinate with wedding planners for the embarkation day logistics. Call 843-830-8037 to discuss your needs.
How much does cruise terminal transportation cost? +
We charge flat-rate pricing for all cruise terminal transportation — no meters, no surge pricing, no algorithms. The rate depends on your pickup location, vehicle type, and group size. Call 843-830-8037 for a specific quote based on your itinerary.
How far in advance should I book cruise transportation? +
We recommend booking at least 48–72 hours in advance for individual or family transportation. For large groups, we recommend booking several weeks ahead to ensure the right vehicle is available. For coach bus service, earlier is always better — our 55-passenger bus books quickly during peak cruise season.
What if I have more luggage than expected? +
Mention your luggage count when booking and we’ll confirm the right vehicle. We recommend erring on the side of requesting more space — cruise passengers typically travel with more luggage than they anticipate. Our Transit van and coach bus options have generous luggage capacity.
Do you serve cruise passengers coming from Kiawah Island or other surrounding areas? +
Yes. We serve all surrounding communities including Kiawah Island, Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Summerville, Goose Creek, and West Ashley. Call 843-830-8037 for pricing from your specific location.
Is cruise terminal transportation available early in the morning? +
Yes. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — including early morning pickups for passengers with early boarding times or early morning flight arrivals. We frequently handle 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM pickups for cruise passengers. Call 843-830-8037 any hour.
How do I book Charleston cruise terminal transportation? +
Call 843-830-8037 — we answer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also book online at royalcoachcharleston.net/booking. Have your cruise date, pickup location, group size, and approximate luggage count ready when you call.
Explore Our Services
More AAA Royal Coach Charleston Transportation Services
✈️
Airport Transportation Charleston
24/7 CHS Airport transfers with flight tracking and flat-rate pricing.
🏛️
Downtown Charleston Transportation
Historic District transportation — hotels, venues, and landmarks.
🌉
Mount Pleasant Transportation
East Cooper transportation to the cruise terminal and airport.
🏖️
Kiawah Island Transportation
Premium transportation from Kiawah Island to Port of Charleston.
🌊
Isle of Palms Transportation
IOP and Wild Dunes transportation to the cruise terminal.
💼
Executive Transportation
Black car and executive service for corporate cruise travelers.
💒
Wedding Transportation
Bridal party and guest transportation throughout Charleston.
👥
Group Transportation
Multi-vehicle coordination for groups of any size.
🚘
Black Car Service Charleston
Premium black car for VIP cruise passengers and special occasions.
🕐
Hourly Transportation
Flexible hourly car service for pre-cruise or post-cruise days in Charleston.
🎟️
Event Transportation
Transportation to Charleston concerts, festivals, and events.
🤵
Charleston Chauffeur Service
Professional chauffeur-driven transportation throughout Charleston.
Service Area
Port of Charleston — Location & Coverage Area
We serve the Port of Charleston cruise terminal from downtown hotels, Charleston International Airport, and all surrounding communities.
Book Your Cruise Transportation
Charleston Cruise Terminal Transportation — Available 24/7
25+ years serving cruise passengers at the Port of Charleston. Airport transfers, hotel pickups, group transportation, and post-cruise returns. Flat rates. Real people answer every call.
