Announcements Archives - SC Ports Authority

Update #19: Carnival plans to resume cruise operations in Charleston in January

Update #19: Carnival plans to resume cruise operations in Charleston in January

Oct. 7, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line announced plans to resume cruise operations on Jan. 13 in Charleston with the Carnival Sunshine.

This restart follows Carnival’s decision to voluntarily maintain a pause in cruise operations in Charleston since March 2020 in response to the global pandemic. Read more about the restart plan from Carnival.

Carnival has been undertaking a gradual approach to resuming guest operations and ship restarts in some U.S. ports.

“With 17 ships scheduled to return to service by the end of the year, we are very pleased with the progress we are making returning to guest operations,” Carnival said in a news release. “Our vaccinated voyages have been operating very successfully and feedback from the many guests who have sailed with us these past few months continues to be overwhelmingly positive.”

If you have any questions about your current booking onboard the Carnival Sunshine, please contact Carnival Customer Care at 1-800-764-7419.

SC Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when Port of Calls will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports continues to work with various agencies and cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community; updates will be shared with the community.

Update #18: Carnival extends voluntary pause in Charleston cruise operations to 2022

Sept. 2, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its pause in cruise operations in Charleston and at other various U.S. ports to 2022.

Carnival Cruise Line is however planning to resume more of its guest operations and ship restarts in some U.S. ports as part of a phased-in approach, the company said in a news release.

“We are very pleased with the progress of our restart which will grow to 15 ships sailing from seven U.S. homeports by mid-November,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a statement. “We are making slight adjustments to our timeline to take into account supply chain realities and ensure that our destination and shore excursion offerings can meet the strong demand we are seeing from our guests. Our teams, ship and shore, are prepared to continue delivering on our great guest experience and manage all health and safety protocols.”

SC Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine will resume operations in Charleston. SC Ports also does not currently have a confirmed date for when Port of Calls will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports continues to work with federal agencies and cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community; updates will be shared with the community.

If you have any questions about your current booking onboard the Carnival Sunshine, please contact Carnival Customer Care at 1-800-764-7419.

Update #17: Carnival extends voluntary pause in Charleston cruise operations through Oct. 31

July 20, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its pause in cruise operations in Charleston and at other various U.S. ports through Oct. 31.

Carnival Cruise Line is however planning to resume guest operations and ship restarts in some U.S. ports in September and October as part of a phased-in approach, the company said in a news release.

“We are very excited about our restart and greatly appreciate the support of our guests, travel agents and port and destination partners. … Our plan envisions successfully bringing back our entire fleet by the end of the year, returning to full service — most especially for the millions of families who sail with us — and building back our business for the benefit of our guests, employees and the tens of thousands of jobs and local businesses that depend on our company,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a statement.

We continue to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will share any updates with the community.

Update #16: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through Aug. 31

June 16, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its pause in cruise operations in Charleston and at other various U.S. ports through Aug. 31.

The cruise line does plan to restart several cruises at various U.S. ports, beginning July 31, as part of its phased-in approach, according to a news release.

“Our focus remains on the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve and visit,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a statement. “We are taking a deliberate approach so we can execute with excellence and deliver a fun experience to our guests, who have been tremendously patient and supportive throughout this pause.”

We continue to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will share any updates with the community.

Update #15: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through July 30

May 12, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its pause in cruise operations in Charleston and at other various U.S. ports through July 30.

Carnival is working toward plans for a possible July restart in the U.S. for three select ships in Florida and Texas.

“We continue to have constructive discussions with the CDC but still have many questions that remain unanswered. We are working diligently to resume sailing in the U.S. and meet the CDC guidelines,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a statement. “We sincerely appreciate the continued patience and understanding of our guests and travel advisor partners and will share additional information as quickly as we can.”

We continue to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will share any updates with the community.

Update #14: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through June 30

April 7, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its pause in operations from U.S. ports, including its Charleston cruise business, through June 30.

“Our objective is to sail again from our U.S. home ports safely as soon as possible, always acting in the best interest of public health and safety,” Carnival said in a statement.

We continue to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will share any updates with the community.

Update #13: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through May 31

Feb. 24, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its pause in operations from U.S. ports, including its Charleston cruise business, through May 31.

“We continue to work on plans to resume operations and are encouraged by the focus to expedite vaccine production and distribution, which are having a demonstrated impact on improving public health,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a news release. “We appreciate the support of all of our guests, employees and trade partners who we know are looking forward to our return.”

We continue to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will share any updates with the community.

Update #12: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through April 30

Jan. 22, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended the operational pause for its Charleston cruise business through April 30.

“Our guests and travel agent partners continue to express their loyalty to Carnival and their desire to get back on our ships as soon as they can, and we are heartened by the booking demand and activity we continue to see,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a news release. “We are certainly committed to welcoming them back as quickly as possible, but unfortunately we have determined it’s going to take a while longer.”

SC Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports also does not currently have a confirmed date for when Port of Calls will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #11: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through March 31

Jan. 6, 2021 — Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended the operational pause for its Charleston cruise business through March 31.

Carnival is committed to meeting the CDC requirements as it continues “to work on our plans to resume operations in 2021 with a gradual, phased in approach,” the company said in a press release.

Carnival also announced that the Carnival Sunshine will not operate in Charleston from Oct. 11 through Nov. 13; the cruise ship is scheduled for dry dock work then, meaning the ship will be docked elsewhere for service.

SC Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports also does not currently have a confirmed date for when Port of Calls will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #10: Carnival extends voluntary pause in cruise operations through Feb. 28

Nov. 18, 2020 – Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended the operational pause for its Charleston cruise business through Feb. 28.

Carnival is in the process of building a gradual, phased in approach to resume guest operations, which will focus initially on Miami and Port Canaveral.

“As we continue to build and implement our plan to meet the requirements of the ‘Framework for Resuming Cruise Ship Operations Order’ issued on October 30 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), we have notified guests that we have cancelled additional cruises for the first part of 2021,” Carnival said in a statement.

SC Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine will resume operations in Charleston.

“We are committed to meeting the CDC requirements and keeping our guests and business partners informed of our progress,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a news release. “The entire Carnival team appreciates the great support of our guests, travel advisors and business partners, and local officials in our homeports and destinations.”

SC Ports also does not currently have a confirmed date for when Port of Calls will resume operations in Charleston.

SC Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #9: Carnival extends voluntary pause in Charleston cruise operations through 2020

Oct. 2, 2020 – Carnival Cruise Line has voluntarily extended its operational pause for most of its U.S. cruise business, including in Charleston, through 2020.

The Carnival Sunshine is not expected to return for passenger operations until 2021. This is part of Carnival’s announcement to continue voluntary suspension of cruises for all U.S. homeports, except Miami and Port Canaveral, for November and December.

“As we have said throughout this pause, our return to operations will be gradual and phased in. And while we are not making any presumptions, once cruising is allowed, we will center our initial start-up from the homeports of Miami and Port Canaveral,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, in a news release. “The health and safety of our guests, crew and communities we serve remain the cornerstone of our plans and decisions. The patience and support of our guests and travel agent partners have been a huge motivation to our team as we have worked through this unprecedented situation, and we are dedicated to getting back to operations when the time is right.”

The Cruise Lines International Association has outlined mandatory core elements of a strong set of health protocols to be implemented as part of phased-in, highly controlled resumption of operations.

SC Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community.

Update #8: Cruise lines continue voluntary suspension of U.S. cruise operations

Aug. 5, 2020 – Cruise Lines International Association announced today that major cruise lines have agreed to voluntarily continue their suspension of U.S. cruise operations until at least Oct. 31.

This is the third voluntary suspension by cruise lines in response to the pandemic.

“This is a difficult decision as we recognize the crushing impact that this pandemic has had on our community and every other industry,” Cruise Lines International Association said in a news release. “However, we believe this proactive action further demonstrates the cruise industry’s commitment to public health and willingness to voluntarily suspend operations in the interest of public health and safety, as has occurred twice prior.”

S.C. Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine or Port of Calls will resume.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #7: Carnival extends pause in operations through Sept. 30

June 22, 2020 - Carnival Cruise Line announced today its decision to extend its operational pause in North America through Sept. 30.

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy shared this statement: “We have watched with great interest as commerce, travel and personal activities have begun to start back up, and once we do resume service, we will take all necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we bring our ships to in order to maintain public confidence in our business. Nevertheless, we apologize for disrupting your vacation plans and appreciate your patience as we work through these decisions.”

This follows an announcement from Cruise Lines International Association announcing that all major cruise lines agreed to voluntarily extend their pause in operations through Sept. 15.

S.C. Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine or Port of Calls will resume operations in Charleston.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #6: Cruise lines extend pause in operations through Sept. 15

June 19, 2020 – Cruise Lines International Association announced today that major cruise lines have agreed to voluntarily extend their pause in operations through Sept. 15.

“Due to the ongoing situation within the U.S. related to COVID-19, CLIA member cruise lines have decided to voluntarily extend the period of suspended passenger operations. … Although we are confident that future cruises will be healthy and safe, and will fully reflect the latest protective measures, we also feel that it is appropriate to err on the side of caution to help ensure the best interests of our passengers and crewmembers. … The additional time will also allow us to consult with the CDC on measures that will be appropriate for the eventual resumption of cruise operations,” Cruise Lines International Association said in a news release.

S.C. Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for when the Carnival Sunshine or Port of Calls will resume.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

May 4, 2020 – Carnival Cruise Line announced today that its decision to pause most of its operations will extend through Aug 31.

Carnival has not yet shared the date operations will resume for the Carnival Sunshine.

“We will use this additional time to continue to engage experts, government officials and stakeholders on additional protocols and procedures to protect the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve,” Carnival said in a news release. “We appreciate the understanding and support of our guests and travel agent partners and look forward to welcoming them on board as the environment for travel and tourism improves.”

S.C. Ports does not currently have a confirmed date for the Sunshine to return to lay berth at Columbus Street Terminal.

S.C. Ports also does not have confirmed information on when Port of Calls will resume.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #4: Carnival Sunshine departs Charleston

April 27, 2020 - The Carnival Sunshine departed Columbus Street Terminal on April 23.

As Carnival moves to safe operational manning levels, the company has begun the process of returning healthy crew members to their home countries using their ships as transport. Carnival Sunshine has departed Charleston to meet up with other ships in the fleet and allow crew members to join the vessels that will transport them home.

Carnival plans to resume cruise operations in Charleston on June 27. This voluntary cessation was made to support the efforts by public officials to manage COVID-19’s impact on global health and commerce.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Update #3: Carnival extends pause in operations until June 27

Updated: 04-27-2020

April 13, 2020 - Carnival announced today plans to extend its pause in operations until June 27.

This voluntary cessation was made to support the efforts by public officials to manage COVID-19’s impact on global health and commerce.

The Carnival Sunshine will remain at Columbus Street Terminal for the duration.

The last embarkation was the Carnival Sunshine on March 12, which returned on March 16 for a debark only. The cruise ship has not carried passengers since.

Carnival crew members remain on board to maintain the vessel. Carnival will continue its practice of taking daily temperatures for all crew, encouraging social distancing, and keeping all ship crew on board, except in the event of a medical emergency, which would be coordinated with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and local authorities.

Carnival communicated they would periodically sail the Sunshine out of the harbor for the lawful disposal of gray water and to take on water for their needs. The vessel last sailed offshore Saturday, April 23.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Click here to read the latest Marine Safety Information Bulletin from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Update #2: Carnival extends pause in operations until May 11

Updated: 04-20-2020

March 30, 2020 -- Carnival announced today plans to extend its pause in operations until May 11.

This voluntary cessation was made to support the efforts by public officials to manage COVID-19’s impact on global health and commerce.

The Carnival Sunshine will remain at Columbus Street Terminal for the duration.

Carnival will continue its practice of taking daily temperatures for all crew, encouraging social distancing, and keeping all ship crew on board, except in the event of a medical emergency, which would be coordinated with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and local authorities. The crew have been on board for more than 14 days and remain healthy.

Over the coming weeks, should Carnival disembark crew members so they can return home, that will be done in coordination with authorities and with the cruise line providing transportation from the ship directly to a designated airport.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community. We will continue to share any updates with the community.

Click here to read the latest Marine Safety Information Bulletin from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Update #1: Following Carnival’s suspension of operations, vessel remains at Columbus Street Terminal

March 19, 2020

After passengers disembarked from the Carnival Sunshine on Monday, March 16, the vessel shifted to Columbus Street Terminal.

There are approximately 1,100 crew members on board. Carnival communicated to S.C. Ports and Customs and Border Protection that the crew will remain on the ship for at least 14 days. They stated that the crew is all healthy, and that they will remain on the ship for the mutual benefit and safety of both residents and crew members. The ship is provisioned to feed and support the crew.

Carnival communicated they would periodically sail the Sunshine out of the harbor for the lawful disposal of gray water and to take on water for their needs. This action occurred Wednesday, March 18.

Carnival communicated the entire ship will be "open" and the crew will be continuing general maintenance, sanitation and many other ongoing efforts. Carnival stated this will have no impact on fuel consumption; only one engine is utilized for these operations.

Regarding the 30-day suspension of operations, the Cruise Lines implemented this voluntary cessation in coordination with the Trump Administration last Friday, and the CDC was intimately involved as well. As the initial 30-days run, cruise lines are continuing coordination with the federal authorities regarding next steps.

S.C. Ports continues to work with federal agencies and our cruise line partners in support of the Charleston community.

We will continue to share any updates with the community.

South Carolina Ports Authority Announces 2018 Port Ambassador Program Graduates

CHARLESTON, SC - June 14, 2018 - This week South Carolina Ports Authority celebrated the 2018 Port Ambassador Program graduation, recognizing 24 participants for completing an eight-month deep-dive into Port operations, economic development and the challenges facing the maritime and transportation industry.

"The Port Ambassadors Program engages a diverse group of South Carolina leaders in support of the Port's mission and provides a deeper understanding of the maritime community's critical role in our region," said SCPA president and CEO Jim Newsome. "We're proud of the program's success and value the opportunity to educate the statewide community about our business and plans for the future."

Launched in 2016, the program exposes delegates to the Port's multiple business segments and operating locations across the state. Port Ambassadors meet with experts in maritime-related industries and port-dependent businesses through a series of full and half-day educational sessions and tours. Small class sizes offer the opportunity for discussion and networking with industry leaders.

"The Port Ambassadors Program was a great opportunity to learn not only about the Port's role in economic development and job creation, but the way it connects South Carolina businesses to the global economy," said Chakisse Newton, Principal, Cardinal Consulting. "The Port improves our daily lives in ways many people don't know, and it was an honor to be a member of the second class of Port Ambassadors."

The mission of the Port Ambassadors Program is to increase public awareness and understanding of SCPA's strategic plan and foster support for the Port's key statewide initiatives and activities. Participants are selected from nominations by the Review and Oversight Commission on the State Ports Authority, the SCPA Board of Directors and Senior Management Team.

Each program is limited to 25 ambassadors. More information is available at https://scspa.com/port-ambassador-program/.

Port Ambassadors Class of 2018:
Bob Barrineau, CBRE
Mac Bennett, Capital Development Services
Danny Black, Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance
Doug Boston, Charleston International Airport
James Burns, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
Susanne Buck Cantey, Jupiter Holdings
Sky Foster, BMW-US
Tavia Gaddy, Greenville Area Development Corp.
Tommy Hall, Hall Management Group
Brad Henry, Henrico Holdings
Elizabeth Hills, Charleston Branch Pilots Association
Grayson Kelly, Tri-County Technical College Foundation
Craig Kinley, Growler Haus Holdings LLC
Mark Lattanzio, SunTrust Bank
Christin Mack, Find Great People, LLC
Bill Medich, South State Bank
Leah Moody, Law Office of Leah B. Moody, LLC
Chakisse Newton, Cardinal Consulting, LLC
Kenneth Nix, Land South of Charleston
Lowndes Pope, Riley Pope & Laney, LLC
Keith Rourk, Michelin North America
Jamie Scott, Jamie Scott Fitness, Inc.
Anna Thies, Maritime Association of SC
Walt Tobin, Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

Charleston Harbor Deepening Project Receives $49 Million Federal Funding

CHARLESTON, SC - June 11, 2018 - Today the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced $49 million for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project in the Fiscal Year 18 Work Plan, critical funds that will be coupled with financial support from the State of South Carolina to further the progress of deepening the Charleston Harbor to 52 feet.

"This funding is great news for continued construction activities and timely awarding of dredging contracts for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project," said Bill Stern, SCPA Board Chair. "The Port is appreciative to the Trump Administration, Governor McMaster, Senators Graham and Scott and the entire South Carolina congressional delegation for their coordinated efforts to ensure the highest possible funding for the project was included in the Corps Work Plan."

Construction to deepen the Charleston Harbor Entrance Channel began in February following the awarding of the first two dredging contracts, totaling $260 million, by USACE.

"The deepening of the Charleston Harbor is one of the most important strategic priorities for the State of South Carolina," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "The Southeast needs a 52-foot harbor to efficiently handle the large container ships now calling the East Coast. There are four other harbors on our coast at 50 feet of depth, and such large container ships call a network of ports. The deepening of major U.S. ports is a significant element of the overall investment thesis across the port industry nationwide, and by 2021 SCPA and the State will have invested over $2 billion in port infrastructure to support the growth of both population and manufacturing in South Carolina and the Southeast region."

The USACE Work Plan funding, in combination with a $50 million loan from the State, will enable the Charleston Harbor to be deepened to the Wando Welch Terminal by early 2021 in a record construction period of only 40 months. The completion of harbor deepening projects is essential, with multiple 14,000 twenty-foot equivalent container unit (TEU) ship slings calling U.S. East Coast ports today and the strong likelihood that an 18,000 TEU ship service will be deployed by 2019. The ability to fill these large container vessels with heavy export cargo in the Southeast is critical and requires harbors of 50 feet or more in draft to remove significant navigation restrictions. Upon completion of Charleston's deepening, the Inner Harbor will offer 52 feet of depth with a 54-feet deep Entrance Channel.

The project was designated a "New Construction Start" in the USACE Work Plan last year and received Congressional Authorization in December 2016.

Comments from South Carolina Leaders

"The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is critical to ensuring South Carolina remains a world class port supporting world class companies. Today's news, along with the significant investment by the State of South Carolina, ensures the project stays on track. I thank Senator Graham and the entire South Carolina Congressional Delegation for their continued advocacy for this important project." - Senator Hugh Leatherman, S.C. Senate President Pro Tempore

"Our state has supported this project since day one because we see the value of a competitive port to our citizens and businesses. We appreciate the efforts by the South Carolina Congressional Delegation and are encouraged to see the federal government continue to recognize this critical project." - S.C. Speaker of the House Jay Lucas

"Today's funding news is tremendous for the entire state of South Carolina and is the result of broad support at all levels of government. Congratulations to our Congressional delegation for their tireless efforts on behalf of the Port and the entire state. South Carolinians will see the positive impact of our port project for decades to come." - Senator Larry Grooms, Chairman of the S.C. Review and Oversight Commission on the SPA

"This is great news for the Upstate, as well as the entire state. With 50% of port users located in the upstate, the continued progress on the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project will be felt in our region for years to come. We have made significant investments, coupled with an additional loan in this year's pending state budget, and it's encouraging to see the federal government step up." - S.C. Ways and Means Committee Chairman Brian White

South Carolina Ports Authority Announces Record May Container Volume

CHARLESTON, SC - June 11, 2018 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority announced 197,437 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) handled last month, a record for the month of May and the second-highest month of container traffic in the Port's history.

May TEU volume was 8.2 percent higher than the same month last year and nearly surpassed SCPA's all-time record for container volume, achieved in March 2018 with 199,659 TEUs. Since the Port's fiscal year began in July, SCPA's container volume is 2.3 percent higher than the same period last year.

As measured by the total number of boxes handled by the Port, May was also a record month with 113,531 pier containers moved.

"In spite of the Wando Bridge closure during the last half of May, we achieved very strong volumes for the month," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "We very much appreciate the flexibility and dedication shown by truck drivers, Charleston Gate, our own employees and the entire maritime community in moving containerized freight under what were adverse conditions for the majority of the month. The leadership of Governor McMaster, Secretary Hall and the South Carolina Department of Transportation, Mayor Haynie, and the Town of Mt. Pleasant was also decisive in making this possible. Our terminals remained fluid throughout the month."

The Port's broad-based growth during in May was supported by the further deployment of large container ships to the U.S. East Coast. Increases in loaded export container volumes indicate continued strength in the world economy.

Wando Wharf Modernization Project

Infrastructure improvements at the Wando Welch Terminal have continued to progress, and the wharf modernization project that began in 2015 will soon be completed. The entire length of the terminal berth will return to full-time operation by the end of July, coinciding with the commissioning of SCPA's sixth crane of 155 feet of lift height.

"The Port has handled record container volumes despite having only two-thirds of our berth capacity in operation for over 800 days," Newsome said. "We look forward to simultaneously handling two ships of 14,000 TEU or above in the near future with significant berth productivity."

South Carolina Ports Posts Fiscal Year Growth

CHARLESTON, SC - May 30, 2018 - South Carolina Ports Authority's fiscal year-to-date volumes are nearly 2 percent higher than last year, with record-breaking container volumes handled in April.

As previously announced, SCPA has moved 1.8 million TEUs since July, compared to 1.78 million during the same period last fiscal year. The Port achieved a record April, with 196,439 TEUs handled during the month.

SCPA's strong container volume was also reflected in April volumes at Inland Port Greer. The facility handled 9,577 rail moves last month for a fiscal year-to-date total of 96,937 lifts.

In non-containerized cargo, the Port handled 51,426 pier tons in April. Since the fiscal year began in July, 608,829 tons of breakbulk cargo have moved across the docks in Charleston.

RTG purchase

At its monthly Board of Directors meeting today, the Port announced plans to purchase 26 rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes from Konecrane. The $46.4 million contract includes 24 new RTGs for the Wando Welch Terminal to support SCPA's plans to modernize operations and increase container yard capacity of its existing terminal facilities. Inland Port Greer will receive two of the new cranes to support continued volume growth of the facility.

SCPA Achieves Record April

CHARLESTON, SC - May 17, 2018 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority announced the highest April container volumes in its history, with growth of 4 percent over the same month last year.

SCPA handled 196,439 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEU) in April. The Port has moved 1.8 million TEUs across the docks of its Wando Welch and North Charleston container terminals since the fiscal year began in July, an increase of nearly 2 percent over the same period last year.

"Our strong April volumes were driven in part by significant growth of loaded export containers, which reflects the fact that shippers are utilizing Charleston's deepwater harbor as a last port of call for heavy export cargo," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "Container volume during the spring months puts SCPA in a good position to achieve strong fiscal year results that will exceed FY17 volumes."

Inland Port Greer handled 9,577 rail moves in April, pushing fiscal year-to-date volumes slightly ahead of last year with 96,937 rail moves since July.

Fiscal year-to-date breakbulk volume in Charleston reached 608,829 tons in April, with 51,426 tons of non-containerized cargo moved last month. The Port handled 17,646 finished vehicles in April.

Moody's, S&P Issue Positive Financial Ratings

The Port also announced that Moody's Investors Service and Standard & Poor's Ratings Services have affirmed the Port's financial position with positive ratings.

The ratings come as SCPA plans to issue approximately $300 million in new revenue bonds to fund several major capital projects, including Wando Welch Terminal upgrades, Phase One of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, SCPA's new headquarters and other improvements to existing facilities.

"The strong ratings issued by both Moody's and S&P reflect SCPA's strong position in the market and our capability of delivering on the necessary projects to remain a top ten container port," Newsome said. "Our port offers modern facilities, deep water and reliable service, which support continued growth in today's shipping environment. These ratings reaffirm the financial industry's confidence in our long-term strategic plan."

Moody's issued an A1 rating with a stable outlook to the Port's upcoming Series 2018 bonds and Series 2015 bonds, citing SCPA's cargo volume growth, competitive infrastructure and operating model, and strong historical financial metrics as drivers of the credit positive profile.

The Moody's report states that SCPA's "stable outlook is based upon our expectation that the authority will continue to exhibit strong operating and financial performance. The stable outlook also reflects our expectation that the authority will incur debt required to fund its growth capital projects in a phased manner, as demand warrants and with net revenue levels that enable the authority to retain sufficient flexibility to manage a downturn in volume."

Standard & Poors assigned an A+ rating with a stable outlook on both bond series as well. The agency stated that their rating "reflects the port's strong market position, which is bolstered by the Port of Charleston's competitive position and its importance to the regional economy as an import/export hub for manufacturers and other businesses in South Carolina and neighboring states."

The ratings include analysis of financial performance, volume growth, customer diversity, performance relative to competitors and future capital projects. The SCPA is solely responsible for the revenue bonds it issues, with no obligation of the state or taxpayers.

View the Moody's and S&P reports on the SCPA website.

SC Ports Opens Inland Port Dillon

DILLON, SC - April 16, 2018 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority held the grand opening of Inland Port Dillon, its second inland facility constructed in the state to handle strong growth of the Port's intermodal rail cargo volumes and deepen the Port's reach into markets through the Carolinas to the Northeast and Midwest.

"Inland ports provide needed infrastructure in the interior of the state to support the movement of freight to and from our marine terminals," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "The addition of Inland Port Dillon to the Port's network diversifies our reach and enables port users to gain logistics efficiencies through rail transportation of their cargo. We've had tremendous support from the Dillon region to date and look forward to growing our cargo base for the facility."

Inland Port Dillon utilizes an existing CSX intermodal train service to handle container movement to and from the Port of Charleston's productive seaport facilities. Inland Port Dillon is expected to convert an estimated 45,000 container movements from truck to rail in the first year of operation.

"Our ports system is one of the most important driving forces behind South Carolina's recent economic success, and with the help of the Inland Port Dillon, it always will be," said Governor Henry McMaster. "With two inland ports and the Port of Charleston soon to be the deepest on the East Coast, South Carolina has strategic advantages that no other state has, and that will continue to pay off for the people of our great state."

The facility will handle the growing volume of container cargo traveling to and from the Port of Charleston via intermodal rail, which has increased 180percent increase since 2011. Today, nearly 25 percent of the Port's container volume moves by rail.

"CSX is pleased to be a key link in extending the South Carolina Port Authority's reach from the Port of Charleston to the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina through establishment of Inland Port Dillon," said Dean Piacente, CSX Vice President of Intermodal. "We are confident that the Inland Port will promote economic development in the region and increase the competitiveness of the Port of Charleston and businesses throughout the State of South Carolina. CSX is proud of our role working together with the Port in converting the movement of containers from highway to rail, reducing highway congestion and providing environmental benefits to the citizens of South Carolina while promoting economic growth and commerce."

SCPA opened its first inland facility, Inland Port Greer, in the Upstate region of South Carolina in November 2013. Inland Port Greer handled a record-breaking 124,817 rail moves in calendar year 2017, an increase of 20 percent over the previous year.

"The expansion of SCPA's footprint into Dillon is a significant project not just for our Port, but the entire state," said SCPA Board Chairman Bill Stern. "Inland Port Dillon will provide many advantages to Port customers in the Pee Dee region and beyond, enabling them to move their supplies and finished products with greater efficiency to a global consumer base. It will no doubt serve as a catalyst for economic development, and it is an exciting day to bring such opportunities to this area."

Inland Port Dillon is located within the Carolinas I-95 Mega Site with close proximity to I-95, a critical transportation artery in the Southeast. The area is central to a significant base of existing Port users, including Harbor Freight Tools, that represent base cargo opportunities for the facility.

"Inland Port Dillon is a complement to the capacity and infrastructure investments underway at port facilities in Charleston to accommodate bigger ships and overall growth of our volumes," Newsome said.

Elected Leaders Praise Inland Port Dillon

"Inland Port Dillon is a game-changing investment that will shape the future of not only the Pee Dee but all of South Carolina," said S.C. Senator Lindsey Graham. "Building on the success of Inland Port Greer, this facility will give companies an efficient and cost-effective way to move their products across the state, making the Pee Dee an attractive location for investment, economic development and job creation."

"I've worked hard at the federal level and with the Ports Authority to bring Inland Port Dillon to fruition," said S.C. Congressman Tom Rice. "As an extension of the Charleston Port - one of the largest economic drivers in South Carolina - Inland Port Dillon will bring the success of the state's freight industry to the Pee Dee. Inland Port Dillon will be an economic engine for the region, attracting diverse new industry that will create high-paying jobs in Marion, Marlboro, and Dillon Counties. The facility has already created 1,000 jobs in our area, and today's grand opening begins the next stage of economic development that will help uplift our entire community."

"The opportunity for job creation and economic growth driven by this facility in our region cannot be overstated," said S.C. Senator Kent Williams. "This grand opening is an extremely significant day for residents of Dillon, Marion and our surrounding areas. I applaud the Ports Authority and the many partners for making this a reality."

"Today's Inland Port Dillon grand opening is a tremendous development for our region and state," said S.C. Representative Jackie E. "Coach" Hayes. "Providing increased inland infrastructure will create industry growth and provide job opportunities that will benefit our area and the entire state."

Local Students Name Inland Port Dillon Cranes

Two fourth-graders at Latta Elementary School each earned $500 from SCPA for their school for their participation in a port contest to name equipment at Inland Port Dillon.

The contest was open to all third through fifth graders in Dillon School Districts 3 and 4 during the month of March. Over 100 student entries were received as potential names for the terminal's two rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes, which move containers on and off trains.

A team of SCPA employees selected the following two entries, which have been painted onto the cranes: Bluesaurus Rex, submitted by Emily Baxley, and Incraneable Hulk, submitted by J.P. Bley.

March Volumes

As previously announced, South Carolina Ports Authority completed the third quarter of its fiscal year with 1.4 percent year-over-year growth of twenty foot-equivalent units (TEUs) and record-breaking March volumes.

March was the strongest month in the Port's history, with 199,659 TEUs handled during the month. Fiscal year to date, SCPA has moved 1.6 million TEUs across its docks.

Finished vehicle volume also reached an all-time high in March, with 28,391 vehicles handled last month. In the overall non-containerized business segment, SCPA has handled 556,901 breakbulk tons since the fiscal year began.

Inland Port Greer achieved a fiscal year-to-date record number of rail lifts, with 87,360 moves since July. The facility handled 10,612 rail lifts last month.

SC Ports Handles Record Container and Finished Vehicle Volumes in March

CHARLESTON, SC - April 11, 2018 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority announced the strongest monthly container volume in its history, with 199,659 twenty foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) handled in March.

The month was nearly 4 percent higher than March 2017, which was the Port's previous record month for TEUs. Year-over-year container volume is up, and the Port handled 1.6 million TEUs during the first three quarters of its 2018 fiscal year.

"The record volumes achieved by our port in March reflect seasonally strong volume in all segments combined with the further deployment of big container ships to the U.S. East Coast," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "SCPA's significant investment in terminal infrastructure is bearing fruit in terms of operational efficiency."

As measured in pier containers, or boxes handled, SCPA moved a record 113,663 containers in March. The Port has handled 909,614 pier containers since July, a growth of 2 percent over the same fiscal period last year.

March also marked a record month for finished vehicles, with 28,391 vehicles moving across the docks of SCPA's Columbus Street Terminal in March. Overall in the non-container cargo segment, the Port handled 80,683 breakbulk tons last month.

Inland Port Greer handled 10,612 rail moves in March. The facility's fiscal year-to-date volume is nearly three percent higher than last year, with 87,360 rail moves since July.

SC Ports Authority Reports Record Container Volume through February

CHARLESTON, SC - March 21, 2018 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority reported a fiscal year-to-date container volume record of over 1.4 million twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEU) handled since July.

SCPA moved 168,480 TEUs during the month of February, which drove a fiscal year-over-year container volume increase of 1.07 percent.

"Our container volumes are on track leading into spring, which is generally a strong season for the Port," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "It is an exciting and busy time for the Port, having just received two new neo-Panamax cranes and celebrated the beginning of construction on the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project. We look forward to the next milestone, the opening of Inland Port Dillon, next month."

As measured by the total number of boxes handled, SCPA moved 95,280 pier containers last month for a total of 795,951 containers fiscal year to date.

Inland Port Greer also achieved a fiscal year-to-date record, handling 10,440 rail moves in February. The facility's fiscal year-to-date volumes are nearly 5 percent higher than last year, with 76,748 rail moves handled since July.

In non-containerized cargo, SCPA's Charleston breakbulk facilities handled 67,173 pier tons in February for a total of 476,219 tons since the fiscal year began. Over 22,000 finished vehicles crossed the docks in February, an increase of 1 percent over the same month last year, and 140,275 vehicles have been handled by SCPA fiscal year to date.

Charleston Harbor Deepening Construction

At a ceremony held earlier in March, officials celebrated the beginning of construction on the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project to 52 feet.

"It is a monumental accomplishment to begin construction on the Charleston Deepening Project, which make Charleston the deepest port on the East Coast at a time when deep and wide shipping channels are necessary," Newsome said. "The container shipping industry today is dominated by big ships, and ports must adapt to handle them in order to remain competitive. Our project will be completed just ten years from its initial conception in 2010, enabling Charleston to serve the fastest growing region in the country with the ability to handle ships fully-loaded with heavy export goods."

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District awarded the first two construction contracts last fall, which together provide for the deepening of the more than 20 miles long Charleston Harbor Entrance Channel to 54 feet. Including the dredging of the upper and lower harbors to 52 feet, the project is expected to achieve significant completion by 2020.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

South Carolina Ports Authority, ZPMC Officials Present Crane Model to Local Middle School

CHARLESTON, SC - March 8, 2018 - On the heels of last week's arrival of two neo-Panamax cranes, today officials from South Carolina Ports Authority and Chinese crane manufacturer Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. (ZPMC) presented a model of the new cranes to Laing Middle School.

"On behalf of ZPMC, it is an honor to present this crane model to the Laing Middle School students and administrators," said ZPMC President Huang Qingfeng. "We are proud to be the provider of SCPA's new cranes and support the positive impacts the Port brings to region."

Having submitted a winning entry last school year in the Port's 2016 "Name the Cranes Contest," sixth-grade student Jacob Blackburn attended the ceremony to accept the model on behalf of the school. Blackburn's "Cranebob Bluepants," along with Laing classmate Annabelle Horton's "Heavy Metal," were the Port's first neo-Panamax cranes, delivered in August 2016 to enable the Port to efficiently work large container ships.

"It's a privilege for the Port to engage with local schools to help students learn about Port operations," said Barbara Melvin, SCPA Senior Vice President of Operations and Terminals. "We're pleased to join ZPMC in the presentation of this gift to Laing and will continue to involve students and the community in the exciting changes underway at our terminals to prepare for big ships and accommodate Port growth."

The Port is hosting the ZPMC delegation for tours of the Wando Welch Terminal and the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, the Port's new container terminal under construction. ZPMC is the world's leading ship-to-shore container crane manufacturer and has supplied cranes for both of SCPA's existing container facilities, the Wando Welch and North Charleston terminals. The company will also manufacture all of the ship-to-shore cranes for the Leatherman Terminal, which will open in 2021.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

1 2 3 … 51 Next