May Cruises from Charleston 2026
May offers excellent value as summer vacation hasn't started. Alaska hits full season, Mediterranean warms up, and Caribbean enters low season with great deals before hurricanes.
Why Cruise from Charleston in May?
May offers low pricing and low crowd levels for cruises from Charleston. Charleston combines Southern charm with convenient cruise access to the Bahamas and Caribbean, perfect for travelers in the Carolinas and Southeast.
During May, the weather in North America is spring season. Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins.
Where to Go from Charleston in May
Benefits of May
- Lower prices pre-summer
- Alaska in full swing
- Mediterranean pleasant
- Less crowded ships
Things to Consider
- Memorial Day expensive
- Caribbean hurricane season begins
- Some ports very hot
Charleston Port Highlights
Historic Southern city
No flight needed for Southeast residents
Beautiful spring and fall weather
Emerging cruise destination
Cruise Lines from Charleston
Planning Your May Cruise from Charleston
May is an excellent value month for cruises from Charleston, United States. With low pricing and low crowd levels, it's ideal for budget travelers. Popular destinations from Charleston in May include Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, North America East Coast.
Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins. Cruise prices in May typically range from €600 - €2,200, making it a great value.1+ cruise lines operate from Charleston during May, including Carnival Cruise Line.
The port of Charleston offers historic southern city and no flight needed for southeast residents. Convenient access via CHS - Charleston International Airport. Book early for the best selection, especially for May departures which can sell out quickly during popular weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is May a good time to cruise from Charleston?
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May is an excellent time to cruise from Charleston. Expect low pricing and low crowds. Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins.
What's the weather like in May for cruises from Charleston?
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May is spring season in North America. Perfect Alaska weather. Mediterranean warming nicely. Caribbean hot with rain starting. Hurricane season officially begins. Average temperatures range from 70-85°F.
How much do May cruises from Charleston cost?
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May cruise prices from Charleston range from €600 - €2,200, with low pricing compared to other months. This is one of the best value months to cruise.
What should I pack for a May cruise from Charleston?
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For May, pack versatile clothing for warm days and cool evenings, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Don't forget: passport, medications, formal night attire, and refillable water bottle.
Which cruise lines operate from Charleston in May?
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Carnival Cruise Line, and -2+ other cruise lines operate from Charleston in May. Popular destinations in May include Alaska, Western Mediterranean, North Europe.
What to Pack for May Cruises
Essentials
- Valid passport (must be valid 6+ months after return)
- Cruise documents and boarding pass
- Credit card for onboard account
- Prescription medications (in original bottles)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+, reef-safe for Caribbean)
- Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions
- Layers for varying temperatures
- Formal/smart casual outfits (1 per formal night)
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Phone charger and adapter (US outlets on most ships)
Nice to Have
- •Refillable water bottle
- •Day backpack for excursions
- •Waterproof phone case
- •Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- •Travel insurance documents
- •Seasickness medication (even if you don't usually need it)
- •Power strip (limited outlets in cabins)
- •Magnetic hooks for cabin metal walls
- •Highlighter for daily cruise planner
- •Small bills for tipping porters
When to Book May Cruises
12+ months before
Best cabin selection, lowest deposits, early saver rates up to 30% off
6-12 months before
Good availability, competitive pricing, ideal for Wave Season deals (Jan-Mar)
3-6 months before
Limited cabin choice, but potential for unsold inventory discounts
1-3 months before
Very limited options, mostly inside cabins, last-minute deals rare on popular dates
What's Included in Your Cruise Fare
Included in Fare
- Stateroom accommodation for cruise duration
- Main dining room meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Buffet and casual dining venues
- Pool, hot tubs, and fitness center access
- Most onboard entertainment (shows, live music, movies)
- Kids clubs and youth programs
- Room service (may have late-night fee)
Extra Costs
- Alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee
- Specialty restaurants ($25-75 per person)
- Shore excursions ($50-200+ per excursion)
- Spa services and salon treatments
- Casino and bingo
- Photos and professional photography
- Gratuities ($12-18 per person/day)
- Wi-Fi packages ($15-30 per day)
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