09/27/2026
Charleston Harbor brings two very different worlds together.
In the foreground is the Spirit of Charleston, a 102-foot, two-deck dining and event yacht operated by SpiritLine Cruises. It carries guests across the harbor for private events, weddings and unforgettable views of the Holy City.
Behind it is the Stinnes Passat, an international general cargo ship that had arrived in Charleston from Antwerp, Belgium. Built in 2011, she is approximately 475 feet long, 75 feet wide and capable of carrying more than 17,000 metric tons. Her three onboard cranes allow her to handle oversized, heavy and specialized cargo without relying entirely on shoreside equipment.
The Stinnes Passat is nearly five times longer than the Spirit of Charleston. One vessel helps visitors experience the beauty and history of Charleston Harbor, while the other connects our region to the global economy.
Charleston welcomed approximately 7.9 million visitors in 2024, generating an estimated $14 billion in economic impact. At the same time, South Carolina’s ports support approximately 260,000 jobs and generate around $87 billion in annual economic activity statewide.
Tourism in the foreground. International commerce in the background. Both are important parts of what keeps Charleston moving.
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