Cruise ship study endorses more controls, community input

The Historic Charleston Foundation study released today that was billed as analysis of the economic impacts of the cruise industry in Charleston failed to offer any new dollar amounts of what the ships bring in, or what the cost and loss benefits are.

Instead, the report was more a continuation of the foundation's stance that more controls be put in place, and input gathered, to prevent Charleston from being overrun by ship visits at a cost of what opponents believe is measured in livability and charm.

"To protect the 'goose that lays the golden eggs' the city should ensure that the cruise industry is managed and controlled like virtually all other attractions and activities governed by the city to the best of its ability," was one of the recommendations made.

The report comes after downtown neighborhood, preservation and environmental groups sued Carnival Cruise Lines last June, alleging the ship Fantasy, which is homeported in Charleston, poses a nuisance and violates city zoning ordinances and state health laws.