Cruise ship passengers left terrified after ship sails through rough seas on return to Charleston

CHARLESTON, S.C. — A cruise ship that navigated rough seas off the South Carolina coast over the Memorial Day weekend has resumed sailing on its next cruise, Carnival Cruise Lines said.

Terrified passengers on the Carnival Sunshine took to social media to post video of water pouring through a flooded hallway on a cabin level and pictures of on-board stores in shambles, with merchandise strewn about on the floor as large waves swelled on the sea.

Passenger Daniel Taylor said the crew “left us blind, not reassuring us what was going on, where we were heading to, what the plan was,” WCIV-TV reported.

"I don't think the crew knew what they were doing. I don't think they were trained enough for a situation like that."

Passengers of the Carnival Sunshine describe a nightmare scenario as the ship was rocked by severe weather. We spoke to someone who was on board: pic.twitter.com/5c8EljcIT0

— CNN This Morning (@CNNThisMorning) May 30, 2023

“They could have updated us and let us know something,” he said.

The Carnival Sunshine’s return to Charleston, South Carolina, from the Bahamas on Saturday was delayed by prolonged bad weather and rough seas in the area, the Miami-based company said in a statement to The Associated Press on Monday. The vessel’s next cruise scheduled to leave Charleston this weekend was delayed, but is now sailing, the statement said.

It was strong non-tropical low that developed and got going Friday Night. The Carnival Sunshine got right into it in the back side with 70mph winds ????and 12-15 Ft Seas ????. Crazy encounter that happened. Ship took some damage but then went to Charleston Port. Thank goodness… pic.twitter.com/netXNuHUtz

— James Wilson (@tornadokid3) May 30, 2023

No serious injuries were reported.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests,” Carnival said.