Hearing on Charleston cruises ends

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — A state judge is considering a challenge of the expanding cruise industry in Charleston.

A lawsuit by some local residents, preservationists and environmentalists says Carnival cruises are a public nuisance and violate city zoning ordinances and state pollution laws.

Circuit Judge Clifton Newman heard more than five hours of arguments Thursday and Friday.

Attorneys argued over whether the Carnival Fantasy ship is a structure, whether it needs a separate South Carolina pollution permit and whether those challenging the operations have legal standing to do so.

The defendants include Carnival Cruise Lines, the State Ports Authority and the city of Charleston. They want the judge to dismiss the lawsuit.

Newman gave no indication Friday afternoon when he would make a decision.