When it comes to cruising, gambling in the ship’s casino is one of the most popular activities. In fact, in the late evening it can be the busiest spot on the entire ship.
Which Cruise Ships Have Casinos?
Almost every cruise ship you sail will have a casino. Mass market lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, Celebrity, and Virgin always have casinos on their ships. One notable exception is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America, which is U.S.-flagged and sails in Hawaii without a casino. Disney is another major line that does not have gambling facilities.
What Are Cruise Casinos Like?
Cruise ship casinos are similar to land-based casinos, but typically on a smaller scale. They feature familiar elements such as flashing lights and ringing bells, but each casino has its own unique personality.
The gaming floors are usually smaller, with low ceilings and a maze-like layout of games, giving them a cozy feel. Newer ships often have more open casino designs, sometimes with windows for a brighter and more airy atmosphere. Despite their size, cruise ship casinos can be some of the largest rooms on the vessel.
The atmosphere in a cruise ship casino is vibrant and energetic, especially in the evenings when they can get crowded. The high energy and festive environment make it easy to forget you’re on a ship.
What Are Payouts Like in the Casino?
Payouts in cruise ship casinos tend to be less favorable than those in land-based casinos. For example, video poker machines that are common on land (paying nine credits for a full house and six for a flush) are often replaced with “6/5” machines on ships, offering a lower payback. Blackjack tables may also pay 6-to-5 instead of the standard 3-to-2.
Craps tables on ships may have restricted odds bets, usually offering up to 3X-4X-5X, and some may even have lower limits. If your goal is to get the best payouts, independent land-based casinos are generally a better option.
What’s the Gambling Age on a Cruise Ship?
The minimum age to gamble on a cruise ship is typically 18 years old, which is lower than the 21-year-old requirement in most U.S. land-based casinos. However, on cruises to Alaska from the United States, the minimum age may be raised to 21 years old.
Casino Minimums for Table Games and Slot Machines
Cruise ship casinos are accommodating for low-stakes gamblers. Slot machines include penny slots and higher-stakes machines up to $1. Table games often have minimums starting at $5, but sometimes they start at $10. This ensures that the casino appeals to the widest range of passengers.
What Casino Games Are Available on a Cruise?
Cruise ship casinos offer a variety of games, including:
- Slot Machines
- Video Poker
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Craps
- Big Wheel
- Three Card Poker
- Let It Ride
- Caribbean Stud Poker
- Texas Hold ‘Em
- Baccarat
- Coin Pushers
- Scratch-Offs
- Lotto Draws
When Are the Cruise Ship Casinos Open?
Cruise ship casinos are open when the ship is at sea. On embarkation day, the casino opens after the ship sets sail. During port days, the casino is closed while docked but opens once the ship leaves port jurisdiction. On sea days, the casino is open all day.
Are Drinks Free in the Cruise Ship Casino?
Unlike many land-based casinos, free drinks are not typically offered in cruise ship casinos. Most passengers pay for their drinks while gambling, with prices similar to other areas of the ship. However, passengers with high loyalty status may receive complimentary beverages.
Are There ATMs on the Ship? Can I Charge to the Room?
Cruise ships have ATMs, usually located in the casino or near Guest Services, but they charge high fees for withdrawals. Alternatively, you can charge money to your room account to use in the casino, often without a fee for slot machines and a small fee for table games.
Are Casinos Beginner Friendly?
Cruise ship casinos are welcoming to beginners. They offer classes on popular games, providing a comfortable environment for new players to learn. The friendly atmosphere and low stakes make it an ideal place to try casino games for the first time.
Are Loyalty Programs Available? Can I Earn Comps?
Cruise lines have loyalty programs similar to land-based casinos. Players earn rewards and comps based on their play, including drinks, Wi-Fi, and even free cruises. To participate, simply insert your keycard into the machine or give it to the dealer at the table.
Other Things to Know About Gambling on a Cruise
- Cashing Out: On Carnival and Princess, insert your room keycard into the machine to cash out, crediting the money to your player account. Other cruise lines use printed vouchers.
- Smoking: Smoking is usually allowed in cruise ship casinos, making it difficult to avoid smoke in the smaller, enclosed spaces.
- Tournaments: Slot and blackjack tournaments are common and take place during off-hours. Check the daily calendar or cruise line app for tournament schedules.
By understanding these aspects of cruise ship casinos, you can make the most of your gambling experience at sea. Whether you are a seasoned player or a beginner, the casino on your cruise offers a fun and exciting way to spend your time on board.
