One thing I’ve noticed after years of doing this job is that everyone loves cruising for a different reason.
Some people love cruises because like to visit multiple destinations in a short time, others love the endless food options, some love the entertainment, and then there are those who like to enjoy the casino while at sea.
I have to admit, I’m not a big gambler, but I’ve spent few hours at the casino on a cruise.
However, cruise ship casinos can be quite different from those on land, especially when it comes to rules and rewards. So before you start playing, I recommend checking out this list of must-know things about gambling on a cruise.
Odds Aren’t Always Good
The first thing that you have to consider is that Casino odds aren’t always great on cruise ships; sometimes, they’re less favorable than on land.
As you probably know, cruise ship casinos don’t have to follow the same strict gaming regulations as land-based casinos.
The rules they adhere to depend on the country where the ship is registered, known as the flag state, and many cruise ships are registered in countries with more lenient gambling laws.
Blackjack is a perfect example. Many cruise lines use a 6-to-5 payout for Blackjack instead of the typical 3-to-2. This might seem like a minor change, but it actually makes a big difference.
A $20 winning hand pays just $12 onboard instead of $15 in a traditional casino.
Choose the Right Game
Another interesting thing to note is that cruise ship casinos offer a great variety of games, especially considering the limited space they have.
If your goal is to win, it’s important to choose your game wisely.
You’ll usually find rows of slot machines at the entrance, including both classic reels and modern video slots, with a wide range of themes.
Then there are table games such as Blackjack, Roulette, and Craps. Blackjack is usually one of the most popular and crowded games. Many cruisers, especially those who aren’t casino experts, prefer it because of its simple rules.
For those who enjoy a more strategic and competitive game, there are also poker tables, and tournaments are regularly organized.
Depending on the cruise line, these tournaments can range from casual, friendly games to larger, more structured competitions with impressive prize pools. Most cruise lines host tournaments where you can win a cruise!
Join Loyalty Programs
All major cruise lines have dedicated casino loyalty programs that reward you for the time and money you spend playing onboard.
Unlike typical land-based casinos, these programs can often link up with the cruise line’s broader rewards system, meaning that the benefits you earn in the casino can translate into perks on future sailings (or even during the same cruise).
It’s a very interesting thing, especially if you like to go on cruises often because you can get some nice benefits for upcoming cruises like cabin upgrades.
For example, Royal Caribbean has a program called “Casino Royale,” and as you play slots or table games, you accumulate points that can elevate you through various tiers.
Depending on your tier, you might receive discounted or even free cruises. In particular, when you reach the Prime Level (2,500 points per year), you get a complimentary interior stateroom on one cruise.
In addition, you could get priority check-in and boarding, complimentary drinks while active gaming, and special invitations to tournaments or VIP casino events.
What’s especially convenient is that qualifying Casino Royale members can often combine their casino offers with other Crown & Anchor Society perks.
In a similar way, Carnival has the Carnival Players Club. Joining is free and it’s automatically activated when guests 18 years or older use their Sail & Sign card while playing at slot machines or table games.
Once you reach a certain level of play, you may receive free drinks while playing in the casino or other complimentary items such as spa treatments, logo merchandise, or dining experiences.
Carnival usually sends out offers via email, mail cards, or through the app, and you can choose to accept or decline them.
This is where a big debate starts. Some passengers believe that the best offers go to those who spend the most money, while others think it’s based on how much time you spend in the casino. Some even say factors like your cabin type or overall onboard spending play a role.
Personally, I think it’s a mix of everything. But I wouldn’t gamble in the casino just expecting to get amazing offers, you might end up disappointed.
The Casino’s Opening Hours
If it’s your first time on a cruise, you’ll notice that the casino has some pretty odd hours.
The general rule to keep in mind is that if the ship is docked in port, the casino will probably be closed.
This happens because when a cruise ship is in port, local gambling laws take precedence. In many destinations (like Bermuda or parts of Hawaii) gambling is strictly regulated or outright banned, so the onboard casino must remain closed.
This closure can last the entire time the ship is docked, including overnight stays.
Laws can also extend beyond the immediate shoreline of certain countries. For example, in some regions, you need to be at least 12 miles offshore.
The best thing to do is to check the daily schedules. On it you will be able to find the opening hours for that day.
Unfortunately, printed daily schedules are one of the things you won’t find on cruises anymore, but you can still check them on the app.
In addition, if you’re not a cruise expert have a look at the 10 travel hacks only cruise pros know.
Take Advantage of the Status Matching
Another very interesting thing that you should definitely take advantage of is the status matching with land-based or other cruise line casinos.
As far as I know, both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer a status match, but you have to request it specifically.
It’s a good idea to reach out to customer service before booking and ask if it’s an option. If they approve it, it could be a great opportunity to cruise with a different line while still enjoying some perks.
Keep an eye open for special promotions
When you visit the casino or anywhere else on the cruise, always keep an eye out for special promotions.
You might come across flyers or signs advertising some really tempting deals.
In particular during the years I’ve seen the “Match Play Offers” where the cruise line gives you a voucher where if you bet, say, $20, the casino matches it with another $20.
I’ve also seen free slots credit where guests receive a promo card loaded with $5–$25 to be used in slots.
In addition, consider that there are a few strategies that can dramatically increase your chances of winning (especially another free cruise). You can find them by clicking here.
One last thing you should seriously consider is the cruise line you choose. Some offer better deals at the casino, which can make it easier to win. You can check out the guide on how to choose the best cruise line for you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Casino policies and promotions vary and are subject to change. Always verify details directly with the cruise operator. Gambling involves risk; the author is not liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of this information. Gamble responsibly.
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