Both online and offline gambling are of high popularity in New Zealand. For locals, it is a common way to spend time and relax. One of the ways to entertain and play for real money is cruises with land-based casinos.
However, due to the local laws, there are no casino cruises operating on the territory of New Zealand. What people can try is international cruises departing from New Zealand. See what are the most popular options and how to enjoy casino gaming while relaxing on the board.
The Appeal of Real Money Casino Entertainment at Cruise Vacations from New Zealand
Imagine that you enjoy the atmosphere of a cruise and the ocean travelling, having fun at the on-board event like a real money casino. Many passengers of luxurious cruise ships who like to play at real casino online in NZ are offered an existing experience at a gambling lounge with a variety of options. They can indulge in their favourite games while sailing the high seas, adding an extra thrill to their already extravagant voyage.
The first gambling cruises appeared back in the 1920s to overcome the gambling restrictions on the continent. Then, they became a sort of luxurious resort for fans of offline gambling. Such events are still popular all over the world. Although you cannot book a cruise directly in New Zealand, there are ships crossing its territory and inviting passengers.
The Experience of Gambling at Sea
Explore the best cruises with casinos on board. All of them depart from New Zealand or cross it, so a local passenger can easily book tickets and join.
Carnival Cruise Line
This company is registered in Panama and offers cruises all over the world. It is actually the world’s leading company that offers sea and ocean travelling. It offers several travel options:
- Themed cruises. It can be trips for families, for parents with children, romantic couples, and so on. Such an approach allows the company to organise entertainment that caters to this group of people specifically. For example, family cruises offer more fun for children. And “adult-only” travels offer guests the casino experience.
- Dining options. All cruises have a lot of dining options, from fancy restaurants to bars. Some of them are paid and others are included in the cruise price. You can enjoy food and drinks between gaming sessions and have an amazing cuisine experience.
- Entertainment. Of course, all trips offer concerts, festivals, local events, and sometimes even theatres. Also, casinos are on board.
Although such travels are usually expensive, they offer amazing experiences. The casinos are usually open in the evening and offer different activities from slot machines to dealer games.
Royal Caribbean International
This company plans all events in advance, sometimes for 1-2 years. So even now, you can see the schedule of trips in 2024 and 2025. Such an approach allows guests to plan their trips and choose the details.
The ships start the journey from ports all over the world, and New Zealand is a common departure location. What you should know is that the company doesn’t offer specific casino cruises. Such journeys usually take 2-3 days and are planned specifically for gambling.
Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean International plans long journeys that usually take from one to three weeks. But there’s good news – the company has an onboard casino on all its ships. No matter which cruise you book, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy gambling. The cruise selection includes several options:
- Family cruises
- Culinary trips with invited chefs
- Adult-only travels
- Weddings
- Private parties
There are options that take 3-4 days and long trips. The casinos offer both slot machines and table games, providing a wide array of options for guests to enjoy. Trying poker with a dealer is a must there – all croupiers are professional and lead the game perfectly. Additionally, guests are expected to adhere to a formal dress code, adding to the elegant ambience of the gambling lounge.
P&O Cruises Australia and New Zealand
The P&O company is focused on cruises specifically from Australia and New Zealand. Again – it is not a NZ company, but it offers departures from there. The company offers luxurious accommodations, cuisine, and overall services. During your visit, enjoy concerts, open-air pools, and daily events.
The duration depends on the trip and can last from several days to weeks. The cruises always offer land-based casinos for all adult visitors. On the official website of the company, you can find all the information about games offered on boards:
- 3 Card Poker
- Texas Poker
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Scratch cards
- Bingo
Additionally, there are virtual gaming tables. If you want to enjoy gaming on your own, it is a perfect choice. The company also offers guides to all games on the official website. There are regular events on the casino’s territory. Thus, you can enjoy gaming and have fun at the same time. Finally, loyal guests will be offered promotions and rewards.
Final Thoughts
While cruise ships in New Zealand offer exciting casinos, gambling is only allowed when the ship is in international waters, not while docked in any New Zealand port, as stipulated by the Gambling Act 2003.
When catering to a casino cruise, make sure you can gamble responsibly and not overspend. Also, take note that New Zealand gamblers should search for such events from international companies.