Cruise Ship Casinos: All You Need to Know Before Boarding

Gambling on a cruise ship can be a great way to have some fun and potentially win some money.

While there are many different games to choose from, slots are popular for many cruisers. One reason is that they offer the chance to win a jackpot, which can be pretty significant on some ships.

If you’re thinking of trying your luck at the Casino while on your next cruise, you should know a few things before you board. Here’s a quick guide to cruise ship casinos, including games offered, betting limits, and tips for playing smart and more information.

What to Expect in a Cruise Ship Casino

Unlike playing at your favorite US online casinos, gambling on a cruise ship casino is similar to gambling in a land-based casino. The games and bets are the same.

You’ll find classic table games like blackjack, poker, and the most popular slots games. The similarity ends there as several things make gambling on a cruise ship different.

Legal Age to Gamble in a Cruise ship Casino

The minimum age to gamble on most cruise ships is 21 years old. There are some exceptions for vessels that sail to destinations where the legal gambling age is 18, such as The Bahamas.

Depending on where the cruise is going, there are different rules about how old you can be to gamble in a casino on a cruise ship when you are in international waters.

Typically, the gambling age on a cruise ship is 18 years old, but if the ship is going to dock in the United States, Bahamas, or Alaska, the minimum age requirement is 21 years old.

For most cruise lines, the minimum gambling age is 18 years old. So if you’re looking to hit the casinos on your next cruise vacation, check the age requirements before booking.

Playing Slots on Your Mobile Phone
Slot Machine One Handed Bandit Game. Rolling Drums. Casinos and Gambling Industry.

The Different Games Offered in a Cruise Ship Casino

The games in a cruise ship casino are similar to those in most land-based casinos. You’ll find all the classics like blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker.

There is usually a good selection of slot machines as well. The number of gaming tables and slots varies by ship but is typically limited.

Other games include baccarat, big wheel, coin pushers, Let it Ride, Caribbean Stud Poker, Pai Gow Poker, Texas Hold ’em, Lotto Draws, and Let it Ride.

Cruise Ship Casinos: All You Need to Know Before Boarding | 19
Carnival Cruise Lines’ 88,500-gross-registered-ton Carnival Pride sailes off Cocoa Beach, Fla. The vessel’s on-board amenities include four swimming pools, water slide, Internet cafŽ, duty-free shopping mall, an elegant two-level restaurant and a steakhouse-style supper club. Photo by Andy Newman/CCL

When Can You Gamble on a Cruise Ship Casino?

Casinos are usually closed when the ship is docked in port and open for business when the ship is sailing. However, some exceptions may depend on local laws where the ship is docked.

Additionally, most casinos will be closed during off hours, typically during the day. This allows passengers to rest since they’ll likely be up late gambling!

So if you’re looking to enjoy some casino action on your next cruise, check the hours of operation before heading to the deck.

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Cruise Ship Casinos: All You Need to Know Before Boarding 6

The Different Bets You Can Make in a Cruise Ship Casino

While the games and rules may be similar to those in land-based casinos, there are some essential differences before you hit the casino floor on your next cruise.

First, it’s important to note that cruises typically have lower betting limits than casinos on land. This is because cruise ship casinos are regulated by gaming commissions, which limit the amount of money that can be wagered on any game.

As a result, if you’re used to high-stakes gambling, you may want to stick to the lower-limit tables. Secondly, most cruise ship casinos only offer a limited selection of games.

And finally, remember that the house always has an edge in casino games. This means that over time, the Casino will always come out ahead.

So while gambling can be a fun way to pass the time on your cruise, be sure to set a budget and stick to it. That way, you can enjoy the experience without breaking the bank.

Princess Cruises All-Inclusive Premier Package
Princess Cruises All-Inclusive Premier Package

Drinking and Smoking in the Casino

Just like in land-based casinos, smoking is allowed inside the Casino.

And while you’re welcome to enjoy a drink while gambling, be aware that most cruise lines will not allow you to bring your alcohol on board.

So if you’re hoping to enjoy a cocktail or two while playing the slots, you’ll have to purchase them from the casino bar; there are usually cocktail servers who will take your order and bring you your drink.

people playing poker
The dealers and staff are there to help.

Getting Started in a Cruise Ship Casino

If you’re new to gambling, don’t worry! The dealers and staff are there to help. They can explain the rules of any game and help you get started.

Most cruise ship casinos will also have a minimum bet, so check that before you start playing. And if you’re not sure how to play a particular game, don’t be afraid to ask the dealer for help.

Financial Methods

If you’re planning to gamble onboard a cruise ship, you must be aware of the monetary aspects of gambling in a casino. Cash is not accepted in most casinos – you’ll need to use chips, which can be purchased at the casino cage with cash or a credit card.

Remember that there is usually a limit to how much cash you can take out of the ATM on the ship. If you plan to gamble a lot, you may want to bring extra cash with you.

When using chips, ask the dealer what each chip is worth – they are typically worth different amounts depending on the game being played. Once you’re done gambling, you can exchange your chips for cash at the casino cage.

If you put your gambling losses on your room account, don’t forget that you’ll have to pay off that balance when you get off the ship.

Final Thought

Gambling on a cruise ship can be a fun and exciting way to pass the time, but it’s essential to be aware of the rules and regulations before playing.

Be sure to check the hours of operation for the Casino and familiarize yourself with the games offered. And remember to set a budget before you start gambling – the house always has an edge, so it’s essential to avoid spending more than you can afford.

Following these simple tips, you will have a fun and enjoyable gambling experience on your next cruise. You can find more information.

John Shallo
John Shallohttp://www.cruiseaddicts.com
John Shallo is the founder and editor of Cruise Addicts. Since 1999 it has been a leading destination for cruise travelers and self professed Cruise Addicts looking for the latest news, ship reviews and travel tips.

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