Most large cruise ships have casinos and spending time gambling can be a fun part of taking a cruise. Gambling at sea can be a little different from gambling on land. Casinos on cruise ships have rules that can tip the balance more in their favor than land-based casinos. Players need to be aware that their chances of winning are often lower at sea than on land.
1. Odds aren’t as good
In the case of a game of blackjack, cruise ship casinos may offer payouts of 6/5 instead of the more usual 3/2. This may not sound like much but for a $10 bet, you would receive $12 on blackjack instead of the typical $15.
When playing table games like blackjack at an online casino, the house edge typically ranges from 0.5% to 2%. However, it can go as low as 0.15% or less if you use the right strategies.
2. Table games are limited
Cruise ship casinos would rather fill up their casinos with more profitable slot games. They also tend to attract casual gamers. You will also find roulette wheels but games like poker and blackjack are usually limited. A casino may host tournaments that feature various casino games from slot tournaments to card game tournaments for blackjack and Texas Hold’em.
3. U.S. age restrictions may not apply
In most states in the U.S., gambling is illegal for citizens under the age of 21. There are also cruise ships that require gamblers to be over 21 but many of them allow anyone over the age of 18 to gamble. For young minds, this could be harmful. It’s important to check the policy of a specific cruise line before booking.
4. Opening times can vary
Casinos must think about tax rules and regulations. This is why they may not be open when the ship is in port. They will only open when the ship is at sea in international waters. You can find out about the opening hours throughout the cruise from the daily program or by speaking to a casino host. Casinos may stay open until 2 or 3 am.
5. You can make use of loyalty programs
If you gamble frequently, you can rack up points while playing in a cruise ship casino and redeem them for various perks. You may be able to earn free drinks, onboard credits or even a free cruise. Just remember that you will need to put in some serious playing time to make this happen. Seasickness causes vertigo and other symptoms but keeping busy playing at the casino can take your mind off them.
6. You can take beginner sessions
The casinos on board a ship usually have a sociable atmosphere and lower table minimums to encourage casual players. Cruise ship casinos often offer lessons for beginners, and it may be less intimidating to learn how to play in this environment. See if the daily program advertises any beginner sessions.
7. You can’t use onboard credit for gambling
You may have some onboard credit on your account, but most cruise lines don’t allow you to use it for gambling.
8. Don’t count on getting free drinks
It is quite common to receive free drinks while gambling at land-based casinos. This is not the case at casinos on cruise ships. Unless you have a beverage package, you will have to pay for each drink you order. Some cruise lines may offer a free drink after you spend a certain amount.
9. You won’t be able to smoke
Traditionally, smokers were allowed to smoke in cruise ship casinos. This is no longer the case on most cruise ships. Outdoor smoking terraces may be available outside some of the casinos.
10. Cash out before you disembark
Remember to cash out your winnings before the casino closes on your last night or you may be unable to claim them.