Rolling the dice at sea-is it worth it to gamble on a cruise?

You’ve booked a cruise and you’re ready for your vacation! Now what? You’ve dreamed of sipping cocktails by the pool, watching the sunsets and trying your luck in the casino.

Gambling on a cruise ship might be your idea of paradise. Floating casinos have become a staple of the cruise industry, offering a blend of luxury, entertainment, and a chance to win or lose at sea.

But how does gambling differ on a ship versus land? Let’s dive in.

Most larger cruise ships feature fully equipped casinos. The hours of operation may be different than land-based casinos. Ships can’t open until they are in international waters, typically 12 nautical miles from shore. Local gambling laws no longer apply. Now you’re at the mercy of the cruise casinos!

Gambling revenues are a significant source of income for cruise lines. They have the ability to set the percentages of payback on slot machines and the table limits for blackjack, craps, and more. Know the odds: Cruise casinos often have slightly worse odds than Land-based casinos. For example, blackjack may pay6:5 instead of a traditional 3:2. Tables may have higher minimums, especially in the evening. Does that mean you can’t win? No. It just means that you need to know the rules and set your limits. You could attend the free gaming lessons that the cruise line offers.

Although you don’t usually find the glitz and glamour of Vegas or the high rollers, you’ll usually find a more relaxed and casual atmosphere. You’ll find a mix of seasoned gamblers, first timers and vacationers looking for entertainment. As land based casinos give perks of free rooms and meals, cruise casinos also have reward programs. It’s best to check with the casino host to find out what benefits are being offered on this cruise. You don’t know what you might be missing out on if you don’t know what’s available.

On many cruise lines, you can earn free cruises, free drinks, and many other perks. What’s important to you? Are you there to gamble your $100 and call it a night or do you want to go home with a free cruise? It’s important to set a budget of how much you’re willing to spend, win or lose.

Follow my blogs to learn more about how you earn points and win free cruises. I am booked on 48 free cruises in 2025.