Featured image for what cruise lines do not have casinos
Several major cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International, do not have casinos on select ships or sailings—primarily those catering to families or operating in regions with gambling restrictions. These lines often replace traditional casinos with immersive entertainment, kids’ clubs, and adult-exclusive zones to align with their brand values. If avoiding gambling is a priority, options like Disney’s alcohol-free ships or Alaska-focused lines like UnCruise Adventures offer entirely casino-free experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Choose Carnival: No casinos on select family-friendly ships.
- Royal Caribbean: Some ships lack casinos for non-gamblers.
- Disney Cruise Line: Entirely casino-free for all ages.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: A few ships skip casinos on short trips.
- Holland America: No casinos on its smaller, luxury vessels.
- Book themed cruises: Look for non-gambling-focused itineraries.
- Check deck plans: Verify casino absence before booking.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Choose a Cruise Without a Casino?
- Understanding Why Some Cruise Lines Avoid Casinos
- Top Cruise Lines That Do Not Have Casinos
- Regional and Itinerary-Based Casino Restrictions
- How to Verify If a Cruise Ship Has a Casino
- Benefits of Choosing a Casino-Free Cruise
- Data Table: Casino-Free Cruise Lines at a Glance
- Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Casino-Free Cruise
Why Choose a Cruise Without a Casino?
For many travelers, a cruise vacation is the ultimate escape—a floating paradise where relaxation, adventure, and indulgence come together. But for some, the glitzy, noisy, and often high-pressure atmosphere of a cruise ship casino is the last thing they want to experience. Whether you’re traveling with children, prefer a quieter environment, are sensitive to gambling culture, or simply want to avoid the temptation of losing money, there are excellent cruise lines that cater to your needs by offering casino-free vacations.
While most major cruise lines feature onboard casinos—often operated by third-party gaming companies like Carnival Corporation’s partnership with Caesars Entertainment—there are still several reputable brands and niche operators that have chosen to exclude gambling from their ships entirely. This decision often stems from religious, cultural, or family-focused values, or a commitment to wellness and mindfulness. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what cruise lines do not have casinos, the reasons behind their choices, the types of travelers they attract, and how to find the perfect non-gambling cruise for your next getaway. Whether you’re a family with young kids, a retiree seeking peace, or a spiritual traveler, this guide will help you navigate the world of casino-free cruising with confidence.
Understanding Why Some Cruise Lines Avoid Casinos
The decision for a cruise line to exclude casinos from its ships is rarely arbitrary. It’s a strategic and often deeply rooted choice that reflects the company’s mission, target audience, and brand identity. Below, we break down the key reasons why certain cruise lines choose not to include onboard gambling.
Religious and Cultural Values
One of the most significant factors influencing a cruise line’s decision to avoid casinos is religious or cultural beliefs. For example, some cruise lines operate under faith-based principles that discourage or prohibit gambling. This is especially common among companies with origins in countries or communities where gambling is frowned upon or illegal.
- Royal Caribbean’s sister brand, Azamara, while not religiously motivated, avoids casinos on some ships due to regional regulations and market demand in certain regions.
- Holland America Line, though it does have casinos, has historically been more conservative in its onboard offerings—partly due to its Dutch heritage, where gambling is more regulated.
- Smaller, faith-based operators like Christian Cruise Conferences (which charter entire ships) often select vessels without casinos to align with their values.
These lines understand that for many guests, a cruise should be a spiritual or family-oriented retreat, not a venue for high-stakes betting.
Family-Friendly Focus
Cruise lines that prioritize family vacations often avoid casinos to maintain a child-friendly environment. Casinos can be loud, smoke-filled (in some cases), and filled with adults-only activities, which can make families feel excluded or uncomfortable.
- Disney Cruise Line is the prime example. From the moment you board, the ship is designed for families and children. There are no casinos, no smoking areas, and no adult-only nightlife zones that might conflict with family time.
- Royal Caribbean International has casinos, but their newer ships include family zones far from the casino floor. However, for a truly casino-free experience, families often look to lines that don’t have them at all.
By eliminating casinos, these cruise lines ensure that every public space—from the pool to the theater—is accessible and enjoyable for guests of all ages.
Wellness and Mindfulness Trends
As the wellness travel market grows, more cruise lines are embracing mindful, holistic experiences. Casinos, with their bright lights, constant noise, and focus on risk and reward, are seen as antithetical to the principles of mindfulness, relaxation, and mental clarity.
- Virgin Voyages, while not entirely casino-free (they have a small “Sneaky Sauna” gaming area), minimizes gambling to just a few tables and focuses instead on fitness, spa treatments, and digital detox zones.
- Hurtigruten, the Norwegian expedition cruise line, has no casinos on any of its ships. Their focus is on nature, sustainability, and cultural immersion—gambling simply doesn’t fit the ethos.
For travelers seeking a digital detox, meditation sessions, or nature-based excursions, a casino-free ship provides a more peaceful and intentional atmosphere.
Top Cruise Lines That Do Not Have Casinos
If you’re searching for a cruise that doesn’t include gambling, you’re in luck—there are several reputable and high-quality cruise lines that do not feature casinos on any of their ships. Below are the top brands and niche operators offering casino-free experiences, along with details about their itineraries, onboard amenities, and target audiences.
Disney Cruise Line
As the gold standard for family-friendly, casino-free cruising, Disney Cruise Line operates four modern ships: the Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream, and Fantasy. A fifth ship, the Disney Wish, launched in 2022 with even more family-focused innovations.
- No casinos: Not even a single slot machine. The entire ship is designed to be kid-safe and adult-friendly without gambling.
- Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, themed dining, and immersive experiences like “Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge” and “Marvel Super Hero Academy.”
- Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, and transatlantic crossings.
- Onboard amenities
Best for: Families with children, Disney fans, and travelers who want a magical, stress-free experience.
Hurtigruten Expeditions
Based in Norway, Hurtigruten is a pioneer in eco-conscious expedition cruising. Their fleet of 14+ ships sails to remote destinations like the Arctic, Antarctic, Galápagos, and the Norwegian coast—all without casinos.
- Focus on nature and education: Daily lectures, Zodiac excursions, and wildlife spotting replace gambling entertainment.
- Sustainability: Many ships are hybrid-powered, reducing emissions and supporting conservation efforts.
- No onboard gambling: The only “games” are trivia, nature bingo, and stargazing events.
Best for: Adventure travelers, nature lovers, photographers, and eco-conscious cruisers.
Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic)
Lindblad operates a fleet of small, purpose-built expedition vessels in collaboration with National Geographic. These ships are designed for immersive, educational travel in remote regions.
- No casinos or slot machines: The focus is on exploration, science, and storytelling.
- Onboard experts: Naturalists, historians, and photographers lead excursions and give lectures.
- Destinations: Galápagos, Antarctica, Alaska, Baja California, and Southeast Asia.
Best for: Curious travelers, lifelong learners, and those who want a meaningful, non-commercial cruise experience.
Ponant (Certain Itineraries and Ships)
French luxury line Ponant operates a fleet of small, elegant ships with a strong focus on cultural and destination immersion. While some of their ships have small gaming areas, many itineraries—especially in the Arctic, Antarctica, and the Pacific—are casino-free due to regional regulations and passenger preferences.
- Check itinerary details: Always confirm with the cruise line or your travel agent whether a specific sailing includes gambling.
- Luxury and intimacy: Small ships (184–264 passengers), Michelin-inspired dining, and personalized service.
Best for: Luxury travelers, Francophiles, and those seeking a refined, low-key cruise.
Small Niche and Charter Operators
Beyond the major brands, there are smaller operators and charter groups that specifically book casino-free ships for their clients. These include:
- Christian Cruise Conferences: Charters entire ships (often from Royal Caribbean or Norwegian) and requests the removal of casinos for the duration of the charter.
- Wellness retreats and yoga cruises: Companies like Yoga on the High Seas and Mind Body Cruise book vessels without casinos to maintain a serene environment.
- Educational and alumni cruises: Universities and cultural organizations often choose casino-free lines to align with their values.
Tip: If you’re joining a themed cruise, always ask the organizer whether the ship has a casino. Most will specify this in the itinerary.
Regional and Itinerary-Based Casino Restrictions
Even if a cruise line typically has casinos, certain itineraries or regions may require ships to operate without gambling. This is due to local laws, cultural sensitivities, or port regulations. Understanding these nuances can help you find a casino-free cruise even on a line that normally offers gambling.
Alaska Cruises and the Johnson Act
One of the most well-known examples is Alaska. Under the U.S. Johnson Act (1951), gambling is prohibited on ships while they are in U.S. territorial waters—which includes most of the Inside Passage. As a result:
- Most Alaska cruises are casino-free for the duration of the sailing, even if the ship has a casino that operates in international waters or during other itineraries.
- Casinos may be open during sea days outside U.S. waters (e.g., en route to or from Seattle), but are typically closed in ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
Example: A Royal Caribbean cruise from Seattle to Alaska will have a casino, but it will be closed during most of the voyage. For a completely casino-free experience, book a sailing with no casino at all—like a Disney or Hurtigruten Alaska cruise.
Middle East and Muslim-Majority Destinations
When cruise ships visit countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, or Indonesia, they often must comply with local laws that prohibit gambling. As a result:
- Casinos are closed or removed during these itineraries.
- Some lines, like MSC Cruises, operate separate “dry” ships for Middle Eastern markets.
Tip: If you’re cruising the Red Sea or Persian Gulf, confirm with the cruise line whether gambling is available. In most cases, it will not be.
Antarctica and Polar Expeditions
Due to the remote nature, small ship sizes, and focus on environmental preservation, virtually all Antarctic and Arctic cruises are casino-free. There’s no room for gambling—every square foot is dedicated to science, safety, and exploration.
- Lines like Hurtigruten, Lindblad, Quark Expeditions, and Silversea (on polar itineraries) do not offer casinos.
- Entertainment includes lectures, wildlife watching, and survival training.
Galápagos and Other Protected Areas
National parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Galápagos Islands have strict rules about commercial activities. As a result, cruise lines operating there—such as Lindblad, Celebrity Cruises (Galápagos fleet), and Ecoventura—do not include casinos.
Key takeaway: Always research the specific itinerary, not just the cruise line. A ship may have a casino on a Caribbean cruise but operate it without one in Alaska or the Galápagos.
How to Verify If a Cruise Ship Has a Casino
With so many variables—brand policies, regional laws, and charter agreements—it’s essential to verify whether a specific cruise has a casino before booking. Here’s how to do it effectively.
Check the Cruise Line’s Official Website
Most cruise lines list onboard amenities on their ship pages. Look for a section called “Onboard Activities,” “Entertainment,” or “Amenities.”
- If you see “Casino,” “Gaming Lounge,” or “Slots,” the ship has gambling.
- If there’s no mention of gambling, and the focus is on spas, fitness, or family activities, it’s likely casino-free.
Example: On the Disney Cruise Line website, under “Onboard Experiences,” you’ll find “Kids Clubs,” “Adults-Only Areas,” and “Spa & Fitness”—but no “Casino.”
Contact the Cruise Line or Your Travel Agent
If the website is unclear, call or email customer service with your specific sailing details (ship name, departure date, itinerary).
- Ask: “Does the [Ship Name] have a casino during this [Itinerary] cruise?”
- For charter cruises: “Is the casino open during this charter?”
Travel agents who specialize in niche markets (e.g., wellness, faith-based, family) often have this information on hand.
Review Cruise Forums and Reviews
Websites like Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and Reddit (r/Cruise) have thousands of user reviews. Search for your ship and itinerary, and look for comments like:
- “No casino on board—great for families.”
- “Casino was closed the entire time due to Alaska regulations.”
- “Gambling only available on sea days outside U.S. waters.”
These firsthand accounts are invaluable for real-world insights.
Look for “Casino-Free” or “Gambling-Free” Tags
Some travel agencies and cruise booking sites now offer filters for casino-free cruises. For example:
- CruiseDirect and CruiseSheet allow you to filter by “No Casino.”
- Specialty travel agencies like “Cruise with No Gambling” or “Family Cruise Experts” curate casino-free options.
Pro tip: Book through a specialty agent who understands your needs—they can save you time and ensure your cruise truly meets your expectations.
Benefits of Choosing a Casino-Free Cruise
Opting for a cruise without a casino isn’t just about avoiding gambling—it’s about creating a different kind of vacation experience. Here are the key benefits that attract travelers to casino-free lines.
Quieter, More Relaxing Environment
Without the constant noise of slot machines, card tables, and loud announcements, casino-free ships tend to be calmer and more peaceful. This is especially appealing for:
- Travelers with anxiety or sensory sensitivities.
- Those seeking a digital detox or mindfulness retreat.
- Families who want a safe, child-friendly atmosphere.
On a Disney or Hurtigruten ship, you’re more likely to hear the ocean, birds, or a live acoustic set than the clink of chips.
More Space and Better Use of Deck Areas
Casinos take up valuable real estate on cruise ships—often prime locations near the atrium or main deck. When a line removes the casino, that space is repurposed for:
- Additional dining venues (e.g., Disney’s Animator’s Palate).
- Spa and wellness centers (e.g., Lindblad’s wellness decks).
- Outdoor lounges and observation areas (e.g., Hurtigruten’s panoramic lounges).
This means more room to relax, read, or enjoy the view—without crowds.
Alignment with Personal Values
For many, avoiding gambling is a moral or spiritual choice. A casino-free cruise allows you to vacation in a way that aligns with your beliefs, whether that’s:
- Religious principles (e.g., Christian, Muslim, or Buddhist values).
- Financial mindfulness (avoiding temptation to overspend).
- Environmental ethics (supporting lines focused on sustainability).
You’re not just booking a vacation—you’re supporting a brand that reflects your lifestyle.
Unique and Enriching Onboard Experiences
Without casinos, cruise lines invest in alternative entertainment and activities that enrich the journey:
- Disney: Live shows, character dining, and immersive themed zones.
- Lindblad: Expert lectures, science labs, and photo workshops.
- Hurtigruten: Northern lights viewing, cultural performances, and local cuisine.
These experiences often create lasting memories that go beyond a typical “sun-and-fun” cruise.
Data Table: Casino-Free Cruise Lines at a Glance
| Cruise Line | Casino-Free Ships/Itineraries | Target Audience | Key Destinations | Onboard Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disney Cruise Line | All ships | Families, Disney fans | Caribbean, Alaska, Europe | Broadway shows, kids’ clubs, themed dining |
| Hurtigruten Expeditions | All ships | Adventure travelers, nature lovers | Arctic, Antarctic, Norway | Zodiac tours, wildlife lectures, hybrid engines |
| Lindblad Expeditions | All ships | Educational travelers, photographers | Galápagos, Antarctica, Alaska | Naturalist guides, science labs, photo workshops |
| Ponant | Most Arctic/Antarctic itineraries | Luxury travelers, Francophiles | Polar regions, French Polynesia | Fine dining, small ship intimacy, cultural immersion |
| Christian Cruise Conferences | Chartered ships (no casinos) | Faith-based travelers | Caribbean, Mediterranean | Worship services, Bible study, family activities |
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a values-aligned vacation, choosing a cruise without a casino opens up a world of meaningful, enriching travel experiences. From the magical decks of Disney to the icy fjords of Norway, these lines prove that a great cruise doesn’t need gambling to be unforgettable.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Casino-Free Cruise
The world of cruising is more diverse than ever, and not every ship needs a casino to offer an exceptional experience. For families, wellness seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and those guided by personal values, casino-free cruise lines provide a refreshing alternative to the standard “gambling-and-glitz” model. By choosing a line like Disney, Hurtigruten, or Lindblad, you’re not just avoiding slot machines—you’re embracing a vacation that prioritizes connection, nature, learning, and peace.
As you plan your next cruise, remember to look beyond the brand name and dive into the specific itinerary, ship, and onboard culture. Use the tools and tips in this guide—check official websites, consult travel agents, read reviews, and consider regional restrictions—to ensure your cruise truly aligns with your preferences. Whether you’re sailing to Alaska, exploring the Galápagos, or joining a faith-based retreat, there’s a casino-free cruise out there that’s perfect for you.
So pack your bags, leave the chips at home, and set sail on a journey that’s as intentional as it is unforgettable. The open sea is waiting—without the noise, without the gamble, and with all the magic that a truly mindful cruise can offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cruise lines do not have casinos onboard?
Several major cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, do not have casinos on select ships or offer gambling-free voyages. These options cater to travelers seeking family-friendly or alcohol-free experiences without onboard gambling.
Are there any cruise lines without casinos for families?
Yes, Disney Cruise Line is one of the most popular cruise lines without casinos, prioritizing kid-friendly entertainment and alcohol-free zones. Other lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean also offer specific ships or itineraries with no gambling facilities.
Do cruise lines without casinos have other entertainment options?
Absolutely. Cruise lines without casinos often replace gambling with live shows, movie screenings, themed parties, and interactive activities like trivia or dance classes. For example, Disney Cruise Line focuses on Broadway-style performances and character meet-and-greets.
Which luxury cruise lines do not have casinos?
Ultra-luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn do not have casinos on most of their ships, emphasizing refined experiences like gourmet dining, spa services, and destination-focused excursions. These cater to travelers seeking relaxation over gambling.
Can I find a gambling-free cruise on a mainstream cruise line?
Yes, some mainstream lines like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Princess Cruises offer select ships or themed voyages without casinos, often marketed as “wellness” or “family-focused” trips. Check the ship’s amenities list before booking.
Why do some cruise lines avoid having casinos?
Cruise lines without casinos often aim to create a wholesome, family-friendly atmosphere or align with cultural or religious values (e.g., dry ships for certain itineraries). Others focus on alternative entertainment or wellness-centric experiences to differentiate their brand.