What Cruise Lines Have Casinos On Board for Gambling Fun

Most major cruise lines—including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess—feature full-service casinos on board, offering slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. These onboard casinos operate in international waters, where gambling is legally permitted, providing guests with thrilling gaming action alongside live entertainment and cocktail service. Whether you’re a high roller or casual player, these cruise lines deliver a Vegas-style experience at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines feature onboard casinos with slots, poker, and table games.
• Carnival Cruise Line offers high-energy casinos with frequent gaming promotions.
• Royal Caribbean provides large, Vegas-style casinos on nearly all ships.
• NCL’s Casino at Sea includes exclusive tournaments and player rewards programs.
• Holland America features smaller, refined casinos ideal for casual gamblers.
• Celebrity Cruises combines modern gaming floors with upscale lounge experiences.

The Allure of High Seas Gambling: What Cruise Lines Have Casinos On Board for Gambling Fun

Imagine the gentle sway of a luxury cruise liner cutting through turquoise waters, the sun setting behind a skyline of palm-fringed islands, and the soft chime of slot machines echoing through a vibrant, neon-lit room. For many travelers, the combination of oceanic relaxation and high-energy gambling creates an irresistible vacation experience. Cruise ship casinos have evolved from small, understated gambling corners to full-fledged entertainment hubs, offering everything from blackjack and roulette to poker tournaments and high-stakes slots. If you’re wondering, what cruise lines have casinos on board, you’re not alone—this is one of the most frequently asked questions among both seasoned cruisers and first-time gamblers.

The appeal of onboard casinos lies in their unique blend of convenience, luxury, and excitement. Unlike land-based casinos, cruise ship casinos operate under international maritime laws, which allow them to offer real-money gambling while at sea (typically beyond the 3-12 nautical mile territorial limit of most countries). This means passengers can enjoy a full casino experience without leaving the comfort of their floating resort. From classic table games to modern electronic gaming, these floating casinos cater to casual players and high rollers alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the major cruise lines that feature casinos, what makes their gambling offerings unique, and insider tips to maximize your fun—and maybe even your winnings—on your next voyage.

Top Cruise Lines with Full-Service Casinos

Not all cruise lines offer gambling facilities, and even among those that do, the quality, size, and variety of games can vary significantly. Below, we break down the leading cruise lines known for their robust casino offerings, including the brands that prioritize gaming as a core part of the guest experience.

Carnival Cruise Line: Fun, Flashy, and Full of Games

Carnival Cruise Line, often dubbed the “Fun Ships,” is one of the most popular cruise brands for budget-conscious travelers—and it also delivers big on casino action. Their onboard casinos, branded as Carnival Players Club, are found on nearly every ship in the fleet. These casinos feature:

• Over 200 slot machines, including progressive jackpots and video poker
• Classic table games: Blackjack, craps, roulette, and Three Card Poker
• Daily poker tournaments with cash prizes
• Free gaming lessons for beginners
• Complimentary drinks while playing (a major perk for many gamblers)

One standout feature is Carnival’s Casino Cashback Program, which rewards players with onboard credit based on their play. For example, after spending $1,000 in the casino, you might receive $100 back as credit for dining, excursions, or spa services. This loyalty incentive makes Carnival a top pick for frequent cruisers who love to gamble.

Royal Caribbean International: High-Tech and High-Volume Gaming

Royal Caribbean takes casino design to the next level with its Casino Royale concept, found on ships like Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Anthem of the Seas. These aren’t just rooms—they’re immersive entertainment zones with:

• Over 400 slot machines and electronic table games
• Dedicated poker rooms with daily Texas Hold’em tournaments
• High-limit areas for VIP players
• Live dealers for craps, roulette, and blackjack
• Interactive gaming walls with skill-based games

Royal Caribbean also partners with Caesars Entertainment to offer a loyalty program called Total Rewards. Players earn points that can be redeemed for free cruises, hotel stays, and even concert tickets at Caesars properties on land. This cross-promotional strategy is a major draw for gamblers who want to maximize their rewards across both land and sea.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Freestyle Casino Experience

NCL’s Casino at Sea reflects the brand’s “freestyle cruising” philosophy—no formal dress codes, flexible dining, and a relaxed yet vibrant casino atmosphere. Key features include:

• Over 250 slot machines and electronic games
• Table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat
• Weekly poker tournaments with prize pools up to $5,000
• Free gaming seminars and strategy workshops
• Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for players

One unique offering is the NCL Players Club, which allows guests to earn points toward free cruises, upgrades, and onboard credit. The casino is also open 24 hours once the ship is at least 12 nautical miles from shore, giving night owls plenty of time to play.

Princess Cruises: Elegant Gaming with a Personal Touch

Princess Cruises appeals to a more mature, sophisticated crowd, and its Princess Casino matches that vibe with a refined, low-key atmosphere. Highlights include:

• Over 200 slot machines with popular themes (e.g., Wheel of Fortune, Monopoly)
• Table games with low minimum bets (starting at $5)
• Weekly blackjack and craps tournaments
• Free gaming lessons and strategy guides
• Personalized player rewards through the Casino Players Club

Princess also offers a unique “Casino Cruise” itinerary, where the ship spends extra time at sea to allow for extended gaming hours. These themed voyages often include special events like celebrity poker nights and high-stakes blackjack tables.

MSC Cruises: European Flair with International Appeal

MSC Cruises, a European-based line with a growing global presence, features MSC Casino on most of its modern ships. The design blends Mediterranean elegance with high-energy gaming, offering:

• Over 300 slot machines and electronic games
• Table games including blackjack, roulette, and sic bo (popular in Asia)
• Daily poker tournaments and progressive jackpot slots
• Free drinks for players (a staple in European-style casinos)
• Loyalty program with tiered benefits (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum)

MSC’s casinos are particularly popular on transatlantic and world cruises, where longer sea days mean more time for gambling. The brand also hosts special “Casino Weeks” with enhanced prizes and entertainment.

How Cruise Ship Casinos Work: Rules, Regulations, and Logistics

Understanding how cruise ship casinos operate is essential for maximizing your experience. Unlike land-based casinos, floating gambling venues follow a unique set of rules shaped by international maritime law, port regulations, and cruise line policies.

When and Where Gambling Is Legal Onboard

Cruise ship casinos are only allowed to operate when the vessel is outside territorial waters—typically 3 to 12 nautical miles from any coastline. This means:

• Casinos are closed while docked at ports of call.
• Gambling usually begins after the ship departs the home port and ends before arrival.
• On transatlantic or world cruises with multiple sea days, casinos can remain open for extended periods.

For example, on a 7-day Caribbean cruise, the casino might be open for only 3–4 days, depending on the itinerary. Always check your cruise line’s daily schedule to see when the casino is operational.

Licensing and Regulation

Most major cruise lines operate their casinos under licenses issued by foreign jurisdictions such as:

• The Bahamas (Carnival, Royal Caribbean)
• The Isle of Man (Norwegian, Princess)
• Panama (MSC)

These licenses ensure that the casinos meet strict standards for fairness, security, and responsible gambling. Games are regularly audited, and slot machines use certified random number generators (RNGs) to ensure fair play.

Currency and Payment Methods

All onboard gambling is conducted in U.S. dollars, regardless of the ship’s itinerary. You can:

• Buy chips with a credit card, cash, or onboard account
• Withdraw cash from the casino cage (subject to credit limit)
• Redeem winnings directly to your onboard account or as cash

Pro Tip: Use your cruise card to track play and redeem rewards. Most lines offer free drink coupons or bonus play after a certain amount of gambling.

Age and ID Requirements

The minimum age to gamble on cruise ships is 21 years old for U.S.-based lines and 18+ for European lines (e.g., MSC). Always carry a valid photo ID (passport or driver’s license) to enter the casino. Minors are not permitted in gambling areas, even if accompanied by adults.

Casino Games and Features: What to Expect Onboard

Modern cruise ship casinos offer a surprisingly diverse range of games, blending classic favorites with modern innovations. Whether you’re a slots enthusiast or a poker pro, there’s something for every type of gambler.

Slot Machines: The Backbone of Onboard Gaming

Slot machines are the most popular games on cruise ships, accounting for over 70% of casino revenue. You’ll find:

• Classic 3-reel slots: Simple, nostalgic games with low volatility
• Video slots: Themed games (e.g., Game of Thrones, Jurassic Park) with bonus rounds
• Progressive jackpots: Machines linked across the fleet, with jackpots reaching $10,000+
• Skill-based slots: Interactive games where player decisions affect outcomes

Tip: Look for “Must-Hit-By” jackpots—these are guaranteed to pay out before reaching a certain amount, increasing your odds.

Table Games: Strategy, Skill, and Social Fun

Table games are the heart of any casino, and cruise ships deliver with:

• Blackjack: Most popular table game; look for tables with 3:2 payouts (avoid 6:5)
• Roulette: European (single zero) vs. American (double zero)—European has better odds
• Craps: High-energy dice game; free lessons are often available
• Three Card Poker: Simple and fast-paced; combines poker and blackjack elements
• Baccarat: Popular on Asian itineraries; low house edge

Pro Tip: Start with lower minimum bets ($5–$10) and take advantage of free lessons to learn the rules before playing for real money.

Poker Rooms and Tournaments

Many cruise lines have dedicated poker rooms with:

• Daily Texas Hold’em tournaments (buy-ins from $25 to $200)
• Sit-and-go games for quick action
• Cash games with blinds from $1/$2 to $5/$10
• Special events like “High Roller Tournaments” on longer cruises

Royal Caribbean and Carnival are particularly known for their well-run poker programs. Some ships even host World Poker Tour (WPT) qualifiers.

Special Features and Amenities

Beyond games, cruise ship casinos offer amenities to enhance the experience:

• Free drinks: Complimentary cocktails, beer, and wine for players (non-alcoholic options available)
• Comfortable seating: Ergonomic chairs and climate-controlled environments
• Live entertainment: Some casinos feature music, DJs, or themed nights
• Smoking areas: Designated zones (varies by ship and itinerary)

Loyalty Programs and Rewards: Getting the Most from Your Play

One of the biggest advantages of gambling on cruise ships is the opportunity to earn valuable rewards through loyalty programs. These systems are designed to keep players engaged and returning for future voyages.

How Cruise Casino Loyalty Programs Work

Most major lines offer tiered membership programs where you earn points based on:

• Amount of money wagered
• Time spent playing
• Type of game (e.g., slots vs. table games)

Points can be redeemed for:

• Onboard credit
• Free cruises
• Cabin upgrades
• Spa treatments
• Special event access

Top Cruise Casino Loyalty Programs

Cruise Line	Program Name	Key Benefits	Redemption Options
Carnival	Players Club	Cashback (up to 20%), free play, drink coupons	Onboard credit, future cruises
Royal Caribbean	Total Rewards (Caesars)	Land-based hotel stays, concert tickets, cruise discounts	Free cruises, Caesars resorts
Norwegian	NCL Players Club	Free cruises, cabin upgrades, priority boarding	Onboard credit, free voyages
Princess	Casino Players Club	Personalized rewards, free lessons, tournament invites	Onboard credit, spa services
MSC	MSC Club	Tiered benefits (Gold/Platinum), exclusive events	Free cruises, onboard perks

Pro Tip: Always sign up for the loyalty program at the start of your cruise. Many lines offer instant sign-up bonuses like free play or drink vouchers.

Maximizing Your Rewards

• Play during bonus point days (check the daily newsletter)
• Use your cruise card to track all play
• Ask casino hosts about special promotions (e.g., “Double Points Weekend”)
• Link your land-based loyalty accounts (e.g., Caesars, MGM) to your cruise profile

Tips for a Successful and Enjoyable Casino Cruise Experience

Gambling on a cruise should be fun, not stressful. With the right approach, you can enjoy the thrill of the game while staying within your budget and making the most of your vacation.

Set a Gambling Budget

Before you even step into the casino, decide how much money you’re willing to lose. A good rule of thumb is:

• Limit gambling to 5–10% of your total cruise budget
• Use cash or a separate credit card to avoid overspending
• Stop playing when you’ve reached your limit—no chasing losses

Take Advantage of Freebies

Cruise casinos are generous with free perks. Make sure to:

• Sign up for free gaming lessons (especially for craps and blackjack)
• Ask for complimentary drinks (non-alcoholic options available)
• Join loyalty programs for instant bonuses
• Attend free poker tournaments with cash prizes

Choose the Right Games

Not all games are equal in terms of odds. For the best player advantage:

• Play blackjack with 3:2 payouts (avoid 6:5 tables)
• Opt for European roulette (single zero)
• Stick to low volatility slots if you want longer play time
• Try poker tournaments with small buy-ins

Know When to Walk Away

The most important rule of gambling: know when to quit. Set win and loss limits:

• Quit if you’ve doubled your bankroll
• Stop playing if you’ve lost your daily budget
• Take breaks—don’t play for more than 2–3 hours straight

Enjoy the Atmosphere

Remember, the casino is just one part of your cruise. Don’t miss out on other activities like:

• Shows and live entertainment
• Port excursions and beach days
• Spa treatments and fine dining
• Sunset cocktails and deck parties

Final Thought: A cruise with a casino is about balance—enjoy the games, but don’t let gambling overshadow the rest of your vacation.

Conclusion: Sailing into the World of Onboard Gambling

For those who love the thrill of the game, cruise ships offer a unique and luxurious way to gamble at sea. From the flashy, high-energy casinos of Carnival and Royal Caribbean to the elegant, low-key environments of Princess and MSC, there’s a perfect fit for every type of gambler. Whether you’re drawn to the spin of the roulette wheel, the strategy of blackjack, or the excitement of a progressive jackpot, the answer to what cruise lines have casinos on board is clear: most of the major players do—and they do it well.

By understanding the rules, choosing the right games, leveraging loyalty programs, and setting smart limits, you can turn your cruise into a memorable gambling adventure. Just remember: the goal is fun, not fortune. With the ocean breeze in your hair, a drink in your hand, and the sound of chips stacking up, you’re not just gambling—you’re living the high-seas dream. So pack your lucky charm, sign up for that Players Club card, and set sail for your next casino cruise. The jackpot might be waiting just around the next port.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines have casinos on board for gambling enthusiasts?

Most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Princess Cruises, feature full-service casinos on board. These casinos offer slot machines, poker, blackjack, and other table games while at sea.

Do all cruise ships have a casino on board?

While most large mainstream cruise lines have onboard casinos, some smaller luxury or expedition-focused lines (like Seabourn or Silversea) may offer limited gaming options or none at all. Always check the specific ship’s amenities before booking.

Which cruise lines have the biggest casinos at sea?

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships and Carnival’s Mardi Gras feature some of the largest casinos on board, with hundreds of slot machines and dozens of table games. These mega-ships cater to serious gamblers with high-limit areas and frequent tournaments.

Can I gamble on a cruise ship while docked in port?

No, onboard casinos are legally required to close while ships are docked in port due to local gambling laws. Gaming operations typically resume once the ship departs and enters international waters.

What cruise lines have casinos with poker rooms?

Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean all have dedicated poker rooms on select ships, often hosting Texas Hold’em tournaments. Some even partner with World Poker Tour for branded events at sea.

Are cruise ship casinos open 24/7?

Most onboard casinos operate during set hours (often 9 AM to 3 AM) and close when the ship is in port. Hours vary by cruise line and itinerary, but gaming typically ramps up during sea days.