What Cruise Lines Have Casinos Top Picks for Gamblers

Most major cruise lines feature onboard casinos, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line leading the pack for gamblers seeking high-energy gaming at sea. These top picks offer extensive slots, table games, and poker tournaments, often with luxurious venues and competitive rewards programs. Whether you’re a casual player or high roller, these cruise lines deliver a Vegas-style experience on the waves.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line: Offers lively casinos with slots, poker, and blackjack on most ships.
• Royal Caribbean: Features high-energy gaming floors and exclusive high-limit areas for serious players.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Boasts modern casinos with diverse table games and frequent tournaments.
• Celebrity Cruises: Provides sophisticated gaming lounges with premium slots and personalized service.
• MSC Cruises: Delivers European-style casinos with roulette and baccarat-focused action.
• Holland America: Focuses on classic table games in an elegant, low-key casino environment.

What Cruise Lines Have Casinos? Top Picks for Gamblers

For many travelers, the allure of a cruise lies not just in the destinations but in the onboard experiences. Among the most sought-after amenities are casinos at sea, offering everything from slot machines to high-stakes poker tables. But not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to gaming. Some boast sprawling, Vegas-style casinos, while others offer more modest gaming lounges. If you’re a gambler looking to combine the thrill of the tables with the relaxation of a luxury cruise, knowing what cruise lines have casinos is essential.

The cruise industry has evolved dramatically over the past two decades, with onboard casinos becoming a staple on most major lines. These floating gaming halls are designed to mimic the energy and excitement of land-based casinos, complete with professional dealers, live entertainment, and even loyalty programs. Whether you’re into blackjack, roulette, craps, or progressive jackpot slots, there’s likely a cruise line that caters to your gaming preferences. This guide will walk you through the top cruise lines with casinos, highlight their unique offerings, and provide practical tips to help you maximize your gaming experience at sea. From budget-friendly options to high-roller destinations, we’ve got you covered.

Why Cruise Casinos Are a Unique Gambling Experience

A Floating Vegas: The Appeal of Sea-Based Gaming

Casinos at sea offer a distinct advantage over their land-based counterparts: the ability to play while traveling. Unlike traditional casinos, cruise ship casinos operate in international waters, where gambling laws are more lenient. This means you can enjoy a full suite of games—including games like craps and roulette, which are sometimes restricted on land—without legal restrictions. The atmosphere is often more relaxed and less intimidating than a Vegas casino, making it ideal for casual players and high rollers alike.

Another unique perk is the 24/7 gaming during sea days. When the ship is not in port, the casino typically remains open, allowing guests to play at any time. This is a major draw for gamblers who want to maximize their time at the tables. Additionally, many cruise lines offer complimentary drinks while playing, creating a more social and enjoyable environment than you might find in a traditional casino.

Casino Loyalty Programs and Player Perks

One of the most compelling reasons to gamble on a cruise is the player rewards programs offered by major cruise lines. These programs track your play and reward you with benefits such as:

• Complimentary or discounted future cruises
• Free drinks and meals
• Priority boarding and cabin upgrades
• Exclusive tournament invitations
• Onboard credit (OBC) for gaming or spa services

For example, Royal Caribbean’s Casino Royale program allows players to earn points based on coin-in and time played. The higher your tier, the more perks you receive. Similarly, Carnival Cruise Line’s Casino Players Club offers tiered benefits and special events for frequent players. These programs are a major incentive for gamblers to return to the same cruise line repeatedly.

Legal Considerations and Operating Hours

It’s important to understand that cruise ship casinos only operate when the ship is in international waters—typically at least 3 miles from shore. Once the ship docks, the casino closes until departure. This means that on port days, gaming is only available during transit to and from the destination. Most casinos open around 8–10 AM and close around 2–4 AM, depending on the ship and itinerary.

Additionally, all cruise lines enforce strict age requirements: you must be at least 18 or 21, depending on the line and region. For example, Royal Caribbean requires guests to be 18+ in most regions, while Carnival and Norwegian require 21+. Always check the specific policy before booking if gaming is a priority.

Top Cruise Lines with Casinos: The Heavy Hitters

Royal Caribbean International: The King of Onboard Casinos

Royal Caribbean is widely regarded as having the best casinos at sea. Their ships feature large, well-lit gaming areas with a wide variety of games, including:

• Over 300 slot machines (including progressive jackpots)
• Blackjack, craps, and roulette tables
• High-limit VIP areas
• Poker tournaments and Texas Hold’em tables

The Casino Royale program is one of the most generous in the industry. Players can earn up to 50% more points on select sailings and receive complimentary cruise credits based on play. The line also hosts Casino Royale Tournaments on select voyages, with prizes including free cruises and cash.

Notable ships with standout casinos include Symphony of the Seas (the largest cruise ship in the world) and Harmony of the Seas, both of which feature expansive gaming floors with panoramic ocean views. Royal Caribbean also offers Casino Cashback promotions, where players can receive a percentage of their losses back as onboard credit—a rare and valuable perk.

Carnival Cruise Line: Fun and Friendly Gaming

Carnival is known for its fun, casual atmosphere, and its casinos reflect that vibe. The Casino Players Club offers tiered benefits (Blue, Gold, Platinum, Diamond), with higher tiers unlocking perks like free drinks, cabin upgrades, and priority embarkation. Carnival casinos feature:

• Over 200 slot machines per ship
• Blackjack, roulette, and craps tables
• Poker tables and weekly tournaments
• Specialty games like Let It Ride and Three Card Poker

One standout feature is the Casino Cashback program, which returns 25–100% of losses as OBC, depending on your tier. Carnival also runs frequent promotions, such as “Double Points Days” and “Free Play Bonuses.” Ships like Carnival Horizon and Carnival Celebration have modern, spacious casinos with vibrant lighting and music, creating an energetic yet welcoming environment.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): High-Roller Haven

Norwegian Cruise Line is a favorite among serious gamblers, thanks to its luxurious, high-limit gaming areas and generous player perks. The Casino at Sea program offers:

• Complimentary drinks while playing
• Exclusive VIP lounges with higher table limits
• Private poker tournaments
• Onboard credit based on play (up to $5,000 per cruise)

NCL’s Breakaway-class ships (e.g., Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Escape) feature casinos with over 300 slots and 20+ table games. The line also offers high-stakes bingo and Casino Royale Tournaments, with prizes up to $10,000. For high rollers, NCL’s Platinum and Diamond tiers provide access to private gaming events and dedicated hosts.

Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines with Solid Casinos

Celebrity Cruises: Sophisticated Gaming on a Budget

While Celebrity is known for its upscale, modern-luxury vibe, it also offers a surprisingly robust casino experience. The Casino Players Club is free to join and rewards players with:

• Complimentary drinks
• OBC based on play
• Access to exclusive tournaments
• Priority check-in and cabin upgrades

Celebrity’s casinos feature a mix of classic and modern games, including:

• Over 250 slot machines
• Blackjack, craps, and roulette
• Poker tables and weekly tournaments
• Electronic table games (ETGs) for faster play

The line’s Edge-class ships (e.g., Celebrity Edge) have sleek, contemporary casinos with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering stunning ocean views. Celebrity also runs frequent promotions, such as “Free Play Fridays” and “Double Points Days.” While not as flashy as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity’s casinos provide a refined, low-pressure environment perfect for casual and serious players alike.

MSC Cruises: Affordable Gaming with European Flair

MSC Cruises, known for its European heritage, offers a unique casino experience with a continental twist. The MSC Voyagers Club includes casino rewards, such as:

• OBC based on play
• Complimentary drinks
• Exclusive tournament invites
• Priority boarding and cabin upgrades

MSC’s casinos feature:

• Over 200 slot machines
• Blackjack, roulette, and baccarat tables
• Poker and weekly tournaments
• High-limit VIP areas on select ships

One standout feature is the baccarat tables, which are popular in Europe but less common on U.S.-based lines. Ships like MSC Seaside and MSC Grandiosa have modern, spacious casinos with vibrant lighting and music. MSC also offers Casino Cashback promotions, where players can receive up to 50% of losses back as OBC. For budget-conscious gamblers, MSC provides a solid gaming experience without the high-end price tag.

Luxury and Premium Cruise Lines with Casinos

Princess Cruises: Elegant Gaming with a Personal Touch

Princess Cruises combines luxury with a welcoming casino atmosphere. The Princess Players Club rewards players with:

• Complimentary drinks
• OBC based on play
• Exclusive tournament invites
• Personalized service from casino hosts

Princess casinos feature a mix of classic and modern games, including:

• Over 200 slot machines
• Blackjack, craps, and roulette
• Poker tables and weekly tournaments
• Electronic table games (ETGs)

The line’s Royal-class ships (e.g., Royal Princess) have spacious casinos with elegant decor and ocean views. Princess also offers Casino Cashback promotions and hosts high-stakes tournaments with prizes up to $10,000. For gamblers who value personalized service and a relaxed environment, Princess is an excellent choice.

Holland America Line: Classic Casinos with a Timeless Vibe

Holland America is known for its traditional, old-world charm, and its casinos reflect that heritage. The Casino Players Club offers:

• Complimentary drinks
• OBC based on play
• Exclusive tournament invites
• Priority boarding and cabin upgrades

Holland America’s casinos feature:

• Over 150 slot machines
• Blackjack, roulette, and craps
• Poker tables and weekly tournaments
• High-limit VIP areas on select ships

The line’s Pinnacle-class ships (e.g., Koningsdam) have elegant casinos with wood-paneled walls and chandeliers, creating a timeless, sophisticated atmosphere. Holland America also runs frequent promotions, such as “Free Play Days” and “Double Points Weeks.” For gamblers who enjoy a classic, low-key casino experience, Holland America is a top pick.

Practical Tips for Gambling on a Cruise

Maximizing Your Player Rewards

To get the most out of cruise casino loyalty programs, follow these tips:

• Enroll early: Sign up for the player’s club as soon as you board to start earning points from day one.
• Track your play: Keep your player card inserted at all times to ensure all activity is recorded.
• Ask about promotions: Inquire about special events, free play bonuses, and double points days.
• Play strategically: Focus on games with better odds (e.g., blackjack, video poker) to maximize rewards.

Managing Your Bankroll at Sea

Gambling on a cruise can be expensive, so it’s important to set limits:

• Set a daily budget: Decide how much you’re willing to lose per day and stick to it.
• Use cash, not credit: Avoid using credit cards to prevent overspending.
• Take breaks: Step away from the tables to enjoy other onboard activities.
• Know when to quit: If you’re on a losing streak, don’t chase losses.

Choosing the Right Cruise for Your Gaming Style

Consider these factors when selecting a cruise line:

• Game variety: Do you prefer slots, table games, or poker?
• Table limits: Are you a casual player or a high roller?
• Player perks: How important are rewards and cashback?
• Itinerary: Will the ship be in port often, limiting casino hours?

Casino Comparison Table: At-a-Glance Overview

Cruise Line	Casino Size (Avg. Slots)	Table Games	High-Limit VIP Area?	Player Rewards Program	Cashback Offered?
Royal Caribbean	300+	Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker	Yes	Casino Royale	Yes
Carnival	200+	Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker	Yes	Casino Players Club	Yes
Norwegian	250+	Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Baccarat	Yes	Casino at Sea	Yes
Celebrity	250+	Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker	Yes	Casino Players Club	Yes
MSC	200+	Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Poker	Yes	MSC Voyagers Club	Yes
Princess	200+	Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker	Yes	Princess Players Club	Yes

Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a casual player, the cruise lines listed above offer something for everyone. From the high-energy casinos of Royal Caribbean to the elegant lounges of Holland America, there’s a perfect fit for your gaming style. The key is to choose a line that aligns with your preferences in games, rewards, and atmosphere. With the right strategy and a bit of luck, your next cruise could be a winning adventure.

Remember, the best cruise casinos combine entertainment, rewards, and a touch of luxury. By leveraging player programs, managing your bankroll, and selecting the right itinerary, you can turn your next voyage into a gambler’s paradise. So pack your lucky charm, set your budget, and get ready to hit the tables—because when it comes to what cruise lines have casinos, the possibilities are endless.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines have casinos onboard?

Major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises all feature fully equipped casinos. These floating gaming hubs offer slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette tables, open while the ship is at sea.

Which cruise line has the largest casino at sea?

Royal Caribbean’s *Freedom-class* and *Oasis-class* ships boast some of the largest casinos, with over 30,000 square feet of gaming space. These mega-ships feature high-limit tables, slot tournaments, and dedicated poker rooms.

Do cruise ship casinos operate in international waters?

Yes, cruise ship casinos only open once the vessel reaches international waters (typically 3+ miles offshore), complying with maritime gambling laws. They close when the ship docks at ports where gambling is restricted.

Are cruise line casinos open 24/7?

Most cruise ship casinos operate during set hours, often from late morning until the early hours of the next day. Hours may vary by itinerary and port regulations, but peak times align with evening entertainment schedules.

What cruise lines have casinos with poker tournaments?

Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line frequently host poker tournaments, including Texas Hold’em events. Royal Caribbean also offers competitive poker leagues on select voyages.

Can you use cruise line loyalty points in the casino?

Yes, many cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America allow passengers to use onboard credit or loyalty points for gambling. Check your program’s terms for specific redemption options and restrictions.