Cruise ship casino floor representing comped cruise questions and casino rating systems

Casino cruise comps are one of the most misunderstood areas of casino marketing. This national FAQ answers the most common questions players ask about how comped cruises actually work, how ADT and Theo are evaluated, and why approvals — or denials — happen.

If you’ve ever wondered why one player gets a free cruise while another does not, or how land casino play translates into cruise offers, this page provides clear, unbiased explanations.

Get Comped — Start Here · Gamblers Host Homepage · Contact a VIP Executive Casino Host


What Are Casino Cruise Comps?

Casino cruise comps are promotional offers where cruise lines provide free or discounted cabins, onboard credit, or perks to players based on their gambling value — not based on loyalty points or total losses alone.

Cruise casino programs use casino math — not guesswork — to decide who qualifies.


How Do Casinos Decide Who Qualifies?

Qualification is primarily based on two metrics:

  • Theo (Theoretical Loss) — expected casino value
  • ADT (Average Daily Theoretical) — Theo averaged per day

Cruise casino teams review ADT to understand consistency and expected value across trips.


Is Actual Win or Loss Important?

No. Actual wins or losses are far less important than theoretical value. A player can win money and still qualify — or lose money and not qualify — depending on how ADT and Theo are calculated.


Do Tribal Casinos Qualify for Cruise Comps?

Yes. Tribal casino play qualifies when it produces verifiable ADT and consistent session history. Cruise programs evaluate tribal and commercial casinos using the same math.


Do I Need to Gamble on a Cruise First?

No. Many cruise comps are issued based on land-based casino play alone. Cruise play becomes relevant only after an initial sailing.


Why Do Some Players Get Denied?

  • Low or inconsistent ADT
  • Incomplete offer documentation
  • Timing outside active promotional windows
  • Mismatch between play profile and sailing

A denial does not mean a player lacks value — only that the submission did not align correctly at that moment.


How Many Days of Play Are Needed?

There is no universal minimum. What matters is:

  • Session length
  • Average bet
  • Number of rated days

Two strong days can outperform five weak days when ADT is higher.


Are Slots or Tables Better?

Neither is “better” universally. Slots tend to produce more predictable Theo, while table games depend on average bet, rules, and session length.


Can Multiple Casino Offers Be Used?

Yes. Packaging multiple offers often strengthens a submission by showing:

  • Consistency across venues
  • Repeat player value
  • Broader ADT confirmation

Do Comped Cruises Include Everything?

Comped cruises typically include the cabin and may include onboard credit, free play, or perks. Taxes, port fees, and gratuities vary by offer and are always disclosed before booking.


Is Increasing My Betting the Right Move?

No. Chasing comps by increasing bets often backfires. Consistency and clean session structure are more effective than volatility.


How Long Does Review Take?

Most reviews complete once offer proof and loyalty information are submitted. Incomplete documentation is the most common cause of delays.


Where Should I Start?

Start by gathering:

  • Current casino offers
  • Players-club numbers
  • Typical games, average bet, and session length

Then submit through the Get Comped form for review.


Related Guides


Next Step — Get Your Play Reviewed

If you want clarity on where you stand — without guessing — submit your play for review.

Start Your Comped Cruise Review →

Educational resource and complimentary service for qualified players.