Comped Casino Cruises Reviews: Where Do Avid Gamblers Win Big?

If you're a casino player who enjoys cruising the high seas, there's never been a better time to score free staterooms, fine dining, spa treatments, and onboard casino cash. Comped casino cruises have become the go-to vacation for rated players, with cruise lines competing for your loyalty—and your bets. But not all casino cruise comps are created equal.

So, which cruise lines offer the best casino perks for high rollers and loyal players? And what happens when a cruise line changes its rewards structure, leaving long-term players adrift? We dive into real player reviews, insider tips, and expert recommendations to help you sail smarter.

Top Cruise Lines Offering the Best Casino Comps

1. Royal Caribbean Casino Royale

• Best for: High volume players, VIP perks

• What Players Say: “The Royal Casino host team truly recognizes loyalty. I've received multiple comped balcony staterooms and even suites.”

• Top Perks: Free cruises, private parties, upgraded accommodations, airfare reimbursement

2. Carnival Players Club

• Best for: Casual to moderate players

• What Players Say: “Carnival used to be the gold standard for casino comps. But after the new rewards program, I’m shopping around.”

• Top Perks (past): Free laundry, guaranteed offers, tiered loyalty status

• Recent Shift: Players report frustration over reduced long-term benefits in favor of short-term spenders.

3. Norwegian Casinos At Sea

• Best for: Variety of itineraries and solid comp offers

• What Players Say: “Norwegian is consistent and generous, especially if you play rated. Their comps and upgrades are worth it.”

• Top Perks: Free cruise offers, upgrades, beverage packages, priority boarding

4. MSC Voyagers Club (Invite-Only Casino Program)

• Best for: European and international itineraries

• What Players Say: “Casino comps on MSC aren’t as flashy, but when they hit, they’re solid—especially for Mediterranean sailings.”

• Top Perks: Free balcony or suite staterooms, onboard credits, low play thresholds

Which Cruise Line Has the Best Casino at Sea?

For high rollers, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian tend to stand out due to:

• Consistent host communication

• Clear comp qualification metrics

• High-tier VIP events and cash-back programs

Carnival, while once a leader in cruise casino loyalty, is currently under fire from seasoned players who feel long-term loyalty perks were downgraded in favor of short-term spenders or last-minute offers.

 

How to Get the Best Comps on a Cruise

 

• Play Rated: Always use your casino card to ensure your play is tracked.

• Stick With a Host: Build a relationship with a VIP casino host. Services like GamblersHost.com help rated players get matched with top-tier cruise line offers.

• Understand Your ADT: Average Daily Theoretical loss (ADT) determines your comp level—know how it works.

• Book Through a Casino Host: Avoid general booking portals. Use a casino host for exclusive perks and guaranteed comps.

Why Casino Comps Keep Gamblers Sailing Back

Casino players love value—and casino comps are powerful motivators:

• Complimentary cruises feel like a reward, not a cost

• Free drinks, priority boarding, and spa perks enhance the VIP feeling

• Loyalty to cruise brands builds, especially when perks are consistent

But when cruise lines shift away from honoring loyalty—like Carnival's recent changes—players jump ship. Many are now turning to platforms like GamblersHost.com, which comp qualified players on all major cruise lines, not just one.

What Happens When Rewards Replace Loyalty?

Players have taken to social media and forums voicing discontent:

“I spent years building status with Carnival. Then one day, they rewrote the rules and I lost everything I earned. It’s not about loyalty anymore—it’s just about your spend this week.”

This shift in priorities from long-term loyalty to short-term revenue risks alienating the very casino players that cruise lines once depended on.

Final Take: Who’s the Best for Comped Casino Cruises?

Cruise Line Best For Loyalty Rank (Player Rated)

Royal Caribbean High Rollers & VIP Comps ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Norwegian Balanced Perks ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Carnival Used to be Best Value ⭐⭐ (Dropped)

MSC International Travelers ⭐⭐⭐

If you're a qualified rated player, you don't have to stay loyal to one cruise line. Services like GamblersHost.com unlock access to every major cruise line, giving you control over when, where, and how you cruise—comped.