Gambling on a Cruise: Rules, Comps & Tips
Shipboard casinos operate under maritime rules once a vessel is in international waters. Here’s how opening times, age policies, payouts, comps, and tipping usually work—plus smart ways to align your play with a VIP host so your action turns into offers.
When Do Cruise Ship Casinos Open?
Casinos generally open after the ship reaches international waters and close again when approaching port. Hours vary by itinerary and line, but most evenings you’ll find full operations after sail-away on sea days. In-port gambling is typically restricted or closed.
Age Rules, Smoking & Payment Basics
- Age: Most lines set the casino age at 18 or 21 depending on the brand and region.
- Smoking: Policies differ by line and ship; many keep designated smoking areas or specific sections of the casino.
- Payment: Slots commonly accept your cruise card; table buy-ins use your card or cash. ATMs are onboard but carry fees.
- Payouts: Handpays and W-2G equivalents vary by jurisdiction and line—carry valid ID.
Comps at Sea: How Offers Are Calculated
Cruise casinos track your slots, table games, and video poker as “rated play.” What matters most is consistency and time-in-seat, which stabilizes Average Daily Theoretical (ADT). Hosts and casino marketing use ADT to build offers like drinks while playing, discounted interiors, comped oceanviews, and upgrade opportunities.
To make ADT work for you, concentrate action over focused sessions, avoid fragmented dabbling, and coordinate with a host who understands each line’s promo cycle.
At Sea vs. In Port (Typical Differences)
| Context | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| At Sea (international waters) | Casino open; full table/slot availability; points/comps accrue normally. |
| In Port/territorial waters | Casino often closed or restricted; limited promos; check daily program. |
| Sea Days | Longest hours, slot tournaments, and featured table promotions. |
| Embark/Debark days | Shorter windows; opening after sail-away and closing early on final night. |
Practical Tips to Play Smarter
- Cluster your play into well-defined sessions to present a steady ADT profile.
- Use your player card every time—missing sessions = missing credit.
- Ask about “drinks while playing” and promo nights on sea days.
- If you switch games (slots ↔ tables), keep the same card and ensure your rating follows you.
Helpful Research Links
- Cruise Hive — cruise news & ship life
- The Points Guy — travel guides & tips
- Cruiseline.com — ship & port reviews
- Princess Cruises — official site
- MSC Cruises USA — official site
Work With a VIP Executive Host
Tell us your preferred ships, ports, and dates. We’ll map your sessions to the strongest casino promos at sea and turn steady play into offers.
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