Gaming casinos—on land and at sea—reward players who understand how ratings work and how to structure play. This hub explains ADT/Theo, how comps are calculated, when hosts step in, and why cruise casinos often deliver more total value than traditional land-based play.
If you want your play to translate into rooms, meals, upgrades, and comped cruises, the details below matter more than luck.
Comps 101: Theo, ADT, and Why Structure Matters
Casinos don’t comp based on wins or losses. They comp based on theoretical loss— the expected value of your play over time. ADT (Average Daily Theoretical) is calculated from average bet, game type, house edge, and hours played per day.
- Fewer, longer sessions read stronger than scattered play
- Consistency beats volatility
- Zero-play days dilute offers
Land vs. Cruise Casinos: Where Value Shows Up
Land casinos typically comp incrementally—free meals, discounted rooms, occasional events. Cruise casinos often bundle value: lodging, entertainment, transportation, and perks. For many players, cruises return more value per dollar of theoretical loss.
How to Get Rated (and Avoid Common Mistakes)
- Always use your players card—slots and tables
- Confirm table ratings before leaving the pit
- Concentrate play into fewer days
- Avoid short, unrated walk-up sessions
See: How to Get Rated for Casino Play.
Game-by-Game Tips: Slots, Video Poker & Tables
- Slots: steady denomination and longer sea-day sessions
- Video poker: fair paytables with defined start/stop windows
- Tables: consistent average bet with minimal gaps
Game choice affects both volatility and how your play is interpreted.
When to Talk to a Host (Scripts & Timing)
After a solid day of rated play, be direct and professional:
“Hi, I’d like to speak with a host. I’ve been playing [game] at about [$X] for [Y] hours today. Could you confirm my rating and let me know what offers are available?”
Clear numbers signal you understand the process.
Trip Design: Destinations, Ports & Time-on-Device
Where and when you play matters. Sea days, shoulder-season sailings, and lower-demand weeks often produce cleaner ratings and stronger offers.
Responsible Value: Don’t Chase, Plan
Comps are marketing expenses tied to expected loss. Enjoy them, but don’t chase them. Plan sessions that fit your bankroll and lifestyle so the entertainment value remains positive.
FAQ: Quick Answers for Gaming Casinos
- Do wins hurt comps? No—ratings are based on expected loss, not outcomes.
- Are cruises better for comps? Often, yes—bundled value is higher.
- Do table players qualify? Yes, with verified ratings and consistency.
Next Steps
If your casino play hasn’t translated into meaningful comps—or results have been inconsistent—your existing history can usually be positioned more effectively.
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