Comped cruises aren’t giveaways—they’re earned through clean, repeatable casino play. When your rating is structured correctly and presented the right way, casino programs convert your play into free staterooms, upgrades, onboard credit, and VIP perks. This guide shows the exact steps rated players use to make that happen.
The same fundamentals apply whether your play starts on land or at sea. What matters is how your sessions read—not luck, not wins, not losses.
Understand the Rating (ADT/Theo) That Drives Comps
Cruise casinos use Average Daily Theoretical (ADT) to estimate expected loss. ADT is calculated from average bet, game type, house edge, and time played per day. Consistency matters more than spikes.
- Fewer, longer sessions read stronger than scattered play
- Sea days create the cleanest ratings
- Zero-play days weaken offers
Bankroll & Game Plan That Travel Well
Your game mix should support repeatable sessions. Slots, tables, and video poker all rate differently, but each can qualify for cruise comps when played consistently.
- Slots: steady denomination, longer sea-day sessions
- Tables: consistent average bet, minimal unrated gaps
- Video poker: fair paytables with defined start/stop windows
Avoid chasing losses or jumping stakes late—those patterns distort ratings.
Host Strategy: Lock Offers Before You Sail
Pre-approval is the difference between hoping and knowing. When your play is reviewed before booking, benefits are confirmed in writing—not negotiated onboard.
- Submit current casino offers and players-club numbers
- Align sailings with demand windows that fit your profile
- Receive email or letter confirmation before finalizing travel
Quick Checklist
- Always card-in from the first wager
- Confirm table ratings before leaving the pit
- Focus play on sea days
- Communicate plans with a host in advance
Related How-To Guides
From Our Blog
External Reading
- Casino.org — Best Cruise Ship Casinos
- The Points Guy — Cruise Ship Casinos
- Casinos.com — Casino Cruises Guide
Explore More
Next Steps
If your play has never translated into cruise offers—or if results have been inconsistent— your existing history can usually be positioned more effectively.
Get Comped Form · Talk to a VIP Executive Casino Host
Complimentary service for players who qualify. Built around how you actually play.