Luxury Gambling Cruises: Combining High Stakes With High Seas
Gambling and boats have a long history! The first-ever casinos on boats were seen on paddle steamers, which were used to navigate the Mississippi River. Those who stepped on board were treated to a host of slot machines and table games. While some of these paddle steamers are still in use to date, they can’t match the convenience that apps such as Mr Bet app and the luxuries found on cruises. These cruise liners have some of the biggest, most glamorous, and most decorated game selections. Some even rival land-based casinos, which many people are accustomed to. But beyond playing casino games on these luxury cruises, what can you expect? How much do they cost? How long will you be enjoying your favourite casino game in the open seas? And which are some of the best luxury gambling cruises worldwide? Get all your answers in this detailed guide.
What Can You Expect on a Luxury Gambling Cruise?
A gambling cruise is slightly different from your ordinary cruise. Yes, you might be on the same ship as other passengers, but enjoy the perks of gambling. Many luxury gambling cruises feature state-of-the-art facilities, like those you are accustomed to at the brick and mortar establishments. You can look forward to gaming machines, such as slot machines and roulette. You can play at the physical tables or switch to electronic machines of Roulette and Blackjack. If you are accustomed to VIP treatment in land-based casinos, many of these cruises offer ‘Salon Privee’ services. These modern gaming lounges offer a more customized experience, including higher bet limits, free-of-charge meals, and drinks on the house.
What Do You Need to Play Casino Games on Cruises?
At the bare minimum, you must have your government-issued ID and enough money to spend at the tables. Most people might be concerned with the legality of playing real money games on these cruises. However, given that most cruises operate in the waters, there will hardly be any law prohibiting gambling activities. In the United States, where the laws are pretty tight, the ship must be at least 12 miles away from land to gamble legally. In the UK and many other European countries, you can gamble anytime, especially if the ship is in international waters.
The Best Luxury Gambling Cruises
If you quickly search for the ‘best luxury gambling cruises’ on Google, you’ll certainly get many options. However, from experience and reviews on many forums focusing on luxury gambling cruises, the following stand out:
- Oasis of the Sea. The voyage takes you on a trip from the Bahamas, Florida, and Miami while giving you plenty of options to pick from in terms of gambling entertainment. It boasts over 450 slot machines, 30 table games, and a very competitive poker arena. The cherry on top of the cake is a stylish bar that operates round the clock.
- Celebrity Eclipse. The Celebrity Eclipse is one of the oldest and most established luxury cruises you can use when navigating ports in the Atlantic Ocean. Founded in 1988, the Celebrity Eclipse is synonymous with high-quality services, and you can expect the best services at its casino. The voyage of the Celebrity Eclipse starts from Los Angeles before you cruise down to either San Diego, Cabo San Lucas, or Mazatlan and stop at Puerto Vallarta. You can also head north to San Francisco and make a few stopovers before reaching Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada.
- Norwegian Escape. With more than 350 slot machines, 30+ table games, and a premium VIP lounge, the Norwegian Escape is the third cruise ship on our list. While it might not be the same size as the Oasis of the Sea, it more than compensates for this shortcoming with luxurious services. Shopping, entertainment, bars, and restaurants are also in plenty aboard this ship!
The Oasis of the Sea, Celebrity Eclipse, and Norwegian Escape are not the only cruises hosting state-of-the-art casinos. You can also book your cruise with Freedom of the Seas, Discover Princess, Azamara Journey, and Carnival Vista and enjoy cutting-edge casino entertainment.
Is There Any Other Activity Besides Gambling?
Definitely! There are many activities to participate in besides gambling. You can visit lounges that host live DJs and live bands. As mentioned, these ships also host shops, restaurants, and other entertainment hubs open to everyone.