The 7 Largest and Most Thrilling Cruise Ship Casinos
Cruise ships have become floating entertainment hubs, and onboard casinos are a major draw for many travelers. In fact, nearly half of guest spending on some cruises happens on the casino floor, according to Cruise Market Watch. With so much at stake, cruise lines are designing increasingly lavish casinos to lure guests with gaming excitement. Below, discover the seven cruise ships with the largest and most impressive casinos currently at sea.
Allure of the Seas: The Ultimate Floating Casino Experience
Setting the standard for casino entertainment at sea, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas stands out with a sprawling 18,000-square-foot gaming venue—currently the largest casino aboard any cruise ship. Since her debut in 2010, Allure has offered space for 5,400 passengers and provides much more than just gaming: guests enjoy rock climbing, ziplining, an outdoor movie theater, themed restaurants, and the ship’s own version of Central Park.
On the casino floor, players can choose from 27 different tables—including blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and carnival-style games like Mississippi Stud—as well as 456 slot machines featuring all the classic and contemporary titles. Prefer a smoke-free environment? The smaller non-smoking casino on Deck 4 provides table games and dozens of slot machines for a more comfortable experience.
Oasis of the Seas: Massive Gaming and Modern Amenities
Oasis of the Seas, sister ship to the Allure, dazzles with a 15,000-square-foot casino despite losing some space in a 2019 renovation. Highlights of her recent upgrades include a waterpark and an 11-story slide, plus innovative restaurant concepts new to this class of ship.
The main gaming area features 24 tables and 464 slot machines, while a dedicated no-smoking casino provides three additional tables and 46 slots. With immersive amenities and robust gaming options, Oasis continues to set high standards for casinos at sea.
Norwegian Epic: Unique Offerings and Expansive Play
Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic is the sole ship in her class, accommodating about 5,300 guests across 19 decks. The ship is packed with entertainment, from Broadway-style shows and multiple restaurants to two pool zones and thrilling water slides.
Following a 2020 remodel, Epic’s casino now spans 13,000 square feet, featuring 348 slot machines and 28 gaming tables with strong air circulation helping disperse smoke. The casino’s vast space means you’ll find all the crowd-favorite table games, plus new slots regularly updated for a fresh gaming experience.
Symphony of the Seas: Modern Glamour Meets Casino Action
Debuting in 2018, Symphony of the Seas brings together Royal Caribbean’s best amenities and innovative design, offering upgraded staterooms and public spaces. The casino stretches across 12,000 square feet, with 24 table games and 452 slot machines spread throughout, closely matching the offerings found on Oasis. The modern casino environment and broad game selection ensure its place among the top cruise gaming experiences.
Sun Princess: The Next Generation of Onboard Casinos
As the flagship of Princess Cruises’ new Sphere class, the Sun Princess made her grand debut in February 2024. The ship accommodates 4,300 passengers in double staterooms and features revolutionary design elements such as a multi-level dining room with stunning ocean views and a glass sphere Piazza serving as the lively atrium hub.
The onboard casino is the largest ever built by Princess, encompassing 9,000 square feet with 17 table games and 227 slot machines. Exciting features include a dedicated Buffalo Zone packed with themed slots and a luxe high-limit area with upgraded seating, appealing to serious slot enthusiasts.
Norwegian Escape: Modern Comfort and Diverse Gaming
Norwegian Escape, a Breakaway Plus class ship introduced in 2015, can comfortably host over 4,000 guests. Known for its freestyle dining (no formal nights!), Escape boasts more than 20 dining venues, 15 bars, and a variety of recreation like rope courses and mini golf.
The casino offers approximately 8,000 square feet packed with 23 table games—featuring poker variants like Three Card Poker, Pai Gow, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em—as well as 318 slot machines. Gamers will find a selection of modern slots on par with casino floors in Las Vegas.
Carnival Celebration: Thrills On and Off the Casino Floor
Carnival Celebration, an Excel-class ship launched in 2022, is a standout in both entertainment and gaming. Hosting over 5,300 passengers, she sails primarily in the Caribbean, offering 24 restaurants—including celebrity chef concepts—and a signature 800-foot rollercoaster “Bolt” on her top deck for a one-of-a-kind adrenaline rush.
While the casino covers a smaller footprint at 5,000 square feet, it is packed with 15 tables and over 200 slot machines. Guests enjoy all the latest Vegas-style games, making it a top choice for cruisers who want lively gameplay and entertainment on board.
Comparison Table: Casino Sizes and Features on Leading Cruise Ships
| Cruise Ship | Casino Size (sq ft) | Number of Tables | Slot Machines | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allure of the Seas | 18,000 | 27 | 456 | Deck 4 non-smoking section, extensive amenities |
| Oasis of the Seas | 15,000 | 24 | 464 | No-smoking casino, new waterpark, slide |
| Norwegian Epic | 13,000 | 28 | 348 | Large casino floor, smoke dispersal |
| Symphony of the Seas | 12,000 | 24 | 452 | Modern staterooms, updated layout |
| Sun Princess | 9,000 | 17 | 227 | Largest for Princess, Buffalo Zone, high-limit |
| Norwegian Escape | 8,000 | 23 | 318 | Wide range of poker, new machines |
| Carnival Celebration | 5,000 | 15 | 200+ | Rollercoaster “Bolt”, modern amenities |
Frequently Asked Questions About Casino Gaming at Sea
Are Casino Games on Cruise Ships Fair?
Major cruise lines are multi-billion dollar companies serving millions of passengers annually, making it unlikely they would risk their reputations—or legal trouble—by manipulating games. However, unlike land-based casinos, there isn’t a global gaming commission governing cruise ship payouts. Some players suspect that slot machines at sea return slightly less than their land counterparts, but there is no conclusive proof of a lower payout percentage.
Are Casino Winnings on Cruises Taxable?
Yes, for U.S. citizens, gambling winnings obtained anywhere—including international waters—are subject to federal taxation. A slot jackpot exceeding $1,200 requires a W2G form, and major cruise lines will withhold approximately 24% for taxes. While UK citizens are generally exempt from taxes on gambling winnings, it’s wise to consult a local tax expert for current regulations in other countries.
Does Every Cruise Ship Offer Casino Facilities?
No, not all cruise ships have casinos. Some vessels, like those cruising only in locations where gaming is prohibited (such as Hawaiian waters), do not include casino operations. Always check your cruise ship’s amenities if onboard gaming is important to your trip, though most cruise lines prioritize casinos due to their revenue potential.
Who Regulates Cruise Ship Casinos?
Regulation of cruise ship casinos typically falls under the jurisdiction of the nation where the ship is registered (commonly the Bahamas or Panama). Many cruise operators participate in industry groups like the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which provides certain standards, though market trust and reputation remain significant regulating forces.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Cruise Casino Adventure
From sprawling gaming floors to high-tech slots and exclusive amenities, today’s cruise ships offer casino experiences rivaling those found in major cities. Whether you’re seeking a Vegas-style hotspot or a fresh, modern gaming lounge, these seven ships lead the way for casino entertainment at sea. Always check your chosen ship’s offerings in advance to ensure your next cruise includes the ideal combination of fun, games, and luxury.
