Celebrity Cruises Does Have Casinos on Most Ships
Yes, Celebrity Cruises operates casinos on the majority of its fleet. These are full-service gaming spaces with slot machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, and poker rooms. The casinos are open to passengers 18 and older (21 in some cases, depending on the specific game and ship), and they operate under maritime gaming laws rather than state or local regulations.
Not every Celebrity ship has a casino — some of the smaller vessels in their fleet, particularly those designed for expedition cruising to Alaska or the Galápagos, do not include gaming spaces. If the casino is important to your cruise experience, check the specific ship's amenities before you book.
Key Takeaways
- Most Celebrity Cruises ships have casinos with slots, table games, and poker, but smaller expedition vessels do not.
- You must be at least 18 years old to enter the casino, though some games require you to be 21.
- Casinos operate under maritime law while the ship is at sea, which means different rules than land-based casinos.
- The casino is a separate paid activity — your cruise fare does not include gaming chips or credits.
What Games and Machines You'll Find
Celebrity casino floors typically include slot machines ranging from penny slots to high-denomination machines, video poker, and electronic table games. Live table games usually include blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat. Many ships also have dedicated poker rooms where passengers can play against each other rather than the house.
The specific mix varies by ship and ship size. Larger vessels like those in the Edge and Solstice classes have more extensive gaming floors than smaller ships. You can find the exact games and hours for your specific ship by checking Celebrity's website or calling their reservations line before you sail.
Age Requirements and Who Can Enter
You must be at least 18 years old to enter the casino on a Celebrity ship. However, some games — particularly table games — may require you to be 21. The casino staff will check your ID at the entrance, so bring your passport or state ID with you.
Minors are not permitted in the casino at any time, even if accompanied by an adult. If you are traveling with children, the casino is an adult-only space where you can spend time away from family areas.
How Maritime Gaming Laws Differ From Land Casinos
When a cruise ship is in international waters (typically beyond 12 miles from shore), it operates under maritime law rather than the gaming laws of any U.S. state. This means the rules, payout percentages, and regulations are different from what you would encounter at a land-based casino in Las Vegas or Atlantic City.
Maritime casinos are not required to publish the same payout percentages or odds that land casinos must disclose. The house edge may be different, and the games themselves may operate under different rules. This is one reason why experienced gamblers sometimes view cruise ship casinos as less favorable than established land casinos.
Casino Hours and Access During Port Days
Casinos typically close when the ship is in port or within territorial waters near land. They reopen once the ship returns to international waters. Hours vary by ship and itinerary, but most casinos operate in the evening and late night when the ship is at sea.
You can find the specific hours for your sailing by checking your daily program once onboard or asking at the casino cage. If you are planning a gambling-focused cruise, choose an itinerary with multiple sea days rather than a port-heavy schedule.
Responsible Gaming Resources Onboard
Celebrity Cruises provides information about responsible gaming in the casino and in your cabin. If you want to set limits on your spending or take a break from gambling, you can speak with casino staff or contact the ship's guest services.
Most cruise lines also allow you to self-exclude from the casino before your cruise begins. Contact Celebrity's customer service to ask about self-exclusion options if you want to prevent yourself from entering the casino during your sailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my cruise fare credit or onboard account to gamble?
No. Casino gaming is a separate paid activity. You must exchange cash or use a credit card at the casino cage to get chips or credits. Your onboard account (which covers dining, drinks, and other ship services) cannot be used for gambling.
What happens if I win money at the casino?
Winnings are paid out in cash or chips at the casino cage. You can take your winnings with you when you leave the ship. Large wins may require documentation for tax purposes — ask the casino staff about reporting requirements if you have a significant win.
Are there ATMs in the casino?
Yes, most Celebrity casinos have ATMs nearby so you can withdraw cash. Keep in mind that ATM withdrawals at sea may carry higher fees than withdrawals on land, and your bank may charge additional fees for international transactions.
Can I bring someone into the casino to watch me play?
Only if they are 18 or older (21 for some games). The casino is an adult-only space, and minors cannot enter even as observers. If you want to bring a companion, they must meet the age requirement.
Do I need to dress up to enter the casino?
Most Celebrity casinos have a casual dress code — no swimwear or beachwear, but regular cruise attire is fine. Specific dress codes vary by ship, so check your daily program or ask guest services when you board.