🎰 What to Expect on a Casino Cruise Offer
Cruising for (almost) free? Here’s what you need to know before you board.
If you’ve ever received a “free cruise” offer from a casino and wondered if it’s too good to be true—spoiler: it’s not. My family and I have taken multiple casino cruise offers, and while they’re not completely free, they’re one of the best travel hacks we’ve used to sail for pennies on the dollar.
Here’s exactly what to expect on a casino-comped cruise, from booking quirks to onboard perks—and a few things I wish I’d known the first time around.
🧾 1. The Casino Cruise Offer Isn’t Totally Free—But It’s Close
Most of my casino cruise offers cover the base fare for two people in an interior cabin. You’ll still need to pay:
Port fees and taxes (usually $100–$200 per person)
Gratuities (typically $14–$20 per person, per day)
Upgrades if you want a balcony or suite
Deposit in addition to the port fees and taxes. This is usually returned as onboard credit when you sail. Princess is $200 per person.
That said, we’ve sailed 7-night itineraries for under $325 total for two people—less than the cost of a weekend hotel stay. Learn how I did it -> Alaska Cruise for $325
🛎️ 2. Booking Isn’t Always Straightforward
You’ll usually book through a casino host, a third-party travel agency, or a cruise line’s casino desk. Expect:
Limited sailing dates and ships (especially for premium lines like Princess or Celebrity)
Blackout periods during holidays or peak seasons
Phone calls or emails are preferred over online booking for some cruise lines.
Tip: Be flexible with your dates and ask about upgrade offers—they’re often deeply discounted for casino guests.
Explore my full Princess Cruises Casino Cruise Strategy Guide to learn how we’ve turned points and perks into unforgettable sailings.
🛏️ 3. You’ll Likely Be in an Interior Cabin (and That’s Okay)
Most comped cruises start with an interior cabin. But here’s the secret: interior cabins are the ultimate travel hack. They’re quiet, dark, and perfect for sleeping in after a late night at the casino or comedy show.
Want a balcony? Ask about upgrade pricing—it’s often a fraction of the retail rate. I also regularly bid on upgrades closer to the date. I was able to get an obstructed balcony in Alaska for $130 a person for our 7-day cruise.
🎲 4. You Don’t Have to Gamble Onboard (But You Can)
You’re not required to gamble to keep your comp status—but playing a little doesn’t hurt. If you do:
Use your casino loyalty card every time
Ask the casino host about free drinks, tournaments, or match play
Track your play to see if you qualify for future offers
Some cruise lines even offer free drinks while playing, which can save you a bundle.
🧴 5. You Still Get All the Regular Cruise Perks
Even on a comped cruise, you’ll enjoy:
Full access to dining, shows, pools, and activities
Loyalty program points (yes, they still count!)
The option to add excursions, spa treatments, and specialty dining
It’s the same cruise experience—just with a much smaller price tag.
🧠 6. You Might Get More Offers After You Sail
Once you’ve taken a casino-comped cruise, you’re on the radar. Many cruisers report getting:
More frequent offers (sometimes monthly!)
Better cabins or longer itineraries
Invites to exclusive casino sailings or tournaments
Tip: If you’re not receiving follow-up offers, call the casino desk and ask to be added to the promotional list.
✨ Final Thoughts
Casino-comped cruises aren’t just for high rollers. With the right strategy, even casual players can unlock incredible value. Whether you’re cruising for the spa, the scenery, or the slots, it’s one of the best-kept secrets in travel hacking—and one of my favorite ways to sail smarter.
👉 Ready to Try It?
I currently get offers for free interior cabins from Princess Cruises, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America. I pair these deals with points and miles for the Ultimate Travel Hack! Got questions? Feel free to leave a comment below or connect with me on social media—I love hearing from fellow cruisers! And if you’re just getting started, I hope offers like this start landing in your inbox soon. Happy Sailing!
